Would Torchwood still hold up as well as it did 18 years ago? A series 4 overview

As usual, I’ll start with reviews from when it first aired. The majority of critics at that time suggested the series felt quite different from its predecessors. Several reasons were cited, such as the change in production network, the absence of half the original characters, and the fact that it was no longer set in Wales. Many viewers found the Welsh setting appealing, as it is often overlooked in major television productions. The lack of iconic locations like the Torchwood Tower, which featured prominently in earlier episodes, was a notable disappointment. Additionally, the absence of original characters contributed to a feeling of emptiness, especially since three out of five main characters had died by the end of Series 2 and 3. A common critique was that the writing seemed rushed; for example, one review mentioned that the resolution of the overall story felt hasty. On the positive side, some reviews praised the social commentary—a hallmark of the series—and noted that the collaboration with Starz allowed for greater creative freedom.

Next, I examined more recent reviews. These critiques acknowledged the straightforward concept of Miracle Day, highlighting its potential for adding complexity as the story progressed. While the setup received praise, many reviewers felt it was poorly executed, claiming it lacked focus and that the new characters introduced didn’t have the opportunity to develop. The series finale ended on a cliffhanger, which left viewers dissatisfied, especially since Torchwood continued through audiobooks rather than additional televised episodes. The transition from screen to audiobook was seen as a significant shift, and some reviewers criticised certain actors, stating that not all were equally compelling and that some deserved more screen time.