3. The 8th Doctors Era
The 1996 TV Movie divides opinion. There is a lot going for it, Paul McGann does a stunning job as the Doctor and the production values are superb. However the script is abysmal, it features and the American aspects do not fit in well at all bordering on tacky. It is a tricky watch it has to be said. The only thing in its favour is that its the only chance to see Paul McGann in action. If it werent for that it would be better left forgotten but canonicity states we have to live with it. The TV movie bombed in the US but performed respectably well in the UK. Based on that alone, the case was closed, with a huge amount of untapped potential. Since then details have come out of the woodwork of the game plan for if this was to become a commissioned series. Basically the Doctor would go on a quest to find his father, following up the whole half human nonsense. Similarly sketches and designs of the Cybermen (or Cybes as they would be renamed) and Daleks have emerged. I think we have been spared a lot of heartbreak and the 8th Doctors era would be looked upon a lot less fondly. Thankfully the tough love has seen the 8th Doctor given a traditional and loving home at Big Finish Audio, the movie simply seals the deal making the 8th Doctor an official Doctor.