Doctor Who: The Ultimate Guide

Doctor Who: The Ultimate Guide is a special program commissioned by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) that aired in 2013 as part of the franchise's 50th anniversary celebrations. It serves as an in-depth retrospective of one of the most iconic and enduring science fiction series in television history, Doctor Who, and is a must-watch for both die-hard Whovians and newcomers alike.

The Ultimate Guide takes viewers on an immersive journey through space and time, capturing the mythology, narratives, and essence of Doctor Who. It isn't just an overview of the show; it's a thematic exploration that reflects on the key elements that have contributed to its longevity and global popularity. It is the definitive beginner’s guide for those curious about Doctor Who and an engaging refresher for dedicated fans.

Covering the series from its humble beginnings in 1963 to the present, the guide highlights the prolonged journey of the Time Lord known as the Doctor. Portrayed by various actors over the decades, each incarnation of the Doctor receives their share of attention in the program, exploring their unique characteristics, quirks, companions and famous villains they grappled with, not forgetting to mention the fascinating canvas of historical and extraterrestrial settings the Doctor ventured into.

Furthermore, the comprehensive guide presents the evolution of the Doctor’s trusted transport mechanism, the TARDIS (Time And Relative Dimension In Space), a staple element of the show often described as 'bigger on the inside', and his handy artifact, the sonic screwdriver. Other recurring elements like the Time Lord home planet Gallifrey and the Doctor's mortal enemies, the Daleks and Cybermen, also get their credit in forming the tapestry that represents this space-and-time-traveling doctor of unknown origins.

Plenty of highlights include reflections on the show's ground-breaking transformation in the 21st century (2005-present) when the series underwent a successful revival, attracting a wider global audience and securing its place in the contemporary pop-culture phenomenon. It underlines strikingly decisive moments, game-changing plot twists and the emotional undertones that the Doctor's journey tends to deliver on.

With the Doctor Who universe extending across a range of media, time and again it has dared to be eternally different. The special illustrates how Doctor Who remained fresh and exciting after five decades on air by periodically regenerating its lead character and unveiling new mystery elements, thus adding layers to its expansive canon.

What makes The Ultimate Guide an engaging watch is its format. The program pooled a diverse mix of interviewees from the Doctor Who universe. This includes past and present cast members who bring forward their personal anecdotes, experiences and perspectives on the show. Showrunners, writers and production team members are also featured, providing backstage insights into the crafting of Doctor Who's magnificent world. Furthermore, there's a smattering of celebrity fans, media personalities, and experts who contribute their views on the cultural impact and significance of the show, culminating in a rich and varied narrative.

The Ultimate Guide doesn't forget to acknowledge the fandom community that has kept Doctor Who's heartbeat pulsing robustly for decades. It showcases the emotional connection viewers have developed with the series over time, and how the fanbase has grown, organized conventions, published fanzines and even played a pivotal role in preserving the classic episodes from the show’s early years.

Ironically, as is true in its name, Doctor Who: The Ultimate Guide retains a sense of mystery, just like the titular character of the series. It doesn’t reveal all the secrets and key happenings of the Doctor's journey, leaving sufficient intrigue for audiences, especially new ones, to dive deeper into the series.

In summary, Doctor Who: The Ultimate Guide is not just a mere retrospective, but a celebration of a storytelling phenomenon that has managed to retain freshness, continuity and intrigue over half a century. It's a program that both informs and entertains, making it a must-watch for Doctor Who fans, critics and those with a curiosity for this unique, iconic British series.