As a long-time Doctor Who fan, each new season brings a mix of excitement and trepidation. The return of Russell T Davies, the mastermind behind the show’s revival in 2005, elevated these feelings to unprecedented levels. With Ncuti Gatwa stepping into the role of the Doctor and Millie Gibson joining as his new companion, Ruby Sunday, the promise of fresh adventures coupled with a touch of nostalgia set the stage for a thrilling season. This season delivered on many fronts, blending classic Who charm with modern storytelling techniques, offering fans a rich, multifaceted experience.
The New Beginning: Space Babies
The season kicked off with Space Babies, an episode that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Doctor Who while laying the groundwork for a new era. Ncuti Gatwa’s introduction as the Doctor was nothing short of electrifying. From the moment he stepped onto the screen, Gatwa brought a vibrant energy to the role, seamlessly blending the Doctor’s quirky, alien nature with a profound sense of empathy. His chemistry with Millie Gibson’s Ruby Sunday was immediately apparent, setting the stage for a dynamic and compelling partnership.
The episode itself was a masterclass in efficiency. It wasted no time reintroducing key concepts—Time Lords, the TARDIS, and the Doctor’s unique worldview—while whisking us off to a beautifully rendered prehistoric landscape. The story, revolving around a space station designed for breeding babies now abandoned due to a financial crisis but kept running due to a warped pro-life philosophy, was quintessential Russell T Davies: quirky, socially conscious, and deeply human.
Embracing the New Era: The Devil’s Chord
Space Babies felt like a breath of fresh air, but it was The Devil’s Chord that truly set the tone for the new season. Set in the swinging 1960s, this episode delved into the idea that music is the only thing holding humanity together. It’s a bold concept, and the execution was nothing short of spectacular. The episode was a visual and auditory feast, with scenes like the Doctor and Ruby duetting on a piano imbued with future Beatles albums’ potential energy standing out as instant classics.
The real star of The Devil’s Chord is Jinkx Monsoon’s Maestro. Monsoon delivers a performance that’s both campy and menacing, stealing every scene she’s in. The Maestro is a villain who feels both fresh and familiar, combining elements of past antagonists while bringing something uniquely her own. Her interactions with the Doctor and Ruby are filled with tension and intrigue, adding a layer of depth to the episode.
Tension and Trauma: Boom
The season’s darker tone was highlighted in Boom, where Ruby Sunday faced her first genuinely traumatic ordeal. Steven Moffat’s return as a writer brought a taut, single-location thriller that tested both the Doctor and Ruby in new ways. The episode was a relentless buildup of tension, with the Doctor stepping on an alien landmine and Ruby forced to navigate a war-torn landscape to save them both.
Ncuti Gatwa’s performance in this episode was particularly noteworthy. He expertly portrayed the Doctor’s fear, anger, and determination, while Millie Gibson shone as Ruby, displaying a range of emotions from terror to quiet defiance. The introduction of Varada Sethu as future companion Mundy Flynn added another layer of intrigue, promising exciting dynamics in the episodes to come.
Supernatural Intrigue: 73 Yards
73 Yards took the show into uncharted territory, blending folk horror with sci-fi elements. Ruby found herself stalked by a mysterious woman who maintained a constant distance, driving anyone who approached Ruby away in terror.
This episode was a showcase for Millie Gibson, who delivered a powerful performance as Ruby navigated decades of isolation and the burden of a unique curse.
The episode’s structure was ambitious, with rapid genre shifts and time jumps that kept the viewer on edge. However, the focus on supernatural elements left some narrative threads feeling unresolved. Despite this, the episode succeeded in deepening Ruby’s character and setting up future conflicts.
Black Mirror Influence: Dot and Bubble
Dot and Bubble was a bold experiment, taking cues from Black Mirror to explore themes of social media addiction and class disparity. Set in a far-future gated community, the episode featured vapid rich kids being systematically devoured by giant slugs. It was darkly comedic and deeply unsettling, with a biting critique of modern society.
Callie Cooke’s portrayal of Lindy Pepper-Bean, the episode’s de facto lead, was outstanding. She captured the character’s naivety and privilege perfectly, making her ultimate fate all the more satisfying. The episode’s conclusion, revealing the community’s rejection of the Doctor due to racial prejudice, was a gut punch, highlighting the persistent ugliness of humanity even in a futuristic setting.
Regency Romp: Rogue
Rogue was a delightful departure from the season’s darker episodes, offering a whimsical adventure with a Bridgerton-esque twist. The Doctor and Ruby found themselves battling bird-like aliens in Regency-era England, with Jonathan Groff’s Rogue returning for another round of flirtatious banter with the Doctor.
Jonathan Groff’s Rogue, a mischievous and delightfully funny space-faring bounty hunter, stole the show. His chemistry with Gatwa was palpable, and their interactions were some of the most engaging moments of the season.
The episode balanced its whimsical premise with a genuine sense of danger, showcasing the Doctor’s ingenuity and emotional depth.
This episode was pure fun, with sharp writing, stunning costumes, and plenty of clever misdirects. It was a testament to the show’s versatility, able to shift from intense drama to light-hearted escapades with ease. Gatwa and Groff’s chemistry continued to be a highlight, and the episode’s playful tone was a refreshing change of pace.
Building Towards the Finale: The Legend of Ruby Sunday
The Legend of Ruby Sunday set the stage for the season finale, ramping up the stakes with the return of the ancient alien Sutekh. The episode was filled with spectacle and urgency, as the Doctor and Ruby raced against time to unravel the mysteries that had been building throughout the season.
There were plenty of thrilling moments, but the episode also felt a bit disjointed, with various plot threads struggling to coalesce. The reintroduction of familiar faces and the exploration of Ruby’s parentage added emotional weight, but some elements felt rushed due to the shorter season length.
The Grand Finale: Empire of Death
Empire of Death delivered a fitting conclusion to the season, tying up major mysteries and providing a massive challenge for the Doctor and Ruby. Sutekh’s plan to annihilate all life in the universe was suitably apocalyptic, and the episode’s high stakes ensured a gripping watch.
The standout scene was a quiet conversation between the Doctor and a grieving mother, played brilliantly by Sian Clifford. It was a poignant reminder of the human cost of Sutekh’s actions, grounding the cosmic horror in relatable emotions. Gatwa and Gibson delivered powerful performances, especially in the episode’s emotional climax, where Ruby reunited with her mother.
The resolution of Ruby’s arc was bittersweet, with the Doctor realizing that her adventure was just beginning and she couldn’t continue traveling with him. It was a touching farewell, though the decision felt somewhat arbitrary given the lack of significant conflict between them throughout the season.
Performances: Gatwa and Gibson
Ncuti Gatwa’s portrayal of the Doctor has been a revelation. He brings a unique blend of charm, wit, and intensity to the role, capturing the Doctor’s complexity while adding his own fresh take.
His performance is a perfect balance of the Doctor’s playful eccentricity and deep emotional depth. Gatwa’s Doctor is confident, flirtatious, and unafraid to show vulnerability, making him a compelling and relatable character.
Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday has been a fantastic addition to the Doctor Who legacy. Ruby’s character arc has been a central focus of the season, and Gibson has portrayed her journey with nuance and authenticity. From her initial awe and excitement to her moments of fear and resilience, Gibson has delivered a consistently strong performance. Her chemistry with Gatwa is undeniable, and their dynamic has been one of the highlights of the season.
Russell T Davies: The Maestro Returns
Russell T Davies’ return as showrunner has been nothing short of triumphant. His ability to weave intricate narratives while maintaining a focus on character development is unparalleled. Davies has a knack for balancing high-stakes drama with moments of humor and heart, a quality that has been evident throughout this season.
Davies’ writing shines in episodes like Space Babies and The Legend of Ruby Sunday, where he blends social commentary with engaging storytelling. His episodes often tackle complex themes, from the ethics of life and death to the impact of social media and class disparity. Davies’ influence is also apparent in the season’s overarching narrative, which skillfully interlaces standalone adventures with a cohesive plot.
One of Davies’ strengths is his ability to create memorable characters and give them meaningful arcs. This season, we’ve seen Ruby’s journey from an eager companion to a character grappling with her own identity and past.
The introduction of characters like Rogue and Mundy Flynn adds depth to the narrative and sets the stage for future developments.
Davies’ return has also brought a renewed sense of energy and direction to the show. His vision for Doctor Who is both respectful of its rich history and bold in its ambition to explore new territories. The season’s blend of classic Who elements with modern storytelling techniques is a testament to his understanding of the show’s essence and his commitment to pushing its boundaries.
Thematic Exploration
One of the standout features of this season has been its thematic richness. Each episode explores different aspects of human nature and societal issues, often through the lens of science fiction. Space Babies delves into the ethics of life and the consequences of technological advancements. The Devil’s Chord examines the power of music and its role in human connection. Boom and 73 Yards tackle themes of trauma, isolation, and resilience, while Dot and Bubble offers a scathing critique of social media addiction and class disparity.
These themes are not just surface-level; they are intricately woven into the fabric of the narrative and character arcs. The exploration of Ruby’s identity and her relationship with her mother, the Doctor’s struggle with his own emotions and past actions, and the broader societal critiques all contribute to a season that is intellectually stimulating as well as emotionally engaging.
Production Value
The production value of the show has been consistently top-notch. From the stunning prehistoric vistas in Space Babies to the eerie, atmospheric settings of 73 Yards, the visual storytelling has been a feast for the eyes. The design of the Chuldur in Rogue, the futuristic yet familiar cityscapes, and the intricate details of the period costumes all demonstrate the show’s commitment to high-quality production.
Murray Gold’s return as composer has also been a significant asset. His music perfectly complements the emotional beats and dramatic moments, enhancing the overall viewing experience. The score in episodes like Empire of Death adds an extra layer of intensity and poignancy, helping to convey the stakes and emotional weight of the story.
Reflections and Looking Forward
As a Doctor Who fan, this season has been a rollercoaster of emotions. Russell T Davies’ return has brought a renewed energy and sense of purpose to the show, and Ncuti Gatwa’s Doctor is a delightful addition to the legacy of this iconic character. Millie Gibson’s Ruby Sunday is a fantastic companion, and their chemistry has been a joy to watch.
The season’s willingness to experiment with different genres and tones is commendable, even if not every episode fully lands. The blend of whimsy, horror, and social commentary keeps the show feeling fresh and relevant. While some narrative threads feel rushed or underdeveloped, the overall journey has been deeply satisfying.
Looking ahead, there are plenty of intriguing possibilities. The hints of future companions, unresolved mysteries, and the ever-present potential for the Doctor’s character growth promise exciting adventures to come.
Doctor Who has always thrived on change and reinvention, and this season has laid a strong foundation for whatever comes next.
This new season of Doctor Who is a triumphant return to form. It captures the essence of what makes the show special while daring to explore new territories. With compelling characters, imaginative storytelling, and a perfect balance of heart and humor, it’s a season that reminds us why we fell in love with Doctor Who in the first place. Here’s to many more adventures in time and space.
