A Doctor-Lite Episode: A Luxurious Treat in the Whoniverse
In the realm of Doctor Who, where time and space intertwine with endless possibilities, an eight-episode series feels like a rare gem. Within this limited run, the inclusion of a Doctor-lite episode is akin to a luxurious indulgence. This particular episode stands out as a "greatest hits" remix, weaving together elements from fan-favorite episodes like "Love and Monsters," "Blink," and "Turn Left." Here, the Doctor makes only fleeting appearances, allowing the narrative to explore new dimensions through the eyes of other characters.
The Weight of the Episode
At the heart of this episode lies the character of Conrad Clark, portrayed by Jonah Hauer-King. As an odious grifter and conspiracy theory podcaster, Conrad’s journey intertwines with that of Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson. The tension hinges on whether viewers can invest in the character’s disdainful antics, as he claims to have endured the "chore" of getting to know Ruby to "expose the lies" of UNIT. This dynamic sets the stage for a compelling exploration of truth and deception in a world rife with conspiracy.
Ruby’s Journey: A Familiar Path
Having previously witnessed Ruby navigate a post-Doctor life in the episode "73 Yards," there was a palpable risk of redundancy in her character arc. Yet, the episode cleverly sidesteps this pitfall by revisiting familiar themes—her aimlessness, romantic misadventures, and the claustrophobia of being trapped in a pub with an unseen menace lurking outside. Gibson shines in her role, delivering a standout line that encapsulates her character’s wit: “Or go and get some fresh air, big man, and see what happens.” This moment not only showcases her sharp tongue but also adds depth to her character.
Crafting Tension with Precision
Writer Pete McTighe, who previously penned the muddled "Kerblam!" for the 13th Doctor, demonstrates a marked improvement in his ability to critique the conspiracy landscape. The tension escalates significantly once UNIT enters the fray, with Jemma Redgrave’s Kate Lethbridge-Stewart grappling with the moral complexities of her role. The episode deftly navigates modern phenomena, such as doxing and the livestreaming of armed standoffs, reflecting the current climate of misinformation and fear.
Monsters Among Us
While the episode introduces the Shreek as the monster of the week, it cleverly subverts expectations by revealing that the true horrors are human. The Shreek, reminiscent of the Dregs from "Orphan 55," are more effective in shadowy glimpses than in full view, adding an element of suspense. The comedic portrayal of the Vlinx, who comically abandon their posts, serves as a meta-commentary on the production itself, highlighting the often absurd nature of the show’s monsters.
Mysteries and Intrigues
As the episode unfolds, it raises intriguing questions. Is "the guv’nor" merely a placeholder for a more significant villain, or does it hint at deeper connections within the Doctor Who universe? The narrative invites speculation, keeping viewers engaged and eager for answers.
A Glimpse into the TARDIS
Though the TARDIS moments are limited, they are impactful. We see Belinda and the Doctor using the vortex indicator, and Ruby’s encounter with the Shreek is cleverly placed in the timeline, directly following events from "The Devil’s Chord." These snippets serve to remind viewers of the Doctor’s omnipresence, even when he is not at the forefront.
Cultural Commentary
The episode resonates with contemporary issues, such as the rise of conspiracy theories and the impact of social media on public perception. By referencing real-world events, like anti-vaccine campaigners serving legal papers to hospital staff, the narrative grounds itself in reality, making the fantastical elements feel all the more relevant.
Looking Ahead
As the episode wraps up, anticipation builds for future installments. With UNIT set to return in the upcoming spin-off "The War Between the Land and the Sea," fans can expect to see more of the beloved characters and the intricate web of stories that Doctor Who continues to weave.
Next up, viewers can look forward to "The Story and the Engine," featuring a huge spider in Lagos. This episode promises to delve deeper into the Whoniverse, keeping the excitement alive for fans old and new.
