It’s Christmas, and that may solely imply one factor we’ve been ready simultaneously six years and likewise just three weeks for: Physician Who is again for a festive deal with, and it’s bringing a brand new Physician and companion, and a complete new period, alongside for the experience. Want someplace to speak about all the things that simply occurred? We’ve acquired you coated.
“The Church on Ruby Highway” isn’t simply our first full showcase for Ncuti Gatwa’s 15th Doctor, neither is it only for the introduction of his new companion Ruby, however one thing that seems like a giant tonal push for the collection. Russell T. Davies’ work on the latest trio of anniversary specials felt like a contemporary climax to the form of tales he was telling when he first commandeered the present with its 2005, however “Church” actually amps up a extra sci-fantasy riff on the collection.
That’s to not say it’s not performed with fantastical storytelling earlier than, not within the slightest, however a time-weaving story of causality and coincidence-feeding goblins flying a ship above the skies of London undoubtedly pushes the vibe far past Physician Who’s traditional sci-fi ahead trappings. However what did you suppose? Was this only a tougher tone shift for the vacations, or do you suppose Physician Who ought to push extra in the direction of the fantastical because it enters this new period? What did you consider Gatwa and Gibson as the brand new heroes of the hour? Is “The Goblin Song” the banger bop of 2023 or the worst factor you’ve ever heard? And what can we consider the brand new take a look at the following season?
Physician Who: “The Church on Ruby Highway” is now streaming on the BBC iPlayer within the UK, and on Disney+ internationally. Tell us what you thought within the feedback beneath, and keep tuned for io9’s full recap of the episode tomorrow.
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