I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this special episode given that I’d been very unimpressed overall with the previous series. In short, too soap-opera-ey and not enough Who-ness.
Tonight’s got off to a slow start. And with no title sequence, I was wrong-footed immediately. But, as the episode progressed, this latest outing for our hero began to grow on me.
I didn’t like the soap-opera element (Ryan’s conflict with his Dad) but just like every series these days it seems, there HAS to be some emotional tension/resolution doesn’t there? For me, it’s just so unnecessary.
On a positive note (and to confirm probably it’s worst-kept secret) it was good to see a returning adversary in the shape of a (semi-naked) Dalek. Conversely, I was VERY disappointed that UNIT was ‘written out’ so unceremoniously!
The special effects were pretty good and certainly a lot better than some I’d seen on previous episodes. The final scene where they defeated the Dalek was totally cheesey, but left the audience with a warm rosy glow into this new year! Ahhh!
In conclusion, I’d say that Jodie Whittaker has, IMHO, really made the part her own now – and tonight’s outing sets up things nicely for the next series (apparently due in ‘early 2020’). This episode felt more Who-like than most of the previous series and I really hope it’s the next series will be more like this new year’s special.
Blogging since 2004, about the significant people, places, sights and sounds of my world. Now dabbling with retirement! 👍😁
