In case you missed the announcement, Doctor Who has moved in America. The 'new' episode airs tonight, June 27, 2009 on its new home channel, BBC America. I cannot thank BBC America for sending me (the UK version) of tonight's "Christmas" episode.
It’s Christmas Eve in 1851 and Cybermen stalk the snow of Victorian London. When the Doctor (David Tennant, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) arrives to investigate a spate of mysterious deaths, he’s surprised to meet another Doctor (David Morrissey, State of Play, Viva Blackpool), with his own sonic screw driver. How could this be possible? Could this Doctor be a future regeneration? But if so where are his memories? The two must combine forces to defeat the ruthless Miss Hartigan (Dervla Kirwan, Law & Order UK, Ballykissangel), who is the Cybermen’s human ally. But are two Doctors enough to stop the rise of the CyberKing?
I normally don't really like the episodes that take place in the 'past.' The opening was a little...odd. The Doctor arrives in London on Christmas Day, 1851. Perhaps it was the snow, but he seemed very cheerful upon arriving.
The excitement begins as the Doctor hears a desperate call for his name. Since he just arrived, how could anyone know that he would be there. To make things even more confusing, he runs into another gentleman calling himself the Doctor. After referencing the TARDIS , being a Time Lord and having a sonic screwdriver , the Doctor finds himself facing...the Next Doctor.
The great thing about Doctor Who these days is the production. Like most, I was a huge fan of the show growing up. Despite it's lower budget and cheesey rubber aliens, there was no denying my fascination with the show.
Even though this episode takes place in 1851, I was glued to the screen. From beginning to end, the suspense was there to suck you in. Who is this other Doctor? Why are there Cybermen in 1851?
Everyone likes a good mystery. Throw in the typical Doctor Who adventures and you have a winning combination. The show is pretty accessible to new viewers as well. Whether you have just the smallest bit of knowledge or none at all, you can still enjoy the show. If you haven't watched before, this is a good time to start.
Fans of the show already know that we are approaching the final David Tennant episodes. Those in the UK have already seen this episode and can vouch for its Doctor Who-goodness. David Tennant does a brilliant performance once again. Watching the episode, you simply don't want it to end. You're going to want to watch this to see what happens. Seeing the CyberKing was interesting as well. The effects were good. The acting was spot on. Will the Doctor have a Happy Christmas? I give this episode a 4.5 out of 5 .
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