Jodie Whittaker is one of my favourite Doctors and this episode certified that position. She peaked when she needed to and she was amazing. The emotion and desperation was what made the perfect regeneration for me. I don’t think it’s going to be overtaken although you never know what happens.
Mandip Gill was also successful in ending on a high and gave us a performance. In a field of strong female characters like Fennec Shand and Bo Katan Kryze, Chris was able to give Mandip the correct material to deliver.
With this episode, it’s a bit of a conundrum because even though I love it. I wanted more like with 13 & Thasmin because they were strong parts if the episode. Maybe a 13 Master showdown like we saw with Obi Wan Kenobi vs Darth Vader or Boba Fett vs Cad Bane which were broadcast in 2022? I feel Chibnall did miss some opportunities like we had with Peter Capaldi and Michelle Gomez but that can happen & they both have different visions.
I also compare it to The Mines Of Mandalore and The Return from The Mandalorian months later which have a star quality that makes or stand out but also leaving TPOTD legacy intact. Din Grogu basically took Yaz’s role and have the same passion as Mandip did with Yaz.
Sacha Dhawan came back even better then his last appearance as I am divided after Giancarlo Esposito’s Moff Gideon from The Mandalorian overshadowed him back in 2020 when I look at the finales on respective seasons, He did what he needed to & this was him at his best. No problematic scene, no errors, no one overshadowing him, it’s a strong performance & am glad that Chibnall got him right.
The strongest element is the use of old companions & I feel the absence made this stand out more which is a good thing & meant more as it was celebrating 100 years of the BBC.
My favourite scene is the moment where the Doctor and Yaz say goodbye and moves me. I feel sad for them and it makes me feel for them.
David Tennant did a great job but his entrance has grown a bit out of favour. That saying, David did save his first few lines. I feel my thoughts on 10 are clouding my judgment but I don’t think that will be the case going forward. I think 14 will take time to gel which is understandable and a few other shows are unfortunately are a threat including one of his own characters but I am never giving up on David’s comeback.
A brilliant send off for Jodie and friends. I will miss them.
Score: 10/10
