Rogue

This series really is flashing by, only two more episodes to go, I looked forward to this one, largely because it featured Indira Varma, no stranger to The Doctor Who universe.

Pretty funny at times, this was an amusing romp, definitely an entertaining homage to Bridgerton, and introduced Rogue, a character with echoes of Captain Jack.

It's camp and over the top in parts, I swear it just needed Sid James and Joan Sims in their Don't lose your head costumes, but there was some real depth also, love for The Doctor, I know some will detest the idea, but things change.

More evidence of Disney's budget, it is undoubtedly one of Doctor Who's best looking episodes, it's stunning, the costumes, the ship etc, terrific.

Was Russell taking aim at those viewers that criticise from the comfort of their phones, I think so.

Susan Twist, I really need to know now who she is.

8/10.

This was quite a good episode. After I saw the preview for it last week I was concerned because it looked like another basic period piece but there's aliens type episode which are often middling. But this episode threw twists that made it so much fun and so interesting. There were a few moments that were a bit predictable but even still they worked, and the overall premise is interesting too, despite not looking it in the previews. I was even surprised by something which after the episode I realized would've been spoiled by the description, but they do it well.

Overall it's a good episode. Not quite as good as 73 yards but some people may like it better than Boom, although I personally like Boom slightly more.

While previous episodes have heavy doses of exposition passing as dialogue, this episode lightly weaves banter with both plot advancement and Doctor lore in a more believable and balanced effect. The timing and wit is consistent throughout, and is joined with some elements of physical humor. The result is, as my husband blurted out, "the truly funniest episode in a long time."

This season seems to be working hard to broaden the Doctor Who audience. First, by the exposition to catch up viewers on the long history of the Doctor. Then by sweeping in more fantasy viewers in the sci-fi/fantasy genres, through Goblins, the Pantheon, and superstitions. Also, with Disney as its sole distributor in the U. S., by adding musical/dancing elements to plots and performances. Recent episodes also show aspects of British culture that seem to have the most appeal for American audiences, such as the Beatles and, with this episode, the Romantic Regency period.

This episode showed all of this to great effect, especially for me, a hopeless romantic who loves the Regency period, intrigue and romance. While I love classic Doctors (including their cynical and crunchy turns) and hope we don't stray too far, I appreciate this fresh take, played by incredibly talented performers.

The Victorian setting, while visually appealing, does little to invigorate this narrative. The romance is uninspiring, and a departure from the Doctor's typical relationships in the series, it lacks the depth and engagement necessary to make it compelling. This deviation might intrigue some fans initially, but it ultimately feels puddle deep and sophomoric.

Character progression is minimal, with little development for either the Doctor or the bounty hunter. It's not a show that has ever been primarily about romance, and when it has, usually it tries to make the emotions feel earned, which they don't here.

There's a lack of tension, wonder, menace or intrigue needed to elevate the stakes, resulting in a narrative that feels stagnant and unengaging. The plot meanders without offering the excitement or clever twists that fans have come to expect from Doctor Who.

Overall, "Rogue" misses the mark with a dull romance, underdeveloped characters, and a lack of thrilling or thought-provoking moments.

As much as I really enjoyed this episode and it's nice to have some new enemies that aren't just the daleks and cybermen every week, this whole season has just been Russel T Davies stealing ideas and whole characters from his first run as showmaker. I want something new, not just David Tennant's run all over again with a new coat of paint.

The Bridgerton theming was kind of fun with the show being referenced in multiple occasions and I hope they do play with some fun period episodes as well as the space ones, Nctuti has some pretty good acting ability as well, he's been such a joy to watch for this season and I hope they give him some episodes to show his range and ability.