Rogue

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.

This episode is a knockoff of two of the best Tennant two-parters. I have to preface by saying that I ADORE Jonathan Groff. Spring Awakening, Glee, Hamilton... he's brilliant. And they did him SO DIRTY as this poorly written, half-baked Captain Jack knockoff. It's so blatant-Cocky and gorgeous with a high-tech space ship and sexual chemistry with everyone. But Groff isn't John Barrowman, and it doesn't work. Meanwhile the four aliens inhabiting human bodies for fun are basically a poor imitation of the Family from Human Nature/The Family of Blood. Except they're ACTUALLY TERRIFYING, and their body-snatching is more calculated and less sloppy. Leaving a body in a hallway? Come on guys. And it's like they're trying to capitalize on how popular Bridgerton is right now, but it's ridiculous. STOP IT RTD!!!! We all know you can do better!!!!! My other gripe with this season in general is that the Doctor is not funny!!! We know Ncuti Gatwa can be funny because of his role on Sex Ed, but every time they try to write him as funny it's just cringey. Every other Doctor has their own brand of humor, even 12, and its just falling flat this season. I do love Ruby, I think Millie Gibson has been carrying these god-awful episodes.

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.

In some ways the best episode for ages but why why why does the Doctor have to fall for a romance within minutes of meeting a new character?? Sure have a bit of tension (eg Lady Christina de Souza - "we could have been good together") or have it left unsaid (that unfinished sentence to Rose) but that is all that is needed. Just because the Rogue is a clone of Captain Jack doesn't mean the Doctor is too. Sorry for the rant... otherwise a fun episode. I think the current Doctor is growing into the role. He does seem to shed more tears. Not a bad thing, just a trait of this Doctor.

Space Babies aside, definitely better than the last few seasons. Hopefully it continues (albeit without the romance).

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.