Forest of the Dead

"Forest of the Dead" ends Steven Moffat's two-parter for this series of Doctor Who with a bang, providing plenty of laughs, scares, tears (of both sorts) and surprises. What is especially striking about Moffat's writing here is that he manages to take an ending that is UNBELIEVABLY hokey on paper and turn it into some of the most effective, stunningly well-written drama on modern television. It is simply remarkable.

The developments in the story in this second part are brought to life wonderfully in terms of production design and especially direction with Euros Lyn being on top form here. The acting is superb all around with Catherine Tate showing off her dramatic chops and David Tennant proving once again that he is a remarkable actor. My only small complaint is Murray Gold's score. Very predictable, very over-the-top, and just not right. I hope Moffat will find a new composer when he takes over.

It appears that the Doctor's relationship to River Song was romantic. Could this be part of a Moffat 'straight agenda' for Who? Yes, that's a joke, but think about it- in every last one of his stories he's had a romantic element in the script. Sally Sparrow met two men who loved her in "Blink", "The Girl in the Fireplace" saw the Doctor and Madame du Pompadour getting along quite nicely, and "The Empty Child" had a sub-plot with Captain Jack and Rose finding numerous ways to flirt with each other. I don't think we'll be seeing an asexual Doctor when Moffat takes over and I definitely don't think he will handle this change poorly given his track record. Let's hope for a decided lack of another 'pining after the Doctor' companion.

Just a remarkable, fantastic 90 minute story from Mr. Moffat. Brilliant.

10/10

My answer is yes. This out does all the previous episodes this season and does so much for the feel of Doctor Who. With the inclusion of the Doctors future Moffat brought me to tears. I was literally crying as the finally played out. A great ending too as it left you wanting more and also feeling content that the story had met its ending (I know weird, mind you maybe that is because I always want more Doctor Who). All the actors created such great support too for the story to flow. This episode definitely exceeded Silence in the Library and gave it the best ending it possibly could. When I first saw the trailer (after The Unicorn and the Wasp) I was thinking "What a silly idea, shadows in Libraries" but once I saw that Stephen Moffat wrote it I knew that this would produce a great two episode arch. I can't wait for Moffat to become Executive Producer. Mind you the waiting for this episode was nearly unbearable.

Not wanting to spoil I have to end it there, I would never stop if I don't.

A great episode, going to watch it again right now.

Completely and utterly brilliant, the beginning AND the end of a ten year story arc.

Whenever I think of the future of "Doctor Who" in the hands of one Steven Moffat, I have a warm glow in my heart. Without a doubt, Moffat is one of the most talented writers the series has ever attracted (and a massive talent outside the series). One wonders what delights his "Tintin" script will deliver...

The second part of the library tale manages to trump the first episode. Without going into any details, it's all clever stuff and emotional too.

The cast are splendid and Alex Kingston's River Song adds a whole new layer to the series.

9 out of 10. Fantastic entertainment. Expect a BAFTA, Mr. Moffat...

I've been a DW fan since the beginning (here in the U.S. this show really blew up big in the 70's with the Tom Baker years. I've always relished in the genius of the writers of this series (where DO they get these ideas from????) and the action and humor of the show. But I don't recall such a brilliant and touching episode as this one in recent memory! It feels almost like a great feature film with the smart and poetic narration by Ms. Kingston. And without spoiling, the subplot between River Song and the Doctor is fascinating to say the least. The ending is as touching and beautiful as anything Steven Spielberg could dream up (remember the end of "E.T."? It is that powerful!). If this episode doesn't win a pile of awards, then something is wrong with the world! Absolute brilliance.