Doctor Who Review: The Woman Who Fell to Earth

It's the moment we've all been waiting for.
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[@matthewwalker20]

In regards to getting the clothes from a store, she’s getting them from a British charity shop rather than buying new from an actual shop. She’s buying a random selection of second hand older clothes for which the money goes to charity. I like that from the Doctor :)

[@GuanoLad]

The spoon significance might have been lost on a lot of people. Sheffield is known for its steel industry and the cutlery/silverware it makes. The sonic being made of Sheffield Steel is a big deal for a Brit.

[@Payne2view]

I thought that was too heavily laid on. I'm glad that wasn't taken further with "I checked the labels, everything made in Britain" or "Fair trade certified" at the charity shop. I'm also glad she craved a fried-egg sandwich, not Yorkshire Pudding.

[@rarazalproductions519]

Didn't she even say something like "New sonic screwdriver - now augmented with Sheffield steel"?

[@Reprodestruxion]

GuanoLad hope she goes back and fixes Human League >.>

[@Elnis888]

Thank you for the explanation! As a non-brit I had no idea about that :-)

[@sezzac155]

That's interesting. As a non-Brit that was indeed lost on me. It was the 'Robot of Sherwood' nod that i picked up on instead. But it did make me happy that the Sonic was finally made of Earth stuff, and it was that that made me want to buy one of those Make-your-own Sonic Screwdriver sets which i don't actually have yet.

[@Charuchii]

To me honestly the thing that made me go "Ah, this is this type of doctor" was her crafting her own sonic screwdriver and her trying to find a way back to her tardis using mechanics. The doctor has always been technical ofcourse, but I've rarely seen a doctor who's been this unafraid to dirty their hands with iron and metal. She honestly seems more like the technical and inventor type than I've seen so far

[@NZBigfoot]

If you havent seen Classic Who, Pertwee is very like that while hes stuck on earth rebuilding his Tardis he's often doing stuff with circuit boards and spanners or cobling things together etc (he's even seen i think in one story with his arms in the workings of his vintage car Bessie) Jodies even kinda more action hero like Pertwee was which is great... Also 6th Doctor on a few times was seen with his arms in parts of the Tardis fixing it. New Who did it but it kinda felt like Magic alot of the time using all sorts of mundane things to make super tech... was nice to see actual (visually) mechanical scrap tech being used instead of teacups umbrellas and toasters... Hell even more with the Pertwee thing with teh visual and tonal changes Jodies first episode was very similar to Spearhead from Space which was Pertwees first episode when it went from BW to Color and a more film like quality.

[@Charuchii]

I have to admit I haven't really seen Classic Who yet. I tried years ago but I got stuck getting through the first doctor haha ;; But I meant it more in comparison to the New Who Doctors who... yeah like you said, it often does feel more like magic. And I think there's a difference in story telling too, I feel a lot of new who doctors if they didn't have their screwdriver would try to go to the tardis and get one there, and it's just refreshing to have one go "ah fuck it, I'll make one myself"

[@sharpchivers6658]

+Presumptious pseudonym I liked how she used a lot of more techno techs for her builds but still added some things that felt out of place. Like the spoon steel for her screwdriver and the microwave to set the timer on her teleporting device. It shows that she does need some more advanced tech to make her complicated stuff but can still take advantage of having more mundane objects around and it will still (mostly) work out in the end. If the scrappy builder aspect is a key caracteristic of this doctor it will be nice to know she can still get around things even with the most basic material (kinda like Eleven did in "The Lodger").

[@ixamraxi]

@@NZBigfoot Pertwee did a lot of tinkering, but so did Tom Baker, he had the tardis console apart many times, not to mention rebuilding K9 multiple times.

[@mikaylaeager7942]

I think it’s hand to tell what was “the moment” until after you know who the doctor is. Knowing Matt Smith we can look back at the Eleventh Hour and say that bow tie moment was “the moment” but I don’t think many would make that call having only seen the Eleventh Hour.

[@kevinalexander8201]

I think Jodie showed she could be a good Doctor, as long as the writing holds up!

[@lewisbooth3917]

Oh dear

[@ganondorf797]

See, I didn't see the ending as a cliffhanger, but as a joke. I actually laughed out loud. I missed the Doctor tinkering and building things, and I *really* missed the Doctor messing up while doing so.

[@buttonmasher7615]

"Whoops. That's new. Guess I'm not the builder."

[@cjboyo]

Honestly same! I love the Doctor tinkering, and I cracked up during that final scene

[@her0880]

"I'm good at building things.. I think.." lol

[@alessandrolok5450]

Like an inside joke...like the end form twice upon a time?

[@blackphoenix77]

I'm glad that she screwed up because it shows that the Doctor isn't going to become automatically perfect at everything now that she's a woman. She still has flaws and I love it.

[@andrewbowman4611]

The joy of the cliffhanger isn't "are they going to survive?", but "how are they going to survive?" It's the school playground talking point; the office water-cooler moment. Also, I don't agree that Grace was in anyway superfluous, nor that her death was unnecessary. After all, the title of the episode was about her, at least in part. Clearly, Ryan's KZbin-style video was all about her.

[@chrissonofpear3657]

Or someone else will do that...

[@KeithAndrewPGbiz]

The women having clothing bit: 1) To be fair, It wasn’t a big deal to her. She literally forgot and went to a funeral wearing the same clothes she landed on Earth in. 2) The shop she got those clothes from was a charity shop - a thrift store, if you like.

[@Jeevzsk]

He meant more like in many chick flicks theres a scenes when they buy clothes and come out the dressing room for people it looks shit and it goes on and on

[@rarazalproductions519]

@@Jeevzsk You know who had a scene like that in his first episode? Tom Baker. He came out of the TARDIS in absolutely ridiculous outfits three times before settling for his final, slightly less ridiculous outfit with the scarf. It was way more drawn out and played for laughs than Whittakers dressing szene.

[@Jeevzsk]

@@rarazalproductions519 bruh u missed the point. I was just explaining what the ytber was trying to explain Also it wasnt a chick flick cliche back then

[@rarazalproductions519]

Yeah man, I wasn't disagreeing with you. I know the "chick flick cliché" and your explanation was totally fine, I just wanted to mention that Baker as a man had a dressing scene that felt way more like an example for this female cliché. I thought that was funny, is all.

[@MrVoid666]

I think the main thing to take notice of is that she got dressed like the doctor not like a woman montageing in any other show. She still the same person she dint appear from the dressing room seeking approval either,She came out seeking for them to share in her seeming boundless amount of joy.

[@alunrundle162]

I do think the death of Grace was a majorly important thing to happen. The last few years has seen Moffatt writing ways out of death for virtually every character he could to a point where we knew no death was going to stick. Chibnall nailed his post to the mast with her death. People can die when they're friends with the Doctor again. As for the ending, that was a bit of a hark back to the end of 'Genesis of the Daleks', hmm? Love the fact she BUILT the Screwdriver herself. I recall Smith needing a new one and a station on the TARDIS that we've never seen before just pops one out. For me, there were hints of the Seventh Doctor - she could switch from 'buffoon' to intricate planner in a heartsbeat. And there was a LOT of Tom Baker in "You had no right to do that!" near the end.

[@sanityisrelative]

Someone else here in the comments was saying how reminiscent Jodi's Doctor is to classic Who, and that that might be part of what's off-putting for fans that are strictly new Whovians. The pacing and plot reminded me more of a classic serial rather than anything from Moffat or even Davies. It was a bit lighter and more fast paced and I liked that, it's a nice break from the heavier stuff we've gotten I'm the past. Not every character/companion needs to have a grand significance. Plus, I it'll be fun for the Doctor to have accidental companions again.

[@purplecelery7380]

I'm wondering if Chibnall will 'do a Moffat' and find a way to bring Grace back to life by the end of the series...

[@AubreySciFi]

Yes, I always thought the TARDIS console producing Sonics out of nowhere in the new series was kind of weird. Esp as technically they are supposed to be a part of every TARDISes toolkit, so there would generally only be one per TARDIS, and if it breaks you have to go build another one. So the one that Troughton used was probably the original one from the TARDIS Toolkit and then the third Doctor's version was probably one that 3 built himself as he was always a tinkerer (Or he canabalised the original to build his version). Then 4 and 5 just adapted his new version and made small alterations to it for themselves. After it was destroyed it was years before the Doctor built a new Sonic (The End of the 7th Doctor's era/The leadup to 8). Now when we get to the new series, apparently the TARDIS is just producing them willy nilly as needed now? Odd. (Also, interestingly, 12 decided to go and make copies of all of the Sonic variants to stick in the pencil holder on his desk in his final season. A fun nod for fans, but makes little practical sense, in-Universe.)

[@user-zd2kl9yg4v]

I predict that doctors companions will try to use tardis to bring her back to life, and steal tardis. Or not. But wait, thats what almost happened in the end of season 8.

[@alunrundle162]

I do hope not. I remember way back in the classics when Adric was killed off early in Davison's run. That death was also important as the Doctor had built up a seeming invulnerability during T. Baker's run and they wanted to strip that away from the show. Moffatt (and, to a lesser extent, Davies) couldn't let anyone STAY dead. They always had to find a way to bring important characters back or evade death after the fact. Like Clara. Like Amy & Rory (who lived to death). Like Bill. For this to mean anything, and show the danger of the Doctor's life, the aunt - unfortunately - has to stay dead.

[@lucyinchat]

The cliff hanger reminded me of Classic Who, which is far from a bad thing, and gosh, thinking about it… it felt so much like a Douglas Adam's Doctor Who episode.

[@runciblemoon1194]

You're the first person I've seen make that comparison, and I think you might be onto something there! That wonky undertone to it... Hard to put my finger on, but I definitely see where you're coming from.

[@oxenford539]

this. i can see why the new-era-only doctor who fans are upset about it though.

[@gimmeurcrisps]

the ending reminded me of the ending of genesis of the daleks

[@kbg12ila]

Yes!!! I've been saying that!!! The pacing and the way the mystery unfolds is so classic who which is excellent. Jodie even gave me some vibes and the classic theme just solidified it. I'm so excited. I think classic who fans should really enjoy this. I'd actually say this is the perfect revival of classic who. As much as I love series 1-4 of Nuwho. This is the doctor who I think a lot of people wanted. Although looking at some of the negative reactions, it's seems similar to what people say when they say negative stuff about classic who.

[@jonathan.palfrey]

Well, I've been watching Doctor Who since 1964, and I can see what you mean: this episode doesn't have all the crazy complications that Moffat tended to introduce. Just a rather simple, low-grade alien predator to deal with. And yes, this is welcome in a way, because I think Moffat's complications were excessive and too much for the audience to keep up with. Although Old-Who scripts were mostly hackwork and the production quality suffered from the low budget, the actual stories were somewhat less implausible, because they didn't rely on fantastic impossibilities such as the Weeping Angels.

[@profdracko]

Was it great? No. Was it entertaining? Yeah. I like Jodie so far. Lot of energy, reminds me of Tennant. Also liking Walsh. The Tardis team needs a tired granddad character. He reminds me a bit of Donna.

[@somechray3718]

Yeah, Donna mixed with Wilf. Great combination.

[@benjaminlimsowtin1633]

Completely agree. Almost felt like she was trying to channel her inner Tennant in places. When she was being herself, it was brilliant. (Whenever she used the sonic swiss army knife)

[@GranthamStreet]

I'm hoping Walsh cracks up like this in a future episode: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJ2Ui5mwYrycmsU

[@faeoori]

I always wanted Donna's dad to be a companion lol

[@its-gabe-maybe]

@OffsetAirplane they're friends so it doesn't surprise me

[@datfisheboi6519]

I thought her “attack eyebrows” or “bow tie” moment was her building something. “I’m good at building things. I think.” I mean, I could be wrong, but I think that may become her “thing”. I mean, I assumed that the Doctor was always kinda good at building things, but she seemed more at home with it than the other ones. We never really got a building montage, just kinda “OH, the (thing) is fixed now” as he comes up with a wrench or something. And I don’t thing The Doctor has made such advanced technology from scratch before.

[@TheJoscelyne]

Didn't 11 make a functional Tardis out of a junkyard of Tardises in The Doctor's Wife?

[@harryspurr3828]

Oi! Tim Shaw!! it made me howl

[@datfisheboi6519]

Joscelyne K Yeah, but it wasn’t really a thing. We can assume that he’s competent but the new one seems to be really good at it

[@jonathanroth2284]

Remembered that too thought that what was going to happen then it turns out she built a sonic

[@sullenskulls9709]

To me, her thing was the almost throw-away line, that probably went a little too unnoticed, just after the crane guy kicked the alien off the edge. She said "You had no right to do that", having previously claimed that she was all about "fair-play". I got the impression, that this was meant to be more significant than it came across.

[@Othelbark]

!SPOILERS! I think a better ending for this episode would've been cutting to credits after showing the teleport take all four of them and not showing the destination. I think that would have been almost as much of a cliffhanger without feeling contrived.

[@timtepe]

I agree. The ending slould have been them leaving the garage.

[@kaiedre5782]

True

[@miken.1705]

Yup then open the next episode with them in stuck in space open credits fix problem

[@AndrewHalliwell]

But they wouldn't have been in a deadly situation and the classic who "scream" into closing credits wouldn't have worked. You did notice the "scream" didn't you?

[@8bitmagic]

"next time on doctor who" welp I guess they're fine

[@rogvortex58]

Good. I think Chibnall’s main goal was to sell us on the main characters. Just like with Broadchurch, he’s all about character building. Getting the audience invested.

[@h.p.loveshaft6418]

@NO COMMENTS can you please act your username

[@lwaves]

+NO COMMENTS It was a request, nobody said you weren't entitled to your point of view.

[@kitsunepryde507]

Yeah That was something i like a lot in his Torchwood episodes, and i have that DW would be like that

[@sallyatticum]

It's sad when you spend the time looking for boxes to tick and complain about instead of just enjoying the show.

[@h.p.loveshaft6418]

@NO COMMENTS having an opinion is one thing, another is acting like some anti SJW bot wherever you see racial and social diversity on television

[@jules_8673]

David Tennant did the same in the Tardis. Choosing his outfit. It felt funnier that it was in a thrift store as she didn’t have her Tardis

[@MultiVinniemac]

Tom Baker did it too

[@nigelmurphy6761]

yep. he did indeed.

[@MrPaulMorris]

Most of the Doctors have gone through some similar sequence to establish their outfit. Hartnell didn't because he arrived in his first incarnation. Troughton seemed to more or less continue to wear Hartnell's outfit although it was very over-size and increasingly shabby over time. Pertwee stole his clothes from a doctor in the hospital where he was recuperating post-regeneration. The next four Doctors all chose their costumes from the Tardis wardrobe room. The eight Doctor echoed Pertwee by stealing his costume from a hospital. We didn't see how Eccleston's costume originated and the other New Who Doctors are covered in the review.

[@tduckfield518]

Tom Baker did the dress up sequence....as did Sylvester.........

[@Ben-vf5gk]

Tim Shaw was a great villain. Its nice to see that Doctor Who is showing teeth. I apologize for nothing

[@metalgearman242]

Jodi got me immediately. The way she stayed around for the funeral... that’s more doctor than any other doctor has had the courage to be. I’m excited to see where they all go from here

[@corbinvickers9993]

Killing off grace did a little more than make a reason for her not to appear later. It establishes the fact that the doctors life is dangerous. The whole episode has a surprising kill count , which is one thing I didn’t like that Moffat did. I’m still not 100% sure about chibnall yet, it I think it just takes adjusting after 8 years of Moffat.

[@gnomesaiyan1680]

Killing Grace also sets up a very interesting dynamic between Ryan and Graham. The only thing really linking them was her, and now that she's gone, how does their relationship as family develop?

[@theshadowdirector]

I believe it will also serve as a key element in the development of Graham and Ryan's relationship. I'll be shocked if it doesn't come up.

[@lwaves]

+Louis Thrift +Gnome Saiyen Yes, it also serves as a reason for Ryan and Graham to go traveling with the Doctor. If Grace had survived there's no way that Graham would leave her behind, even if she insisted.

[@sallyatticum]

I thihnk they could have done more to establish tension between Ryan and Graham. Once in a while one of them would say something but I didn't really feel the tension. I think if we felt that hostility and then they were thrown together in the TARDIS and had to learn to work together, it would have worked better. But we'll see.

[@lwaves]

+Laura Kay I think (hope) we'll see that in the upcoming episodes. I don't think there was really enough time in the episode, with everything else that needed to be done, to properly address it. Now that Grace isn't around there's nobody to keep them in check (not counting our Doc and Yas) and they both have the jumping off point her death. They both cared for her deeply so emotions will be heightened, even moreso given the situations they'll be in.

[@caseygibson7266]

I loved the episode and Wittaker is great as The Doctor so far. I was so wrapped up in the story that I realized halfway through "Hmm, there hasn't been a title sequence yet. Weird." But boooooy did the outro sequence more than make up for it. I love that she got her outfit from a thrift store, because that's been a joke I've made for a while that s/he gets his/her clothes from a thrift store and now it's canon.

[@Lil-Dragon]

I admit no title sequence through me off.

[@m.stewart8094]

Dont think we got the outro in the US.

[@caseygibson7266]

@@m.stewart8094 Huh, weird. I streamed in on my Firestick and it had the outro. I'm in America btw.

[@jakeanderson3625]

I never even noticed.

[@killernyancat8193]

The comics probably aren't completely canon but in one of the comics, 10 says that the Tardis lands in stores(finding clothing that she likes, making a duplicate of it, and returning the original) so...yeah.

[@DenniWintyr]

Anyone else get an Iron Man vibe from her making the sonic? If Tony Stark can build an arc reactor in a cave, of course the Doctor can build a sonic screwdriver in a warehouse ^_^

[@jvictor001]

Yeah,that was a thing that got me thinking "How did she make a Sonic in a warehouse?" It lacks technology to feel a little real,I mean,from a science fiction point of view.But you know,it's the Doctor.He can cure himself from poison with stuff we find in a kitchen (back when he was 10th) lol

[@DenniWintyr]

@@jvictor001 there was also the wreckage of an alien transport vessel in that warehouse

[@Xojzk12]

It's the software that's missing imho.

[@Jeevzsk]

I didnt like it. Surely other races should be able to make it too with ease if the doctor could here with any gallyfry materials

[@jvictor001]

@@DenniWintyr Oh,true.I incredibly managed to miss that during the episode.I watched it again today paying more attention and I understood it way better. And in my defense,English isn't my first language,so I always miss one or two things 😅😅😅

[@runciblemoon1194]

Commenting before completing the video (I know, tut tut) but I have to respond to the clothing room scene point. I think this might be a cultural lost in translation thing but it's important to point out that the "store" she was in was a charity shop. These are all over British towns and cities - full of second hand beaten up clothes, books CDs etc at bargain bucket prices with the profits going to whichever major charity runs the store. This was not a typical clothes store scene and was quietly subversive - further underscoring the emphasis on working class characters and experiences that runs right through this episode. My partner (female) was DELIGHTED when she realised the Doctor was getting her new outfit from a charity shop.

[@srelar]

In the US, we have the Salvation Army and Goodwill thrift stores in just about every town. We also have regular second hand (thrift) stores.

[@Felix-kt1iq]

I think subconsciously I had noticed that, but it didn't really click until I saw people talking about it. I didn't have any problems with that scene to begin with (thank god they didn't do a montage- no matter who it is I can't stand them, and frankly don't think it wouldn't have fit the vibe of the episode), but it added another level to the scene. Assuming the Doctor chose to go there, it very much lines up with the Doctor as a character. Even if she didn't, I still think it was a nice touch, just to not have it be a big name-brand store or anything like that.

[@sanityisrelative]

The only thing weird to me about the scene was that it wasn't in the TARDIS's wardrobe. I didn't think twice about it being in a thrift shop. That part actually seemed perfectly fitting.

[@amandadavis6980]

David Edwards I don’t know why he’s complaining Matt did the same cloths scene in the eleventh hour so I don’t get why he’s making this all about sex

[@Chris_T_S]

Amanda, he admits this point... actually says its his issue, not the show's and that he has to get over it

[@liraelclayr0074]

A discussion I’ve been having with some other friends...the opinion that matters to me most right now is my daughter’s. When it was over she looked at me with heart eyes and said, “Mom, she’s my FAVORITE Doctor!” I didn’t 100% love everything about the episode either, but that moment right there is what it was all about for me. ❤️

[@liraelclayr0074]

Note: I actually *did* love most of it. Graham is my favorite, I think. He’s very practical and skeptical, and he made me laugh quite a lot. And the SPOON!!!!! Absolute best.

[@Reprodestruxion]

LiraelClayr007 this ^

[@gnomesaiyan1680]

That's amazing. Yet again another reminder that children rock. They don't carry bias. They see something they love and simply tell the whole world that they do.

[@CulturePhilter]

That’s fantastic. How old is your daughter? Mine is almost 4 and watched it. Every time the Doctor wasn’t on screen she was asking where she had gone and when she’d be back.

[@user-qs9ps3hw6u]

Was I literally the only person who felt like it was a totally different show? Like anyone notice they totally changed the cinematography? The background music style and the editing? I also didn’t find the episode to be that interesting but every doctors first episode IMO isn’t that interesting. I’ve been watching since eccleston and this is the first time I felt like I was watching a different show. The doctor also isnt growing on me as much as I thought she would

[@jamiestevens3074]

Out of the companions Ryan is my fav, then Bradley, yaz wasn’t that interning so far. Jodie was amazing SO FAR, but I think they overdid the whole amnesia thing. We didn’t really feel her doctor until the last 15 mins. The monster is brutal and cool, I’m glad it was a dark themed episode. Grace literally says “it broke his jaw” that’s brilliant. When grace died I cried and I only knew her for less then an hour, know what that is? Good writing and acting. I like the not so good bond between graham and Ryan.. he doesn’t wanna call him grandad, but I bet at the end of the series he will call him grandad, maybe when the character is dying or being saved by the other.

[@PyroCeras]

To be fair to the amnesia/ getting to know the Doctor thing: Tennant and Capaldi had similiar "issues" in their first episode. (Well, Tennant wasn't in his first episode for the most part, but Capaldi had very similiar issues)

[@GeriatricFan1963]

I found it really funny when they're looking at the guy's mangled corpse and exclaiming how horrible it is... Kind of made me want to see it, to see how bad it could be! But I can understand why they wouldn't want to traumatise kids. Their reactions were good, but including the gore and then not showing it felt a little cheap to me. I really liked Ryan too; I especially liked the moment where he fessed up to pressing the squares and blamed himself. A lot of other first time companions might have tried to avoid blame, but Ryan was honest and maybe even a little hard on himself, which felt like an admirable trait but he was still relatable as a character; they didn't make anybody too perfect, not even The Doctor.

[@justwobert9850]

@@GeriatricFan1963 you can always imagine something worse than the writers. It looks like for once the writers acnolaged that truth

[@sallyatticum]

With David Tennant, you were just dying for the Doctor to get out of bed. With Jodie, you were dying for her to say "I'm the Doctor." I, too wish it had been a bigger moment, but it was fun.

[@gogozeppeli9267]

You cried because of that shitty death scene? You are easy to pls it seems lol

[@QuiJon]

I was really pleased with how little attention they gave to the gender switch. I think it was smart to almost cover it as a throw away. I think there was only one line where it was pointed out that she was a woman now and the doctor just addressed it like it was always something that could happen that they were prepared for it was just this time lords first time as a woman. The dressing thing didn't hit me as odd I know at least one other doctor in the new era had some scene where they were in the tardis hunting for a new look and we see past costumes hanging up around them. I don't see this as being any different.

[@Justanidea5976]

Well, she said that it wasn't her first time. She said "I haven't been like this in a long time." I thought that was really cool because with just a couple lines they set it up. In my opinion it's kind of like the Avatar. They sat it up without having an issue which is good writing. Proud of them.

[@MrTheSlimJim]

Liked her more than i liked Capaldi after his first episode. And he became my favorite Doctor over time, and he still is after i rewatched all of new Who and even some classic stuff. So thats a plus. Lets see how she developes

[@olandir]

I agree absolutely. Capaldi's first episode was forgettable and I was not happy with him after it. It took a while before I really loved him as the Doctor. At least with Jodi's first episode, I left feeling like "Okay, I like this Doctor." - the best first episode for me will always be 11th Hour. That rocked!

[@ealadubh4800]

You should bear in mind that the 'store' the Doctor gets her outfit from is a charity shop. It's exactly the place where you'd expect that combination of odds and sods to be, and in that sense, is the nearest thing you'd get to the TARDIS wardrobe without having the TARDIS. It also gives the scene a different metaphorical context as the 'jumble sale' sense of both this and the homemade sonic screwdriver matches the Doctor perfectly at this point.

[@hollyturner4186]

I really enjoyed it! I thought the story was fun with the right amount of scary and I am completely sold on Jodie. I thought the way they wrote Ryan's dyspraxia was brilliant. When he was frustrated about not being able to ride the bike I was shouting 'Yes, that's what it feels like!' And I liked him being the most accepting of it being aliens because having unique ways of thinking is also a trait of people with dyspraxia. Hooray for representation!

[@kaiedre5782]

Holly Turner I’m very very glad you pointed this out!

[@claytoncourtney1309]

I was not aware of dyspraxia so I am now aware. I hope they do not forget that he has it when he is in a situation where it might affect him in future episodes.

[@OrangeStripedGekko]

My friend has dyspraxia and she actually really liked the climbing scene! Generally in day-to-day life there are things she'll avoid (like ice-skating, walking on something that requires a huge degree of balance etc) but sometimes you can't avoid an obstacle. She liked that Ryan climbed because he decided he had to, to help, but that they also showed him struggling, dropping the torch and nearly falling down at one point. (Also, climbing and riding a bike require different kinds of co-ordination, I guess?). Basically it's more believable than it might first appear - at least from my friend's experience!

[@OrangeStripedGekko]

I get it, it was one of the things I waited to hear my friend's verdict on because I don't have dyspraxia either. I think with conditions like these it's really easy both to overestimate and underestimate what people can do? Especially since the condition can affect people in different ways, and certain obstacles may be easier for some than others. But yeah, the most important thing is it's spreading awareness! My friend is so happy, and that makes me happy too :)

[@RowskiF1996]

@@challengerjakku1943 If you need some perspective, I do go-karting and am relatively good at it, but I still find something like turning a key in a door difficult.

[@oxenford539]

killing grace was smart - it was to lay the foundations for a story arc between graham and ryan. 1: the kid has parents who don't give a shit, as shown by his dad not turning up for her funeral. 2: this emphasizes the bond that he has/had with his nan - he cares for her far more than he cares for his parents - while being his nan, the dynamic is essentially that of mother and son. 3: graham came into the picture only 3 years ago, and has never been liked by the kid. 4: at the funeral graham said that it should have been him who died instead of her, referring to how if he'd died from the cancer, she'd never have ended in the scenario where she died. 5: the close up on the kid's face when he says this shows us that he also blames graham for his gran's death. 6: queue an entire story arc where the two of them close the void and forge a father/son relationship over the season. how the hell is everyone missing this and saying that killing her was a mistake? edit: loved the cliffhanger - cliffhangers were a staple of classic who, and have been sorely missed. i'm actually surprised to hear myself defending the episode, as i thought it was gonna be a complete train wreck. jodie was also fine, but really didn't feel like the doctor (and never will imo) - we all know why they turned the doctor into a woman and it was a mistake to do so. she's *fine* though so i can live with it. as for the companions, i'm 100% sold on having 3 of them alongside the doctor; 2 men and 2 women, just like the original cast when the show launched in 1963.

[@kbg12ila]

Joshua Oxenford You get it! I not only love this episode for the episode itself but because I know what it could (will) mean for the rest of the series.

[@sezzac155]

For me personally i was a tad annoyed that they killed Grace off because of i was looking forward to the possibility of a proper family dynamic straight off the bat. (The last time we saw a family dynamic was with Eleven, and even then we knew of River long before her identity reveal and Rory was introduced to us later.) But having it this way does create the story arc that you outlined and i'm looking forward to it too. I went into this series hopeful and the episode has met with those positive expectations, 13 hasn't clicked fully with me yet, as i do agree that there wasn't that unique 'Oh, that's the new Doctor' moment. But i am expecting that she will in the next episode or two, once we see her first adventure off Earth.

[@GeriatricFan1963]

Killing her wasn't a mistake; killing her off in the same episode that she was introduced in was though. If you want us to care about one of the companion's closest relatives, then we need a bit more time with them. I did appreciate that we got to see the funeral though; usually we never get to see what the consequences of a side character dying, and what happens after, because the story just moves on and forgets about them. It was a well handled death I just wish it had happened a bit later; it felt like a mid-season event rather than something we'd see in a first episode.

[@lwaves]

+Edward Hunter They didn't want you to care about her, she wasn't there for us (the viewer), that was never the point of her presence. She was there for Ryan and Graham so that we could see how they cared about her and subsequently how we care about them and how they deal with it in the upcoming episodes.

[@tn936]

I don't think it was a mistake and you're absolutely right with the potential Graham-Ryan arc. It was just... painfully predictable. I agree with the video, it was cheap move (doesn't mean a wrong one, tho) and personally I've been expecting her to die since the train scene. Was actually surprised she survived the whole episode :D

[@clara_bandicoot]

I loved it. I'm pretty much sold on Jodie already, I like the energy she brings to the character. One of my favourite moments is when she finishes building the screwdriver and it sparks out a bit, and she's just like "it'll be alright!". Works even better cos she's from Yorkshire like me so maybe I'm a little biased. I think I'm going to like the overall dynamic between the 3 companions, especially Graham and Ryan, and I definitely appreciate that they already know each other like Susan, Barbara and Ian did, so we don't need to spend too much time on them getting to know each other. But I do worry that 3 is too many, and Yaz did kind of feel unneeded here. But obviously there's time for her to shine in her own right. The villain looked great and sounded very unsettling, it's just the backstory was a little bit basic. But it's the first episode, the villain didn't need to be amazing.

[@lwaves]

To me, Jodie was the Doctor by the time they'd left the train and I wasn't expecting to get that so soon. Even Matt Smith took the whole episode and for Tennant, Capaldi and Ecclescake it was their second episodes. I can't remember for classic Who. I liked all three companions for different reasons although none were really stands out (so far). Graham was humourous (as you'd expect with that actor) but I hope they keep it toned down and retain his practical, skeptical nature as much as possible. I'd hate to see him just become 'the funny one'. The villain was okay, did it's job which is what really matters in a season opener. It reminded me of something that belonged in Torchwood and I wondered if the idea was conceived back then by Chibbers?

[@clara_bandicoot]

That's actually a really good point about the villain. If it was originally intended for Torchwood I'd much rather Chibbers did an episode about it than the goddamn sex demon or the Cyberwoman

[@Mrcool210]

I found the villain to be the weakest element of the episode, everything else was great. But i was really bothered that the villain was literally a predator. Like its changed just enough so they don't get sued but it was too similar for me. Love Jodie though and the companions. Although it definitely felt like a different show. Like even more so then davis to moffat did. I'll finish the season up to see if that's good or bad.

[@jonsnor4313]

Every first villain so far was forgettable, She and tennent really sold it in the first episode She in the train and tennant while the sword fight with the aliens for me, and the whispering into the prime ministers ears.

[@galarstar052]

um, excuse me? how are living shop dummies with guns, shapeshifting snakes and giant crystalline eyeballs, and clockwork robots that repair with human organs forgettable?

[@jameswalkden6672]

I'm on board with Jodie already, I really like her. For me, this is the first regeneration where I didn't miss the last doctor, and I REALLY like Capaldi.

[@Emailly-dl4ee]

i really like how the theme sounds like classic who

[@mastermissy]

This was as good as Eleventh Hour for me. I really loved it. As usual the first half it kinda felt like the new Doctor is saying the old Doctors lines but by the end I had forgotten all that. What I loved was the focus on jeopardy for just a few characters rather than “the whole universe may explode” thing. Smart move to kill off one of those characters to add to the jeopardy going forward. Great start! 😅 Also I liked they didn’t show the Tardis yet, creates more anticipation for next week! I think we have to get used to the idea this is more an ensemble piece rather than it being all about the Doctor and the whole universe revolving around her like in the past. Hopefully each week we will see a different character being fleshed out more.

[@octa_fan]

Absolutely agree with all of this! If there's anything Chibnall has proved from previous shows, it's that he's very good at fine-tuning emotional responses from specific characters. I'm hoping this stands through Who!

[@GeriatricFan1963]

I thought killing Nan off was a huge mistake; because we barely get to know her and she dies, suddenly we're supposed to care? Seems like a wasted character to me. Had they killed her a few episodes in then it would have had a lot more impact.

[@Quagony]

Her death wasn't so much to affect us; but to give motivation to the characters for how they may feel or act later

[@moniquej2997]

I cannot wait to see her in her tardis. I thought I was excited about yesterday's episode but now next week, we get the new theme tune and hopefully the tardis

[@christopheralthouse6378]

@@chriszone50 She DID state ON-SCREEN that she was a white-haired Scotsman a half-hour prior...

[@christopheralthouse6378]

This episode to me felt like very stripped-down, bare-bones Doctor Who... And I say that as a REALLY GOOD thing! With Moffat's era, we got higher and higher and ever higher stakes and more and more fantastic situations which I felt caused the show to forget what it was about... The characters. Companions had to be either in love with The Doctor or mysteries to sort out or, failing that, The Doctor had to be some sort of God... This caused the show to become something that it's not. The Doctor ISN'T a God anx companions are people, not mysteries and CERTAINLY not love interests to a character who is over a millenia old. This episode was bare-bones, back to basics Who... There is a strange problem and The Doctor (quite literally) drops in and starts helping people solve it... The universe and all of time is not at stake... Just one single person in one small community... And The Doctor is there to help... 'Nuff said. This is what Doctor Who has been about since 1963 and I am REALLY glad to see Chibnall bring it back to that. Looking forward to what the rest of this season brings... 😊

[@hotdog1214]

Very well put.

[@mayotango1317]

The Doctor was a brilliant god in the RTD era, as Rose and Martha were only the Doctor's love interests. Amy and Rory are still the most normal companions compared to BAD WOLF, Private Jones, Doctor Donna, the impossible girl.

[@deleonfernandes]

Agreed!

[@JGoodall33]

@@mayotango1317 Don't forget his wife, River Song. She was a definite love interest, and I loved seeing her relationship with the Doctor.

[@kiarash608]

Spoilers Love how in a moment of "I'm really not Moffat" Chibs killed off someone important in his first episode

[@masterdragon2345]

To me she did not feel like a special character. We knew her for 1 episode so her dying did not mean much

[@TheSkully343]

There was a deleted scene where Moffat was calling Chris Chibnall from Trenzalore about how he secretly wrote in the scene where Grace dies.

[@valentinus7776]

While I didn`t think the episode was stellar, I did enjoy it overall. The story was pretty much your standard doctor who story (but executed well), the companions were decent and Jodie Whittaker overacted a bit in the episode, but I see the potential for her being a great doctor. And the music and cinematography was great. 7/10

[@rarazalproductions519]

You took the words right out of my mouth. I loved Jodie, but thought that she occasionally overdid it with the "fast-talking quirkiness", and the plot had some holes. I still really enjoyed it overall - if the general feel of the episode and the characters is anything to go by, I think I'll like the new series.

[@sallyatticum]

But that really is Jodie. If you watch her interviews, all she needs to do is be herself. She does talk fast and is super-quirky all on her own. I can imagine Chibnall has a good feel for her and will write her well, especially as the series goes on.

[@evesapple]

She didn't seem very natural when she talked though- it seemed that she was still reading direct frm the script. As it's only the first episode though, I'll put the not-great acting down to nerves.

[@sallyatticum]

I didn't feel like she was just reading a script, but it didn't feel entirely natural. Again, I think that will change over time, as she relaxes and comes to own the role. Peter Capaldi took forever to settle in and that, I think was because S. Moffat was trying to force a personality onto the character. Once Peter got more creative control, his character vastly improved. Chris Chibnall has already worked with Jodie, knows her on and off screen, has a good sense of her abilities and her personality, but the other writers didn't know who was cast when they did the first drafts, so they aren't written with her in mind. In this case, that is has its pluses and minuses. The writers were all writing the character, The Doctor, without having a gender-based bias. Chris would have gone back and tweaked them, but it's not the same as writing with the actor in mind. Another thing is Jodie auditioned. Peter didn't. So Chris already has an idea of Jodie's vision of the character.

[@jonsnor4313]

She is great so far, very funny and has chemestry. A good start. And a good choice to take an actress he already worked with.

[@ev1757]

I really liked how Jodie's doctor leans into the doctor's tinkering side. Some past doctors have shown a bit of an engineering side before, but she literally forges a new sonic screw driver, hacks a piece of alien bio-tech, and builds a galactic teleportation device all in the same episode and I really want to see more stuff like that.

[@ExplainNation24]

I can tell with this season the budget has increased a lot. The camera work is also really good.

[@minusmimik8622]

When the alien was hunting the dude all I thought in my head was, the chase is on.

[@sarahrenshaw6102]

I have my favourite doctor but I got to admit every doctor besides that first season of new who as that's all we got of him, it usually takes me a season give or take a few episodes for me to really love a new doctor so I fully expected the same for Jodie Whittaker, I absolutely agree there is alot of unnecessary pressure for this to meet a standard that's never been really required so I do hope everyone who isnt sold yet give it time

[@katiemcdonough954]

For me the defining trait of the Doctor I got was her compassion. Jodie seems to have taken Twelves “be kind” motto to heart as she’s constantly asking the gang if they are ok and is apologizing for bringing them into this. You can really sense her compassion for all life, especially with the “you had no right to do that” line. I also think the building aspect will be a large part of her characterization. I mean we’ve seen the doctor make gadgets before, but their own sonic? Now that’s some resourcefulness I’m down for. I’m super excited for this new season and the changes it’s bringing and I can’t wait to see where we go from here.

[@DeadEyeJedi]

I feel much the same way, but will admit, that whole 'you had no right to do that' comment kind of confused me, considering the Doctor had just set off 5 DNA bombs inside the alien, more or less condemning it to death, to stand in judgement of someone else, who was absolutely terrified at that point in time was actually a bit jarring for me. I even think that, as the series progresses, the Doctor may have to address the question of what gives _her_ the right to do 'that', as it were. That said, really enjoyed the episode, and the new Doctor was great for a first outing, I'm excited to see where this will go as the characters settle into their roles.

[@cjboyo]

I love how she literally crashed into the scene and took charge. Beautiful way to introduce a character people were worried wouldn't be assertive enough.

[@davincic0der]

Immediate like for mutual spoon love! (Yeah, that's a weird sentence...) Anyway, yeah, that moment is up there for me with the 'Put down your weapon!' moment and spoon drop in (say it quietly) Hell Bent which I definitely am fonder of than some. Also, on a fun note, it's Capaldi's melee attack on Lego Dimensions. Always nice to see the spoon!

[@Reprodestruxion]

The hills around Sheffield in Autumn are beautiful

[@DivergingClear]

Three things I noticed that were echoes of "An Unearthly Child," which I think was very much intentional... 1. Introducing the companion characters before The Doctor appears. In 1963, Ian's and Barbara's relationship was established right off the bat. Then Susan was added to the mix, and finally The Doctor. 2. The multiple companions and their interactions. A large focus on the early episodes was the drawing of Ian and Barbara into this wacky time and space adventure. 3. The end of the episode leading directly into the beginning of the next. This was pretty much standard in early Doctor Who. All told, I think Jodie nailed it. I think the show is in good hands if this first episode is any indication.

[@Jaxell]

My defining doctor moment was her leaping between the cranes. She is that kind of doctor. At first I thought it would be her appologizing about everything and that all this happened to them, but when she took that jump I knew. She will be a more physical risk taker always putting her body on the line for her companions.

[@lilliahpasco]

In regard to the outfit scene, I had the same initial gut reaction of “really? They are doing this kind of scene?” But then I remembered tennant, smith and capaldi’s “outfit establishing” scenes and it felt like pretty much the same thing, visual changes of any kind are something they typically need to address, it would have felt wrong if they cut to a scene of 13 in the new outfit. Overall, I loved the episode. I’m excited to see where the story goes, and I’m excited to see how the characters will develop, I’m excited to see the new worlds and most of all... I’m excited to see what the new TARDIS is looks like. I think a brighter design would be very fitting for Jodie’s doctor. It’s all exciting.

[@mrdoctorgilmore]

Hands down the best new who theme. I love how they used the original Derbyshire music and played around with it.

[@rosco31100]

It felt like the classic, mixed in with the new. Also loved it but what to see it in an intro sequence, please!

[@TheRenoReviews]

That moment you were looking for already happened to me! When she said "I'm the doctor, sorting out fair play throughout the universe" - that's it! She's focussed on fairness and looking after those with a disadvantage 👍🏻

[@crogoon]

The cliffhanger is not really about them dying or not, but generally it's just a bit to interest a viewer how will they get out of the situation in the next episode. Is the Tardis going to materialize around them, are they in some kind of a forcefield or simulation etc... It was almost obligatory in classic who, so I see it as a nice touch.

[@CouncilofGeeks]

Yeah I get it. It's just my least favorite way to end an episode. I'd much rather have a "let's get ready for adventure" feel which 9, 10, and 12 had at the end of their first outings.

[@ETLettuce]

I liked it when Russel T. Davis did "The domestic approach" when he went back to earth to let the companions be with their family. (Primarily for Rose/Donna). It literally has not been done for family since season 4. Amy's Family doesn't exist for a whole season and we never see then again, we see Clara's family... once maybe twice, we saw Bulls Mum for a bit but not with the prominence older companions family's had. I wanted that for Grace, and it's a shame that didn't end up happening

[@sanityisrelative]

I'm kinda hoping that they'll go the "accidental companions that the Doctor has trouble getting back to the right place" route. That's not a thing that's been done yet in the modern era. So far, every companion has wanted to be there, or was Nardol.

[@DesSimsify]

Same here. What I did like, though, is that Chibnall seems to be emphasising the companions' lives a lot more than Moffat did. In the span of an hour, I felt like I knew a lot more about Yas, Ryan and Graham than I did Amy, Clara or Rory in their first episodes. And none of their backgrounds seem to revolve around the Doctor. It's all chance and seeing the Doctor through the companion, much like RTD's era.

[@AllThingsFiction614]

We saw a little bit of Rory’s family with Brian at least. That was nice

[@mayotango1317]

Amy, Rory and River was the Doctor's family.

[@TheDragonHistorian]

It all comes down to preference I suppose, I couldn't care less about the family lives of companions in the RTD Era and couldn't care less about Grace's death in this episode either

[@vampirica89]

I'm already 100% sold on Jodie, she was the best part of the episode! As for the gender role baggage we all cary, for me from a female perspective, the clothes scene felt really natural and I didn't have any thoughts during it. However, in the two other scenes when she acted really brave and out there - yelling at the monster dude in the street really loudly, and doing that risky jump on the construction site - that felt weird, out of place and (in a good way) something I thought I'd never witness a woman on television do! It's awesome that the little girls watching it now will grow up thinking of it as the norm, and later won't ever have that type of thoughts (watching some other piece of TV when they're my age)!

[@Katherine_The_Okay]

I agree. The only strong female character I had growing up was The Baroness (on GI Joe, and for the record, she was NOTHING like she was in that movie. she was strong, smart, independent, and had both Destro and Cobra Commander wrapped around her little finger -- I will now take a deep breath and count to ten so I don't go on a rant). I love that she does brave, stupid things (I did a lot of brave stupid things myself when I was newer to this body, lol). I also adore that one of the Companions says "shopping" and she ends up in the nearest charity shop instead of some upscale boutique. She is beautiful and feminine without being girly and meek. Women like that abound in the real world, but you hardly ever see them presented in the media. Here's to what's hopefully the start of a new trend. And may the haters CHOKE on it...

[@charlesgoodwin2732]

Yes after a while I more or less forgot she was a she (actually she's an alien, so who knows whether the male or female appearance really indicates biological sex?). Apart from being a bit weak in the grandstanding scene, she very much managed to convince me that here was the Doctor, regardless of appearance.

[@vampirica89]

@@Katherine_The_Okay Thank you for that very nice reply! I'll put GI Joe on my watchlist!

[@Katherine_The_Okay]

@Scattered Moon Shards, you're very welcome :) I could talk about geeky topics all day, and I know that the lovely individual who runs the Council Meetings will keep everything civil :) It was a great episode and I'm loving Thirteen. She is everything a Doctor SHOULD be, with one very small difference. (Very small despite what a vocal minority of whiny wankers would have you believe.) The GI Joe movie (Rise of Cobra) wasn't terrible for a summer popcorn flick, but it turned the Baroness from a strong, smart, independent leader with an arguably legitimate grudge against the Joes into a weak, mind-controlled, damsel-in-distress love interest and I literally gagged on my popcorn while sitting in that theater. The cartoon and comic weren't exactly great and there was some serious fanservice for males (it was the 80s, I guess even media designed to sell toys and aimed primarily at children needed some catsuits on the ladies), but I remember being SO confused as a little girl because the Baroness was so strong and intelligent and in complete control of her surroundings (and of those around her), that I wanted to be just like her when I grew up. But she was THE BAD GUY!!! So conflicting, lol

[@Katherine_The_Okay]

Charles Goodwin, I agree. She settled into a Gallifreyan skin rather quickly aside from a few little hiccups, and was a very believable Doctor. Also, good point about appearance not indicating sex. It's entirely possible that Time Lords don't even HAVE a sex as we understand it. Of course, there are species here on Earth that do change biological sex (and change appearance accordingly), but no indication that an alien would have to be exactly the same. It may be that they're both at once, or neither, or entirely intersex. So many possibilities :)

[@lynnstarr42]

You missed the real MVP of the episode, “Eat my salad, Halloween!”

[@serrasedai]

The big character establishing moments for me were 1) the doctor as a builder, someone who makes the solution with her hands like an engineer 2) the fair play speech she makes to the alien

[@Deathlygunn]

Have to admit I wasn't fond of the episode, in a weird way it felt like someone had accidentally delivered a Sarah Jane Adventures script to the Torchwood production team, and then that episode got made.

[@Deathlygunn]

(Full disclosure I'm a fan of both Sarah Jane and Torchwood).

[@user-qs9ps3hw6u]

I felt like it was a totally different show. Like anyone notice they totally changed the cinematography? The background music style and the editing? I also didn’t find the episode to be that interesting but every doctors first episode IMO isn’t that interesting. I’ve been watching since eccleston and this is the first time I felt like I was watching a different show. The doctor also isnt growing on me as much as I thought she would

[@finntickel994]

I enjoyed the episode but I do get exactly what you mean...

[@johnd6541]

I knew there was something off about it for me and that's it...it did feel more like a Sarah Jane Adventures episode, right down to the lame villain, than it did a Doctor Who episode. Hopefully Chibnall improves or these next few years will be painful. (and I liked SJA, too)

[@sanityisrelative]

Quick question to the thread: are any of you fans of classic Who, or do you all stick to the modern show? I ask because if you're a fan of the classic stuff, then you might see where the influences are coming from. So far, with the runs of Capaldi, Smith, and Tennant, we've mostly just seen the new doctors (and production staff) build on the foundations that were laid by Eccelston and Davies. As they went on there were sprinkles of classic references, but they felt more like Easter eggs for fans than anything that really shaped the Doctor. But Whittaker's take on the Doctor and the production of the episode itself (pacing, stakes, character development, humor) make it feel like they are drawing inspiration from the classic series way more than we've seen done to date. I get how that can be jarring for fans only familiar with the modern era though. Things moved fast, and were often cheesy, in the classic era and it's not everyone's cup of tea. I can only hope they manage to strike a good balance between the classic and the modern, but I think this is something Who desperately needed.

[@kbg12ila]

I've seen it twice already and want to see it again. But I'll save it for just before the next episode airs (Maybe). I haven't liked doctor who this much since series 4. So happy! Grace's death was predicable to me but perfectly necessary. It creates so much depth and drama to the characters and the story going forward. It also feels like it has more of a classic who structure with its pace and how the story unfolded. Perfect!

[@sanityisrelative]

The part that was an actual surprise to me was that she stayed dead. Moffat has warped my expectations when it comes to the mortality of people close to the Doctor. It's kinda refreshing that death means something for everyone again.

[@kbg12ila]

sanityisrelative I know! I hated how he once again ruined what could have been a dark ending with Bill by giving her eternal life. So annoying. Grace is already held in a higher regard to me compared to Amy, Clara and Bill. Grace made an amazing impression for a one episode character.

[@sanityisrelative]

@@kbg12ila I don't know, I kinda loved Bill's ending. Better than that nonsense with Clara (but maybe I'm biased because Bill is like top 4 companions of all time for me, while I cannot stand Clara). It was bittersweet, but kinda nice. And it didn't feel forced to me, like Clara's resolution did. Who has never really been big on killing off proper companions (Adric is the only one that comes to mind right now) but it has been a while since they killed off potential companions (was space Titanic the last time they set someone up as a possible companion only to have them die?).

[@kbg12ila]

sanityisrelative I think it was. Also it's not the fact that they should have killed her but Moffat does kill her but brings her back to life in a perfect way. It just annoys me. It's the same as Clara's for me. I think it should have been left with Bill being turned into a cyberman who is conscious. That was a brilliant idea but things happened.... Tbh I don't really remember Bill that much. She was nice I guess.

[@LGWalkingTours]

It's called 'building expectation'. It's a familiar story telling device that works very well. Most people I've spoken too feel that in 'The Christmas Invasion' after the threat has been built up so high, when the Doctor finally appears fully developed and just 'owns' it, is a triumph.

[@tomkenning5482]

The doctor taking the piss out of alien threats is always great to watch. 'Do you mind not farting while I'm trying to save us?', 'Who are you?' 'I DON'T KNOOWWW' etc., that's something I really like. Another tiny detail I loved is that the alien is in the credits as Tim Shaw.

[@Cryten1974]

Really enjoyed the episode, though I fully understand where you're coming from with the clothing scene. Speaking of which, she is the 13th incarnation of The Doctor, but is she truly the 13th incarnation of the person we know as The Doctor?? To quote her just before the scene where she picks her new outfit, "Can you help me, it's been a long time since I've dressed as a woman!" That to me says that she has been a woman before, which brings me to the Tom Baker era and one particular story which was called (The Brain of Morbius) if I remember correctly. Where The Doctor and Morbius challenged each other mentally and Morbius wanted to see how many lives The Doctor had had, cut to scene of images of The Doctor going back and past William Hartnell. So I put it to the community, that they have lived much longer than we know and William Hartnell was just the first as in it was the first time the Time Lord we know as The Doctor, used the name Doctor.

[@theagg]

Very diplomatic:) Or, as others no doubt remark, it's Chris Chibnall and to date his past episodes for Doctor Who have not been the most memorable. This poses an interesting question for the future, as show runners seem find the weight of that leading to deteriorating scripts. It happened with Russell, it certainly happened with Moffat who went from being one of the best script writers during Russell's time in the chair, to losing it somewhat over time once he took over from RTD. Moffat started from a high bar though when he became producer, Chibnall on the other hand starts from a at best 'solid' and for many mediocre position regarding his scripting history...hmmm !

[@johnd6541]

I am not confident in Chibnall at all.

[@lewisbough6109]

I liked the clothes scene because it was clearly filmed in a charity shop, which seems fitting for Whittaker's doctor so far. She throws together a sonic with whatever second-hand parts are around, then has this manic changing scene in a shop full of second-hand clothes.

[@BigGenotto]

She did a Sonic Screwdrivern in the Sam Raimi´s garage.... in five minutes, and She even updated it... is like to achieve a Silice chip in a medieval Blacksmith forge... huge plot my friend. I am from Spain, I have been a fan of The Doc for 20 years, regards.

[@paulflint6254]

Loved the episode, but i think the next episode will be better, as its mostly setting the scene for getting us acuainted, to the companions characters and Jodie.

[@RomanPhilosopher]

It was... different

[@ShadowtheHuman209]

I'm upset I don't know what the new intro looks like. It wasn't uploaded yet on the official channel. Anybody knows why?

[@scottbillings4712]

I did not like there were no explanations for major plot points. Like why did the Doctor fall to earth where she did, especially considering where old Doctor was when he started regenerating. One traditional thing the Doctor needs to do is to clearly explain why the monster of the week is motivated to do what he is doing. We got a very thin hunter game explanation, but really it was sort of pointless, in relationship to the new Doctor's arrival. The collected teeth WERE disturbing. Finally, the Doctor failed to explain so many things to the new companions - They seemed an overly trusting lot. I hope the writing for the new Doctor gets much better.

[@sirkristoferTV]

Surely a council of geeks has more than one person.

[@joedjrjd3652]

There was but the others left

[@MrLegendofLP]

We are the council! He just runs the meetings! Every episode ends with that, dude.

[@jessicawise9839]

I honestly thought I would have more difficulty with adjustment to Jodie because I liked peter capaldi, but she kind of really felt like the doctor

[@austingonzales1405]

I LOVE Robot of Sherwood! The comedic moments absolutely worked for me. The middle finger Capaldi flips while donning his glove is spectacular.

[@bemused_and_bewildered]

If really liked how, at the end the three companions seemed happy, almost relieved that the doctor was leaving. They were dragged along by pure accident and I assume won't be too pleased about it next week. A welcome change from the whole 'do you want to come on a great adventure' offer.

[@shneancy220]

There were quite a few details that made me cringe slightly, a bit too much exposition. It didn't really click with me yet. But hey, I recall an equal amount of cringe with Capaldi's Doctor first episode and he's my favourite now. Gotta keep an open mind! I really didn't like these constant switches in soundtrack's tone when the Doctor was about to say something that was supposed to be inspirational, not very subtle. It will take me time to get used to her new leitmotif; not much brass this time and it feels like it's been composed outside of the regular soundtrack, I hope they will tie it together somehow. The cliff hanger was awful, if they were to finish the second they disappeared it would've been better. Very nice review, I seriously forgot that every fist episode was a huge "meh", I was beginning to feel disappointed but you've reminded me, thank you!

[@fetinsmiles7803]

It always takes me a while to get used to a new doctor! With the 13th Doctor I warmed up to quickly but I still need a few more episodes to fully get into it. I agree. Too many companions. Maybe if they introduced them all later in the show it would feel more natural. We need time to get used to this doctor first rather than a doctor plus THREE companions. I also filmed a reaction video to the first episode if anyone wants to check it out 😊👽

[@bensjammin9]

I agree on the ending. It should’ve wrapped up with the Tardis materializing, theme music coming in, oooh redecoration and bigger on the inside, then cut.

[@scg7442]

Years later, i still think this episode is the second best Opening episode for a new doctor.

[@anubusx]

Loved Jodie as the Doctor. Good first episode. Reminded me of Predator.

[@andrewglasson592]

I thought it was a brilliant episode. You need to start with the companions before seeing the Doctor to bring in a new audience. If you just started the episode with the Doctor people who haven't watched it will wonder who she/he is. So that was a good way to introduce the Doctor to a new audience by bringing her on later. Loved Jodie and the companions. I like both approaches to the Doctor the fairytale Doctor of Moffat and the natural realism of Chibnal. Personally I haven't really liked a lot of Chibnal's work except his first 2 series of Torchwood and the first series of Broadchurch but this first episode of the new Doctor was the best episode of Doctor Who that he has written. Also liked the look of the new series with big wide shots of Sheffield. I don't know whether it was all filmed in Sheffield or parts filmed in Cardiff or whether just the studio shots filmed in Cardiff and all the location work was filmed in Sheffield. Special effects were brilliant and overall this is looking to be a good series.

[@charliecartwright4371]

I really want more use of the Doctor's tools. In recent years, he's not been using the sonic, psychic paper, or things that go ding when there's stuff. I'm hoping her new resourcefulness and building things is a sign that this stuff is coming back. I love the Doctor being all handy and using his actual time lordy skills

[@edwardreed67]

I personally think that removing grace from the equation was a good idea. It shows this new era of Doctor Who to be different than Moffat as it does have death and a character isn’t brought back for the series finale or something. It makes what the doctor does and what life she lives all the more impactful

[@ishaandw]

I had some problems but they don't spoil the overall episode. Honestly, it didn't feel like doctor who till Jodie appeared. The episode was dark, really dark for me. The sci-fi was too unlike doctor who. I could guess what was going to happen in the next scene everytime like it obvious that she was going to die. Plot is good, visuals are good. Characters are decent. Good! 8/10 Edit: Cliffhanger takes itself too seriously.

[@the0thersyde725]

Personally I really enjoyed this episode. I might be a little biased since I actually live in Sheffield where the episode was set so I loved the location plus the fact the new Sonic is made from Sheffield Steel which we are very proud of. I also really liked how grounded it felt in comparison to previous doctors. I understand some of your criticisms. The multiple companions I do get where your coming from although I actually really like that since personally I was getting tired of single companions and I don't think it'll take away from the doctor too much (and companion teams have always been part of the shows history. In terms of having that memorable doctor moment I get that and agree there wasn't really one, but it's absence was something I only noticed after watching the episode. Grace's Death I agree that keeping her alive would have created an interesting dynamic which might have been better but the death was done very well and the fact that a lot of people watching actually felt upset even though we'd only just met her character speaks volumes about the writing. Do agree the cliffhanger was a little pointless. Anyway those are my opinions. Honestly can't wait until next week. Love your Channel. Keep Up the Good Work

[@the0thersyde725]

Also in terms of the Dressing Scene. You're right, most doctors have had a gratuitous scene like that. See the 4th Doctors for example kzbin.info/www/bejne/qHmVgnx3oN6ZebM

[@hilowize]

For me the moment that made this doctor different was seeing her making her screwdriver with basic human supplies, and the soldering was fun.

[@himeshchauhan9843]

There was a speech halfway through the episode where the doctor was talking to the alien about change but still keeping things the same And it was very clear the writer was writing about her being the doctor

[@TheConfessionDial]

Thought it was a very strong start. Not perfect. It's still finding itself and I don't think the balance was always right. But overall I'd say a solid 8/10. Although, one thing I still don't get that no one is talking about, how did she survive the fall? She fell from thousands of feet in the air and smashed through the roof of a train carriage. Did I miss something? Was there an explanation for that in the episode?

[@uncleurdnot]

Grace brought it back up shortly after they said they would find information on the Device "I feel Tired" "You fell through the roof of a train, you should go to A&E" "No N, I don't go to places with intials" then the Doctor faints and on the couch you can see she is still going through the regenerative process. So I guess any damage caused by that was healed then.

[@TheConfessionDial]

I thought it must have had something to do with regeneration, but I forgot that it was brought up in the episode itself. Thanks for that. :)

[@uncleurdnot]

@@TheConfessionDial tbh, it could have been both but np

[@jonathan.palfrey]

If she fell onto the roof of a train, she'd have squelched messily or bounced off. Unless the roof was made of cardboard.

[@mstevensh]

The regeneration process take 24 hours to finish. The 10th Doctor also lost a hand in his first 24 hours.

[@snowy2583]

Really liked Ryan, Graham and their relationship. Episode looked great and the villain was impressive for a monster of the week. Liked the more character focus and the fact this was a smaller episode (not an end of the world thing). Really liked the side characters too. However Jodie hasn't really grabbed me so far, can't really grasp what her doctor's character is like though I hope we see more of the mechanic-doctor stuff. Plus, some problems with certain lines and the time-frame and sad to see the third companion (can't remember her name) really get pushed aside in this episode.

[@LadyLocket]

I do think you have a valid point on the Dr finding her look, I did have a moment of "oh no, please no girly shopping trip" at first. What might help the way you view the dressing scene is that it was a charity/secondhand shop (Americans might not recognise it but Brits would). So the Dr is still wearing used or found clothing just as many before her. EDIT: The spoon moment was also in reference to Sheffield's history. Both now and historically, Sheffield Steel is famous worldwide for its quality especially in regards to stainless steel cutlery. It was a nice nod to those who know.

[@billsbrothertv5701]

The part of the episode that stands out to me is when the Doctor said "You had no right to do that" to Carl after sweeping Tim Shaw off the crane. I think that will be quite telling as to how Jodie will be playing the Doctor, especially alongside the "I can't refuse to help when asked" bit from earlier in the episode. With Capaldi learning the "be kind" thing at the end of his run, I think we're getting a Doctor who is sympathetic to everyone, even her enemies.

[@roseryan1542]

I enjoyed the episode, but frankly I didn't think 'she's the Doctor" .. I was watching it as just another tv program. I didn't have any specific expectation. I agree that she has too many companions. I knew the wife of that one Companion would die when the show began because we'd already seen who the companions would be, and she wasn't one of them. So when she died, it really didn't affect me. She very much acts like a woman and is more emotional about what is happening to the characters. She IS a woman.

[@AbsolForLife]

It just didn't engage me, I couldn't associate Jodie with the doctor, they all usually have something about them that just says in subtle way they're not quite human, but she just seems too human, yaz seemed pointless, so i guess my overall opinion is, I liked alright as an episode of tv, but I can't say I like it as a continuation of doctor who

[@avaevathornton9851]

I really liked the ending; which isn't simply a cliffhanger, it's also stranding the cast in an unknown part of the universe for an unknown amount of time, thus setting up a new adventure. You could have done that by sending them to a strange yet seemingly safe planet, but this way a) immediately shows that getting to the TARDIS isn't going to be simple and b) teleporting directly into empty space is a really strange and unnerving idea and c) seeing 4 people floating out in space like that is just a really visually striking image. It's certainly a lot more creative than having a bunch of people with guns show up as your cliffhanger. I also liked the scenes with the Doctor making stuff, and the way the ending sequence didn't reveal any of the next episode.

[@aurora7442]

OMG the OUTFIT!!!!! You look so Good!!!! Also, this was a great video. I love how you're not just honest, but you're so frank (if that's the right word?), clear and really realistic with the whole "Not sold, but it's the first episode". Great job.

[@francisbartoszewski2284]

So bads just to get them out the way: -Didn't get to see an intro -Didn't see the new tardis -Some unrealistic character decisions e.g. nobody would actually touch a weird laser grid that could take your hand off, or atleast without chucking something at it first to make sure -Very unnoticeable soundtrack, I hope this improves, (Rewatch s1ep1 and compare the background themes throughout the episode even while people are just walking about) - I like the new sonic, but I don't believe for 1 second the doctor had the tools available to make its inner circuitry - I knew the gran was gonna die from the start as she wasnt in any of the trailers, this took me out of the immersion a bit - what was that 'coming soon' rubish? Just showing us 20 upcoming actors, only 3 I actually recognised and only 1 I'm excited for. That felt weird for the show. - also I can understand it but when they were saying about how the guys jaw had been snapped off I was just screaming inside for them to show it. That was a little disappointing Good things so far: -Like yaz and graham, they're great (the guy whose name I've forgotten looks like a famous footballer and it's distracting me alot) -end credits had a very classic feel to them, I liked that -I'm happy they actually had people die, I hate child friendly stuff (forest episode ) -villain was ok, clearly ripped off the predator movies though -I'm liking the doctors portrayal so far (still hate the costume though) -for the first time since season 9 an episode didn't shove racism/sexism/lgbt issues in your face -lack of moffat is refreshing, the tone is very good

[@nunyabusiness7858]

I really liked the way she just says "oh, does it suit me?" When told she's a woman and moves on being cool.

[@alexinabox6931]

The soundtrack is a lot more atmospheric and subtle here. I don't think full orchestra works all the time, for example listen to the music when she's making the screwdriver, it's utterly utterly gorgeous.

[@jonathan.palfrey]

I'm so relieved that someone other than me is complaining about the making of the sonic screwdriver!

[@Pidove727]

'i hate child friendly stuff' - continues to watch and criticise a childrens tv show.

[@francisbartoszewski2284]

@@Pidove727 'Clearly has no understanding of the difference between a show for 6 year olds and what dr who actually is and has been for the majority of it's run'

[@maki_taki_taco]

Fun question you can think about: *What other doctor would Jodie fit best with for a future multi-doctor story?* (Personally, I’m thinking either someone new to play the 2nd doctor or possibly even the 8th doctor with Paul McGann)

[@tessewact]

oh man Jodie and McGann would be amazing

[@MelonDoesStuff]

I know it would be a lot of multi-doctor stories for him to be in, but I would like to see 13 and 10 have a back and forth together.

[@DivaD-nk2bj]

Jodie and McGann! Great suggestion :)

[@charliewarner787]

The doctor jumping on the tower crane was Jodie's moment

[@cmmosher8035]

It was for me too. Back in Deep Breathe when Clara thinks she is alone and about to die. Then The Doctor's hand reaches out for her was the scene Capaldi became the Doctor for me. In the same way, Whitaker jumping the cranes was when she became the Doctor this time.

[@charliewarner787]

@@cmmosher8035 like eleven telling the attraxi to run and ten saying did you miss me. I'm glad Jodie could smash it first episode

[@alpine_newt]

She chose the new outfit a lot quicker than most Doctors, she was in a charity shop for like 10 seconds. Some of the classic Doctors took up about 5 minutes parading around in various outfits.

[@Emme-Kappa]

I really liked this episode. Personally this was the best Doctor debut story since The Eleventh Hour (which is still the best though).

[@highvoltage7797]

EmmeKira I would say Spearhead from space is still the best intro for a Doctor with Power of the Daleks and The eleventh hour close behind.

[@sanityisrelative]

I was thinking about The Eleventh Hour a lot after this episode.

[@SED779]

I loved the episode, and I really love that Ryan has dyspraxia, cause there`s not really a lot of rep for that disorder. One of my siblings has dyspraxia so it was just really nice to see that represented onscreen cause they`re 18 and can`t ride a bike becayseof it. So I love that at the end Ryan still couldn't ride it but he kept trying anyway. Now, onto the Doctor: I love her, and I actually love that the episode started with the companions so we met her alongside them, it was really nice. I love that even in that classic identity crisis she knows she always helps people (an influence of twelve`s parting speech perhaps?). I loved that we got to see her build the screwdriver! That was so so awesome ugh I loved it! And I actually loved the costume change at the end and that it was more because "Doctor, those clothes are ruined, thecstains are never coming out, you need new clothes" and not cause it`s men`s clothes. I love that she gets to have messy hair, that was fun! Basically I love her and am looking forward to the season. Didn`t like Grace`s death, that really didn`t need to happen but my twin pointed out that the aftermath kind of felt like a Mr.Rogers, explaining-something-serious-to-kids moment which I kinda liked? Cause it started off as a kids show and I think it should try to stay at its roots. And I have to disagree, I like that there are gonna be 3 companions this season, so we get different perspectives of the adventures and I love that she accidentally brought them along with her. But I hope she brings them back to earth and they make the choice to travel with her cause companions choosing to go with the Doctor is so important. We don`t want another Ian & Barbara situation!

[@justwobert9850]

The three characters thing allows them to make idiots around multiple characters not just one. IMO the dyspraxia was delt with very well with it showing up throughout the episode and not just as a word.

[@morphman86]

On a closing note (after all those comments), did anyone else notice those Capaldi-esque electric guitar riffs playing the first 2-4 notes of the Doctor Who theme whenever Jodie was on screen, until she took the coat off at the end? Sortof like the soundtrack wanted to tell us there's still some Capaldi left in there while she's still regenerating.

[@emullinsstreams]

The 3 companions somewhat remind me of the First Doctor's companions. There are 3, all of whom take some screen time away from the Doctor while still somehow bringing it back to him/her; two companions are connected via education; two of the whole group are connection via family. It's a little of an echo of the First Doctor to me, but maybe that's just me.

[@Deathlygunn]

In terms of their being too many companions, I kind of feel like you could take Jaz out of the episode and not much would have changed, just have Ryan choose to go travelling with the Doctor and Graham tag along because he knows Grace would want him to ensure Ryan was safe.

[@m.stewart8094]

Sad cause I think shes the most likable one. But yes any combo of two out of the three would probably work better.

[@jonathan.palfrey]

Presumably Yaz will have more of a role in future episodes.

[@PixelatedH2O]

I absolutely loved the episode and Jodie as The Doctor. From the second she first showed up on the train she felt like the character I knew and I didn't need any adjustment at all. As far as who she is, I feel like I got a pretty good indication of that. Following multiple characters didn't take away from that at all, and it even helped solidify why they're with her. The grandma dying gave Ryan a reason to go out and get away from his fears and what seemed like a kind of dead-end life. I was just a little confused about a couple things in the episode. Did Yaz quit the police or what? She just seemed to go from police to civilian instantly. Also, where did The Doctor get the hunter's transportation device thing? I must have missed where she found it. Overall I felt like it was a solid mix of classic Who (a large dose of it), and the modern era. I like all the characters, the humor, and the writing. They even managed to stick in a bit of a monologue by The Doctor about accepting change, which I thought was a great subtle way of talking to other characters but also the audience.

[@danpearman270]

For what it's worth - when she show's the hunter his transportation thingy she says something about having taken it from his pod - we never actually saw her take it as far as I recall, so you didn't really miss it (just maybe spaced for a moment as she said the line - possibly distracted by a face covered in teeth ;) ).

[@LoneMidKnightWolf]

Adam Porter I felt like Yaz was just off duty in the later bits. She interacted with her boss at night time so I assume everything is fine. Knowing the Tardis she might have a few no call no shows soon so I’m not sure about her future in the force.

[@LoneMidKnightWolf]

Adam Porter Also I’ve only seen the episode once, but the Doctor does mention the device back in the shop. I don’t remember her taking it off the ship, but don’t think she necessarily has to in the same episode as long as it was the focus of a scene.

[@zigmenthotep]

I'm withholding judgement for the time being. Patrick Troughton is one of my favorite Doctors, and honestly most of his first season is okay at best. It's also mostly missing, so that's good for his overall reputation.

[@bigspongeyfan1]

The death wasn’t cheap at all. Sets up tensions to be explored between Ryan and Graham. Sets up Graham to be adventurous. Shows that our characters are actually unsafe this series (actual stakes) by killing off a likeable character seemingly main cast. Sets up death to be explored through series and tensions over time travel. As for your comments about the ending... the best cliffhanger for years: a perfect Hartnell-esque cliffhanger that poses a threat to our characters and a question for the series - will we see the Tardis soon or will the arc be a serialised journey to the TARDIS over the first few eps at least?