WHAAAT!? Dot and Bubble Reaction and Review (Doctor Who Season One)

[@dwfan91-]

Don't forget to leave your thoughts below to be included in the COMMUNITY REACTION! Hope you enjoy!

[@pixgamer396]

Really didnt like it up until the end. BUT That Ending scene was really great and made me want to punch the tv

[@CuriosityYT_]

@@pixgamer396 same!!!!!!!!

[@crowcoregames1785]

modern happiness patrol. (not a bad thing) and that ending was so good

[@Romanian42]

I think you will hit at least 25-30k by the end of the year! AT LEAST! love your videos, the vibes are just good!

[@dc6521]

Doctor Who fans are kinda weird, being a racist dickhead doesn't mean you should be eaten alive.

[@MajesticWorld19]

They weren't kidding about that final scene being memorable. Crazy to think that was Ncuti's first scene he filmed for the season 😳

[@dwfan91-]

My goat

[@bobm4378]

what was it about that scene?? note that most actors are used to 'out of order filming' due to availability, weather, etc...

[@Idk-ys7rt]

​@@bobm4378The emotion from Ncuti and the treatment of him by the people he tried to save.

[@hotdog1214]

@@bobm4378 RTD talked about how it had given him pause for thought in Unleashed, cant remember his exact words but along the lines that he was unsure if Ncuti would be comfortable with his very first scene to be about confronting racism so head on and requiring a visceral performance - straight in at the deep end.

[@bobm4378]

@@hotdog1214 I still say that if it was a white doctor , the same thing would have happened... did you notice they have GREEN blood?? ( I can tell you are american..)

[@Creek932]

It’s like Blink but if Sally Sparrow was a total asshole. Great episode.

[@unclekarl5219]

Near the beginning I was like “oh this is like blink since it follows a different character with the doctor being relegated to a screen. Except with a flawed protagonist who will redeem herself at the end” Then she just got worse

[@BulbasaurRepresent]

RTD really leant into the whole bubble metaphor - it wasn't that Lindy couldn't remove her bubble, it's that she didn't want to. It's not that she couldn't see past her bubble if she tried, but she didn't want to. It's not that she couldn't walk without her bubble, it's that she wanted any excuse to go back inside. Despite saying that she can't walk without the arrows, we later see her running just fine when she's with Ricky! Because Ricky is now her bubble - he protects her from the scary knowledge that the homeworld is all dead, he tells her to focus on his face instead of the person being eaten. So when she's with Ricky, she can run just fine - even though she can actually walk fine anyways. Then that of course works really well with the theme of race, because racism is perpetuated by echo chambers - and that's essentially what the bubble is. I immediately clocked that everyone was white, and Lindy's microaggressions were so painful. Also, neat detail I noticed, when the Doctor is talking with the group chat, basically everyone is mouthing something you can't hear with looks of disgust on their face. They were definitely being extremely racist, screaming into the void... apt. I absolutely loved it.

[@Jimhearne]

I thought Ricky was going to be the Doctor with some kind of hologram over him in order to get through to her. He had a bunch of quirk and compassion. When I found out he was just that cool it was too late. Rip Ricky

[@TheUluxian]

Same here... And when that selfish B**** left him to die was when I turned the corner and started rooting for the monsters. Those people DESERVED to get eaten

[@TLH1999]

I Know Right!!! I was thinking the same thing!

[@martynking1613]

I was expecting a twist that he was evil. And that he created the slugs and the chaos. That is why he knew so much

[@CuriosityYT_]

@@martynking1613 yeah same!

[@bonesreturns1]

his doctor-like qualities definitely were intentional. i think its supposed to show that she'll follow a white person acting like the doctor but not the actual doctor.

[@mtdl3x]

ok firstly i was confused bc i thought it was the case of "phone bad" and it didn't click for me for the first time, and then i realized and it was just genius. seeing the small microagressions towards ONLY the doctor was sus, but then you realize why... and also the fact that the majority of what is lindy's interaction with the doctor is through a screen is actually working to the strengths of the story - she notes that it is just manageable for her to do it like that, and thus having the stuff she's been saying in mind she's ofc gonna be more appalled by encountering the doctor in person, and because that encounter is at the end, that's only then when the more obvious racism comes through from her, since at this point all of what she thought of him had already piled up inside her the soundtrack was POPPING OFF it was very sinister at places, the production design was beautiful, reminded me of tva in loki series a bit lol, also the scene of ricky being killed was BRUTAL

[@stargirlvampire]

At the end of the episode i wished the slugs just had eaten Lindy. Ricky September didn't deserve to die, he showed more kindness than Lindy did and I wished he was the one to survive and take the offer to travel with the Doctor and Ruby to a new world.

[@samfowler2073]

The scene where he realizes Homeworld has been destroyed and he keeps that from her to save her feelings. The only good thing about his death was that it looked quick rather than being eaten.

[@saenz7947]

When the Doctor asked about him in the end and she told him that Ricky came back to help other people, I thought he would see through the lie (the way he was looking at her really made me think this) and would refuse to help take her away or that he would at least give her such a nasty look that she would be haunted for the rest of her life or something haha... but the way it turned out was way better, of course. R.I.P. Ricky, the only nice guy on the planet (literally).

[@CashelOConnolly]

Not all villains get what they deserve ✌🏻🔷🔷🔷

[@faceofbob]

She’s heading to certain death, we just don’t see it on screen.

[@andrescarnederes2295]

Ncuti has officially had what I call his "Capaldi moment". For Pcap it was in the Zygon Inversion. For Ncuti it was this scene. I thought this was gonna be fuller but OMG I was so wrong.

[@dweeebles]

i honestly hated this episode initially until some mutuals on twitter changed my perspective on it and ngl…it’s actually kinda genius. 😭 like lindy was confined with privileged white friends, in a privileged white society, in a literal chamber dome. the episode (i only now realized thanks to some mutuals on twitter) was not about social media/technology usage but rather the dangers of echo chambers and how it creates a rise in intolerance and bigotry.

[@kadegetslaid634]

I was questioning why they were all white for the entire episode, absolutely insane

[@Comicbroe405]

Exactly. And Ricky having read about history & all was able to break free. I bet he would've gladly gone with the Doctor.

[@gresh1134]

Perhaps it's about both? Social media is the main cause of echo chambers in the world today, of course

[@bobm4378]

@@kadegetslaid634 It is NOT about white but about rich privileged kids, sent to a special resort, out of the parents way???

[@kadegetslaid634]

@bobm4378 it's about both, rich privileged racists

[@St.dresden]

The minute she listened to Ricky when he told her exactly what the doctor had just said I said out loud “wow so she’ll listen to him but not the black guy”, turned out to be on the money. Rip Ricky

[@zachh6868]

They hit us SO MANY TIMES with the whole "it was right in front of you the whole time" bit! I love that bit, not many shows do that, and of the ones that do most of them are detective shows, so I'm SO glad Doctor Who is Back!

[@ChazaMazza_]

can we just talk about how brutal Ricky September’s death was💀 especially for doctor who

[@scrunkore]

instant headshot still beats being eaten alive I think

[@ChazaMazza_]

@@scrunkoretrue true

[@squishking]

the final 10 minutes of this episode had me OUT OF MY SEAT! the doctor’s speech about how he believes the finetime citizens deserve to thrive even if they have opposing views was so touching and so true to his character. that final scene honestly made the appreciate the entire episode a lot more.

[@Scumner]

I’ll say it again for the community reaction, while I picked up on all the obvious racist stuff, rewatching it again, it’s insane how many small micro-aggressions you can miss. Because we assume she’s a good bean, like every other Doctor-lite episode lead, it was easy to assume I’d misunderstood what she said or gave her the benefit of the doubt. The Doctor’s pop-up did look a bit spammy, compared to Ruby’s more careful approach. The disgust that they were in the same room at the time made a sort of sense, seeing as all their community is addicted to Skyping each other. But with the ending, going back it makes all those nasty lines form an insanely well-done picture, and there are so many other micro-aggressions I missed. Amazingly well done.

[@bobm4378]

hey go see how 'Bowlestrek ' goes on his vid, you will love it :)

[@Scumner]

@@bobm4378 I won't, I'm good :)

[@bobm4378]

@@Scumner even DTDW REACTS loves it!!

[@Scumner]

@@bobm4378 I have no idea who they are haha

[@ImmortalBroken]

Like how when Lindy's shocked (disgusted?) about Ruby and the Doctor being in the same room, you think it's just because people in her world don't interact in person. And that was part of it, but there was definitely another reason too. EDIT: omg you literally said that, I didn't notice 😊

[@badr0bot417]

This is my favourite episode so far this season. I had a smile on my face the entire time (aside from the final ten minutes, in which I had my jaw on the floor). The way it portrays how we, as a human race, can fall into a reliance on the things around us, and praise the creators of the world we live in as our own parents, is surprisingly subtle, but in an ‘in your face’ way, if that makes sense? And the bloody twist, my god, it is scary to think that our future can be as irrational as our past. I could go on for hours about how this episode perfectly portrays the worst qualities of the human race with such elegance. 9/10, only flaws are some dialogue is kinda weak and feels out of place, and Lindy just knows how to walk in the second half.

[@darkacadpresenceinblood]

i noticed the walking thing too but i thought it was just bc it wasn't a legitimate inability to walk, just kind of a mental block, and once she got used to it again with the help of Ricky she could do it again

[@OkMakuTree]

A lot of people are going to write off this story as a “social media bad” episode, but IMO this episode’s message is actually about the dangers of losing the ability to think for yourself. The Dots and Slugs have numerous opportunities to kill Lindy, Ricky, and the other FineTimers, but they’re too reliant on their alphabetical kill list. If they had prioritized eliminating the FineTimers who were actively escaping they easily could’ve eliminated the whole colony, but they fail because they aren’t mentally flexible. Meanwhile the FineTimers are too reliant on their technology to think for themselves. Even when they’re presented with clear evidence of danger most of them are too coddled to engage in self preservation. The few who do make it to safety ultimately doom themselves because they’re unable to look past their own prejudice and xenophobia. They would rather cling to their bigotry than accept the hand of salvation from an outsider. Overall I like Dot and Bubble, but it wasn’t perfect. I’m confused why the Dots created the Slugs if they’re perfectly capable of blasting through the craniums of their creators. I’m sure you could come up with an explanation, but it just seems like an unnecessary bit of delegation. It was also strange that the Doctor seemingly leaves while the murderous Dots and Slugs are still on the loose, it doesn’t seem like a particularly hard problem for the Doctor to solve given his ease of hacking with the Sonic, but still, that lingering plot threat bothers me in the same way that the fate of the 7 Star Systems in Rings of Akhaten does. It’s not vital but it does feel unsatisfying. On a more positive note, though, Ncuti absolutely killed it in this episode. His incredulity, into disbelief, into hurt and frustration is perfectly acted. He really sells that final twist and makes this episode work. Overall I’d give Dot and Bubble a 6/10, I will be curious how it holds up on rewatch now that I know the twist.

[@juicyjames2074]

For the dots intent to kill, there’s probably two explanations. 1. Why give them a quick death when you can have slugs that slowly and painfully eat the rich? 2. The story and plot relies on them not getting killed that instantly by the dots.

[@OkMakuTree]

@@juicyjames2074 IMO it would've been cleaner if the Dots weren't capable of harming people directly. After all, they were just made to be everyday helpers, so they have no reason to be that fast or strong. That way, the Slugs are no longer redundant: they become the brawn to the Dot's brains. The Lindy and Ricky scene wouldn't even need major changes. Just make it so Lindy's Dot was tracking her location the whole time, and thus, Slugs have slowly been catching up to them. Between Lindy's lack of coordination and the 100 number code, it should provide enough time for the Slugs to catch up. The rest of the scene plays out the same, Ricky and Lindy switch roles so she can continue to punch in the code while Ricky fights off the Slugs, but he gets injured. The Slugs move in to devour Lindy, but she sells out Ricky, causing the Slugs to devour him while she escapes. YMMV of course, but I think that would achieve the same end result without creating any plot holes. It would also give the Slugs more time to shine since they're cool practical effects!

[@spicyfood6943]

my understanding is, especially since the slugs have already killed most of the population, he still (presumably) couldn't get into the city, and he just learned that they likely wouldn't accept his help regardless, nothing he could've done for them would have made a difference by that point and after that last scene it's just.. fuck these people man lmfao

[@hexx3dd]

@@spicyfood6943exactly. I think the doctor realised that these people don’t have any redeeming qualities. Not that that doesn’t make them eligible to be saved but the doctor knows no matter what he says they will never listen to him because of racism and xenophobia. These people don’t think for themselves and only rely on the tech to guide them. You can’t save people who don’t want to be saved

[@zachh6868]

I liked the homeworld 0 scene, because it was cool seeing a character have to hide that emotion, even cooler that the character wasn't The Doctor like it usually is

[@MyNameIsCody]

I feel like you're going to become the new face of WhoTube and Im so here for it. You and Council of Geeks are the two doctor who KZbin channels who I feel really love the show and have optimism for the show's future - always better than negativity!!

[@nao_oise]

So true! This channel is always the first one I go to after watching the latest episode!

[@qyntifex]

this episode was absolutely amazing!! i love the twist of an unlikable protagonist who you slowly start to hate over time, and the ending was spectacular. the pain in the doctor was so well executed and ncuti/millie did an amazing job. i thought the episode’s commentary wasn’t 100% subtle, but at the same time, the commentary is pretty layered and killed it. the subtle hints to racism and elitism are scattered within and all made sense at the end. loved it

[@sirmicothesilly]

I love a good daylight horror, something about the slugs being so Out in the open really hammered home the casual brutality. The dot instructing Lindy to step around the dead body at the start? Fantastic. Loved that little detail.

[@Thief555WWJD]

*Lindy (not Ruby)

[@sirmicothesilly]

@@Thief555WWJD oh my goodness, how did I mistype that

[@MrShowoff27]

I love that ending, we all thought it was going to go one way but then her turning out to just be the worst and not being redeemable was a cherry on top. I really liked that touch. This season continues to be strong episode after strong episode, I know people hate on space babies, but I really think that episode brought the heart back to the Doctor about trying to save everyone. And this episode continues it, even though Lindy is awful, the Doctor and Ruby still go out of their way trying to help her.

[@tom_4615]

this episode is very similar in tone to space babies, but I got to say, I didn't massively care for that episode but this one is just straight fire 🔥🔥🔥

[@aleta5873]

The Doctor was especially heartbroken as that wretched girl rejected being saved in the Tardis.

[@Scumner]

PEAK. An insanely good episode. How could they drop a banger like this. How will Russel have any sauce left for the finale.

[@dwfan91-]

FACTS

[@squishking]

i really liked how the end of this episode acted as a call out to fans who stopped watching or began hating when a black actor got cast as the doctor. if you can’t accept that fact, you’re getting left behind! we’re moving on as a culture and you will be left behind while the rest of us get to go on fun adventures in the tardis. REALLY well done!!!

[@darkacadpresenceinblood]

yeah! substitute the Doctor yelling "but i saved your life, i could do it again" with "but i gave you a fun show/episodes, and i'll keep doing that!!!" and them still just going "nahh, you're black, we're sailing tf away" and it's literally the state of this fandom rn

[@aleta5873]

They also 'hated' a female Doctor.

[@j.i.nthenobody54]

@@aleta5873Chibs did not help that at all

[@JeremyDuncan]

I've never been angered by an episode of doctor who in such a good way before. I had a second sense about this episode. I knew it would be excellent but I didn't expect it to be my favorite of the season so far! This episode is so much better on rewatch. What breaks my heart is that Ricky September might have taken the doctors offer, but maybe thats wishful thinking.

[@dwfan91-]

Ricky September deserved better💔

[@christopheralthouse6378]

@@dwfan91- Ricky September was the GOAT, Finetime’s own secret timelord in the midst… I agree…JUSTICE FOR RICKY SEPTEMBER! ☝️

[@Dergeytruto]

#justiceforricky 😔

[@Just_Tim91]

This episode was soooo good. The way it comes off camp, silly (almost like "scary movie" levels) only to weave in micro-agressions and audio queues that create a whiplash at the twist ending 😙👌 perfection Things as subtle as the protagonist betraying September right after the Doctor flirts with him (she's selfish, racist AND homophobic) or the way the sound track during the scene with the boat and the Doctors speech references scenes like in Rings of Akhaten where his speeches impassion and convince people, only to be dismissed for the colour of his skin. PERFECTION! Not to mention his normal Tardis introduction being flipped on its head to suddenly being unbelievable just because he's a person of colour, I was blown away! Amazing episode, can't wait to rewatch it!

[@chickenwinna]

I didnt even realize it was after the Doctor flirted. This episode just gets more and more layers to it.

[@loiskapernick2769]

Selfish, yes, but I'm not sure she'd know what racism or homophobia are, I doubt she's been exposed to them, it came off more as a class thing to me.

[@loiskapernick2769]

@@througtonsheirs_doctorwhol5914 interesting...whoever she is, she only has eyes for herself.

[@loiskapernick2769]

@@througtonsheirs_doctorwhol5914 everyone who's ever been, I think this season is full of red herrings, just to drive us crazy...or keep us interested.

[@Redracer96]

I find it more that she’s had her views based on whatever the homeworld taught her mother and everyone else

[@deadpuppetsociety]

I totally missed the racial undertones. I had just assumed that she didn't like him because they were all rich and he's an outsider, so he must be poor. But I can see it now.

[@Thief555WWJD]

I thought it was because he was an outsider as well. How do we know it was racial at the end?

[@justsome500yearoldwithsmug2]

@@Thief555WWJD it's pretty obvious lol

[@EverydayZer0]

@@Thief555WWJD the specific mention of “voodoo” along with the other choice words at the end made it pretty obvious it was bc he’s black (plus they treated ruby a bit better, putting up with her rather than immediate blocking at the start etc)

[@faceofbob]

Lindy was mean to both Ruby and the Doctor, so it wasn’t easy to catch. But upon 2nd viewing, I believe I caught every time she was being specifically racist towards the Doctor.

[@Thief555WWJD]

@@EverydayZer0 thanks, yeah it's easier to catch on a rewatch. I was more focused on the plot the first time rather than the microaggressions. Thank you!

[@lbricks7631]

Eric Saward would be so proud of RTD, the way he killed off Ricky September like that.

[@ebetg4191]

every time i’ve watched this ep, the doctor “swearing to the sky” stands out to me, like i don’t think it’s Important™️, just reminds me of all the boundary/edge of existence stuff also literally every ep so far has featured absent/dead parents (ruby’s mom in ruby road, the space babies’ parents, toymaker being taken from maestro/maestro being away from henry, the dad in boom, ruby’s mom + grandma in 73 yards, and then homeworld parents this ep)

[@hatw_]

I can see some people hating this episode but i quite love it! the social stuff at the end is quite deep and I've never intentionally hated a character as much as I did watching Lindy (or whatever her name is) being racist to the doctor, that really made me want to throw my laptop across my living room... 7/10 episode, not as exciting as some of the other episodes this season but how can you truly top boom and 73 yards?

[@RobTFilms]

I thought it was going to be 60 year old man comments on social media for 45 minutes but it was a BANGER

[@moonlight-zc1yl]

I'm speechless about this episode and it's all I can say right now. that ending evoked a raw feeling I hadn't felt since Rosa and Demons of the Punjab. loved how everything was a crescendo until the very end. it's a 10/10 for me, Ncuti and Millie shining again to compensate for the "lack" of the Doctor being there in person

[@phinnyouchoobs]

One thing that was really gratifying about this episode was its treatment of the Doctor as played by a contextually minority actor in juxtaposition to prior episodes, such as The Witchfinders. The Witchfinders, at least on television as Joy Wilkinson's novelisation of her own episode diverts from many of these issues, simply doesn't divulge into the Doctor, as a woman, ending up in the middle of the Stuart era witch trials, a point in time wherein women who even slightly diverged from the patriarchal norm would have paid with their lives. She eventually ends up exempt from any persecution and can just continue freely after the initial attempt to drown her, which ultimately seems dismissive to the plight of aforementioned, similar women who would have been killed simply for their individuality, their personal brilliance. The narrative could show how any of the distinctly patriarchal things the Doctor would have done in prior on-screen regenerations, especially Twelve, wouldn't have worked to do more justice to these historical victims, or at least King James could have been chastised more at the end than simply having a finger wagged in his direction. Dot and Bubble almost entirely subverts this by showing how, in spite of his constant kindness and intuition and ingenuity throughout this entire episode, the Doctor, like so many other people in minority groups, is disregarded all the same, all shown so remarkably in Lindy's cold, silently detesting stare. No matter how ardent he was in trying to keep her and the other citizens alive, he would still be shunned and isolated all the same. The social media hub that is Finetime is also an apt space for the episode to discuss the issue of racism; biases toward white people appear often in algorithms and recommendations, typically because of the unconscious biases implemented by a largely white demographic of developers, which can in extreme cases result in incredibly isolating, dehumanising behaviours. It was an angle which really elevated this story to not only an important advance in how diverse Doctor casting is handled, reining it in to be more respectful to people who have experienced the bigotry which the character does here, but also to be more than a surface-level satire of social media omnipresence. EDIT: The fact that when Ruby interjects into Lindy's bubble that she doesn't come along with the "UNSOLICITED REQUEST" alert which the Doctor does also shows the episode's interest in the racial biases in social media technology, which is another aspect which shows how sharply and considerately the episode handles this subject matter.

[@ethanlawrence5502]

Im not going to lie, watching Ricky September during the episode, i felt like he easily could have been The Doctor. He was smart, did the running, did the saving, did the lying (about the destruction of the planet). Part of me wonders if this was a Russell test run for the next doctor when Ncuti leaves seasons down the line. Also, i really like the fact that they subverted my expectations with his character. I was expecting him to be revealed as the evil mastermind, yet he ended up being just a genuinely good character. I thought the ending was one of Ncuti's best moments yet as The Doctor. That laughing that expressed a frustration, anger and sadness all at once was *chefs kiss*

[@ebetg4191]

i fr thought he was going to be the doctor pretending to be someone lindy would trust until she immediately hugged him

[@Flaky1990]

Honestly the whole social media analogy was just so over the top with the subtlety of a sledgehammer that the whole racism bit just snuck by me until the end. Really enjoyed the episode. Thought it'd be some easily digestible doctor who adventure like the episode "Smile", boy was I wrong. RIP Ricky, you absolute madlad, reading books and all that.

[@chickenwinna]

Favorite Episode of the season. Really wasnt expecting much but I just loved it. Somehow left me more unsettled then last episode. I think they did a really gooeld job emulating each generations annoying slang "What the gasp" especially made me laugh. I think the racism was set up really well, thinking back on it so many aspects of the episode sorta click. Like Lindsy saying the Doctor isnt as stupid as he looks or that she thought he was just someone who looked similar. The fact that shes so offended by them being in the same room, at first I thought it was just a taboo to physically interact or something. Them calling the Tardis "voodoo" and saying they'll be pioneers like they're ancestors really evoked the image of colonists in real history. Ricky September was by far the most capable in part because he reads history books as well, tragically I imagine he would actually go with the Doctor. Lindsy was also only able to kill Ricky September because she memorized a completely meaningless fact about him, and thats practically the only thing she did herself the whole episode and it will be useless in the wilderness (she couldnt even walk right without his help). Though theres not much of the season left I think Im ready to stop acting like each episode needs to prove itself. Its clear to me that the shows in a consistently great state. Looking forward to next episode, I believe its the only one this season with new writers.

[@christopheralthouse6378]

First Doctor Who episode to feature a villain protagonist…making the MOTW just a sideshow to the true villainy at work which turned out to be the very people that The Doctor and Ruby tried to help… Makes me think we tried to save the wrong ones this time…

[@stoneman3800]

I don't get people complaining about this series, it's been a fun season so far!

[@TheEmptyHanded]

The funniest thing about this is that almost all of those that are hating Series 14/Season 1 are the same people who are hyped for RTD's return back when it was announced in 2022

[@richcl22]

the positive attitude about the new stuff is refreshing. Always enjoy the videos as the optimism is contagious

[@orggannick]

RTD described the feeling I had watching this well in the Unleashed episode, noticing throughout the episode how all the residents were white. Then in that final scene it was just an "oh, yeah that makes complete sense actually" and it was awful. Incredible episode (second to Boom in the new series imo) and especially Ncuti Gatwa's performance. This series is shaping up to be very high up there and Ncuti is already becoming my second favourite Doctor after Capaldi

[@SG-qx9ko]

I'm definitely with you on the soundtrack, the score gave me goosebumps when they were refusing to go with the doctor.

[@borck3941]

I have to say, I am so incredibly surprised about that episode. I went into the episode kinda worried, thought maybe it would be too on the nose abt social media, and stuff like that. But after watching that episode… I don’t understand why I even worried! I love this episode so so much, and am even more excited to rewatch it than 73 yards even though I do think that that is the better episode this one was just so fun. It managed to get a chuckle out of me a few times and I was extremely enticed. I thought it was well written, well directed, well shot, and Murray gold came in clutch once again! So I was surprised and confused to find people online saying it was divisive? I’ve heard this said quite a few times and I can’t understand why people are saying stuff like this at least give it a week for people to form there own opinions before telling them that it is divisive. But anyway I love the channel every video is a bop and ur voice is addictive I can’t lie I could listen to you talk about dr who for hours… which I have done. You really diserve the 15k subscribers and I want you to know that the brief explanation of dr who Video is the best video up on KZbin! Keep up the great work. And I’m so glad I watched classic who because of you.

[@Nintengoob]

The metaphor hit real hard on this one, the whole of my first watch i was so distracted trying to figure out the premise of the story and what the people being eaten had in common, that i was blinded to the messages behind it all, and i think that was an amazing experience as i could really feel the impact of the "twist at the end". And it just goes to show how blinded people are to racism these days. In general, the story of the episode was great as well, and i felt hooked the whole way! There were a few moments in which I felt dragged on just a tad or were unnecessary, but overall, the flow was great, and my god, the betrayal of Ricky September hit different!!! RIP, and justice for Ricky! My only nit pick is that i feel the slugs are not explained enough and they are kind of just there. I understand that its explained they are ginetically engineered or something by the dots to take down the humans, but the fact they just decide to do it alphabetically and coordinate with the dots just doesn't really make sense. We don't even get an official name which are revealed to be the "mantraps" in unleashed, but not mentioned in the main show which seems odd. Thanks for reading, and remember there is always a twist at the end! Can't wait to see what the season endgame has to offer, I have a feeling Rogue is going to be out of this world! P.S. One more thing i thought was odd ab this ep, is that despite Rickies death being emotional and a big plot point, i can see soooo many ways they both could have survived despite lindsy betraying Ricky, especially since Ricky was still able to be armed or dodge the dot, i guess he is in shock of betrayal so couldn't react in time, and i know its a plot point so russell had to kill him off, but at the same time it did feel a tad unrealistic. Anyways thx so much for reading, and if u read this @dwfan91 i love ur content. Keep up the great work. You are making a difference for a lot of whovians ❤️

[@themuppetdon]

My episode Ranking: 1. 73 Yards - 9.5/10 2. Dot and Bubble - 8.5/10 3. Boom - 8/10 4. The Devil's Chord - 8/10 5. The Church on Ruby Road - 7/10 6. Space Babies - 6/10

[@landonwyndham979]

That's probably my ranking as well.

[@robo3007]

This is mine 1. Boom 9.5/10 2. 73 Yards 8/10 3. Space Babies 7/10 4. The Church on Ruby Road 5.5/10 5. Dot and Bubble 5/10 6. The Devil's Chord 4/10

[@benjamin._.mcalister1698]

Hoooolyyyy, what a great episode. Only episode I’d say is better at dealing with race in this show is Human Nature / Family of Blood. Honestly in a weird way almost prefer it to 73 Yards?? Purely because there’s genuinely like nothing to critique. When I saw the next time and knew what it was vaguely about, I kinda thought it’d be a fun but mid and slightly annoying Boomer-ish critique of tech, but honestly the commentary was surprisingly well done, purely because it leant into the absurdity of how reliant on tech we actually are, and it didn’t take itself too seriously, until the end of course. I don’t understand RTD, sometimes he writes commentary like in Star Beast, sometimes he writes this. Mad genius. Also one of the few episodes this season where The Doctor felt REALLY Doctor-y if that makes sense. Purely because a lot of this season seems to be about taking power away from the Doctor, and seeing him react in ways we haven’t before, which I like, but this was a nice change of pace. His reaction at the last scene was SUCH GOOD acting holy shit, Ncuti maybe in my top three by the end of this era honestly. Also the return of The Long Song motif in the music?? Idk why Murray did that but oh my god it was beautiful My headcanon is that the space racist from Rosa was from this civilisation. Also, my girlfriend told me a theory she has half-jokingly which I can not get out of my head no matter how hard I try; what if Susan Twist is the Master? At first I completely shrugged it off and then I thought about it for a second and honestly, The Master’s done crazier stuff so who knows, I’d kinda respect it if she was. Anyway 9/10 great episode, love that they keep experimenting with the format, style and tone it’s so good

[@Yduno29]

Fuckin hell the twist at the end was strong with this one. Fully expected a social media commentary, got comrade cephalopods and racism lol

[@HudsonMedia]

Honestly, this was by far my favourite episode of this era. A great concept, frighteningly realised, fantastic commentary and just a power house ending for Ncuti. I don't know how this episode isn't getting anymore love. I was genuinely expecting perhaps a run of the mill filler. But I thought this was just incredible. A genuinely 10/10 episode for me.

[@dwfan91-]

I'm wondering if you'll ever do a rendition of the Vale song that plays at the end of the episode

[@HudsonMedia]

@@dwfan91- Tbf I was already at work on a Vale Decem remix coming out today speaking of 🫢

[@Asralin]

The ending moment hit so hard. Because the doctor doesn’t even go back to save them, and they don’t learn their lesson. Seeing ruby crying while seeing the doctor laugh is so telling of their different experiences. It was great seeing the evolution from 10 telling Martha she’ll be fine in London with Shakespeare and hand waving away her race. Ncuti absolutely killed it and I loved his attitude this whole episode. The ending is definitely one of my favorite moments in all of doctor who

[@Saturndecat]

My thoughts on the episode --------- For me when I first met Ricky he felt off. He was a bit suspicious. This episode genuinely had me thinking Ricky was a villain. Ricky showing up randomly and just saving the protagonist. (I genuinely can't remember her name) Ricky knew about the tunnels, how to get there and even how to input the codes to leave. As it progressed Ricky kept giving me Doctor vibes, and less villain vibes. He even gave a doctor like speech. --------- I want to congratulate the acting he gave that not only started me off thinking he was a villain but ended up being the only good person who was in the city. When Ricky died it genuinely caught me off guard. So props to Russel and the team for that. It did feel like there was something that was there, an idea or something that got cut. Something about Ricky that was left out. It was good but still. Also Ricky's death did leave an opening for something. Cause we see him get attacked by the dot. But the protagonist leaves and we don't see him after. (Well we see him die, which was quite graphic btw) But imagine if Ricky was a different version of the doctor or another timelord, it would be quite cool. Imagine a cold open where we see him die, but the camera slowly pans to his body as we start to hear regenerative sounds as he straight up regenerates into another incarnation. even if he isn't a timelord it's cool to imagine it. And I personally would like to see the adventures of Ricky. -------- Anyway the episode was good for me at least, not my favourite or the best in the series, that still lies with boom. But I am definitely excited for next week's rouge.

[@dwfan91-]

Rest in Peace Ricky

[@ogpandamonium]

This season's been quite a form-breaking one! Bottle episode, doctorless episode, episode with a unique lead character. None of this is new, but it's really cool!

[@banjomanmania9795]

What a solid episode. This season continues to delight me with how competent it is in its storytelling and commentary. I liked this episode on first watch, and I loved it on rewatch. Poor Mickey, I mean Ricky. It’s interesting that the Dot AI could kill the humans off at any point. Their level of sentience got high enough where they would rather create a being to kill people rather than directly doing the killing themselves. Obviously there’s so many underlying meanings to every decision made on this show, and I find this an interesting commentary on morality in general. We don’t want to kill discriminatly, but it’s okay to make something that kills systematically indiscriminately.

[@avieee_]

I've seen many people share the same feeling of hilarious relief the moment we realise that we aren't supposed to like the protagonist of this episode! I thought it was a lot of fun and that ending was truly standout! #JusticeForRickySeptember

[@clario9114]

Did anyone else catch that Ncuti was like the only black person in the episode? Really makes the ending scene pack a bigger punch when Lucy says he’s not one of them and feels like a very subtle commentary on racism that kinda… sneaks up on you? Like it’s unsettling and weird that everyone is so white and then when it’s acknowledged it’s like DAMN. THEY WENT THERE. And I must say, Ncutis doctor not saving the people without their consent, it just feels so him. He has always felt like Ruby’s equal to me, not just because they have the shared orphan background but also because he never talks down to her, and they’re even attracted to the same man 😭 I love their friendship so much, and this version of the Doctor. It hurts him to be so decent, but he is decent nonetheless. Thank you so much for the work you do, I literally watch your videos like they’re my dot and bubble

[@scrunkore]

from what I can tell the doctor was straight up the ONLY person of colour, finetime is basically a white ethnostate lol

[@dwfan91-]

I did :)

[@elviswalters2648]

The characters at the end said that the Homeworld (parents) went to the sky (so presumably they abandoned the teens just like they did the babies). So this is also about the emotional and social abandonment teens and young adults experience. This also mirrors Ruby’s abandonment by her mother

[@dwfan91-]

Great catch!

[@sinom]

This episode was so much better than I ever thought it would be.

[@cam1e754]

9:32 i think that the Aliens killed the main world first then moved planet instead of do them at the same time

[@domsquared9878]

Hey I just wanted to thank you for your videos, I lost my 19 year old sister this week and your videos have brought me a lot of comfort and smiles amidst so much turmoil, thank you more than you can ever know ❤

[@dwfan91-]

I am so sorry for your loss and hope you can move forward from such a terrible tragedy.

[@domsquared9878]

@@dwfan91- thank you so much man much love

[@tom_4615]

is series 14 the best nuwho series? can it be true? I mean so far I firmly believe its better than 5 and 10, im still deciding where it stands up against 1 and 4 but like top 3, no doubt

[@zednott688]

such a good episode! very powerful closing scene (obviously). i think its a good sign that RTD is engaging with the reality of having a Black doctor, in ways that Chibnall didnt with a female doctor - i think Chibnall was (understandably) worried about being too Woke if he included stuff about the differentiall treatment of women in the wide universe, but clearly RTD is just not worried about that. this ep also struck a beautiful balance of not being too preachy about it, with not ending the ep on the doctor and ruby in the TARDIS debriefing about Racism is Wrong, as Chibnall would have done.

[@skeleytonz5319]

The doctor learns the pain of trying to converse with a nepo baby the episode

[@LucasDies]

Ncuti's acting! It's just absolutely stellar in that final scene. He keeps knocking it out of the park.

[@Jack-zz7bc]

Perfect timing, literally finished your last vid a minute ago

[@dwfan91-]

Hope you enjoy!

[@av8er_602]

I feel like lindy would've never considered sacrificing ricky if he hadn't mentioned that he turned off his bubble most of the time. That then gave lindy a reason to let him die because he wasn't as good as her in her mind. He was a rebel. I LOVED this episode and damn can't wait for the next one. The ending was perfect, i even thought they might pull a lindy joins the team just to be kicked out again like back in 9th doctors season with adam but I'm so happy that didn't happen. It should’ve been Ricky joining, his death broke me. #JusticeforRickySeptember Just wanna say your videos poppin up on my feed is so fun i look forward to them every new episode and your positivity when everyone seems to be focussing on the negative.

[@RobbieMartin745]

Its sad that alot of people aren't enjoying this season... it feels like being during the capaldi era again 😔

[@tom_4615]

it'll feel more like the Capaldi era in 5 years when everyone goes "oh wait this was amazing, guys I swear I always liked this era and was never a hater"

[@SuperGamingpepper]

I am enjoying it but i am a little underwhelmed with it i want more scenes of the doctor being clever and defeating alien threats haven't had much of that with only 3 episodes left so far i would rate this series above series 8 and 11 but under the rest i am very excited for next ws episode though

[@luckyblockyoshi]

@@SuperGamingpepper i think these past few episodes have all been doctor-lite so far because they were filmed while Gatwa was also doing Sex Education, so the next episodes should more of him in it

[@lilboi5303]

I interpreted a lot of the episode as an allegory for addiction! Obviously there's the screen addiction with the dot and bubble but also when quitting addiction we have to relearn how to 'be a person?' Like how she didn't know how to walk after only being in the bubble, is very similar to learning how to cope after addiction! And how easy it is to walk right into a slug monster (another addiction) even though we know it wants to eat us! Ricky September seems like a friend trying to help us through the addiction and in the end gets backstabbed which is all too common when coping after addiction! The fact that homeworld is dead seems like how family can feel so disconnected when we struggle to find ourselves again! In the end a lot of people fall back into how they were and ignore the help from others! Getting in that boat at the end seems like she fell in with the wrong crowd again after trying to escape from being "fine"!

[@TripleJumpYTP]

I loved it! A very tense little episode with a powerful twist at the end! I was a little worried that I'd be bored by this episode but i was very invested the whole way through. I thought Lindy was very insufferable, normally that would be a weakness but by the end you see why! She's an evil person! 8/10

[@stuff31]

I didn't pick up on any of the weird racist microaggressions and didn't understand the ending until Twitter spelled it out for me. I felt so stupid

[@stevejones4442]

Long time watcher, first time commenting & had to after this. What an episode. Glad wasn’t just me that found it hilarious but that ending reveal, Ncuti’s acting & Millie in the background as the penny dropped before the Doctor realised the why…just genius…& the music at this point! The whole package, peak indeed

[@bubbleshock14]

It felt like a black mirror episode through a lot of it, but that ending... Damn. The looks Lindy was giving The Doctor from the boat was just so... You know? I had a bit of a rollercoaster with Ricky, at first i thought he was sus, then i thought he was the doctor somehow disguising himself to get her trust, then i thought he was sus again, then i realised he was a decent person, then he was dead. I feel bad for hating on him for so long lol

[@kevanfox1066]

It reminded of my friend Cristian. He be on that phone too much

[@NagromVoice]

And he be racist

[@kevanfox1066]

@@NagromVoice especially towards Romanians, he calls them vampires

[@Nyx__]

My thoughts on the episode which I also commented on Reddit: "The more I think about this episode, the better it gets. Sure there are some extremely stupid things like "I can't walk without the arrows". I get what it represents now, but practically speaking it just comes off as goofy and I feel like there could've been a better way to display undying, unwavering, unquestioning loyalty to authority / status quo. If someone doesn't understand what's being hinted at in the end (very obvious) they are going to think this episode is the weirdest, most non-sensical and terrible episode of Who ever. The episode was mere 5/10 for me at first, then it grew to a 7/10 at the end. If I forgive that whole walking ordeal (I don't) I would give it an 8/10. Impressive."

[@regaltoast]

I sort of just assumed all of these rich kids grew up with the bubble from the very start of their lives, so they've never walked without it before. Still dumb, but makes those scenes a little more digestible to me.

[@christophersheets5452]

1) I’m so frustrated (in the best way) at the lack of remorse Lindy had for Ricky September. That moment elevated this episode from a really good episode to a great episode for me. 2) The names in this episode were ridiculously silly. So much fun. 3) People keep saying Ncuti had so many good Doctor moments in Boom. I loved Boom and Ncuti definitely killed it but I never felt personally like he had distinctly Doctor moments. I know that’s crazy. I loved the episode but still. But this episode! The ending with The Doctor’s anger at people unwilling to let themselves be saved because of bigotry. My favorite moment of the season so far. This season just keeps getting better and better. 4) Watched this episode with a couple friends who had never seen Doctor Who before. Was really worried. What a crazy way to step into the show. But they thought it was pretty good. I then explained Gallifrey and regeneration for twenty minutes.

[@eveebunny]

I noticed how Lindy didnt like the dr from the start and how no one on her screen was anything but white. I find it pretty obvious since it wouldnt be acceptable otherwise to hire only white/ white looking backround actors unless its meant to be a point. Then when she listened to ruby i was like ahh makes sense.

[@6thDoctorFan84]

Dot and bubble… wow Genuinely one of the best surprises I’ve gotten from Doctor Who, amazing episode coming from an episode I didn’t have high hopes for surprisingly I thought this would have maybe been an 6/10 but oh my God. The way the bubble was used as a concept of the dangers of ignorance, whilst having the figurative bubble that the finetime residence keep themselves in leading to the sealed fates at the end of the episode is such an astounding piece of writing. Our protagonist for the episode, turning out to be as selfish and ignorant as most of the other privileged residence created such a discomfiting experience, watching is an achievement in storytelling, especially for doctors who And oh. my. God. Ncuti gatwa’s performance, his frustration, his manic laughter after seeing clearly how these peoples ignorance is, what’s going to lead their deaths is so well communicated with his fantastic performance. What an actor This episode is a genuine, lovely surprise, and it is clearly showing me that this season is going to turn out to be the best season of nu who 9/10 even if it’s not the twin dilemma

[@aidanconnolly8190]

the commentary on the colonial mindset at the end with the rich white people playing nice with someone that knows more than they do and cares for their safety only to slap their hand away as soon as they think they know enough to make everything their own was really well done. it was summed up really well with the line from the de-facto "leader": "we can go out there to this planet and we can fight it, and tame it, and own it. we'll be pioneers, just like our ancestors" great episode, hilarious, brutal, and real

[@rayman2902]

The Fnaf bit gets me every time. I appreciate you changing up the location. Lol

[@dwfan91-]

😂

[@RichardShaw-u7y]

Ngl. I watched most of this episode as "social media bad and inept without influencers to fuel" Ruby being acknowledged for compliments and the Doctor being swiped etc. But that last scene ... damn Ncuti's screaming, crying and laughing hit me. Social status was the outer of that bubble. The dot of that bubble was ignorance and the seed that fuels. RTD you hit the ball out of the park! And i feel humbled Bless Ricky September for being the embodiment of education and learning too. And the slugs for being an analogy for those too slow to keep up with the world we live in

[@Pokenerd11]

So there really is always a twist at the end… they were serious about that. I thought that ending was really powerful and Ncuti’s acting in that scene really was amazing, to me I see that as his “doctor moment” because of how impactful he was in that moment. To me he wasn’t angry because they were being racist but he was angry because they would rather walk into their certain death than let him save them and in that moment he was powerless in saving them and that’s what really made him angry. Also Ricky September is the goat and didn’t deserve to get backstabbed like that. Also I’m pretty sure he was the one person who wasn’t racist in finetime because the one time he talked to the doctor he just talked to him like a normal person and wasn’t weird towards him like Lindy was. I agree with the 7/10 rating and please keep making these entertaining videos I genuinely look forward to them almost as much as the actual doctor who episodes, so that shows how good your videos are.

[@zayamsbury]

doctor who was introduced to me when i was about 6 years old by my step-father, who was Black. he died in 2020. i so wish he'd seen this. he would have clocked the racism up front, and yelled and cried with the Doctor at the end. it's so hard to write about racism effectively -- the brilliance of writing it in such a way that it's a twist to some, but clear to others, feels so real, because that's how racism is: structural and invisible to some. and i love LOVE that the Doctor in the end still wanted to save them, even through the anger and pain. that's the Doctor. the variation on the 15th Doctor's theme really hit home fort me. this season is so. damn. good.

[@jlbwho7913]

Dot and bubble... A story 14 years in the making! I had no idea what to expect but I had a lot of fun! I was expecting the protagonist to become a fan favourite hero and boy I was wrong 🤣 She's a Terrible person and I love how it went against expectations. Throughout the story I thought her dismissing the doctor was iffy but at the end she fully manifested her vile personality. Loved September, he's companion levels of good, the only decent person in fine time. I enjoyed this and I feel every episode has been top tier so it's so tricky to rank them. I'll try 1. Boom (gatwa's performance is so magical) 2. The devils chord 3. The church on ruby road 4. 73 yards 5. Dot and bubble 6. Space babies The fact I said dot and bubble is top tier and it's ranked 5th shows how amazing this season is

[@blockydude2253]

Ricky September what a guy

[@thomasomelie]

I actually loved the main character from the start, the way she was so spoiled and clueless yet kept calling the Doctor and Ruby stupid, and the ending just made her character 10 times better The moment she betrayed the guy to save herself was so out of nowhere and left me stunned for a few moments, yet at the same time it felt SO right for Lindsy as a character and the behaviors she had shown previously that I felt like it couldn't have been done better

[@doctorwhomst6459]

Damn peak AGAIN! I knew of the ending based on a leak I saw on Twitter. I don't think that knowledge detracted from the episode, though. I know a lot of people said that the Mantraps weren't needed, which I understand because the dots can do a very good job. However, I think it fits with the theme because the Mantraps are perceived as outsiders from the wild woods by everyone in Finetime and furthers the ignorance and stupidity of the Finetime residents. All in all, peak episode.

[@Malory-Malicious]

honestly, i was surprised, it was a fun episode, didnt really go how i expected, but i loved it, and man. that twist that TWIST MAN incredible

[@zackrocklin-waltch6140]

I was actually really excited for this episode because I was so intrigued by the aesthetic, and I actually uh… I think it’s my favorite of the season so far 🫢 it was so just so funny, so fun, such brilliant sci-fi world-building, and SUCH well written social commentary. The foreshadowing throughout the episode was somehow both so subtle and so cuttingly perfect. I kinda thought RTD had lost his touch with sci-fi social commentary after the 60th specials because I thought those were pretty clumsy (even though I agreed with the points he was trying to make), but man this season has been so good. And Ncuti is just brilliant - I know everyone else is saying this but ya that ending scene feels like such a defining moment for his Doctor, and he NAILED it. AND the aesthetic is just one of the most interesting future worlds we’ve seen in NuWho. Blew me away.

[@dwfan91-]

I agree, 100%. Parts of the 60th were... as you say clumsy, but since Season 1 started it's all been on top form for me, and this episode was brilliant

[@zackrocklin-waltch6140]

@@dwfan91- thank you Mr. fan91 - I love your work so much 🥲

[@dwfan91-]

@@zackrocklin-waltch6140 :D

[@gabriellehickey7193]

Overall I thought Dot and Bubble was pretty alright, I could see some people making the argument that this episode wasn't doctor-light but to me it just felt that way. And after 2 episodes of the doctor not being in it that much is kind of a shame. However the parts with the doctor were amazing so I hope we get more like them as I feel like the doctor has only really shined in "The church on ruby road" and "Boom". (Also the runtime felt a bit short)

[@oatymilkshake]

I don’t think the lack of Doctor matters all that much. He’s not going anywhere anytime soon. We’ve got atleast 3 seasons, and the varied formats stop boring filler episodes which this easily could have been.

[@teenytv5194]

Been watching ur channel since the start but haven’t commented yet. First time whoop. The episode kinda reminded me of ‘The Night of the Doctor’. In both stories, The Doctor is unable to save somebody because of their prejudice. My favourite thing about both of these stories is that The Doctor isn’t upset that he was rejected for whatever reason, he’s upset he couldn’t save them. Another thing to note, in ‘The Night of the Doctor’ - the Doctor understands why The Time Lords are hated and Cass’s death pushes him to abandon what he now believes to be a naive way of life; taking up the mantle of the warrior. 15 however, is rejected because of… seemingly nothing. Because he looks different. He’s been through so much, he knows that the way of the warrior is not for him. The only thing he can do in this moment is grieve. I think a lotta people will say 73 Yards is their fav, but I personally loved Dot and Bubble and it’s my fav episode of the series thus far/my fav episode of this new Era. (Top stories of this new era being Wild Blue Yonder, 73 Yards and Dot and Bubble).

[@ThePonderer]

I love that Finetime and Lindy reflect the way that such an insular society which dehumanizes and disrespects one group, ultimately has that disrespect bleed into how the people they supposedly value are treated as well. It stuck out to me how Ricky September is written *very* Doctor-ish (to the point I briefly considered he might BE the Doctor in disguise) and I think that’s to highlight how in the end Lindy treats them as equally disposable. Lindy also has a *lot* of negative or dismissive self-talk throughout the episode. Finetime, like any deeply prejudiced society, so discourages genuine empathy or caring that Lindy can’t even direct at the people like herself, or even *just herself* when it matters. Killer episode, but I feel like it’s held back slightly by the choice to keep the dialogue kinda coy at the end. I just wish Lindy or one of the other Finetime folks had come out and used the word “Black” or “white” or “colored” or something. That final scene was great, but it also called for a level of frankness that it seems Russell stepped back from at the last second.

[@ThePonderer]

Also! Followup to this thought; what I love more than anything else about the reveal at the end is how, in contrast to 73 Yards, that single scene takes what’s ostensibly a Doctor-lite episode and reveals that it’s been a Doctor character-piece the entire time. The whole story builds to the Doctor realizing that suddenly- This whole story builds to the Doctor realizing that suddenly he is without a level of privilege and authority that he’s enjoyed his whole life. Even when he had to put up with moments of bullshit sexism as 13, it was something she could ultimately tear down or circumvent with enough bravado. But this is different. This is something The Doctor’s only ever looked on with disapproval from the outside suddenly applied directly to him, and it’s horrifying to realize that to these racist idiots and their ilk, he’s his skin color first and “The Doctor” second. It’s a moment of self-image shattering a bit.

[@ThePonderer]

Ok last addition- I love the twisted irony of the Finetimers all being doomed at the end in spite of their baseless confidence. The irony of a culture built around “racial purity” is that it can’t actually produce a populace with long term survival prospects. The Finetime kids *will* die, because they’re taught how to keep a myth alive, not a person. They’re taught that they’re superior, but not how to walk away from danger.

[@ThePonderer]

OK last addition: I love the twisted irony of the ending- Lindy couldn’t even WALK a few hours prior, but they’re all so confident that they’ll conquer the world. They haven’t been taught any useful survival skills, or even basic living skills. They’ve only been taught that they’re superior. It shows how societies built on ideas like “racial purity” are ultimately incapable of creating a survivable populace. They prioritize learning to keep a myth alive over keeping a person alive.

[@CrikeyItsDan]

That ending hit HARD. I know there are people out there who think the Doctor should always be a white man, for various reasons... I guess. But this type of story isn't possible without casting a black man and Ncuti killed it man, It's hard to even put yourself in those shoes. You're there to save everyone you can, like you've always done. But now it's on the table they wont even allow you to save them, because they don't want help from someone of "Your Kind". Would genuinely rather die, than have your help. Heart breaking man, genuinely heart breaking. But yeah overall this episode ended up being sneaky good, didn't have high hopes for it at all and was pleasantly surprised. After the Christmas special and Ncuti's first two episodes I was really worried about this season moving forward, but since Boom all the episodes have taken a step up to varying degrees. It's a shame the series got off to such a weak start because there are some seriously good episodes here which people wont even give a chance :(

[@timewarproductions4661]

Another banga and yet again agree with everything in the episode xD a personal highlight is the doctor's sheer disbelief of the racism that was just directed at him

[@stelmaria-mx]

This was a great satirical episode, which turned into something unsettling and nasty by the end. I saw the difference in the way the Doctor was being treated at the start, but just thought she was annoyed at him. Then we got deeper, the shock that the Doctor and Ruby were in the same room, and then it got ugly at the end. I would have preferred the Doctor just silently walking into the TARDIS, or something less emotional than him tearing up in yet another episode. It's almost a trope for his Doctor at this point. Also, having two Doc-lite episodes is not a great look for an eight-episode series, and two in a row as well. Maybe if it was 10 eps, it would be more excusable, but if we only have 6 episodes with Ncuti for the whole series, there's no room to push different sides to the Doctor. Though we've seen glimpses, there haven't been enough meaty moments. Honestly, the whole season is rushed and yet is also going too slowly with the development of Ruby and Ncuti. It's not bad, but there are issues that need to be addressed in the second series.

[@dwfan91-]

I made a joke when she first swiped on the Doctor that she was racist, then they leaned into it and I was stunned. Just incredible storytelling in my opinion

[@stelmaria-mx]

​@@dwfan91- Yeah, I started realising that there were only white people in Finetime and when they talked about 'contamination'... Ew!

[@Kregnic]

i think the episode was good, maybe a little short but definitely good. i wasnt expecting the ending at all (rip ricky) and i think it was relatively well executed. id say the concept of spoiled brat racial puritans shouldve been more explored (although that maybe wouldve take away from the punch of the ending). im still a little confused about the nature of the slugs. i get that theyre maybe saying that the dots made the slugs but that doesnt make alot of sense to me. personally how i wouldve done it was that the civilisation was so obsessed with racial purity that the set the bugs on themselves so that they could start over with a "pure" race. over all still another dub for season 1 8/10

[@space_the_final_fronteir]

This is one of the first episodes in ages where I immediately rewound the episode and watched it again after my first watch. Reminds me of when I used to make my mum repeat the plots of episodes to me after we watched them before iPlayer 😭 So yeah. Sign of a great episode. And as the day has gone on, I am starting to feel more haunted by the episode, remembering the look that the Doctor and Lindy (Libby? Lidl? The racist) gave each other at the end. Absolutely chilling. Both Callie Cooke and Ncuti Gatwa gave outstanding performances this episode, made me feel things. On my rewatch I noticed all the tiny details Callie Cooke put in, the tiny eye movements, the clumsy walking, the way her face changes every time the Doctor shows up. Obviously hate her character but what a performance. And Ncuti, oh my god. They gave him like 3 minutes at the end to act his heart out and he did. Almost brought me to tears. My only complaint is that I worry the racism suddenly became a little too cartoonish at the end? But maybe that was intentional, to show the viewers that ultimately that's what racism boils down to, and that's how dumb racists look, and they were just building up to it with small comments throughout the episode, like when she said "I thought you just looked the same." Apart from that, I thought the visuals were great, the costumes and the hair and the sets? 10/10. All the outdoor scenes looked like they were shot on some British new build estate (probably were), which actually made it feel even more terrifying to me, as those places are so common and already freak me out. The way it contrasted with the colourful and modern interiors was really cool as well, like they never bothered to make the outsides look as nice because they knew that no one would ever see them. The only little mystery left to me was when Ricky (RIP King) mentioned the Great Abrogation (Abrogation means Abolition for context). I wonder what that was in reference to, and if it will ever be mentioned again. Solid A tier episode though, this season is turning out banger after banger, and this was the episode I was least excited for.

[@harryhughes6124]

I thought this was a masterclass in social commentary. Showing not telling. I loved this episode, my second fav just below Boom, and that’s just bc the tone of boom is more my type of a doctor who episode.

[@quali-vd3ud]

I'm only noticing now after having watched it, but the Doctor keeps pressing this question: "What do you all have in common?" It's like he's yelling at us through the 4th wall, asking if we get what's going on 😁

[@christianrothfus]

I think they did such a good job toeing the line on making Lindy annoying and bratty, but not so much that it takes away from the episode. Right up until Lindy betrayed Ricky I was sympathetic for her because I figured that spending such a prolonged time in Finetime had basically just turned her into an iPad kid that was flawed, but innocent. I passed off most of the things she said as coming from her being in a state of distress and her overall childish nature, which I think made the ending all the more impactful for me. I've watched Dot and Bubble twice now and the only thing I thought was kind of iffy was the racism part of the final twist. I just didn't feel like it was set up enough to feel natural, but after watching your video and putting some more thought into it, I that is because this episode covers it so expertly that it feels out of place compared to other forms of media. Like you mentioned in the video, it can be satisfying to just have the "punch the racist" moment, and I think the lack of that caught me off guard at first, but now I really appreciate that's not the way it played out. I feel like a lot of time racist characters in shows and movies (at least the one's I've watched) just shout their hatred from the rooftops every chance they get with no real nuance to create that moment where the show/movie can point and be like "racism bad". Having had time to think it over for a few hours now, I really really REALLY appreciate how they handled it. I'm having trouble putting it exactly into words, but I think that having an engaging antagonistic force that is not racism, makes the racism aspect even stronger. Again, I'm struggling to find the words but it's sort of like a less is more type of deal in my eyes. They never had the Finetime characters get up during the middle of the episode and give a heavy-handed hate speech, they just created believable characters and let the episode speak for itself. I think it was also a genius idea to have the full reveal right before the doctor saves the day. Caring for and saving people is what the doctor does, so to have Lindy turn him away over something so small minded must be heartbreaking. Incredible episode, not 73 yards level imo, but still in the same ball park. 8 or 9/10 depending on my mood, RIP Ricky the 😭

[@Person-rv7dt]

I really enjoyed this weeks episode, while it's great we've been getting lots of new concept episodes, Dot & Bubble felt more like a good old fationed monster bash. My instant thoughts were it's giving Wal-e vibes with the bubble screens, and I quite quickly found all the characters intentionally insufferable. When Lindy tried phoning the police and no one being available it was giving gridlock vibes (side note: I quite enjoy gridlock and don't get the underating). I really liked Ricky's character, although I knew the moment he showed up all heroic Lindy was going to get him killed, although I wasn't expecting it to be quite so deliberate on her part. This instantly booted Joffery from top spot of my most hated TV show characters because after that I properly hated Lindy, not even the fun kind, just the level of selfish entitlement and stupidity was unreal. I really liked the shot of the home planet but I agree that I would have been much better if it was more fleshed out. A small touch but the way Ricky protects Lindy by not telling her was chefs kiss, he really was the only character worty saving in the whole episode. And then at the end when they all refuse the doctors help, it explains Lindy's initial quick dismissal of him on the bubble and the very pale cast and somehow makes you hate her even more. And then when the doctor doesn't even care and just wants to help them only to be refused, the pain on his face perfectly demonstrates why Ncuti Gatawa is perfect for this role. He's not even angry that they are racist, but because he can't save them showing just how good the doctor is as a person. You know they're all probably going to die without his help and what makes us human is that we don't care. Second side note: I know I'm late to the party but I've been busy with exams, was anyone else reminded of strange Vs strange in multiverse of madness with the music battle in the devil's cord?

[@DeadedGamers]

Yet another banger, we've been on a grand success streak since Boom (and to an extent The Devils Chord), very beefy episode my mother who has been mixed all season actually properlly enjoyed this one. Wasnt as good as The Twin Dilemma but then again what is. To be honest even though every episodes has been getting beyter and just so good im still not all that excited for Rouge, I dont know why. Also im lretty sure the reason the motherworld all died was also because of the slugs since i sweat I saw one of them standing on the roof in the brief moment we saw it. Whenever I see Ncuti on screen I enjoy his performance even more.

[@elise2920]

I’ve been rewatching episodes by watching them by myself the night they come out, watching them with my mom (who originally got me into doctor who), and my friend (who I convinced to watch this season and she loves it!) I really wasn’t expecting this season to be a new favorite but they keep delivering banger after BANGER and I adore Ncuti as the Doctor

[@spectreplayz9659]

I’m so happy this season is my first watching live - I will feel proud to tell people this was my doctor. I get what you mean about the classic who feel - the music in the episode felt like classic who - though I’ve only watched Pertwee and some of Tom Baker

[@Scaroth1979]

Man. I loved that. I wasn’t really that excited for the episode before it came out, but watching it. Damn. That was good. Obviously not as good as 73 yards or boom, but man. That was good. It kinda reminded me of like a doctor who video game, like edge of time and stuff, where you’ve got the doctor and companion sort of guiding you through the adventure. I feel like it could have worked really well as a game, especially with those like, forward, turn left, turn right, turn, stop directions showing her where to go. Man that main girl was so annoying, I would have preferred literally anyone else as the main character, like gothic Paul or Ricky September. But I loved that episode. I think my current ranking for rtd2 would go like this: 73 yards Boom Wild blue yonder The Giggle Church on ruby road Dot and bubble Space babies The devils chord The star beast Also it was really cool to properly see ncuti in his costume from the reveal. Anyways, fab episode, 7/10.

[@jcrossan1351]

Absolutely hated the protagonist justice for Ricky September!!!

[@dwfan91-]

JUSTICE FOR RICKY

[@christopheralthouse6378]

@@dwfan91- ☝️