For over six decades, Doctor Who has captivated audiences with its timeless allure, and its enduring charm shows no signs of waning. The beloved series ventures into a new, exhilarating era with the latest Christmas special, ‘The Church on Ruby Road’, unveiling the charismatic Ncuti Gatwa as the new Doctor. Gatwa effortlessly proves his mettle, stepping into the iconic role that is undeniably one of the most coveted in British television.
★★★★★
The narrative unfolds around Ruby Sunday, portrayed by the talented Millie Gibson, who finds herself entangled in a string of misfortunes, initially attributing them to mere bad luck. However, goblins are revealed as the cause. Described as a foundling by Davina McCall (who plays herself), Ruby’s journey began when she was abandoned as a baby and subsequently raised by the Sunday family in London. This is touched on during the episode as Ruby reflects on her upbringing.
Companion-Focused
As is often the case in Doctor Who, episodes centred on companions often stand out as the strongest stories, and this adheres to that principle. The start of Karen Gillan’s stint as Amy Pond was very much focused on her character, which proved to be a strong introduction. Looking back on Rose Tyler’s first episode is particularly notable as well, as viewers got an insight into her life before the Doctor. This time around, the spotlight is firmly on Ruby, offering viewers an intimate exploration of her character, especially during her initial introduction. The narrative masterfully weaves a tale that hinges on Ruby, providing mere glimpses of the enigmatic Doctor until the pivotal moment when he emerges to save the day.
The on-screen dynamic between Gibson and Gatwa exudes a captivating and effervescent chemistry that leaps off the screen. Their thrillingly fizzy connection invites viewers into a blend of amusement and peril. Watching Ruby revel in the Doctor’s playful antics is what makes her the perfect companion to this incarnation of the character—one filled with such excitement and emotion. Their relationship proves to be the beating heart of the episode, capturing the essence of Doctor Who and is reminiscent of the Doctor’s relationship with Amy Pond, for example.
Electrifying portrayal
Meanwhile, Gatwa’s portrayal is nothing short of electrifying, bringing a fresh and unprecedented energy to the role that sets it apart from anything the show has experienced before. After charming viewers in his initial appearance during ‘The Giggle’, Gatwa seizes the opportunity in this latest episode to enrich his character portrayal. Allocating valuable screen time for character development before the launch of his own series proves immensely beneficial, enabling Gatwa to set the tone and strike a nuanced balance that foreshadows what his series will offer. Gatwa’s boundless energy propels Fifteen’s character with vigour, ushering in a revitalised version that pays homage to the beloved character’s legacy. With Gatwa at the helm, we find assurance and excitement for what lies ahead in the hands of writer Russell T. Davies.
The narrative itself exudes strength, marked by meaningful dialogues throughout. Michelle Greenidge’s portrayal of Carla Sunday, a devoted foster mother, feels authentic, with her stellar performance adding layers of depth. The episode’s climax showcases Greenidge’s nuanced acting, creating a poignant emotional resonance within the storyline. And, Angela Wynter’s introduction as Cherry Sunday proves to be a brilliant addition, injecting the narrative with well-timed comic relief.
In regards to how the episode looks, the new partnership with Disney has seen increased production value. This means widened breadth for new character designs and further experimentation with CGI. The cinematography is gorgeous, giving off that wondrous quality we so often associate with Doctor Who, inviting nostalgia and joy in equal measure. However, it is the shining performances that remain the true magic of the show.
The Verdict
‘The Church on Ruby Road’ emerges as a triumph in the heritage of Doctor Who, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation to deliver a Christmas special that resonates with the show’s enduring charm. Gatwa’s debut as the new Doctor not only meets but surpasses the high expectations set by the iconic role, injecting a fresh and electrifying energy that propels the series into a promising new era. Russell T. Davies proves once again the future of the show is in safe hands and ‘The Church on Ruby Road’ serves as a testament to the show’s enduring legacy.
You can watch the 2023 Christmas Episode of ‘Doctor Who’ on BBC iPlayer.
Words by Gemma Nettle
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