You, me and Council of Geeks all had a problem with that opening scene. My main problem was that if the Tardis is meant to be crashing and out of control, it takes you out of the story to have the Doctor able to stop off and have a jokey conversation with Isaac Newton and drop 200 apples on his head before going on his way. I thought the "mavity" thing was vaguely amusing, but not enough to overcome my problem with that first scene taking you out of the story. Other than that, I loved pretty much everything about this story - and it's also fun to see how quickly people get that that isn't the Doctor who came back into the room with Donna. Good to see you back talking about Doctor Who again.
Really enjoy your reviews Wingy. I like the fact that you keep a balanced view on major talking points of these episodes, and you elaborate on them with logic and story context. Keep up the good work, Great to have you back!!!
My main take away from this episode is: So, Tom Baker's Doctor dropped the apple on Newton's head. But in the scene with Newton, which happens immediately after, he's nowhere to be seen. Which MEANS he was just casually lying under the TARDIS the whole time
Very enjoyable, had me on the edge of my seat more than once! Tennant and Tate were brilliant and seeing Bernard for one last scene was a joy. Probably the strongest of the specials.
What I liked about this story is you can insert any incarnation of the Doctor into it and it would still work very well as a Doctor Who story. Like you say it did feel like a proper classic feeling episode that we've not had in years. The visual and practical effects here were top notch.
I liked this story but I thought it was supposed to be an anniversary special. It didn't feel very special to me and none of these three stories do much to celebrate the past. A missed opportunity I think.
Honestly whilst it wasnt big on spectacle and fanfare, i felt this was an apt special for the anniversary. The villians dont even show up until gone 20 mins in, the early scenes felt very much like a part one to a classic story. After that felt like one of the darker new who stories. Condensed what doctor who is into a bottle episode
Yep, this was my problem with the episode. I think when it ended, the thought immediately came to my mind "wait, what does this have to do with the 60th anniversary?" And that took away from my opinion of it. I think this episode belonged floating in the middle of series 4 somewhere. And I think it would have been forgotten about.
Spot on Wingy. A thoroughly considered review, as we have come to expect from your channel. I am on exactly the same page as you regarding The Doctor and his, her, their (Jesus!) sexuality or romantic inclinations. There are more than enough characters in popular culture to inflict sexuality and romance onto without similarly encumbering 'The Doctor' in such a fashion.
Wild Blue Yonder felt like a story that (with a few rewrites) you could use any Doctor/companion duo and virtually nothing would change, the story is that simple That's how good it is
I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if in later years this episode is seen by Doctor who fans in the Same light as episodes such as Blink, Human Nature/The Family of Blood or Silence In The Library/Forest of the dead, episode was Russell T Davies on terrific form
The thing about the ship turning into a bomb slowly was a little weird but I interpreted it as the creatures have no concept of a universe with time so the whole idea of someone doing something slowly is difficult for them to grasp. They'd just view each change as an isolated action and not even consider that it's part of a larger action so they wouldn't figure out what's happening to the ship. If they saw it all happening at once they would work it out and be able to stop it
Was so surprised to see a legitimately good story of Doctor Who. Interesting premise, amazing performance from David Tennant and such a wholesome yet sad scene with Wilfred. Great episode!
Honestly while the opening scene wasn't necessary I think the point of it was to show the TARDIS being out of control and taking the Doctor and Donna to some strange places, so I was fine with it and Nathaniel Curtis is great though I kinda wish we could've gotten a full-on Isaac Newton story in Ncuti's era but alas, bit of an idea wasted but it was fun enough! Though I suppose the Doctor could end up going back and fixing the whole "Mavity" thing eventually... I guess that's not impossible and that would add more of a point to the scene!
I thought it was decent, but whilst watching it I couldn't help thinking about how bland it is for an anniversary special. In my mind this should've 110% been a mid-series episode for S14 and the Giggle should've made up all three of the specials.
I loved this episode but it really made me wish we could have skipped Tennant’s return and just start doing these kinds of stories with Gatwa. And even I like a lot of the Giggle, it still confirmed that belief for me.
I'm actually in the opposite camp to you - I preferred The Star Beast (although that's by no means faultless either). This was creepy though and you did think for a moment Donna might actually die. If you look at the TARDIS scanner after The Doctor picks up the wrong Donna, you can see he is actually scanning her wrists which is what alerts him that he got the wrong one.
Soi have a round about connection to someone on the CGI staff, he said that while bad wolf worked on the exterior scenes, the interior stuff was out sourced to another firm, and the real reason we didn't get much footage in the trailers was because they were scrambling to fix the interior CGI the best they could
That's fair enough, they do have schedules and deadlines. I do understand it, its not a major negative to me but it was noticeable. I've seen worse in Who
I really didn't think this episode was as great as everyone claimed but I've only seen it once. It felt like a mid series filler episode and after they where really secretive about the episode, it just felt a bit lackluster. I get that the whole past doctors has been done before many times and recently in power of the doctor, but i feel like the creatures being able to mimic the doctor could have mimicked some past doctors. I just think you should probably go all out for an anniversary special. The concept itself was interesting and made me think of the thing, but a lot of people called it experimental and it just felt a bit generic to me. Kind of midnight mixed with a generic base under seige, with a bit of 42. I feel it could have been a lot more trippy. However I was soo happy to see Wilf for one last time
Always love to hear your thoughts and perspective on new stories! I really loved this story for the same reasons as you, and while I didn't mind the intro (I thought it was funny but pointless) I will certainly agree it's pointless. I never have minded some of the almost non-sequitur juxtapositions in Doctor Who though. I am intrigued to be reminded of your thoughts and feelings on the Doctor related to romantic relationships. I watched the entire show (minus three random 10th, 11th, and 12th episodes) in order with basically no spoilers from 1963 to current (caught up to date between Jodie's first and second season), and watching the show that way really validates the opinions of fans who don't like Doctor romance/sexuality. It just wasn't a thing for the character for so long; it's a genuine change to the character and format. Your feelings made me realise that I'm being inconsistent: for me, in my appreciation or desire for LGBTQ+ representation in the show, new concepts or leanings towards the Doctor being attracted to men I've responded to quite positively. Bizarre behaviour on my part. Probably based on the fact that, since I personally have no attraction to men, the doctor being attracted to men feels just as alien to me as any other characteristic he might have... But. Maybe more so this moment in this story has made me realise the KIND of Doctor relationship that I don't like. Because I've grown to not mind, despite my classic Who inclinations, the Doctor having SOME physical or sexual attraction. What I really don't like isn't that, so much as it is the Doctor allowing himself to be entangled in relationships with those who seem very... not in agreement with the Doctor's actual personality? Like, when River Song was with 11, sometimes she would act in a way that just DIDN'T make sense for the 11th Doctor to actually like her or what she was saying. 11 just wasn't on her level- not above or below, just on a DIFFERENT level a lot of the time. 10 with Rose was just...frustrating. She is just one caring human. He's met SO MANY. I don't think the Doctor should be that arbitrarily emotional in his attachments... There are moments where his dynamic with River work for me. But they are when she seems to be operating more on a caring Doctor-level than Moffat would like to write for her... In those moments their dynamic worked for me because she didn't seem like someone who would, could, or desired to stop the Doctor from doing what he does. There are very few moments where it's right to see characters 'hold the doctor back'. At her best, I didn't see River doing that, and so the pairing made more sense to me- 11 still doesn't seem sexual or romantic in the SLIGHTEST. But spending so much time with that character as that Doctor when written to be on his level? Maybe. Moments like in this story that are brief and flippant- I don't mind. There can be some variety between incarnations. If the next Doctor with Ncuti is going to be very flirty and sexual, I don't really mind so long as he doesn't use that in a way that ties the Doctor to alliances that are below him, I guess? I think the reason why the Doctor being romantic and sexual so often makes him seem to do that is because inherently with the character's intellect it's very difficult to see them take actions romantic or sexual that are... either non-manipulative or overly simplistic. The Doctor is only base when he chooses to be, or when it is an aspect of his...imaginative capabilities, is a way to say it. Like a kind of childish wonder that is simple, but in no way a negative to have inherently. If the doctor wants to get with someone it doesn't make sense to me unless the Doctor is being selfish, flippant, or the person in question is actually quite the person... Well... That was way too much text for one TH-cam comment. Hope that wasn't impossible to read, or, maybe better, you didn't read it all. But yes. Interested to hear more people's thoughts on the Doctor and relationships/sexuality. This is probably a good space for people who have less popular opinions on the subject for sure!
A lot to like about this one. Thought the central story was very Midnight-lite but effectively done. But more than a couple of niggles. Cold open? Stupid and at odds with the tone of the episode. The internal logic of the creatures themselves had problems. If the goal is to frighten the Doctor and Donna in order to escalate the copying process, why do they continue to try and pretend to be the Doctor and Donna for real instead of simply causing mayhem? Lastly, I hated that the Doctor picked the wrong Donna. Hated it. Hated that they didn't deal with it either even after the TARDIS detected the fake and the Doctor makes the save. Why not take both if you're not sure? No, didnt like that part.
There's something to be said about going in to a Doctor Who episode pretty blind because for once the BBC marketing hasn't spoiled the shit out of it in trailers
Was my favourite episode since World Enough And Time/The Doctor Falls even though I did enjoy some of Jodie’s era, I was really glad we had an episode that was mainly just David and Catherine when we only had them back for three episodes, I just had a great time watching Wild Blue Yonder
I’d love to talk all things Doctor Who with you. We seem to have the same opinions and takes on most things. I agree the Isaac Newton part was unnecessary and the aforementioned comment Donna made didn’t need to be there other than to check a box and push a message that “hey look what we did here.” I did get a little choked up with Bernard Cribbins’ cameo. That was a sweet little sendoff. Anyways another great take and I look forward to what you think about the last special. That should be interesting. lol. Cheers.
Really enjoyed this one! Felt like something from Series 4, a series i absolutely love. Tennant and Tate were fantastic and the villain was cool for the most part. My favourite Doctor Who story since Series 10, and it gave me some hope for the future. 8/10
I thought this was an episode that I’d be cool with halfway through a series, with the exception of the timeless child mention and the Issac Newton scene, which left a sour taste in my mouth watching the rest of the episode. In my opinion it’s the moral responsibility of a writer and a casting director to present historical figures as accurately as possible, not only to respect the real person or event the person was involved in, but also because otherwise what the hell is the appeal of including them in the episode?
I was really surprised to see the general response to this episode was that it was creepy. Saw people praising the "body horror." I just found it funny, it felt like I was watching Tennant play with snapchat filters.
I didnt mind Star Beast tbh yeah parts were what they were 😮 Blue Yonda was good personally only thing I got out of the specials was the 14th Doctor and what he was doing and thinking
It definitely felt like a classic Big Finish story but in the best way possible. Proper horror, proper intrigue, great banter between the Doctor and Donna, and an overall very good episode. Not perfect, as it did have some dull points here and there, and Isaac Newton being a person of color... for some reason. But outside of that, a very good episode. Considering that Midnight is my favorite 10th Doctor story, I think that factors into it as well. I didn't mind the bad CGI in this case, mainly with the Not Things because they aren't supposed to look human, so the fact that they do look quite a bit rubbery worked for me personally. And this is coming from someone who fucking hates bad CGI. Btw, maybe get a new camera because you have a dead pixel in the middle of the video. Love seeing you again!
It was a really good story, very creepy in parts and I loved David and Catherine in this episode. The Isaac Newton scene is just silly. Courting controversy for the sake of it.
Definitely felt like DW again for the first time in 6 years to be honest! A better effort than The Star Beast tenfold. Not without its issues but a nice concept and mystery. Aliens that we don’t quite know all the answers to just about works although not quite as well as Midnight and some of the effects were definitely goofy and too wacky for me however not totally uncharacteristic for who (see Auton Mickey). I just wish they pushed into the horror more and left out some of those effects which do not work and do not look like they had extra money for this (see DT literally talking out his arse…) As good as Curtis was, remove the bs with Isaac Newton because it doesn’t need to be there and makes no sense whatsoever. The TARDIS being damaged by coffee is silly - see Christmas Invasion when tea drops into its inner workings. Even if you say ‘well it’s the console this time’ fine but then why did it design itself to have the coffee machine on the console? That’s just dumb xD Also it disappearing with the sonic being needed to repair it for some reason?? (More abilities we didn’t know it had?) was so plainly so they could write it out the story and then have it come back at the most convenient moment later when the script needs it to. But the HADs have been established before at least and they did that for a purpose so fine. I just don’t think it needed to though since the ship is like a Labyrinth where it keeps shifting anyway so you could just have it that when the ship rotates and they go back to it its gone because the rooms have swapped around. I do have questions left like what have the creatures been doing for 3 years? Why did it need to be 3 years if they can’t read the robot anyway? But I can live with not knowing exactly what they are or where from. Would also rather they removed the pronouns lines because they serve no purpose and the Doctor fancying Newton because it makes him too close to human and common in a way xD he just sounds like some horny teenager and I agree the doctor just shouldn’t fancy anyone really; he’s an ancient alien and beyond that stuff so I hold the Rose romance etc to account as well. BUT most importantly there was lots to enjoy. An episode that reminded me of lots of others fine but mostly in a good way and a good run around with just DT and CT. I like the robot design and the ship design even if some of the GCI was a bit obvious at times. I wish there were less goofy chases and effects because they were much scarier looking more normal and the strength was the difference in DT & CT’s performances that made them unsettling, not them being a big CGI mess. The ship turning out to be a bomb wasn’t the most interesting option but it works and makes sense. It having the same glass divider from Meep’s ship took me out of it though and screamed of repetition. Love the cross-cut scenes of them first talking to the doppelgangers with the subtle differences in performance and how it tricks us into thinking we’re watching them later at first. Love the mystery of the ship and the aliens getting stronger the more they think. Appreciated the practical effects work in this which worked better than the CGI. Nice to see Wilf at the end too! Push the horror more and it could have easily been a 9/10 but as it is it sits at about a 7 for me.
@@friendlyotaku9525 I mean it actually felt like there was an interesting sci-fi concept at the forefront rather than trying to shove a political message down viewers throats. With the exception of the first few minutes
@dexterhill5843 Doctor Who has been all about political messages since it was created. This isn't a new thing. It's what makes the show so interesting, it has something to say and it reflects the world we live in!
@@friendlyotaku9525 no its not all about political messages. It's about a time lord who travels through time and space in a police box. It's original conception was to educate about history and science. Yes it's had political themes and allegories since the start and absolutely can and does have them but they should not be at the forefront. You see the difference with the last 5 years feels it's been politics first, good stories second. It can have messages and I also think it makes it more interesting and something to say but it should provide escapism and entertainment first and not be as on the nose as it has been as in say Rosa or Arachnids in the UK or The Star Beast. The stories were poor and simple because they were prioritising politics over entertainment. What do I mean by this or how do we know? Lets take season 11; chibnall hired political playwrights and journalists - people who had not only never written sci-fi but never written for television. That's why we got what certainly lots of people felt were shit stories.
@dexterhill5843 there's a lot of stories where politics are at the forefront: The Green Death, Genesis of the Daleks, The Sun Makers, Vengeance on Varos, The Happiness Patrol etc And why are you making stuff up about the writers of Series 11? All of them had television writing experience, none of them were "journalists" - not sure where you got that from, and the only playwright wrote a story for Series 12, not Series 11. And honestly writing wise one of the best things Chibnall did was bring on more female and non-white writers to write stories!
It was a great episode apart from the Newton scene. The story’s plot was easy to follow and felt complete because the main story concerned only the Doctor and the creatures.
Both, actually 🤣 when it came to edit, the lighting was off as its a new set up and it didn't work without looking shit no matter how I edited it. I did cut a bit about it cos my green screen didn't work and I couldn't say shit 😅
With the hot comment about newton I took it as he's just saying he's hot. You can admit someone is attractive without wanting to bang or be with romantically. Totally get why you don't like it, I liked him loving river as they were on the same kinda level, with humans I'm not a fan of.
Loved, loved, loved. Yeah, the Isaac Newton scene is a problem, but not for the reasons that you stated. Tbh, I have been meming mavity ever since the episode came out. My issue is the complete tonal whiplash between that jovial scene and then in the next scene, the TARDIS is exploding and the Doctor and Donna are yelling and genuinely scared.
Actually that's a point in favour of the scene, it makes the peril seem worse by contrast. I think it's one of those scenes that gives people a minute to get settled before the real story begins. It's quite a "slow build" kind of episode so perhaps it helps to have a bright, snappy opener.
@@dogblessamerica yes, but it makes it harder to take the situation seriously, as the Doctor and Donna clearly aren't. They're joking about the 'gravity of the situation' while the TARDIS is actively blowing up behind them, and don't try to tell me it wasn't. It was blowing up at the end of The Star Beast, it was blowing up in the first spaceship scene, it was blowing up in the Isaac Newton scene.
I felt the same with the isac newton sceen, didn't need to be there, felt like it was just put there to annoy people and get them talking about it, completely pointless, the episode itself was ok, too much green screen for me, I'm aure they could have bult a small set, make it look like classic who especially for the long corridor
"Best Doctor Who story in years;" not a very high bar to get over or cross. I absolutely hate the romance junk of Doctor Who. A person who is hundreds of years old and incredibly brilliant, will not be romantic with people who are like children in age and experience. It's creepy like a 50 year old man falling love with a 15 year old girl. She may be physically and mentally mature for her age, but is still a child.
@@WingyMedia I had interpreted it as Donna having had a deep psychic link to the doctor from being the doctor Donna and that the doctor had previously been a woman in the last generation so that was why he was surprised at the new trait
@WingyMedia also, I'd like to say sorry because my initial comment seemed kind of snarky, I should be able to present my thoughts in a way that doesn't make people feel gross
Disclaimer: I did not watch thiscas I refusecto subscribe to Disney holding Whovians hostage like Paramount does for Star Trek. That being said, the best anniversary shows will always be "The Three Doctors" and "The Five Doctors" will always be the best, particularly as Pat Troughton and Jon Pertwee are simply fantastic. I've seen the Wilfred Mott scene in gifs and I loved it. RIP Bernard Cribbins.
So did you forget bisexuality exists or did you just really want to rant? I mean, props for being consistent with not wanting the sexuality at all (I disagree to a point. I think being in love with a companion can go too far, especially his obsession with Rose, but I also don't have an issue with him being flirty and attracted to people in general. And I think he's great with River). But they're not saying he just likes guys now or that was the case before. He could still be obsessed with Rose and still be bi/pan. Granted the joke is probably more about stereotypes and being a bit 'fruity' acting but eh. Obviously a giant corridor is CGI, I don't...? The salt thing seemed a little weird to me. I didn't quite get his concerns about it or how that seemed to lead to The Giggle. No, the story would not be better if they killed off Donna. That's shock for the sake of shock and not good storytelling. Especially in this kind of show. I enjoyed this episode. Maybe the lowest of the 3 for me, or maybe tied with the first, but still high. Quite liked it.
No I didn't forget bisexuality but when would Donna have seen that and it "been on the surface"? It's not consistent with what she's seen. It was said for the sake of it. And like I said and you've acknowledged, I've never liked it. It's not ranting for the sake of it, I just don't see the Doctor as a sexual being in any way shape or form and don't think it works or is needed for the character. He's an ancient alien from another world and time, the way of things on earth wouldn't apply to him.
With or without the agenda pushing this episode was the usual MID level RTD weak AF invisible enemy BS that makes Russell a sh*t writer. This story was just his feckless Midnight story reworked (the same way he did for turn left 😂 ) RTD is a one trick pony and wishes he could write as good as the Moff 😂 All y'all RTD supporters just ❤ eating the turd sandwich he serves ya ..... Just admit it
You, me and Council of Geeks all had a problem with that opening scene. My main problem was that if the Tardis is meant to be crashing and out of control, it takes you out of the story to have the Doctor able to stop off and have a jokey conversation with Isaac Newton and drop 200 apples on his head before going on his way. I thought the "mavity" thing was vaguely amusing, but not enough to overcome my problem with that first scene taking you out of the story. Other than that, I loved pretty much everything about this story - and it's also fun to see how quickly people get that that isn't the Doctor who came back into the room with Donna.
Good to see you back talking about Doctor Who again.
Really enjoy your reviews Wingy. I like the fact that you keep a balanced view on major talking points of these episodes, and you elaborate on them with logic and story context.
Keep up the good work, Great to have you back!!!
My main take away from this episode is:
So, Tom Baker's Doctor dropped the apple on Newton's head. But in the scene with Newton, which happens immediately after, he's nowhere to be seen. Which MEANS he was just casually lying under the TARDIS the whole time
Love stories like this where The Doctor doesn’t really know what’s going on. Midnight, The ood two parter, curse of Fenric etc
Very enjoyable, had me on the edge of my seat more than once! Tennant and Tate were brilliant and seeing Bernard for one last scene was a joy. Probably the strongest of the specials.
What I liked about this story is you can insert any incarnation of the Doctor into it and it would still work very well as a Doctor Who story. Like you say it did feel like a proper classic feeling episode that we've not had in years. The visual and practical effects here were top notch.
I liked this story but I thought it was supposed to be an anniversary special. It didn't feel very special to me and none of these three stories do much to celebrate the past. A missed opportunity I think.
I do agree with you on that tbf
Honestly whilst it wasnt big on spectacle and fanfare, i felt this was an apt special for the anniversary. The villians dont even show up until gone 20 mins in, the early scenes felt very much like a part one to a classic story. After that felt like one of the darker new who stories. Condensed what doctor who is into a bottle episode
Yep, this was my problem with the episode. I think when it ended, the thought immediately came to my mind "wait, what does this have to do with the 60th anniversary?" And that took away from my opinion of it.
I think this episode belonged floating in the middle of series 4 somewhere. And I think it would have been forgotten about.
That was the point Russell didn't want to do a huge multi doctor fest he doesn't like them much
Well we already had 'The Power of the Doctor', which was a really big celebration of show's history, for the BBC centenary.
Spot on Wingy. A thoroughly considered review, as we have come to expect from your channel.
I am on exactly the same page as you regarding The Doctor and his, her, their (Jesus!) sexuality or romantic inclinations. There are more than enough characters in popular culture to inflict sexuality and romance onto without similarly encumbering 'The Doctor' in such a fashion.
Wild Blue Yonder felt like a story that (with a few rewrites) you could use any Doctor/companion duo and virtually nothing would change, the story is that simple
That's how good it is
I honestly wouldn’t be surprised if in later years this episode is seen by Doctor who fans in the Same light as episodes such as Blink, Human Nature/The Family of Blood or Silence In The Library/Forest of the dead, episode was Russell T Davies on terrific form
Nice to see u back talking about dr who
The thing about the ship turning into a bomb slowly was a little weird but I interpreted it as the creatures have no concept of a universe with time so the whole idea of someone doing something slowly is difficult for them to grasp. They'd just view each change as an isolated action and not even consider that it's part of a larger action so they wouldn't figure out what's happening to the ship. If they saw it all happening at once they would work it out and be able to stop it
Was so surprised to see a legitimately good story of Doctor Who. Interesting premise, amazing performance from David Tennant and such a wholesome yet sad scene with Wilfred. Great episode!
I see the line were Donna says it's always been there under the surface more as Donna trying to wind the doctor up.
Honestly while the opening scene wasn't necessary I think the point of it was to show the TARDIS being out of control and taking the Doctor and Donna to some strange places, so I was fine with it and Nathaniel Curtis is great though I kinda wish we could've gotten a full-on Isaac Newton story in Ncuti's era but alas, bit of an idea wasted but it was fun enough! Though I suppose the Doctor could end up going back and fixing the whole "Mavity" thing eventually... I guess that's not impossible and that would add more of a point to the scene!
I thought it was decent, but whilst watching it I couldn't help thinking about how bland it is for an anniversary special.
In my mind this should've 110% been a mid-series episode for S14 and the Giggle should've made up all three of the specials.
I knew you'd have liked this as you often wanted the base-under-siege, threat on a spaceship to return.
I loved this episode but it really made me wish we could have skipped Tennant’s return and just start doing these kinds of stories with Gatwa. And even I like a lot of the Giggle, it still confirmed that belief for me.
I'm actually in the opposite camp to you - I preferred The Star Beast (although that's by no means faultless either). This was creepy though and you did think for a moment Donna might actually die.
If you look at the TARDIS scanner after The Doctor picks up the wrong Donna, you can see he is actually scanning her wrists which is what alerts him that he got the wrong one.
Ahh, I missed that with the scanner
Rocky theme tune plays as wingy uploads to TH-cam again
Soi have a round about connection to someone on the CGI staff, he said that while bad wolf worked on the exterior scenes, the interior stuff was out sourced to another firm, and the real reason we didn't get much footage in the trailers was because they were scrambling to fix the interior CGI the best they could
That's fair enough, they do have schedules and deadlines. I do understand it, its not a major negative to me but it was noticeable. I've seen worse in Who
Agree with basically all you said. Great vid mate.
I really didn't think this episode was as great as everyone claimed but I've only seen it once.
It felt like a mid series filler episode and after they where really secretive about the episode, it just felt a bit lackluster.
I get that the whole past doctors has been done before many times and recently in power of the doctor, but i feel like the creatures being able to mimic the doctor could have mimicked some past doctors. I just think you should probably go all out for an anniversary special.
The concept itself was interesting and made me think of the thing, but a lot of people called it experimental and it just felt a bit generic to me. Kind of midnight mixed with a generic base under seige, with a bit of 42. I feel it could have been a lot more trippy.
However I was soo happy to see Wilf for one last time
Always love to hear your thoughts and perspective on new stories! I really loved this story for the same reasons as you, and while I didn't mind the intro (I thought it was funny but pointless) I will certainly agree it's pointless. I never have minded some of the almost non-sequitur juxtapositions in Doctor Who though.
I am intrigued to be reminded of your thoughts and feelings on the Doctor related to romantic relationships. I watched the entire show (minus three random 10th, 11th, and 12th episodes) in order with basically no spoilers from 1963 to current (caught up to date between Jodie's first and second season), and watching the show that way really validates the opinions of fans who don't like Doctor romance/sexuality. It just wasn't a thing for the character for so long; it's a genuine change to the character and format. Your feelings made me realise that I'm being inconsistent: for me, in my appreciation or desire for LGBTQ+ representation in the show, new concepts or leanings towards the Doctor being attracted to men I've responded to quite positively. Bizarre behaviour on my part. Probably based on the fact that, since I personally have no attraction to men, the doctor being attracted to men feels just as alien to me as any other characteristic he might have...
But. Maybe more so this moment in this story has made me realise the KIND of Doctor relationship that I don't like. Because I've grown to not mind, despite my classic Who inclinations, the Doctor having SOME physical or sexual attraction. What I really don't like isn't that, so much as it is the Doctor allowing himself to be entangled in relationships with those who seem very... not in agreement with the Doctor's actual personality? Like, when River Song was with 11, sometimes she would act in a way that just DIDN'T make sense for the 11th Doctor to actually like her or what she was saying. 11 just wasn't on her level- not above or below, just on a DIFFERENT level a lot of the time. 10 with Rose was just...frustrating. She is just one caring human. He's met SO MANY. I don't think the Doctor should be that arbitrarily emotional in his attachments... There are moments where his dynamic with River work for me. But they are when she seems to be operating more on a caring Doctor-level than Moffat would like to write for her... In those moments their dynamic worked for me because she didn't seem like someone who would, could, or desired to stop the Doctor from doing what he does. There are very few moments where it's right to see characters 'hold the doctor back'. At her best, I didn't see River doing that, and so the pairing made more sense to me- 11 still doesn't seem sexual or romantic in the SLIGHTEST. But spending so much time with that character as that Doctor when written to be on his level? Maybe.
Moments like in this story that are brief and flippant- I don't mind. There can be some variety between incarnations. If the next Doctor with Ncuti is going to be very flirty and sexual, I don't really mind so long as he doesn't use that in a way that ties the Doctor to alliances that are below him, I guess? I think the reason why the Doctor being romantic and sexual so often makes him seem to do that is because inherently with the character's intellect it's very difficult to see them take actions romantic or sexual that are... either non-manipulative or overly simplistic. The Doctor is only base when he chooses to be, or when it is an aspect of his...imaginative capabilities, is a way to say it. Like a kind of childish wonder that is simple, but in no way a negative to have inherently. If the doctor wants to get with someone it doesn't make sense to me unless the Doctor is being selfish, flippant, or the person in question is actually quite the person...
Well... That was way too much text for one TH-cam comment. Hope that wasn't impossible to read, or, maybe better, you didn't read it all.
But yes. Interested to hear more people's thoughts on the Doctor and relationships/sexuality. This is probably a good space for people who have less popular opinions on the subject for sure!
A lot to like about this one. Thought the central story was very Midnight-lite but effectively done.
But more than a couple of niggles. Cold open? Stupid and at odds with the tone of the episode. The internal logic of the creatures themselves had problems. If the goal is to frighten the Doctor and Donna in order to escalate the copying process, why do they continue to try and pretend to be the Doctor and Donna for real instead of simply causing mayhem?
Lastly, I hated that the Doctor picked the wrong Donna. Hated it. Hated that they didn't deal with it either even after the TARDIS detected the fake and the Doctor makes the save. Why not take both if you're not sure? No, didnt like that part.
There's something to be said about going in to a Doctor Who episode pretty blind because for once the BBC marketing hasn't spoiled the shit out of it in trailers
Donna has some memories of 13 and Yaz
Was my favourite episode since World Enough And Time/The Doctor Falls even though I did enjoy some of Jodie’s era, I was really glad we had an episode that was mainly just David and Catherine when we only had them back for three episodes, I just had a great time watching Wild Blue Yonder
I'm pretty sure the Mavity business will be followed up on in the coming series.
Hope so cos otherwise it is totally and utterly pointless 🤣
@@WingyMedia Turns out Mavity was followed up on but was still ultimately pointless. A gag with zero pay off.
I’d love to talk all things Doctor Who with you. We seem to have the same opinions and takes on most things. I agree the Isaac Newton part was unnecessary and the aforementioned comment Donna made didn’t need to be there other than to check a box and push a message that “hey look what we did here.” I did get a little choked up with Bernard Cribbins’ cameo. That was a sweet little sendoff. Anyways another great take and I look forward to what you think about the last special. That should be interesting. lol. Cheers.
Love all your reviews! I’m hoping to start watching Tom Baker’s era soon. Any recommendations?
Great review
sorry a bit of topic of the video but I have always wondered what your opinion of the doctor who story the keys of marines
Really enjoyed this one! Felt like something from Series 4, a series i absolutely love. Tennant and Tate were fantastic and the villain was cool for the most part.
My favourite Doctor Who story since Series 10, and it gave me some hope for the future. 8/10
I thought this was an episode that I’d be cool with halfway through a series, with the exception of the timeless child mention and the Issac Newton scene, which left a sour taste in my mouth watching the rest of the episode. In my opinion it’s the moral responsibility of a writer and a casting director to present historical figures as accurately as possible, not only to respect the real person or event the person was involved in, but also because otherwise what the hell is the appeal of including them in the episode?
I was really surprised to see the general response to this episode was that it was creepy. Saw people praising the "body horror." I just found it funny, it felt like I was watching Tennant play with snapchat filters.
I didnt mind Star Beast tbh yeah parts were what they were 😮 Blue Yonda was good personally only thing I got out of the specials was the 14th Doctor and what he was doing and thinking
It definitely felt like a classic Big Finish story but in the best way possible. Proper horror, proper intrigue, great banter between the Doctor and Donna, and an overall very good episode. Not perfect, as it did have some dull points here and there, and Isaac Newton being a person of color... for some reason. But outside of that, a very good episode. Considering that Midnight is my favorite 10th Doctor story, I think that factors into it as well. I didn't mind the bad CGI in this case, mainly with the Not Things because they aren't supposed to look human, so the fact that they do look quite a bit rubbery worked for me personally. And this is coming from someone who fucking hates bad CGI.
Btw, maybe get a new camera because you have a dead pixel in the middle of the video. Love seeing you again!
It was a really good story, very creepy in parts and I loved David and Catherine in this episode.
The Isaac Newton scene is just silly. Courting controversy for the sake of it.
Nice review, shame you didn't touch on the mention of The Timeless Child story arc, wondered what your thoughts were on that?
Not a fan but I didn't think Russell would retcon it so is what it is
Definitely felt like DW again for the first time in 6 years to be honest! A better effort than The Star Beast tenfold.
Not without its issues but a nice concept and mystery. Aliens that we don’t quite know all the answers to just about works although not quite as well as Midnight and some of the effects were definitely goofy and too wacky for me however not totally uncharacteristic for who (see Auton Mickey). I just wish they pushed into the horror more and left out some of those effects which do not work and do not look like they had extra money for this (see DT literally talking out his arse…)
As good as Curtis was, remove the bs with Isaac Newton because it doesn’t need to be there and makes no sense whatsoever. The TARDIS being damaged by coffee is silly - see Christmas Invasion when tea drops into its inner workings. Even if you say ‘well it’s the console this time’ fine but then why did it design itself to have the coffee machine on the console? That’s just dumb xD
Also it disappearing with the sonic being needed to repair it for some reason?? (More abilities we didn’t know it had?) was so plainly so they could write it out the story and then have it come back at the most convenient moment later when the script needs it to.
But the HADs have been established before at least and they did that for a purpose so fine. I just don’t think it needed to though since the ship is like a Labyrinth where it keeps shifting anyway so you could just have it that when the ship rotates and they go back to it its gone because the rooms have swapped around.
I do have questions left like what have the creatures been doing for 3 years? Why did it need to be 3 years if they can’t read the robot anyway? But I can live with not knowing exactly what they are or where from.
Would also rather they removed the pronouns lines because they serve no purpose and the Doctor fancying Newton because it makes him too close to human and common in a way xD he just sounds like some horny teenager and I agree the doctor just shouldn’t fancy anyone really; he’s an ancient alien and beyond that stuff so I hold the Rose romance etc to account as well.
BUT most importantly there was lots to enjoy. An episode that reminded me of lots of others fine but mostly in a good way and a good run around with just DT and CT. I like the robot design and the ship design even if some of the GCI was a bit obvious at times. I wish there were less goofy chases and effects because they were much scarier looking more normal and the strength was the difference in DT & CT’s performances that made them unsettling, not them being a big CGI mess.
The ship turning out to be a bomb wasn’t the most interesting option but it works and makes sense. It having the same glass divider from Meep’s ship took me out of it though and screamed of repetition.
Love the cross-cut scenes of them first talking to the doppelgangers with the subtle differences in performance and how it tricks us into thinking we’re watching them later at first. Love the mystery of the ship and the aliens getting stronger the more they think. Appreciated the practical effects work in this which worked better than the CGI. Nice to see Wilf at the end too! Push the horror more and it could have easily been a 9/10 but as it is it sits at about a 7 for me.
"Definitely felt like DW again for the first time in 6 years" I'm very confused by what this means.
@@friendlyotaku9525 I mean it actually felt like there was an interesting sci-fi concept at the forefront rather than trying to shove a political message down viewers throats. With the exception of the first few minutes
@dexterhill5843 Doctor Who has been all about political messages since it was created. This isn't a new thing. It's what makes the show so interesting, it has something to say and it reflects the world we live in!
@@friendlyotaku9525 no its not all about political messages. It's about a time lord who travels through time and space in a police box. It's original conception was to educate about history and science. Yes it's had political themes and allegories since the start and absolutely can and does have them but they should not be at the forefront. You see the difference with the last 5 years feels it's been politics first, good stories second. It can have messages and I also think it makes it more interesting and something to say but it should provide escapism and entertainment first and not be as on the nose as it has been as in say Rosa or Arachnids in the UK or The Star Beast. The stories were poor and simple because they were prioritising politics over entertainment. What do I mean by this or how do we know? Lets take season 11; chibnall hired political playwrights and journalists - people who had not only never written sci-fi but never written for television. That's why we got what certainly lots of people felt were shit stories.
@dexterhill5843 there's a lot of stories where politics are at the forefront: The Green Death, Genesis of the Daleks, The Sun Makers, Vengeance on Varos, The Happiness Patrol etc
And why are you making stuff up about the writers of Series 11? All of them had television writing experience, none of them were "journalists" - not sure where you got that from, and the only playwright wrote a story for Series 12, not Series 11. And honestly writing wise one of the best things Chibnall did was bring on more female and non-white writers to write stories!
It was a great episode apart from the Newton scene. The story’s plot was easy to follow and felt complete because the main story concerned only the Doctor and the creatures.
Get in, another wingy review!
Was your green screen breaking an in-joke for wild blue yonder's laughable special effects or just a strange coincidence??
Both, actually 🤣 when it came to edit, the lighting was off as its a new set up and it didn't work without looking shit no matter how I edited it. I did cut a bit about it cos my green screen didn't work and I couldn't say shit 😅
I did enjoy this one a lot, minor gripes aside.
It's my favourite
With the hot comment about newton I took it as he's just saying he's hot. You can admit someone is attractive without wanting to bang or be with romantically. Totally get why you don't like it, I liked him loving river as they were on the same kinda level, with humans I'm not a fan of.
Loved, loved, loved. Yeah, the Isaac Newton scene is a problem, but not for the reasons that you stated. Tbh, I have been meming mavity ever since the episode came out. My issue is the complete tonal whiplash between that jovial scene and then in the next scene, the TARDIS is exploding and the Doctor and Donna are yelling and genuinely scared.
Actually that's a point in favour of the scene, it makes the peril seem worse by contrast.
I think it's one of those scenes that gives people a minute to get settled before the real story begins. It's quite a "slow build" kind of episode so perhaps it helps to have a bright, snappy opener.
@@dogblessamerica yes, but it makes it harder to take the situation seriously, as the Doctor and Donna clearly aren't. They're joking about the 'gravity of the situation' while the TARDIS is actively blowing up behind them, and don't try to tell me it wasn't. It was blowing up at the end of The Star Beast, it was blowing up in the first spaceship scene, it was blowing up in the Isaac Newton scene.
Spot on
I felt the same with the isac newton sceen, didn't need to be there, felt like it was just put there to annoy people and get them talking about it, completely pointless, the episode itself was ok, too much green screen for me, I'm aure they could have bult a small set, make it look like classic who especially for the long corridor
"Best Doctor Who story in years;" not a very high bar to get over or cross.
I absolutely hate the romance junk of Doctor Who. A person who is hundreds of years old and incredibly brilliant, will not be romantic with people who are like children in age and experience. It's creepy like a 50 year old man falling love with a 15 year old girl. She may be physically and mentally mature for her age, but is still a child.
Issac Newton was a indian didnt you know
I like Wild Blue Yonder
Wild Blue Yawnder
Great episode, but yeah didn't feel "special"
6:10 you know bisexuality exists, right?
And you know that the Doctor never hinted anything like that around Donna so her saying that doesnt make sense, right?
@@WingyMedia I had interpreted it as Donna having had a deep psychic link to the doctor from being the doctor Donna and that the doctor had previously been a woman in the last generation so that was why he was surprised at the new trait
@WingyMedia also, I'd like to say sorry because my initial comment seemed kind of snarky, I should be able to present my thoughts in a way that doesn't make people feel gross
@@VanessaAnn93Absolutely fine, my response was just as snarky so I apologise too
Disclaimer: I did not watch thiscas I refusecto subscribe to Disney holding Whovians hostage like Paramount does for Star Trek.
That being said, the best anniversary shows will always be "The Three Doctors" and "The Five Doctors" will always be the best, particularly as Pat Troughton and Jon Pertwee are simply fantastic.
I've seen the Wilfred Mott scene in gifs and I loved it. RIP Bernard Cribbins.
So did you forget bisexuality exists or did you just really want to rant? I mean, props for being consistent with not wanting the sexuality at all (I disagree to a point. I think being in love with a companion can go too far, especially his obsession with Rose, but I also don't have an issue with him being flirty and attracted to people in general. And I think he's great with River). But they're not saying he just likes guys now or that was the case before. He could still be obsessed with Rose and still be bi/pan. Granted the joke is probably more about stereotypes and being a bit 'fruity' acting but eh.
Obviously a giant corridor is CGI, I don't...?
The salt thing seemed a little weird to me. I didn't quite get his concerns about it or how that seemed to lead to The Giggle.
No, the story would not be better if they killed off Donna. That's shock for the sake of shock and not good storytelling. Especially in this kind of show.
I enjoyed this episode. Maybe the lowest of the 3 for me, or maybe tied with the first, but still high. Quite liked it.
No I didn't forget bisexuality but when would Donna have seen that and it "been on the surface"? It's not consistent with what she's seen. It was said for the sake of it. And like I said and you've acknowledged, I've never liked it. It's not ranting for the sake of it, I just don't see the Doctor as a sexual being in any way shape or form and don't think it works or is needed for the character. He's an ancient alien from another world and time, the way of things on earth wouldn't apply to him.
With or without the agenda pushing this episode was the usual MID level RTD weak AF invisible enemy BS that makes Russell a sh*t writer. This story was just his feckless Midnight story reworked (the same way he did for turn left 😂 )
RTD is a one trick pony and wishes he could write as good as the Moff 😂
All y'all RTD supporters just ❤ eating the turd sandwich he serves ya ..... Just admit it