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robert-ewen
Reviews
Doctor Who (2023)
a mostly enjoyable refresh, with some rushed stories
Definitely more playful than previous incarnations, this new era is lighter, and a return to the camp tone of the 2005-2009 era.
Also an increased focus on the supernatural returns doctor who to the origins of the series - it's not just a science fiction series, it's sci-fi fantasy. In the classic era 1963-1989, there were many genre-bending stories (such as the gods of Ragnarok) where more supernatural or mystical creatures took centre stage. I personally really enjoy this direction - getting bogged down in grounded and logical science can limit the possibilities of the show.
Ncuti Gatwa is mostly fantastic, though sometimes uninspired in performance - it feels a bit like sometimes he is still finding his footing, and I think as the show progresses he will grow and become more tailored and nuanced, just as all other incarnations do. Some moments deliver extremely powerful performances - such as the end moments of Episode 5 'Dot and Bubble', which is heartbreaking to watch.
Millie Gibson is enjoyable, although not always as charismatic or interesting as one might like. Their chemistry is friendly and casual, and they work well together.
Something does feel slightly missing when compared to the experience of watching Russell T Davies' last show-running stint. It feels less nimble, less intelligent and witty than before, and certainly more obvious and on the nose. I think the new co-production deal with Disney+ and the focus on securing an international (American) audience is problematic, because whilst it is probably vital to the survival of the show, it has meant the show now feels less British. It's less witty, less sarcastic (because everyone knows Americans don't really understand British sarcasm and tone to its full capacity). For the international viewer this might seem like a good thing, but perhaps the quirk of its britishness was exactly what drew viewers around the world in the first place, and perhaps that change hasn't worked in the show's favour.
I look forward to seeing more from the show (only 5 episodes are released at time of writing) but I think a mixed but overall positive experience so far.
Love (2018)
fantastic adaptation of the stage production!
I saw this in its original performance at the National theatre, and think this film adaptation is a really well produced piece of drama. It's so naturalistic and feels so real, just like the original play did. interesting to note what they changed and what they kept the same from the play, but anything that was changed definitely served the story even better.
A very sad, but truthful glimpse into what life can be like for many people in our country at the moment. definitely makes you think about what more we could do for each other to help those in times of need.