Doctor Who Season 5 Review

Well, now that the latest Season of Dr. Who has wrapped up here in Canada I think it is safe to assume that Space’s presentation of it was deftly handled. By providing fans with a forum to discuss their beloved show, they have proved themselves worthy of carrying the torch.

If I were to discuss favourite episodes I would have to start with the very first episode. Matt Smith has shown himself capable of handling a character that is typically played by older actors. His energy, enthusiasm, and elan translate to his interpretation of The Doctor in such a way that I am sure he has become a fan favourite. He came bursting through the gate and from the moment he introduces himself to young Amelia Pond I felt this would be a very special season.

What was more impressive was the way the overall story consistently poured through the cracks of each episode. My next favourite, “In Cold Blood”, involves the death of a character I never knew I had grown attached to until he was gone. When Rory ceased to exist, The Doctor’s desperate pleas for Amy to please remember him were heartbreaking.

The grand surprise in the “The Pandorica Opens” that spilled over to “The Big Bang” helped push that particular one over the top as my absolute favourite as so many things came together and helped tie the entire season into a frayed ball with just enough plot left open. While I am greatly relieved to see Rory return I am also a little saddened by the loss of Rory-bot. I mean come on! He spent 2000 years protecting Amy only to be unmade? Bummer.

Speaking of Amy, what a delight it has been to watch Karen Gillan provide a tremendous accent as Amy to Matt Smith’s Doctor. I was heartbroken to think of losing her after only one season but the last episode did not disappoint. Gillan has proven a worthy actor in her role and the sass with which she flaunts the pouty-lipped companion proves to be quite the competition for attention to the kinetic Doctor.

My only issue with the season, and this could pretty much hold true to any season really. The entire show revolves around time travel, and I accept that, but I also feel as if that has more potential to take away any consequences of any dramatic moments the show has. If a character dies, well, just travel back in time and they are no longer dead! In order to prevent that becoming too much of a crutch I am sure the writers need to stay on their toes and I certainly hope they do.

I anxiously await a second season featuring this wonderful trio and look forward to