Doctor Who: 10 Dos And Don'ts Of Episode Writing

6. Preserve The Enigma

doctor-who-neil-gaiman-episode-WIDE Doctor Who? Doctor Who? Personally I am very glad that the writers have chosen not to answer that question. When the entire premise of your show relies on the mystery of its main character, the last thing you want to do is solve too much of that mystery. This is one thing that €˜The Name of the Doctor€™ did very well. It may have revealed some things about the Doctor, but it actually increased his enigma at the same time. I think this applies to the TARDIS too. Recent episodes like €˜The Doctor€™s Wife€™ and €˜Journey to the Centre of the TARDIS€™ have started to explore the nature of the blue box in greater detail. While these were fantastic episodes, I do wonder if their success may lead writers to explore the living nature of the TARDIS too deeply, thus removing the enigma of this ancient machine. Ultimately the Doctor and the TARDIS are relics of a super-advanced civilisation, and should be beyond human comprehension. If the Doctor and his methods were completely relatable to us, we wouldn€™t have any need for the companions. Talking of which€
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I am a history student and writer, pursuing a career in film and literature. I also love Star Wars, Doctor Who and many other film, TV and game franchises. It always interests me to hear what people have to say about films and TV shows, and I’m fascinated by new perspectives. I’d welcome any feedback and comments you might have as well!