Doctor Who Review: The Witch’s Familiar – How 7 Characters Reveal Their Relationship Status

This man may not be a good doctor but he is a master manipulator. Perhaps he was bluffing about how far in advance he figured out Davros’ intentions but he knew how to play his part in order to arrive at a solution. There were echoes of the seventh Doctor in the way he out maneuvered both Davros and Missy, confident in his ability to stay at least one step ahead. Peter Capaldi’s portrayal is masterful; sizzling with emotion and intelligence and firmly cementing his place as the Doctor. While there may be pockets of outrage over changing the iconic sonic screwdriver into sunglasses this fits Capaldi’s Doctor perfectly. He is shaking things up and that’s a good thing. When something in a story becomes too precious to touch that is a sign of stagnation. If slavish devotion to what went before is allowed to continue the foundations of a tale will crack under the weight of its own history. Only dead things don’t change.

Series nine is off to a magnificent start. Steven Moffat’s brilliant scripts breathed new life into Davros and the Daleks. Missy is a revelation and Michelle Gomez’ brilliant interpretation of the character is in turn hilarious and captivating. Jenna Coleman’s performance in this episode is stunning, infusing Clara with a confused vulnerability that is heartbreaking to witness. Intriguing possibilities are set up and many questions remain to carry us through the season. What is the true significance of the confession dial? How powerful are Davros and the Daleks and how does a renewed Skaro affect the possible return of Gallifrey? Is Missy considering an alliance with the Daleks? This is Doctor Who at its finest and series nine is shining so bright you’ve gotta wear shades.