Doctor Who Season 1, Episode 5 Review
“73 Yards” delivers a soul-crushing and bizarre narrative that stands out among recent horror offerings. Serving as a “Doctor-Lite” episode, it shifts the focus from The Doctor to other characters, allowing them to shine in the spotlight.
This storytelling approach has been explored in past Doctor Who episodes such as “Blink” and “Turn Left,” and “73 Yards” continues this tradition by showcasing the talent of Millie Gibson. While Gibson has had significant screen time in previous episodes, this installment truly highlights her acting prowess.
Creepy Folk Tale
“73 Yards” kicks off with Ruby getting entangled in a chilling folk tale, setting loose a malevolent entity that stalks her from exactly 73 yards away. The entity, always appearing as an elderly figure, has the ability to petrify anyone who crosses its path, adding another layer of terror to the story.
Heartbreaking Moments
The episode features moments that are as heartbreaking as they are horrifying. Ruby’s rejection by her adoptive mother after encountering the entity is a poignant scene that showcases Gibson’s incredible performance. The burden of trauma that Ruby carries is palpable, making her descent into despair all the more poignant.
Political Intrigue
As the narrative unfolds, the focus shifts to a political subplot involving Roger ap Gwilliam and a mission to prevent nuclear armageddon. While the episode’s exploration of horror is captivating, the unexpected twist into political intrigue adds another layer of suspense to the story.
Unsettling Conclusion
Despite its unnerving atmosphere, the conclusion of “73 Yards” may leave some viewers wanting more closure. The ambiguous ending, while intriguing, may not provide the satisfying resolution that some audience members crave.
Although the episode deviates from Ruby’s storyline at times, it effectively delves into themes of trauma and horror. Overall, “73 Yards” is a memorable episode that captures the essence of classic Doctor Who, with Millie Gibson delivering a standout performance.