Last night’s Doctor Who episode, “The Doctor’s Wife,” penned by Neil Gaiman, was a whirlwind of inventive ideas and captivating storytelling. Gaiman packed so much into this single episode that it feels like unpacking a treasure chest. The premise alone was intriguing: the Doctor and his companions stumble upon a “bubble universe,” lured by the faint hope of encountering another living Time Lord. What they find instead is a complex puzzle demanding more than just the usual TARDIS intervention. Add to this the introduction of Idris, a woman with a quirky instability, a pair of unsettling planet caretakers, and an Ood, and you have a thrilling installment in the series.
This review will delve into the highlights of “The Doctor’s Wife,” aiming to provide a spoiler-light analysis for those yet to experience its wonders.
The episode’s opening moments cleverly reveal its core concept: Idris embodies the human manifestation of the TARDIS. This revelation, explicitly stated in the title, isn’t a hidden twist but rather the starting point for a deeper exploration of the Doctor’s most enduring relationship. The Doctor and the TARDIS have been partners far longer than any companion, making the “wife” designation surprisingly fitting. While this central idea is presented early, the episode’s true strength lies in the suspense and character interactions that unfold.
Neil Gaiman’s distinctive writing style is evident throughout, particularly in the creation of Auntie, Uncle, and Idris, and in the darkly humorous undertones woven into the dialogue. Auntie and Uncle, assembled from mismatched body parts of lost travelers, evoke a Gothic sensibility reminiscent of Gaiman’s Coraline. The set design and costumes possess a Dickensian, distinctly British flavor. Uncle’s Monty Python-esque “Actually, I feel fine!” line after collapsing is a perfect example of this humor. Idris herself, portrayed by Suranne Jones, embodies the TARDIS’s age and personality with a nineteenth-century aesthetic, bringing to mind Helena Bonham Carter’s Mrs. Lovett in Sweeney Todd.
The antagonist, a disembodied entity known as “House,” voiced by Michael Sheen, is a departure from typical alien villains. House isn’t merely a possessor; its omnipresence and omnipotence, despite being unseen, create a constant sense of dread. House weaponizes the TARDIS’s powers against Amy and Rory, subjecting them to terrifying ordeals. The accelerated aging and ominous writing that manifests are intense and exemplify the high-stakes storytelling expected from Neil Gaiman.
Idris’s ability to perceive or intuit future events injects a “time travel” element into an episode already steeped in temporal mechanics. In a show renowned for its journeys through space and time, this detail cleverly emphasizes the TARDIS’s unique perspective. (For further exploration of time travel themes in Doctor Who, consider reading a review of “Day of the Moon”). Gaiman utilizes Idris to sprinkle intriguing hints about future storylines, ensuring fan speculation will thrive online for weeks to come. Indeed, “The Doctor’s Wife” is a treasure trove for long-time viewers, brimming with inside jokes, series references, and connections to the broader Doctor Who universe.
The dynamic between Idris (or perhaps, the TARDIS in human form) and the Doctor on the desolate Bubble Universe planet truly cements their relationship. Their bickering and banter feel authentically marital, filled with both affection and exasperation. The emotional depth of Gaiman’s script is another standout feature. Amy’s suggestion that the Doctor secretly desires forgiveness for the Time Lords’ demise leads to the poignant line, “Don’t we all?” delivered with compelling vulnerability by Matt Smith. It’s a powerful moment that showcases Smith’s nuanced portrayal of the Doctor.
Arthur Darvill’s performance as Rory is particularly strong in this episode. After enduring storylines where Rory often played the role of victim or expendable character, “The Doctor’s Wife” grants him greater agency. Idris entrusting Rory with telepathic instructions underscores his importance, as does his courageous confrontation with House in the possessed TARDIS. Rory is no longer merely a passenger; he emerges as a valuable member of the TARDIS crew.
Memorable Doctor Who episodes often hinge on the witty exchanges between the core cast, and “The Doctor’s Wife” is no exception. Numerous sharp and humorous moments pepper the episode, particularly in the interactions between the Doctor and Idris. These scenes powerfully develop their complex relationship within a concise timeframe.
“The Doctor’s Wife” earns a four out of four stars rating. Neil Gaiman’s captivating narrative, the emotionally resonant performances, and the rich character development all contribute to its excellence. The hints of the “Amy’s pregnancy” storyline in the trailer for next week’s episode, “The Rebel Flesh,” already generate anticipation. Share your thoughts on this exceptional episode below!
