The regeneration from David Tennant to Matt Smith was met with both excitement and trepidation. Tennant’s era had been a defining moment for Doctor Who, catapulting it into mainstream consciousness. Would Matt Smith, the youngest Doctor to date, maintain this momentum? Returning to Doctor Who Series 5, it’s clear any initial doubts were unfounded. This series not only respects the legacy of what came before but confidently carves its own path, solidifying its place as a standout chapter in the Doctor Who saga. The show’s enduring charm, its blend of British eccentricity and universal appeal, is not just intact, but arguably amplified in this era. It’s easy to see why Doctor Who Series 5 resonated with a broader audience, proving its enduring excellence.
Alt text: Matt Smith as the Eleventh Doctor in Doctor Who Series 5, striking a thoughtful pose with the TARDIS in the background, showcasing his youthful yet ancient demeanor.
Matt Smith’s portrayal of the Eleventh Doctor is instantly iconic. He embodies the Doctor with a unique blend of youthful exuberance and ancient gravitas. From his very first moments, Smith establishes his distinct take on the Time Lord. He’s outwardly energetic and playful, yet capable of switching to a persona that reflects the Doctor’s immense age and the weight of his experiences. This Doctor has a sharper edge, less patience for foolishness, and isn’t afraid to voice his impatience to his companions. His signature phrase, “Geronimo,” perfectly encapsulates his energetic and somewhat whimsical nature, arguably surpassing the catchphrases of previous Doctors. Smith’s Doctor is visually distinctive too, with a style that blends quirky academic and modern hipster elements. Despite being only 26 when he took on the role, Smith brings a remarkable depth and intensity to the character. He effortlessly navigates the technobabble-laden scripts, a hallmark of Steven Moffat’s era, while also delivering powerful speeches and emotionally resonant moments. Looking back, it’s no surprise that Matt Smith’s Eleventh Doctor is often cited as a fan favorite, and Doctor Who Series 5 is the perfect introduction to his captivating tenure.
Like his predecessor, David Tennant, Smith’s Doctor feels deeply human, a quality Steven Moffat has described as the “Boyfriend Doctor.” This iteration, much like Tennant’s, seems to be constantly running from the shadows of his past, particularly the devastating events on Gallifrey. While these deeper, serialized elements are hinted at, Doctor Who Series 5 maintains a refreshing balance. Most episodes are self-contained adventures, with occasional two-parters, woven together by a compelling overarching narrative centered around the mysterious cracks in time. This series achieves a grander narrative scope than previous seasons, yet each episode remains individually enjoyable, making Doctor Who Series 5 ideal for both dedicated fans and newcomers.
Alt text: Karen Gillan as Amy Pond and Arthur Darvill as Rory Williams, companions in Doctor Who Series 5, standing side-by-side displaying their contrasting personalities and integral roles in the Eleventh Doctor’s adventures.
The companions are, as always, crucial to the Doctor’s journey, and Doctor Who Series 5 introduces the memorable duo, Amy Pond and Rory Williams, who eventually become husband and wife. Amy Pond, played with vibrant energy by Karen Gillan, is an exceptional companion. She’s independent, spirited, and more than capable of keeping pace with the Eleventh Doctor’s whirlwind adventures. Amy is portrayed as strong-willed, often meeting the Doctor’s occasional frustrations or raised voice with equal measure. She stands as a more equal partner to the Doctor than some previous companions. While still finding herself in peril at times, Amy is largely self-reliant and resourceful. Her dynamic with the Doctor also includes a playful, and sometimes overtly expressed, romantic interest, adding a layer of humor and occasional awkwardness, particularly well-played by Matt Smith’s comedic timing. While some of Amy’s advances might be seen as excessive in retrospect, as even Steven Moffat has acknowledged, she remains a compelling and multifaceted character, far beyond reductive descriptions focusing on her appearance. Complementing Amy is Rory Williams, portrayed with endearing charm by Arthur Darvill.
Rory is the quintessential “nice guy,” Amy’s long-suffering fiancé, who endures a remarkable series of trials in Doctor Who Series 5. He grapples with Amy’s affections for the Doctor, faces death and erasure from history, leading to poignant episodes where only the Doctor remembers him. He even returns as an Auton, patiently waiting for Amy for two millennia. Darvill portrays Rory’s resilience and likability throughout these ordeals with remarkable ease. While Rory’s attempts at being tough can be humorous due to his inherently gentle nature, he serves as a vital grounding presence in the show, a reliable human anchor amidst the fantastical chaos.
Alt text: The Eleventh Doctor, Amy, and Rory in a scene from Doctor Who Series 5, showcasing their teamwork and adventurous spirit as they face unknown challenges together.
Initial hesitations about Doctor Who Series 5 based on hazy memories of weaker episodes are quickly dispelled upon rewatch. Even episodes previously considered less memorable are surprisingly enjoyable. While “The Beast Below” and “The Vampires of Venice” might be considered the series’ weaker entries, they are still far from being poor episodes. They remain engaging and contribute to the overall character development. Even seemingly standalone episodes contribute to the ongoing evolution of the characters. “Victory of the Daleks,” featuring Winston Churchill, initially raised concerns due to its historical liberties, but Mark Gatiss’s whimsical writing transforms it into a delightfully silly and entertaining episode.
Among the standout episodes in this consistently strong series, the two-part return of the Weeping Angels is particularly noteworthy. Following the iconic “Blink,” revisiting the Weeping Angels was a daunting prospect. However, this two-parter successfully expands on the concept, shifting from the horror-focused “Blink” to a more action-oriented science fiction narrative. The Weeping Angels are presented with new, terrifying abilities, appearing in greater numbers and even shown moving on screen, amplifying their threat. This evolution feels organic and exciting. Steven Moffat’s writing shines in these episodes, perfectly showcasing why he was the ideal showrunner. His ability to weave complex technobabble, delivered flawlessly by Matt Smith, is captivating. Even when the science is convoluted, the storytelling is compelling and immersive. This intricate narrative style, while perhaps overwhelming to younger viewers, adds a layer of intellectual engagement that is highly rewarding for mature audiences.
Alt text: The Weeping Angels in Doctor Who Series 5, a terrifying and iconic monster, showcasing their menacing stone-like appearance and the series’ effective use of horror elements.
Numerous other exceptional episodes deserve mention, but “The Lodger” and “Vincent and the Doctor” stand out for their unique qualities. “The Lodger,” featuring James Corden, initially seemed like a potentially weak episode. However, it proves to be a genuinely original and humorous story. It doesn’t aim for grand narrative shifts but delivers a refreshing change of pace with great comedic moments, particularly highlighting Matt Smith’s physical comedy and James Corden’s excellent straight-man performance. Despite some reservations about writer Gareth Roberts, “The Lodger” is undeniably enjoyable.
“Vincent and the Doctor,” penned by Richard Curtis, was a surprising standout. Often overlooked, this episode has garnered significant appreciation over time. Initially perceived as forgettable, a rewatch reveals its profound emotional depth. While the monster-of-the-week plot might be less prominent, the episode excels as a poignant character study of Vincent van Gogh. Tony Curran’s portrayal of Van Gogh is deeply moving, capturing the artist’s inner turmoil, self-doubt, and struggles with depression. Despite his personal battles, Van Gogh’s inherent goodness shines through as he aids the Doctor. The episode culminates in a tearful and uplifting moment where the Doctor and Amy transport Van Gogh to the future to witness his lasting legacy. This exploration of mental health and the impact of art is surprisingly heavy yet profoundly impactful, adding a layer of emotional resonance rarely seen in family sci-fi.
Alt text: Tony Curran as Vincent van Gogh in Doctor Who Series 5 episode “Vincent and the Doctor”, depicting a scene filled with emotion and highlighting the episode’s sensitive portrayal of mental health.
Doctor Who Series 5 might very well be the pinnacle of the modern era. It achieves a near-perfect blend of the charm and accessibility of the earlier series with the more complex and ambitious science fiction storytelling that would follow. River Song’s appearances in this series exemplify this balance. While her character later leans into catchphrases and flirtatious tropes, in Series 5, she remains an intriguing and mysterious figure from the Doctor’s future, adding a layer of long-term intrigue without overshadowing the immediate stories. Perhaps future series will prove to be even better, but Doctor Who Series 5 sets a remarkably high bar.
In conclusion, Doctor Who Series 5 is a fantastic series from start to finish. Every episode offers something of value, and the consistently strong cast ensures each adventure is thoroughly entertaining. The Christmas special, “A Christmas Carol,” which follows this series, is also highly recommended. Despite some common festive special pitfalls, its writing and emotional depth are exceptional, mirroring the strengths of Doctor Who Series 5 itself. The Eleventh Doctor’s journey in Doctor Who Series 5 is a compelling and rewarding experience, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
Jack Bumby
