Steven Moffat once again delivered a thrilling Christmas special for Doctor Who, introducing the dynamic Jenna-Louise Coleman as the Doctor’s intriguing new companion. Continuing his signature style of transforming the mundane into the menacing, Moffat swapped Weeping Angels for sharply-toothed snowmen, proving that even winter decorations can become the stuff of nightmares. After facing killer statues in the previous season, viewers were left wondering what everyday object might be next to turn terrifying – perhaps garden gnomes are next on the list?
The episode acknowledged the Doctor’s lingering grief over the loss of Rory and Amy, depicting his initial withdrawal before he snaps back into action, ready to save the world once more. The introduction of Clara, or rather, their reunion (for eagle-eyed viewers who recall her appearance in the Dalek asylum episode), was handled with the witty and fast-paced dialogue Moffat is known for. Clever in-jokes peppered the script, including nods to Moffat’s other hit creation, Sherlock Holmes, and a nostalgic reference to Amy Pond, delighting long-time fans. Adding a festive layer, the episode cleverly subverted Raymond Briggs’ beloved animated special “The Snowman,” turning the innocent snow-hill into a source of frosty fright.
Alt text: The Eleventh Doctor, portrayed by Matt Smith, confronts a menacing group of sharp-toothed snowmen in a London alleyway during the Doctor Who Christmas special, showcasing the episode’s central frosty antagonists.
Visually, “The Snowmen” was a triumph. The special effects were particularly impressive, from the ethereal “Stairway to Heaven” to the chilling ice-monster governess and Richard E Grant’s transformation into a frozen spectre in the climactic moments. Fan-favorite characters Madame Vastra, her wife Jenny, and the comedic Sontaran Strax joined the adventure, adding familiar charm to the festive special. While Clara’s resurrection and the somewhat convenient tear-induced defeat of the alien threat might have been slightly confusing plot points for some, these minor McGuffins are easily forgiven in the overall excitement of the episode.
The performances across the board were strong. Matt Smith was clearly re-energized in his role, and Jenna-Louise Coleman immediately sparked with a captivating energy. Her chemistry with the Doctor hinted at a potentially even more electrifying dynamic than that of Karen Gillan’s Amy Pond, promising exciting future adventures. This Christmas special served as an excellent appetizer for the upcoming series, which, according to the preview trailer, will notably lack River Song but thankfully feature the return of the iconic Cybermen, much to the delight of long-time viewers.
Alt text: Jenna-Louise Coleman as Clara Oswald and Matt Smith as the Doctor stand together in a snowy Victorian London street, highlighting the introduction of the new companion in the Doctor Who Christmas episode “The Snowmen”.
