For fans diving into the Whoniverse, the 2005 revival of Doctor Who is the perfect starting point. It offered a fresh beginning while honoring decades of history, making it accessible for newcomers and rewarding for long-time fans. As the series gained popularity, particularly in English-speaking markets thanks to BBC America, new viewers often faced the question: where to begin, and what’s essential viewing? While the entire 2005-2009 era, starring David Tennant as the beloved Tenth Doctor, is a treasure trove, navigating it can be daunting. This guide focuses specifically on Doctor Who season 3, a pivotal season that introduces a new companion and delves into compelling storylines.
Season 3 of Doctor Who, originally broadcast in 2007, marks a significant chapter. Following the departure of Rose Tyler, the emotional heart of the first two seasons, the Doctor embarks on new adventures with Martha Jones. This season balances standalone episodes with a gripping season-long arc, offering a mix of historical adventures, futuristic thrills, and terrifying encounters. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a returning fan looking for a curated experience, this guide breaks down every episode of Doctor Who season 3, highlighting the “must-see” episodes and those you can “watch if you’re keen,” or even “skip” if you’re pressed for time.
Doctor Who Season 3: A Deep Dive into Martha Jones’ Era
Season 3 of Doctor Who is characterized by the introduction of Martha Jones as the Doctor’s new companion. Her journey is distinct from Rose’s, offering a different dynamic and perspective to the Doctor’s adventures. This season also develops a more intricate overarching narrative, building towards a dramatic three-part finale. While some episodes are stand-alone adventures, many contribute to the season’s themes and character development. Let’s explore each episode of Doctor Who season 3:
S3E0: The Runaway Bride (Watch It)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. Not exactly essential, but introduces future companion Donna and also contains a great deal of action as well as moping over Rose, which is pretty cathartic.
“The Runaway Bride” is the 2006 Christmas special that directly follows the emotional season 2 finale. While technically preceding season 3, it serves as a bridge, introducing Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) and providing a first glimpse into the Doctor’s post-Rose state. It’s recommended to “Watch It” for several reasons:
- Introduction of Donna Noble: Donna’s first appearance is memorable and sets the stage for her eventual return as a full-time companion in Season 4. Her dynamic with the Doctor is instantly engaging and comedic.
- Emotional Aftermath of Rose: The episode acknowledges the Doctor’s grief over Rose’s departure, adding emotional depth and setting a slightly different tone for Season 3.
- Action-Packed Christmas Special: It delivers classic Christmas special fare with action, humor, and a festive backdrop, making it an entertaining watch.
- Setting up Future Storylines: While not crucial for the immediate plot of Season 3, Donna’s introduction is significant for the broader narrative of the Tenth Doctor’s era.
The Tenth Doctor and Donna Noble face the Racnoss in "The Runaway Bride"
S3E1: Smith and Jones (Watch It)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. Meet Martha Jones! She will be our companion for this season. She grows on you. This episode is largely spent introducing her, but there’s also some cool drama to it.
“Smith and Jones” formally kicks off Season 3 and introduces Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman) as the Doctor’s new traveling companion. It’s a “Watch It” episode because:
- Introducing Martha Jones: This episode is crucial for establishing Martha’s character, her background as a medical student, and her initial encounter with the Doctor. It showcases her intelligence, resourcefulness, and compassion.
- Unique Setting: The episode takes place in a hospital transported to the moon, offering a distinctive and visually interesting backdrop.
- Judoon Introduction: The Judoon, rhino-like space police, are introduced as the antagonists, providing a memorable alien threat.
- Character Dynamics: The episode begins to explore the dynamic between the Doctor and Martha, which is different from his relationship with Rose, setting the tone for the season.
S3E2: The Shakespeare Code (Watch It)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. If only because Shakespeare is one flirty bitch.
“The Shakespeare Code” is a historical adventure that takes the Doctor and Martha to Elizabethan England to meet William Shakespeare. It’s a “Watch It” episode because:
- Historical Setting and Character: Meeting Shakespeare in his time is a delightful concept, and the episode plays with historical figures and events in a fun and engaging way.
- Witty Dialogue: The episode is known for its witty and clever dialogue, particularly in the interactions between the Doctor and Shakespeare.
- Witchcraft and Magic: The episode incorporates elements of witchcraft and magic, blending historical fiction with fantasy elements typical of Doctor Who.
- Lighthearted Fun: After the more dramatic season opener, “The Shakespeare Code” provides a lighter, more comedic adventure, showcasing the Doctor’s playful side.
S3E3: Gridlock (Watch It)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. A follow-up to “End of the World” and “New Earth,” and a very tight, interesting episode with larger implications for the season. Also, this happens:
“Gridlock” returns to New New York, the futuristic city introduced in “New Earth” (Season 2). It’s a “Watch It” episode due to:
- Returning Location and Lore: It expands on the world-building of New New York and revisits the Macra, creatures previously seen in classic Doctor Who.
- Social Commentary: The episode touches on themes of overpopulation, social class, and escapism through the concept of the endless motorway and the fast lane.
- Intriguing Mystery: The mystery of the gridlocked motorway and the missing people draws viewers in and builds suspense.
- Season Arc Hints: While seemingly standalone, “Gridlock” subtly hints at larger narratives developing throughout the season.
The Doctor and Martha trapped in the Gridlock of New New York
S3E4/5: Daleks in Manhattan/Evolution of the Daleks (Skip It)
Original Recommendation: Skip it. Skip the HELL out of this. The 1930s period stuff is kinda fun, but it’s badly paced and dumb as a box of rocks with all the smart rocks removed.
“Daleks in Manhattan” and “Evolution of the Daleks” are a two-part story set in 1930s New York, featuring the Doctor’s iconic enemies, the Daleks. Despite featuring Daleks and a historical setting, it’s recommended to “Skip It” because:
- Weak Dalek Story: This two-parter is often considered one of the weaker Dalek stories in the revived series. The Dalek plan is convoluted and less impactful than in other Dalek episodes.
- Pacing Issues: The story suffers from pacing problems, with the first part feeling slow and the second part rushing through plot points.
- Underdeveloped 1930s Setting: While the 1930s setting has potential, it’s not fully utilized, and the atmosphere doesn’t quite capture the era effectively.
- Logical inconsistencies: The plot contains several logical leaps and inconsistencies that can detract from the viewing experience.
While the 1930s setting and some visual elements might have appeal, the overall narrative is generally considered skippable without missing crucial season 3 plot developments.
S3E6: The Lazarus Experiment (Watch it)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. Mark Gatiss guest-stars and is delightful, some important tech is introduced and the Doctor reverses the polarity of the neutron flow. Hooray for that.
“The Lazarus Experiment” is a contemporary episode featuring a science experiment gone wrong. It’s recommended to “Watch it” for:
- Mark Gatiss Guest Appearance: The episode features Mark Gatiss, known for co-creating Sherlock and writing many Doctor Who episodes, in a prominent guest role as Professor Lazarus. His performance is a highlight.
- Body Horror and Transformation: The episode explores body horror elements as Professor Lazarus transforms into a monstrous creature, providing a visually striking and unsettling threat.
- Technological Element: The Lazarus machine and its effects introduce a science fiction concept related to aging and transformation, fitting within Doctor Who‘s themes.
- Classic Doctor Who Reference: The Doctor’s use of “reverse the polarity of the neutron flow,” a classic line from the Third Doctor, is a fun nod to the show’s history.
S3E7: 42 (Skip it)
Original Recommendation: Skip it. There’s a bit of story that connects to the season-long arc, but it’s ultimately disposable and not at all engaging.
“42” is a real-time episode set on a spaceship hurtling towards a star. It’s recommended to “Skip it” due to:
- Weak Season Arc Connection: While there are minor connections to the season’s overarching narrative, they are minimal and don’t significantly impact understanding the larger plot.
- Unengaging Plot: The episode’s plot, involving a virus and a race against time, is considered less compelling than other episodes in the season.
- Real-Time Format Not Fully Utilized: The real-time format, while an interesting concept, doesn’t fully enhance the storytelling and can feel somewhat gimmicky.
- Disposable Episode: “42” is largely a standalone adventure that can be skipped without missing crucial character development or plot points.
S3E8/9: Human Nature/The Family of Blood (Watch it)
Original Recommendation: Watch it. The thing with this season is that at least three episodes are kind of terrible, but then of the ones that aren’t terrible, many are FANTASTIC. This is a great two-parter that is pretty much stand-alone, but it’s a fantastic premise (the Doctor changes into a human to hide from an enemy, and ends up falling in love) and really well-done.
“Human Nature” and “The Family of Blood” are a critically acclaimed two-part story set in 1913 England. It’s strongly recommended to “Watch it” because:
- Compelling Premise: The Doctor transforms himself into a human teacher, John Smith, to hide from a family of alien beings. This premise allows for rich character exploration and drama.
- Emotional Depth and Romance: The story explores the Doctor’s humanity, his capacity for love (as John Smith falling for Joan Redfern), and the complexities of his identity.
- Strong Character Development: Martha Jones takes center stage, protecting the human Doctor and grappling with her feelings for him. The supporting characters are also well-developed and contribute to the emotional impact.
- Stand-Alone Quality: While part of Season 3, this two-parter functions effectively as a standalone story, making it a great entry point for new viewers or a satisfying viewing experience on its own.
S3E10: Blink (Must See)
Original Recommendation: Must see. One of the best episodes of new Who yet. Guest star Carey Mulligan is so charming, the baddies are terrifying, and it’s also so clever. This would be the best Moffat-written episode, for the record. It’s great.
“Blink” is widely considered one of the best episodes of the revived Doctor Who and is a definite “Must See”:
- Introduction of the Weeping Angels: The Weeping Angels are terrifying and iconic monsters, instantly becoming fan favorites. Their unique nature – quantum-locked beings who can only move when not observed – makes them exceptionally creepy.
- Clever Time Travel Story: The episode features a clever and intricate time travel narrative, told from the perspective of Sally Sparrow, a new character investigating mysterious events.
- Critically Acclaimed and Popular: “Blink” has received widespread critical acclaim and remains a fan favorite for its scares, cleverness, and engaging storytelling.
- Carey Mulligan’s Performance: Carey Mulligan’s guest performance as Sally Sparrow is charming and captivating, grounding the story and making it relatable.
Sally Sparrow encounters a Weeping Angel in the critically acclaimed episode "Blink"
S3E11/12/13: Utopia/The Sound of Drums/Last of the Time Lords (Must See)
Original Recommendation: Must see. Unexpected three-part season finale is unexpected! Pretty much a season’s worth of drama is contained within — some of it more over the top than necessary, but it’s still pretty epic. And more Captain Jack! Hooray!
“Utopia,” “The Sound of Drums,” and “Last of the Time Lords” form the epic three-part season finale, making them “Must See” episodes:
- Season Finale Climax: These episodes bring together the storylines and themes developed throughout Season 3, culminating in a dramatic and high-stakes conclusion.
- Return of Captain Jack Harkness: The fan-favorite Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) returns, adding excitement and tying into the wider Doctor Who universe.
- Introduction of The Master: The Master, the Doctor’s nemesis, is reintroduced in a memorable and chilling fashion, portrayed by John Simm. His presence raises the stakes and provides a formidable antagonist.
- Epic Scope and Drama: The finale is grand in scale, dealing with political intrigue, universal threats, and personal sacrifices, delivering a rollercoaster of emotions and action.
- Time Lord Mythology: The episodes delve into Time Lord mythology and explore the complex relationship between the Doctor and the Master.
Conclusion: Navigating Doctor Who Season 3
Doctor Who Season 3 is a season of contrasts, featuring some of the series’ highest highs and lowest lows. While episodes like “Daleks in Manhattan” and “42” might be skippable, episodes like “Human Nature/The Family of Blood,” “Blink,” and the season finale are essential viewing for any Doctor Who fan. Martha Jones’ introduction as the companion brings a fresh dynamic to the TARDIS, and the season’s overarching narrative builds to a thrilling and emotional climax.
For viewers focusing specifically on Doctor Who season 3, this guide provides a roadmap to navigate the episodes effectively. Whether you choose to watch every episode or prioritize the “Must See” and “Watch It” recommendations, Season 3 offers a compelling chapter in the Tenth Doctor’s era, filled with memorable monsters, historical adventures, and thought-provoking science fiction. Enjoy your journey through time and space!
