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**Review of "Mummy on the Orient Express"**

In *"Mummy on the Orient Express,"* the Doctor and Clara find themselves 
aboard a luxurious, space-bound version of the Orient Express, where
passengers are being mysteriously killed by a creature only they can see-a 
terrifying mummy. With a strict countdown of 66 seconds to death for each 
victim, the tension is palpable as the Doctor works to solve the mystery 
before the creature strikes again.

The episode thrives on its unique blend of horror, mystery, and vintage 
glamour. The train's art-deco-inspired interiors and period costumes create a 
stylish, immersive setting. Director Paul Wilmshurst expertly builds tension, 
with the mummy's appearances choreographed to evoke dread. The design of the 
Foretold, the episode's central villain, is genuinely chilling-a tattered,
decaying figure that feels like an unstoppable force of nature.

Peter Capaldi shines as the Twelfth Doctor, balancing his cold, calculating 
nature with moments of warmth and empathy. His methodical unraveling of the 
mystery highlights his intelligence, though his seemingly indifferent approach
to the deaths pushes Clara to her emotional limits. Jenna Coleman delivers a 
strong performance as Clara, navigating her character's conflicted feelings 
about continuing her travels with the Doctor after the events of 
*"Kill the Moon."* Their dynamic evolves further, with Clara's frustration 
adding depth to their relationship.

The supporting cast is solid, particularly Frank Skinner as Perkins, 
the train's engineer, who provides humor and insight without feeling 
intrusive. The passengers, though less developed, serve their roles in 
advancing the plot, particularly in heightening the stakes 
as the mummy's victims mount.

The resolution of the Foretold's mystery is satisfying and ties neatly 
into the episode's central theme: the lengths to which people will go to 
survive. The revelation that the mummy is a soldier trapped in an endless 
cycle of killing adds poignancy to an otherwise terrifying entity. 
The Doctor's solution-to declare surrender and break the cycle-is clever 
and consistent with his character's reliance on intellect over brute force.

Murray Gold's score complements the episode's atmosphere, oscillating between 
eerie and triumphant as the story unfolds. The pacing is brisk, though it 
allows room for character moments, such as Clara's heartfelt conversations 
with the Doctor and her phone call with Danny.

Where the episode slightly falters is in its thematic follow-through. 
The moral implications of the Doctor's decisions-particularly his willingness 
to let people die for the sake of solving the puzzle-are touched on but not 
fully explored. While this adds to the complexity of Capaldi's Doctor,
 it could leave viewers wanting a deeper reckoning.

 **Final Rating: 92/100**  
 *"Mummy on the Orient Express"* is a stylish, suspenseful episode that 
 masterfully combines horror and intrigue. With a memorable villain, 
 strong performances, and a gripping mystery, it stands out as one of 
 the Twelfth Doctor's best adventures. Its exploration of morality 
 and survival adds weight to the thrills, 
 even if some themes remain underdeveloped.

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