Davin News Server

% wrote:
> The Doctor wrote:
>> **Review of "Face the Raven"**
>>
>> *"Face the Raven"* is one of *Doctor Who's* most poignant and devastating
>> episodes, cementing Clara Oswald's journey as a companion while 
>> delivering a
>> tense and emotionally charged story. Written by Sarah Dollard, the 
>> episode
>> focuses on themes of loyalty, consequence, and hubris, presenting a 
>> moral tale
>> within a richly atmospheric setting.
>>
>> The plot centers on Rigsy, a recurring character, who calls the Doctor
>> and Clara for help when he discovers a mysterious countdown tattoo on his
>> neck. This leads them to a hidden "trap street" in London, a secret 
>> community
>> for alien refugees overseen by Ashildr (Maisie Williams). The premise
>> effectively blends science fiction with urban fantasy, creating a rich,
>> visually engaging environment. The trap street and its inhabitants
>> are beautifully realised, exuding an air of danger and intrigue.
>>
>> The strength of the episode lies in its emotional weight. Clara's 
>> impulsive
>> decision to take Rigsy's death sentence upon herself, believing the 
>> Doctor
>> will find a way to save her, is both heroic and tragically misguided. Her
>> death, as a result of her own recklessness, is a heart-wrenching moment.
>> Jenna Coleman gives a standout performance, showcasing Clara's bravery,
>> overconfidence, and ultimate vulnerability in her final moments.
>>
>> Peter Capaldi is equally exceptional as the Doctor, oscillating 
>> between fury,
>> despair, and stoic resolve as he watches Clara face her fate. His quiet,
>> raw anger toward Ashildr and his promise of vengeance are some of the
>> episode's most chilling moments. The dynamic between the Doctor and 
>> Clara is
>> at its most poignant here, underscoring the deep bond they share.
>>
>> Maisie Williams' Ashildr, while compelling, feels slightly 
>> underutilised. Her
>> motivations for orchestrating the events are left ambiguous, and her 
>> role as
>> the reluctant antagonist could have been explored further. The episode 
>> also
>> introduces a larger arc involving the Time Lords, which feels slightly
>> shoehorned and detracts from the otherwise self-contained story.
>>
>> While Clara's death is undeniably impactful, it does raise questions 
>> about her
>> character arc. Her transformation from a grounded schoolteacher to a
>> thrill-seeking adventurer is complete, but some viewers may find her fate
>> frustratingly avoidable, given her recklessness. Nonetheless, the episode
>> succeeds in making her death meaningful and emotionally resonant.
>>
>> Technically, *"Face the Raven"* is superb. The direction by Justin 
>> Molotnikov
>> creates a tense and atmospheric tone, while Murray Gold's haunting score
>> amplifies the emotional stakes. The visual effects and set design are
>> impressive, particularly the trap street's ethereal aesthetic.
>>
>> In conclusion, *"Face the Raven"* is a powerful, bittersweet tale that 
>> serves
>> as a fitting farewell for Clara Oswald. Despite some minor narrative
>> shortcomings, the episode is a masterclass in character-driven 
>> storytelling
>> and emotional impact.
>>
>> **Rating: 90/100**
>> With its poignant themes, stellar performances, and atmospheric
>> world-building, *"Face the Raven"* stands out as one of the most 
>> memorable
>> episodes of Capaldi's era.
>>
> so there

now do me