Doctor Who Season 1 ep. 05 Review

"World War Three" is an intense and thrilling continuation of the Doctor Who relaunch, where the stakes are raised, and the Doctor's cleverness and determination are on full display. This episode picks up right after "Aliens of London," as the Doctor, Rose, and Mickey are once again thrust into the heart of an alien conspiracy—this time, within the corridors of power in the British government.

The episode’s plot sees the Doctor confronting the Slitheen, a ruthless alien species masquerading as high-ranking political figures. The episode cleverly blends political satire with fast-paced action, creating a scenario where the Doctor must navigate not only alien threats but also the tensions and power struggles within human politics. The tension heightens when a fake World War III is staged, all while the Doctor works against the clock to uncover the Slitheen's true plan.

Christopher Eccleston continues to impress as the Ninth Doctor, exuding a unique blend of authority, humor, and vulnerability. His chemistry with Billie Piper’s Rose is spot-on, and their partnership feels both natural and engaging. Meanwhile, Mickey (Noel Clarke) is given more room to develop as a character, proving that he’s more than just a sidekick to Rose.

The Slitheen themselves, though at times comic with their gas-passing antics, provide a genuinely menacing threat when their true intentions unfold. The episode also takes a darker turn with the human cost of the alien invasion, reinforcing the series' ability to balance fun with poignant moments.

Overall, "World War Three" delivers an exciting and satisfying episode. It’s a solid example of Doctor Who’s ability to blend humor, drama, and sci-fi in a way that keeps the viewer engaged and invested in both the characters and the overarching narrative. The episode successfully builds on the tension set up in the previous episode, and while it wraps up some storylines, it also sets the stage for even bigger adventures to come.