Deep Breath had a lot to accomplish as an episode; kick-starting the new series, working within its given 75 minute run-time, have the blockbuster feel it's promotion strived to emphasise all while introducing a new Doctor, and moving on from an era cherished by many.
So, question is... did it live up to these elements and its expectations? I think it's safe to say, yes! The episode ticks off the above list seamlessly, as if it were no challenge at all. It sets up the coming series with a wonderfully paced, joyful ride that introduces Peter Capaldi as the next Doctor without showing any fatigue in either narrative or pace. The episode starts off with a T-Rex, bizarrely roaring amok in the Thames of Victorian London. The Paternoster trio Vastra, Jenny and Strax are at hand to witness the extraordinary sight when the dinosaur vomits out a rather peculiar little blue box. This is where we get our first glimpse at the newly regenerated Doctor. The Doctor exits the TARDIS in a somewhat hyperactive, incredibly disoriented fashion. Peter Capaldi examples his acting abilities to great lengths here, smoothly transitioning from a loud, rambling personality, to a scared, helpless being. The way in which the sense of helplessness in the Doctor during post-regeneration here and the following scene almost makes you feel sympathetic for the him, because he truly doesn't know what's going on. We're seeing a far more confused, out-of-place Doctor than we ever have before. But of course, this is just the opening. Capaldi continues to excel throughout the episode as his Doctor gradually comes to life. One of the most powerful moments comes when the Doctor and Clara are surrounded by awakening robotic droids, driven by the requirements of body parts. As the two make for the exit, the door closes, separating the two on either sides. In a cold fashion, the Doctor states, "Too slow. No point in him catching us both". This scene kick-starts the coldness of the new Doctor, living up to the promotion beforehand. The line and the Doctor's blank gaze packs a punch to the audience as much as Clara. Capaldi pulls this scene off magnificently, and gives us a glimpse at the darker Doctor ahead of us.
So, question is... did it live up to these elements and its expectations? I think it's safe to say, yes! The episode ticks off the above list seamlessly, as if it were no challenge at all. It sets up the coming series with a wonderfully paced, joyful ride that introduces Peter Capaldi as the next Doctor without showing any fatigue in either narrative or pace. The episode starts off with a T-Rex, bizarrely roaring amok in the Thames of Victorian London. The Paternoster trio Vastra, Jenny and Strax are at hand to witness the extraordinary sight when the dinosaur vomits out a rather peculiar little blue box. This is where we get our first glimpse at the newly regenerated Doctor. The Doctor exits the TARDIS in a somewhat hyperactive, incredibly disoriented fashion. Peter Capaldi examples his acting abilities to great lengths here, smoothly transitioning from a loud, rambling personality, to a scared, helpless being. The way in which the sense of helplessness in the Doctor during post-regeneration here and the following scene almost makes you feel sympathetic for the him, because he truly doesn't know what's going on. We're seeing a far more confused, out-of-place Doctor than we ever have before. But of course, this is just the opening. Capaldi continues to excel throughout the episode as his Doctor gradually comes to life. One of the most powerful moments comes when the Doctor and Clara are surrounded by awakening robotic droids, driven by the requirements of body parts. As the two make for the exit, the door closes, separating the two on either sides. In a cold fashion, the Doctor states, "Too slow. No point in him catching us both". This scene kick-starts the coldness of the new Doctor, living up to the promotion beforehand. The line and the Doctor's blank gaze packs a punch to the audience as much as Clara. Capaldi pulls this scene off magnificently, and gives us a glimpse at the darker Doctor ahead of us.
But speaking of Clara, Jenna Coleman truly excels as Clara during this episode, giving some incredible depth and emotion to her. Jenna's given some fantastic performances in the past, but this certainly tops the cake. Clara's scared, confused. Reluctant to accept that the face she came to know and trust has gone and now this man is now in her place. Before seeing the episode, I was curious to see how this would be handled; given Clara is fully aware of regeneration and its outcomes. Her feelings are strong and it takes the harsh front of Vastra to open Clara's eyes. A confrontation between the two occurs which shows fantastic dynamic between the two, furthering Jenna's acting ability and adding a different, more outspoken side to Vastra. The scene isn't only a key scene for development in these two characters, but also addresses the more negative response to Capaldi's casting. With age (wrongfully) being a worry amongst some fans, the dialogue here aims to reassure fans that this is indeed the same Doctor as ever. The story itself is contained, focussing on a narrative that mirrors regeneration and the Doctor's development throughout. Droids rebuilding themselves using human organs and body parts represents a more sinister parallel to the Doctor's regeneration, with question being raised on whether these droids even remember what they used to be. This is a nice reflection of the Doctor, especially as this one in particular is steering down a darker path. The ending leaves us with a brief tease of 'The Promised Land' or heaven and a mysterious woman going by the name Missy, who seems to have a close relationship with the Doctor.
Conclusion:
In all, the episode takes a deep breath to focus on each character, delivering some important character development and great character dynamics. We see a lot more to characters such as Vastra and Jenny too, which furthers the anticipation for a potential spin-off. Strax is reserved for his signature comedic uses, and like it or not, they will no doubt have you laughing. Overall, this is a wonderful start to an already fantastic looking series. It continues the trend of enjoyable, character-driven openers and doesn't fail to intrigue fans of the new Doctor and who he will turn into. With wonderful pace, particularly after the first 15 or so minutes, the episode is well worthy of becoming a favourite episode among many.
9/10
In all, the episode takes a deep breath to focus on each character, delivering some important character development and great character dynamics. We see a lot more to characters such as Vastra and Jenny too, which furthers the anticipation for a potential spin-off. Strax is reserved for his signature comedic uses, and like it or not, they will no doubt have you laughing. Overall, this is a wonderful start to an already fantastic looking series. It continues the trend of enjoyable, character-driven openers and doesn't fail to intrigue fans of the new Doctor and who he will turn into. With wonderful pace, particularly after the first 15 or so minutes, the episode is well worthy of becoming a favourite episode among many.
9/10