December 3, 2024
Doctor Who 2023

Doctor Who: The Star Beast’s first critic reactions are finally here! Doctor Who fans will now know what to expect from the upcoming sequel special. For the first time, the franchise will be airing on Disney+. The first of three specials debuts on November 25. The popular 10th Doctor David Tennant will come back for all three installments. The critics have just shared their reviews on the sequel after early screenings. Several critics are praising the performances of its two lead actors, character arcs, and personal stories.

Doctor Who 2023 Special First Reviews

Total Film praised The Star Beast saying, “The question is then, does it deliver on such a promise, despite the hype being at an all-time high? Thankfully, the answer is a resounding yes! ‘The Star Beast’ kickstarts a whole new era of ‘Doctor Who’ with style, providing a warm embrace for the already dedicated Whovians and welcoming with open arms those who are new to the widely adored show.”

The outlet also discussed the intricate themes. “Sure, we do see The Doctor and Co. fighting off aliens, but the story dives much deeper than that, exploring more complex themes relating to identity, all of which are beautifully handled with a sensitive touch. Many of the characters may be otherworldly, but Davies understands that, ultimately, ‘Doctor Who’ is a very human show.”

The Streamr called The Star Beast “classic Doctor Who”. “The special works really well as a new starting point for first-time viewers, or as mentioned, people who haven’t necessarily watched it for some time.” Decider’s Alex Zalben shared on X, “‘Doctor Who: The Star Beast’ is the most fun I’ve had watching ‘Doctor Who’ in… Years? David Tennant and Catherine Tate prove, once again, they are the perfect pairing for the show, able to flip from heartbreaking emotion to laugh-out-loud comedy on a dime. ‘Who’ is back, baby!

Zalben also stated that the special is “goofy times,” however, the “increased budget” is on full display. “It’s definitely goofy at times, but that’s part and parcel with ‘Doctor Who.’ The increased budget of the specials is on-screen, too… Rachel Talalay directs some excellent sequences, big explosions, and a character who is destined to become an iconic DW creation.”

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