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Spoilers for “Lux.”
The landscape of long-standing science fiction and fantasy franchises has faced significant challenges in the streaming era, with some properties grappling with relevance while others continue to innovate. Star Trek is undergoing a notable identity crisis, worrying that its legacy might not resonate with contemporary audiences. In contrast, the Star Wars franchise has found itself entrenched in cultural debates, leading to controversial decisions like those seen in The Rise of Skywalker. However, amidst these upheavals, Doctor Who stands out for its remarkable ability to remain inventive and original even after more than six decades on air. This week, for example, the Doctor and Belinda must confront a living cartoon character that holds a 1950s cinema audience hostage.
Set against a backdrop of a sparse 1952 cinema showcasing an urgent newsreel about atomic power, the narrative begins as the light from the moon inadvertently brings the animated figure Mr. Ring-A-Ding to life, much to the horror of the audience. Meanwhile, the Doctor and Belinda struggle with their TARDIS, which refuses to land on a future date. Belinda suggests a trip to the Doctor’s home planet for repairs, yet the Doctor’s response is evasive as he instead concocts a plan to maneuver the TARDIS through different time frames, leading them to Miami.
Emerging in Miami, they discover that the cinema has been shuttered, with its last audience missing for three months. After gathering information from a diner patron, they learn the projectionist has been caring for the film-goers while keeping the malevolent Mr. Ring-A-Ding entertained. This cartoon not only embodies comedic charm but also carries a dark twist—he is a god named Lux Imperator, consuming light and threatening to absorb the destructive potential of atomic energy.
As they try to escape, the Doctor and Belinda find themselves transformed into two-dimensional avatars, compelled to admit their worries about failure. However, this moment of transparency gives them the depth needed to reclaim their three-dimensionality, breaking through the fourth wall into the real world where they encounter a handful of Doctor Who fans who share their thoughts on the series.
The fans’ genuine excitement reveals the show’s impact while also playfully critiquing the stereotypical behavior of dedicated viewers. Despite their clear lack of narrative significance, the trio’s self-awareness about their fictional status adds an additional layer to the storytelling. When the story shifts back to the cinema, the previously kind-hearted neighbor now demands the Doctor’s and Belinda’s arrest due to segregation laws, raising significant questions around race and representation.
As the battle with Lux escalates, the Doctor and Belinda employ a clever strategy to defeat him by exposing him to sunlight, which culminates in a grand confrontation witnessing the release of the cinema’s trapped patrons. The episode concludes with a poignant moment of camaraderie between the Doctor and Belinda, as they acknowledge their shared experiences and emotional journey throughout the adventure.
Eight Disconnected Thoughts About “Lux.”
Thematic Depth
This episode, like its predecessor “The Robot Revolution,” is replete with a spectrum of ideas worthy of deep exploration. This complexity is a hallmark of Doctor Who, known for intertwining politics and literature throughout its storytelling, yet this narrative density can be both beneficial and overwhelming. The multitude of themes explored—ranging from temporal consequences intertwined with race, the evolution of media consumption over time, the nature of human desire, and even the existential realizations of fictional characters—make for a diverse but occasionally chaotic viewing experience.
Echoes of the Past
A striking parallel can be drawn between this episode’s climax and moments from previous episodes, as evidenced by visual and narrative motifs that reflect recurring themes in the series. Both feature the Doctor confronting a deity-like figure in a culturally resonant setting, drawing on the richness of our shared history.
A Nod to the Fans
The interactions with the fan characters showcase Doctor Who’s unique relationship with its audience, often poking fun at the archetypal fan behavior that is both beloved and occasionally misguided. The self-deprecating humor and acknowledgment of fandom’s quirks fosters a deeper connection between the show and its viewers.
Character Significance
Belinda’s character has garnered attention for her seemingly insightful dialogue and deeper knowledge of the Doctor’s background. Despite the hints that she may know more than appears superficially, it is likely an indication of the Doctor’s narrative approach as he adapts to new companions.
Visual Excellence
The episode’s production values shine through with impressive animation techniques, particularly in the depiction of Mr. Ring-A-Ding, evoking nostalgia through a historical animation style that enhances the viewing experience.
Timely References
The inclusion of Rock Hudson within the narrative serves as a poignant reminder of historical issues surrounding HIV/AIDS awareness, highlighting a previously overshadowed figure while also encouraging viewers to engage with these critical conversations.
Race and Representation
Set against Miami’s segregated historical landscape, the episode navigates delicate discussions about race and racism, particularly through the Doctor’s restrained response to social injustice, reflecting the inherent constraints of the storytelling framework and the challenges of addressing real-world issues through a fantastical lens.
The Ominous Mrs. Flood
Finally, with Mrs. Flood’s recurring role foretold, her foreboding warnings add a layer of suspense to future episodes, maintaining audience engagement and curiosity as the season progresses toward its climax.
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