REVIEW: Doctor Who: The Star Beast

This review contains spoilers. Read at your own risk.

Guess who's back... back again!


The Star Beast was a breath of fresh air after the five drawn-out years that were the Chibnall era. With a familiar face— or I guess you could say a few familiar faces, a beloved showrunner and screenwriter's return, and a fun story that just feels so Doctor Who, any fan will feel right at home watching the first of the 60th Anniversary specials.

One of the most iconic incarnations of the Doctor, portrayed by David Tennant, has returned to our screens for the first time since the 50th Anniversary special in 2013. But that's not all— along with him, we've seen the return of Catherine Tate as Donna Noble. The pair make this special feel so nostalgic yet brand new.

The returns of Sylvia and Shaun were also a welcome addition! Though I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that Wilf’s absence was saddening. It made the reference to him all the more emotional, despite the moment being on the funnier side. And Rose! I loved Yasmin Finney in Netflix’s Heartstopper, so I was excited to see her in my favorite show— and she killed it! Being the other half of the DoctorDonna was such an amazing twist, and I’m so excited to see her character again in the future!

The Meep was such a great twist villain, much more fun for me because my family was not expecting it! The idea of such a cute and cuddly-looking character turning out to be pure evil is such a fun concept, I loved it and Miriam Margolyes perfect performance! I also have to mention Shirley Anne Bingham, who I loved from the moment she showed up on screen. Her sass and dry humor made her character so entertaining.

The plot of The Star Beast is a simple one, yet it packs a powerful punch. It’s simple enough that I feel like it could mesh in well with previous Russell T. Davies-penned stories, but the story was so well done that it earned its worth as a special. My only complaint was that the writing felt a bit off or cheesy at times— and yes, Doctor Who is supposed to be campy and cheesy, but for example, the dialogue about the Meep’s gender, while well-intentioned, didn’t fit in for the vibe of the scene at the time.

Nonetheless, I give The Star Beast 4 out of 5 stars, and I am so looking forward to the mystery and intrigue of Wild Blue Yonder!

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