Doctor Who: The Story and Engine

Set in Lagos, this episode aims to blend elements of West African folklore with larger myths and the established lore of Doctor Who. Like several recent episodes, it plays with the notion that the audience is aware they’re watching a crafted narrative.

During a Q&A at the London premiere of “Robot Revolution,” Ncuti Gatwa expressed his excitement about this particular episode. He appeared deeply engaged on set, exuding a sense of vitality as the Doctor, connecting strongly with the Black African community on Earth. However, as the story progressed, moments of rage broke through his previously joyful demeanor.

The dynamic between camaraderie and tension at the barbershop allowed actors Aliyon Bakare (barber) and Thule Limi (Omo Esosa) to showcase their characters effectively, providing key moments of interaction with Gatwa. The scene highlighting Omo’s betrayal by a close friend and the ensuing laughter following the barber’s revelation of identity stood out. Michel Asante’s portrayal of Abena brought a quiet intensity, reveling in the Doctor’s discomfort, creating surprisingly impactful moments.

Author Inua Ellams previously explored the significance of haircuts within the Black male experience in his 2017 play, “Barber Shop Chronicle.” He stressed the importance of artists giving appropriate credit before deadlines loom.

Interestingly, amidst male-centric narratives, it was actually Belinda (Valada Sethu) who played a crucial role in driving the story forward. Her simple yet powerful phrase, “Injuring the one who hurts,” proved instrumental in helping Abena let go of her thirst for revenge, ultimately aiding in the Doctor’s escape through historical methods of resistance.

Do You Sum It Up in One Sentence?

What happens to the Doctor following the events with the giant spider?

Life Aboard the TARDIS

Initially, Belinda appeared pleased to see the Doctor adapt to his surroundings, finding joy in the feelings she associated with her Nigerian roots. But the sudden appearance of a red alarm shifted her demeanor quickly. The iconic blue TARDIS had its utility, especially in episodes that put her alongside companions who faced challenges she personally disliked.

Fear Factors

“Fear” might not be the right term, but some dialogues within Omo’s palace were indeed threatening. Interestingly, it was one of those rare occasions where everyone seemed to survive—unless you count the giant spiders, of course.

Mysteries and Questions

It was wonderful to see Joe Martin’s iteration of the Doctor make a brief appearance. Even though the 15th Doctor seemed to recall past adventures involving Abena, it marked a historical moment—the first multi-Doctor scenario where two Black actors played pivotal roles.

Deeper Into the Vortex

• Doctor Who’s visits to Africa have been infrequent on screen; however, it was filmed in locations across the continent during the “Spyfall” and “Plax” episodes, set partially in Madagascar during Jodie Whittaker’s era.
• In an episode from 1965, the First Doctor encountered various monsters while trapped in a ghostly house that would later be linked to the Ghana Festival.
• Writer Ellams made a brief cameo appearance in a market sequence, while a ghost girl in Belinda was portrayed once again by Siena Robin Mavanga Phipps.
• Ariyon Bakare’s barber role isn’t entirely new; he previously lent his talents to the character Leandro in 2015’s “The Woman Who Lived.”
• The show’s opening sequence breaking the fourth wall recalls a similar moment when the maestro played theme tunes in “Devil Chords” last year.
• Animated storytelling clips once provided background on Zellin and Rakaya’s origins.
• A six-word story proposed by doctors—“Baby shoes, never worn for sale”—is often linked to Ernest Hemingway, even if there’s debate about his authorship.
• Interestingly, the Doctor watched a Marvel superhero film, hinting at interconnected storytelling within the universe.
• Ellams penned the first part of “How Omo first met the Doctor.”

Next Time

Get ready for Rylan, Graham Norton, and the Eurovision Song Contest… but with a twist—it’s in space! Just hope the FA Cup Finals don’t overtake the schedule. See you then!