Review: Doctor Who – Season 1, Episode 1: "Rose"
In 2005, Doctor Who made its triumphant return to television after a 16-year hiatus (not counting the 1996 TV movie). Created by Russell T Davies, this revival had the daunting task of reintroducing one of the most beloved sci-fi franchises in history to a new generation of viewers, while also satisfying long-time fans.
The first episode, Rose, serves as both a fresh starting point for newcomers and a nostalgic reintroduction for older fans. It successfully establishes the tone of the series—blending science fiction, adventure, humor, and heart—while introducing a dynamic new companion, Rose Tyler (Billie Piper), and a newly regenerated Ninth Doctor (Christopher Eccleston).
Plot Summary
The episode opens with Rose Tyler, a 19-year-old London shop assistant, living an ordinary and unremarkable life. She works at Henrik’s department store, has a mundane routine, a boyfriend named Mickey Smith (Noel Clarke), and a nosy but loving mother, Jackie Tyler (Camille Coduri).
However, everything changes when, while closing up at Henrik’s, she is attacked by animated mannequins in the basement. Just as the plastic dummies close in, she is saved by a mysterious man in a leather jacket, introducing himself simply as “The Doctor”. He quickly destroys the mannequins’ control system and warns Rose to run before disappearing.
Curious and unsettled, Rose begins to investigate the Doctor. She tracks down a conspiracy theorist, Clive (Mark Benton), who has been following stories of a mysterious man appearing throughout history. Clive believes that the Doctor is an immortal alien, though Rose remains skeptical.
Meanwhile, Mickey is kidnapped and replaced by a plastic duplicate, controlled by the same force behind the animated mannequins. The Doctor rescues Rose again, using his sonic screwdriver to disable the fake Mickey. He explains that the true enemy is the Nestene Consciousness, an alien intelligence that can control plastic, which has infiltrated London.
The Doctor and Rose track the Nestene to an underground lair, where it is preparing to unleash an army of Autons—living plastic creatures—on the city. The Doctor attempts to negotiate with the Nestene, claiming that Earth is protected, but the alien sees him as a threat and captures him.
With the Doctor trapped, the Autons begin their invasion, wreaking havoc in stores and malls as mannequins come to life and attack civilians. Rose, who has up until now been a passive observer, takes action—swinging across a chain to knock over a vat of anti-plastic, which destroys the Nestene and deactivates the Autons.
With the crisis averted, the Doctor invites Rose to travel with him in the TARDIS, his time-traveling spaceship disguised as a police box. Initially hesitant, she declines—until the Doctor reveals that the TARDIS can travel through time. Overwhelmed by excitement and curiosity, she chooses adventure over normality, leaving her old life behind.
Review & Analysis
1. A Perfect Introduction for New Audiences
One of the greatest achievements of Rose is its accessibility. Unlike the original classic series (which ran from 1963 to 1989), which had a vast mythology spanning decades, this episode does not require prior knowledge.
The story is told through Rose’s perspective, allowing audiences to discover the Doctor’s world alongside her. This makes for an effective storytelling technique, ensuring that newcomers are never overwhelmed by lore while giving returning fans plenty to enjoy.
2. Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor: A Bold New Take
Christopher Eccleston’s Ninth Doctor is unlike any incarnation before him. Gone are the Victorian-style outfits, eccentric scarves, and flamboyant mannerisms—instead, this Doctor wears a simple leather jacket and exudes a no-nonsense attitude. He is energetic, sarcastic, and, at times, unsettlingly intense.
However, beneath his playful banter and quick wit, there is a layer of sadness. This Doctor has recently survived the Time War, an event that wiped out his home planet, Gallifrey, and left him emotionally scarred. Though Rose does not delve deeply into this backstory, Eccleston’s performance subtly hints at a haunted past, making his character instantly intriguing.
Key moments that define his character:
- His playful yet mysterious demeanor when introducing himself.
- The moment he looks in the mirror and remarks, “Ah, could’ve been worse.”, implying this is his first time seeing his new face.
- His angry confrontation with the Nestene Consciousness, showing both compassion and ruthlessness.
3. Billie Piper’s Rose Tyler: A Modern, Relatable Companion
Billie Piper’s portrayal of Rose Tyler is nothing short of fantastic. Unlike many past companions, who often served as mere sidekicks, Rose is given a full character arc right from the start.
- She starts as an ordinary young woman, stuck in a monotonous routine, feeling directionless in life.
- Instead of being a passive damsel in distress, she actively investigates the Doctor, showing curiosity and intelligence.
- Her decision to leave her normal life behind is played as a moment of empowerment, rather than a mere whim.
Rose’s courage and quick thinking make her an active participant in the story. When she saves the Doctor at the climax, it cements her as a worthy companion.
4. The Return of the Autons and Nestene Consciousness
Longtime Doctor Who fans were delighted to see the return of the Autons, originally introduced in 1970’s Spearhead from Space. These living mannequins are an excellent choice for a first monster—they are both visually striking and genuinely creepy, making for several effective horror sequences.
The Nestene Consciousness, though simple in design, serves its purpose as a reintroduction to alien threats in the Doctor Who universe.
5. Humor, Heart, and Adventure
Russell T Davies expertly balances humor, adventure, and emotional depth. Some standout moments include:
- The Doctor’s sarcastic comments (“Nice to meet you, Rose. Run for your life!”).
- Jackie Tyler’s flirtation with the Doctor, showing the show’s lighthearted charm.
- The moment Rose realizes that Mickey’s plastic duplicate is a blatantly obvious fake, adding to the comedic tone.
Yet, amidst the humor, there are genuine emotional moments, such as:
- Rose’s disillusionment with her mundane life.
- The Doctor’s hidden sorrow beneath his confident exterior.
Final Verdict
Doctor Who could not have asked for a better pilot episode for its revival. Rose delivers everything a first episode needs:
A compelling introduction to the Doctor’s world.
A likable and relatable companion.
A thrilling alien threat.
A perfect blend of humor, action, and heart.
Hints of a larger mystery surrounding the Doctor’s past.
Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper’s chemistry is instantly engaging, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
Rating: 9/10
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