Steven Moffat, the former mastermind behind Doctor Who, doesn’t hesitate when asked what every Doctor Who Christmas special entails. “Snow,” he states matter-of-factly. Beyond the white drifts, each holiday episode captures the essence of Christmas. And why wouldn’t it? The Doctor isn’t just any hero—he’s practically Santa Claus!
This year’s special, titled ‘Joy to the World,’ arrives on Disney+ just after noon ET on Christmas Day, featuring Nicola Coughlan—known for her roles in ‘Bridgerton’ and ‘Derry Girls’—as Joy, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters the Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa. Once Joy checks into a London hotel in 2024, she stumbles upon a secret door leading to the enigmatic Time Hotel. Here, she encounters a world of danger, dinosaurs, and the iconic Doctor amidst a sinister plot threatening Earth just in time for Christmas.
Despite a cast brimming with talent, ‘Joy to the World’ stands out because it lacks a conventional Companion. “The Doctor, unaccompanied for much of the episode, faces the challenge of navigating adventures solo,” notes Moffat. This detour from the norm offers a fresh perspective as the Doctor grapples with his desire to showcase the universe, while occasionally indulging in simple pleasures, like grabbing a coffee.
Nicola Coughlan’s portrayal of Joy is nothing short of mesmerizing, say both Moffat and current showrunner Russell T Davies. Moffat mentions, “Nicola’s got an amazing smile. The moment she steps out of a taxi at a decrepit hotel, it becomes a heroic entrance due to her radiant smile, which hints at something deeper beneath the surface.” Joy’s character, initially perceived as an ordinary hotel guest, reveals unsuspected potential, aligning perfectly with the episode’s demands.
In terms of its place in the Doctor Who saga, this special serves as an enjoyable standalone tale rather than a teaser for the upcoming season. Davies explains that Joy acts as a temporary companion, a contrast to the usual continuous story arcs seen in prior episodes. “While Joy’s story connects slightly with what’s to come, it remains largely a self-contained adventure.”
With an engaging blend of adventure, mystery, and festive cheer, this Doctor Who Christmas special promises to capture hearts. Steven Moffat and Russell T Davies have ensured that viewers are treated to an exhilarating ride that stands tall on its own, even without serving as a direct precursor to future seasons.
Source: Yahoo
