After a string of slightly underwhelming episodes (let's face it, the idea of the "Human Dalek" should probably never have left the writers' conference room), "Doctor Who" finally gives us a very good episode - the best of the third season up to that point, in fact. "42" reminded me of the previous season's two-parter "The Impossible Planet" / "The Satan Pit", and that's a compliment, as those were among the very best episodes of the second season. It has a breathless pace that never lets up, engaging "guest" characters, and some brilliant moments like the Doctor's inaudible "I'll save you" to Martha, his quick response to the numerical quiz (I tried it; he's right!), and the ultimate sacrifice of the female captain (who looks great sweaty and in a sleeveless top, I might add!). I also found the absence of a traditional "monster" refreshing - this plays more like a slasher film on a spaceship, except that it's not violent. It can be unsettling, though, especially when the Doctor himself is "possessed" and about to go over to the bad side, which is something that, if I'm not mistaken, the new "Doctor Who" series had not attempted before. *** out of 4.
Review of 42
