Rose

"Rose" is wonderful. A fine first episode with huge potential for the rest of the season. RTD's script is fun, witty, hugely imaginative, iconic in part and most interestingly heavily satirical. There are a number of references to the 'compensation culture' which produce some good gags from Rose's mum Jackie. Plenty of in jokes for fans and even a gag about the relative scarcity of female Who fans. I also especially enjoyed the way that RTD subverted the role of the 'male' within the drama. Just look at Mickey, who is effectivly the damsel in distress. I think some people have so far missed the point completly with Mickey's character, which is a shame, but I look forward to seeing more of him and Jackie during the course of the season. Jackie is clearly heavily reliant on Rose, and I look forward to seeing more of there relationship....... It's gonna be fun to see the Doctor interact with them.

The performances from Chris and Billie are just so enjoyable, the childlike wonder and passion of the ninth Doctor and the sassy energy from Rose are really exciting. It's obvious that here are two actors having great fun together........ I know I really enjoyed seeing them spark of each other, a stand out moment being the Doctors facial reaction (profound disappointment) on being turned down by Rose, when intially offering her the chance to go with him in the TARDIS. It genuinely moved me that moment, quite beautifully played by both actors.

Murray Gold's incidental music is also worthy of mention, its brave and for the most part atmospheric. The new remix of the theme tune is magnificent. I look forward to a soundtrack CD from Murray sooner rather than later! 

The plot of 'Rose' is significantly more substantial that some people have given Russell credit for, this is character driven driven drama for everyone, as it should be!!!..... Indeed he has clearly sowen the seeds for some returning characters and ideas.....It's the insightful, contemporary, satirical wit that shines. 

Above all it serves as a fine introduction to the series, wonderful to see the Autons back (living plastic). I've always liked them. I am now fully invigorated with the lust for life that Russell and the team so clearly want us to have! You would have to be incredibly curmudgingly not to have really liked the first episode. A strong start, however I suspect that the best is yet to come, and I for one can't wait!