The Empty Child

I generally love negative and/or vitriolic reviews; Even if I have no knowledge or interest in a film or group, if I see '0 out of 10' or 'no stars' I'll read on! So, after being pretty positive about 'The Long Game' and extremely positive about 'Father's Day', I'm rather pleased to say that 'The Empty Child' was an absolute load of....

Nah. Only joking. This was brilliant stuff. Again.

First things first. I thought this was Chris Ecclestone's finest forty(ish) minutes to date. Perhaps because the Doctor and Rose were seperated for most of the episode and allowed to develope their own plot strands? Whatever, I found the Doctors scenes with the children/Nancy/ Dr Constantine *hugely* rewarding. (well, every Doctor scene, really) From the 'teaser' when he declares that following the mysterious object is "totally" safe (Cue explosion) "Should've said 'reasonably'!" to his musings with a passing cat to his unintentional stand-up routine in the club...I could go on. (and will!)

Best of all were the scenes with the Doctor and the children. There was a real affinity here which worked superbly, particularly the Doctor/Nancy two handers. (what a terrific actress, by the way...) Thought one of the finest scenes was where the Doctor has followed Nancy using his 'special' nose. She's too polite to say "you've got a big nose and big ears", but it's a lovely and funny scene...topped by the Doctor's musings on our damp little island , saying "No...Not Here" in reference to the Nazi war machine. Brilliant stuff, and Chris carries it off superbly. I have high hopes for David Tennant, but Chris' work (particularly, for me, in this episode) can't help but make me think "b*gger, one more season would've been nice." Still, there we go....

Rose. Wonderful as ever.Just how *good* is she?! (very)...funny, smart, brave, warm...(and seeing Billie hanging from that rope in '..confidential' ; what a cool woman.)

Captain Jack...interesting character! I look forward to seeing more of the 'intergalatic rogue'.

Direction...superb. Dark shadows, surreal moments, loads of atmosphere. Previous reviewers have mention 'Sapphire and Steel' and I think the 'vibe' from that terrific series is definately present here.

Great appearance by Richard Wilson as the weary, rather noble Dr Constantine. When he suddenly 'goes' and asks the Doctor if he's his mummy...followed by 'that' special effect. Blimey, never mind the kids watching, that gave *me* a shiver! Great cliffhanger too. Brrrr...

Well played, Mr Moffat et al, then. Easily another 9 out of ten...but then taking into account great lines like "Flag woman and U-boat Captain...!" and "Mr Spock?!"....Oh, 9 and a half, then!