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Review of Revolution of the Daleks by WhoPotterVian

19 July 2024

As those of you who follow me on Twitter know, I'd been looking forward to this episode more than ever, and it did not disappoint. Revolution of the Daleks was a thrilling ride from start to finish; so much was packed into that 73 minutes; Captain Jack's return was exactly what I wanted, and more. His chemistry and interactions with Jodie Whittaker's Doctor was just as I pictured they would be in my head; it's clear that Chibnall knows exactly how to write for Jack, and John Barrowman plays the part so effortlessly.

 

Jodie Whittaker gave her best performance yet. I absolutely loved her little nicknames for the monsters in the prison, the escape with Jack, and her confrontation with the Dalek Death Squad.

But honestly, her stand-out moment overall was that amazing exchange between the Doctor and Ryan about the events of The Timeless Children. The character work in this episode was outstanding; Chibnall really dug into the fam and their individual personalities here, and what makes them tick. The companions now feel more developed than ever.

 

It was a really unique Dalek plot also; a narrative revolving around a human being creating their own Daleks and growing a Kaled mutant is really unique, and the imagery of Daleks alongside riot police is quite arresting. It all feels strangely topical to 2020 despite it being filmed in 2019, what with talk of uncertainty and the Dalek tear gas.

 

So great to see a Dalek Civil War again too. That hasn't been done since Remembrance of the Daleks!

 

I'm relieved Graham didn't die. Thank God the option of him returning has been teased and left open, and it was nice to see things come full circle with Ryan trying once again to ride his bike.

 

Loved Jack's reference to Gwen Cooper, even if it's a shame we didn't see Torchwood. And John Bishop as a new companion? Great news!

Review created on 19-07-24