We’re in a brief period of Doctor Who (series 1-5) that I have watched enough times as a child to have a very solid perceived notion of how much I’ll enjoy rewatching it. This story, whilst being enjoyable and a little bit different from standard Who, wasn’t quite as funny or interesting as I remembered it.

It relies on the fact that it’s stretching the formula to that of a murder mystery but then doesn’t push it far enough for my tastes. It would have been better if they’d focused energy on fleshing out the mystery element, making it meatier and more compelling. Instead it’s just set dressing for a genuinely fun, comedy caper.

The poison / parler scene is iconic though - every bit as enjoyable all these years later. Christopher Benjamin’s long awaited return to the show is also an absolute highlight. He absolutely nails these sympathetic / pathetic characters, giving them naturally engaging warmth and heart. I found the dialogue distracting at times. I don’t think it benefited from the constant “Easter eggs” (references to Agatha Christie’s work).

The Doctor and Donna steal the show. Catherine Tate is given space in what is only the second comedy of the series to show off her comic instincts which set her apart positively from a companion in the history of the show.