The plot for this story is modern and dynamic. The idea of an alien invasion in the time of plague, carried out in a covert way is very different from anything the show has done before. It’s exciting. I wish the alien menace wasn’t a harlequin, clown thing. But the idea is very strong indeed. Makes for good plotting and pacing. There is violence as well, which adds drama and stakes. The show is changing for the better.

It is surprising to see them focus on the emotions of our TARDIS crew and the lasting impact on them from the previous story. This is the strongest example in the history of Doctor Who so far that it has treated their companions as real people who are taking part in a continuing drama that, for them, is not split up into little stories. Having said that, it’s crudely done. They have yet to refine their communication to anything other than broad beats and callbacks. It’s promising though.

The characters (especially the Doctor and his companions) and broad plot are the selling points of The Visitation. I like that the alien cannot be returned to its home, because it’s a criminal who will go to prison. This is an alien which is not shown as representative of its race. But the pacing of the plot eeks out at an exceptionally slow speed which makes it difficult to stay excited. This could easily have been a two partner without losing any of the alien’s treacherous plans.

I’m also not sure having The Doctor being responsible for not stopping the great fire of London. Oh dear. Now that’s a mistake!