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“A MESSAGE FROM THE DOCTOR – A BRIEF TRANSMISSION OF HOPE IN LOCKDOWN FORM”

Originally filmed and shared by Jodie Whittaker during the COVID lockdowns, A Message from the Doctor was later transcribed as a short text piece capturing the Thirteenth Doctor’s reassuring voice in just two pages. This monologue was never meant to be a grand narrative, but rather a small act of kindness in a time of crisis—and it succeeds at that.

The story, such as it is, delivers a gentle nudge to "be kind," "tell bad jokes," "trust doctors," and "stay strong"—a compassionate reminder of the Doctor’s role not just as a sci-fi hero but as a symbol of enduring optimism. It's deeply in character for Whittaker's Doctor: quirky, heartfelt, slightly awkward, but above all, supportive. The line about being “really good at bad jokes” particularly rings true.

THIRTEEN’S VOICE IN A TIME CAPSULE

Reading this now, years removed from lockdown and the Watchalongs that briefly revived communal viewing, it’s hard not to feel the passage of time dulling its impact. The moment has faded, and while the sentiment remains true, the emotional resonance isn’t quite as powerful as it was during those uncertain early days of isolation.

Still, it’s easy to imagine Whittaker in her costume, filming in a darkened cupboard, doing what the Doctor always does—offering hope when it’s most needed. It’s a message aimed at real-world audiences more than in-universe ones, but that gives it an honesty and warmth that remains touching even now.

📝VERDICT:

A heartfelt if slight entry that perfectly captures the Thirteenth Doctor’s tone and values, even if its purpose feels like a snapshot from a different time. 6/10.

A rare instance where a score is driven by the real world meaning and function of a story, rather than the plot, character development, etc. What a crazy experience we all lived through.