This review contains spoilers!
Thworping through time and space, one adventure at a time!
“THE GOOD SAMARITAN: A FALSE UTOPIA ON THE BRINK OF COLLAPSE”
Continuing their desperate search for a way back to Pete’s World, Rose and Danni arrive in yet another remote colony in The Good Samaritan. This time, they find themselves in a rigid, technology-driven society that has managed to keep the anti-life threat at bay—but at a cost. Strict quarantine laws are enforced with ruthless efficiency by the Superior, who maintains control by branding his people with tattooed marks for loyalty and usefulness. Those deemed unworthy or dangerous, such as the mysterious "Pathics," are exiled to containment bubbles. It’s a classic Doctor Who dystopia: a seemingly perfect society hiding a sinister reality beneath its surface.
SEPARATE STRUGGLES, INTERTWINED FATES
Rose and Danni’s paths diverge early on, allowing both characters to shine in different ways. Rose, ever the problem solver, is assigned to help a lead scientist who is working on repairing the Dimension Cannon. Meanwhile, Danni finds themselves imprisoned with the Pathics, forced to confront their own abilities and lead a rebellion. The power dynamics within this society are gripping, and the script effectively builds tension as the cracks in the system start to show.
A CHILLING REVELATION ABOUT ANTI-LIFE
One of the most intriguing elements of the episode is its expansion of the anti-life concept. The revelation that everyone ultimately succumbs to anti-life, no matter how hard they fight against it, adds a grim inevitability to the crisis. This, coupled with the hauntingly atmospheric storm sequences, makes for some of the most unsettling moments in Dimension Cannon so far. The sound design does an excellent job of bringing the eerie threat to life.
A STRONG SHOWING FROM DANNI
This is very much Danni’s episode, and Em Thane delivers a standout performance. Their determination, resilience, and growing mastery over their abilities make them a formidable presence. The Superior, played with commanding authority by George Asprey, is also a great antagonist—his belief in his own righteousness making him all the more dangerous. Billie Piper returns to form as Rose, balancing frustration and hope as she fights to complete her mission.
A SATISFYING PAYOFF WITH ROOM FOR MORE
The final act is a thrilling descent into chaos, as the Superior’s paranoia pushes him to send troops against the Pathics, believing them responsible for spreading anti-life. With a devastating new storm approaching, Danni seizes the moment, using their abilities not only to save the day but also to grant Rose telepathic powers—allowing her to finally locate the Doctor. This pivotal moment bridges the Dimension Cannon series with Doctor Who’s Series 4, neatly tying into the Bad Wolf prophecy while leaving plenty of room for future stories.
📝VERDICT: 9/10
The Good Samaritan may follow a familiar Doctor Who structure, but its strong world-building, compelling performances, and eerie atmosphere make it one of the most effective entries in Trapped. With a gripping story, an expanded exploration of anti-life, and a significant step forward in Rose’s journey, it delivers both action and emotional stakes, setting up an exciting path for what’s to come.
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