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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
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 TV Review: "Doctor Who: The Empire of Death" 
  
 In a bold return to classic Doctor Who themes, Russell T Davies crafts an 
 ambitious narrative in "The Empire of Death" that pits the Doctor against 
 the formidable Sutekh once more. This episode dives headfirst into nostalgia 
 while pushing the boundaries of the show's mythos, resulting in a mixed 
 bag of classic charm and contemporary ambition. 
  
 Davies wastes no time plunging viewers into the action with Susan's 
 ominous ability to "breathe out death," setting a chilling tone 
 that persists throughout. The stakes escalate swiftly as UNIT's arsenal 
 is aimed at Sutekh, portrayed with chilling malevolence by an unseen force 
 known as the "Harbinger." The race against time, quite literally, as Mel 
 and the Doctor combat a dust cloud threatening Earth, 
 adds urgency and dynamism to the plot. 
  
 Central to the episode's intrigue is the enigmatic Ruby and her ties to both 
 the Doctor and Sutekh's universe. Actress Melanie Gibson delivers a standout 
 performance, infusing Ruby with a mix of vulnerability and determination. 
 Her journey to reunite with her real mother amidst the chaos amplifies 
 the emotional core of the narrative. 
  
 However, the episode's strength lies in its exploration of Sutekh's return 
  and his eerie resonance as a villain. Taunting the Doctor with his past 
 defeats 
  and manipulating the fabric of time and death, Sutekh emerges as a 
 formidable 
  foe, challenging the Doctor's ingenuity and resolve. The revelation that 
 Sutekh 
  has become part of the TARDIS elevates the stakes to cosmic proportions, 
  cleverly tying past encounters with current events. 
  
 Visually, "The Empire of Death" excels in creating a bleak, desolate 
 atmosphere  reflective of Sutekh's influence. From the frozen wastelands of 
 Sutekh's  universe to the claustrophobic Time Chamber, each setting is 
 meticulously crafted to enhance the story's tension and drama. 
 The incorporation of practical effects and CGI blends seamlessly, 
 enriching the viewing experience without overshadowing the narrative. 
  
 Despite its strengths, the episode occasionally falters under the weight 
 of its own ambition. The resolution, involving Ruby's manipulation of TARDIS 
 technology, feels rushed and overly convenient, detracting from the 
 otherwise 
 gripping climax. Additionally, some character arcs, particularly Mel's 
 entanglement with Sutekh, feel underdeveloped amidst the broader narrative 
 scope. 
  
 Ultimately, "The Empire of Death" is a testament to Russell T Davies' 
 ability 
 to rejuvenate classic Doctor Who elements while infusing them with modern 
 storytelling sensibilities. It's an episode that resonates with both 
 long-time fans and newcomers, offering a tantalising glimpse into the show's 
 enduring legacy and the boundless creativity of its creators. 
  
 Rating: 4/5 stars 
  
 Despite its flaws, "The Empire of Death" stands as a testament 
 to the enduring appeal of Doctor Who under Davies' stewardship, 
 promising a thrilling future for the beloved series. 
  
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 Doctor Who: Susan Breathes Out Death €€€ A Universe-Ending Romp with a Spoon 
  
 Russell T Davies' "Susan Breathes Out Death" throws everything - time 
 travel, 
 cosmic entities, and a spoon - into a whirlwind finale for this Doctor Who 
 season.  While the plot is a tad overstuffed, the high stakes and surprising 
 emotional beats make for a thrilling conclusion. 
  
 The story picks up right where we left off: Sutekh, the ancient evil, 
 possessing UNIT and threatening to engulf the universe.  The Doctor, 
 ever resourceful, utilises a UNIT-built time travel model to combat 
 Sutekh's own TARDIS-like vessel.  The special effects depicting these 
 clashing time machines are a highlight, showcasing the scale of the threat. 
  
 Ncuti Gatwa's Doctor shines in this episode.  Her determination to fight 
 for life against all odds is palpable.  However, it's Mel who gets 
 a surprising arc.  The gradual corruption by Sutekh adds a layer of tragedy 
 and raises the stakes for the Doctor's mission. 
  
 The episode isn't without flaws.  The pacing can be breakneck at times, 
 with exposition crammed between universe-ending battles. 
 The reveal of Ruby's mother feels somewhat rushed, 
 and the significance of the mysterious neighbour is left hanging for now. 
  
 However, the episode's strengths outweigh its weaknesses.  The Doctor's 
 resourcefulness, the emotional weight of Mel's fate, and the epic showdown 
  against Sutekh deliver a satisfying conclusion.  The cliffhanger ending, 
  with a new threat potentially looming, leaves viewers eager for more. 
  
 Final Verdict: 3.5 out of 5 stars.  "Susan Breathes Out Death" 
 is a thrilling and emotional conclusion filled with universe-ending 
 peril and surprising character moments.  While the plot might be a bit 
 overstuffed, the high stakes and strong performances make for a memorable 
 finale.  The cliffhanger ending promises even more adventures to come. 
 This episode might not be a classic, but it brings a satisfying close 
 to the season with the return of a classic foe 
 and the introduction of a new mystery. 
 -- 
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