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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 **Review of "The Girl Who Died"** 
  
 *"The Girl Who Died"* delivers a compelling mix of humour, heart, and mythic 
 stakes. Written by Jamie Mathieson and Steven Moffat, the episode balances 
 quirky comedic elements with profound moral dilemmas, making it a memorable 
 outing for Peter Capaldi's Twelfth Doctor. 
  
 The plot introduces the Doctor and Clara (Jenna Coleman) in a Viking village 
 under threat from the alien Mire. The Mire, while visually imposing, are 
 less 
 compelling as villains, primarily serving as a narrative tool to explore the 
 Doctor's choices. The true focus lies on the villagers, particularly the 
 spirited Ashildr, portrayed by Maisie Williams. Her performance imbues the 
 character with vulnerability and strength, making her fate resonate deeply. 
  
 Peter Capaldi excels, particularly during the Doctor's realisation of why 
 his face resembles someone he saved before (*The Fires of Pompeii* 
 callback). 
 This moment adds layers to the Doctor's struggle with his own role 
 and limitations. The comedic scenes, like the Doctor's "baby talk" 
 translation 
 or his mock training of the villagers, balance the heavier emotional beats. 
  
 Thematically, the episode grapples with the consequences of power 
 and immortality. The Doctor's decision to save Ashildr by turning her into a 
 hybrid immortal is both triumphant and tragic, raising questions about 
 responsibility and unintended consequences. The final scene, showing 
 Ashildr's 
 face harden as time passes, is haunting and sets up intriguing 
 possibilities. 
  
 However, the Mire's underdevelopment as villains and a slightly rushed 
  resolution weaken the episode's impact. The use of comedic elements, 
   while effective, occasionally undercuts the tension. 
  
   --- 
  
   **Final Rating: 88/100** 
   *"The Girl Who Died"* blends humour, mythology, and moral complexity 
   effectively. Its emotional weight, particularly around Ashildr's 
   transformation, elevates it, though its pacing and lackluster 
   antagonists hold it back slightly. 
  
   For the full script, visit 
    
   (http://www.chakoteya.net/DoctorWho/35-5.htm). 
 -- 
 Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca 
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