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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 eview of "Smile"** 
  
 Frank Cottrell-Boyce's *"Smile"* is an intriguing exploration of humanity's 
 relationship with technology, set in a futuristic utopia gone wrong. 
 Following *The Pilot*, this episode continues to deepen the dynamic between 
 the Doctor and Bill, focusing on their mutual 
 curiosity and shared sense of wonder. 
  
 The plot revolves around a distant colony where the Vardy, micro-robot 
 workers, have turned against their human creators. These robots, represented 
 by emoji-faced interfaces, were designed to ensure happiness but become 
 deadly 
 when confronted with grief. The concept of a "happiness police" draws 
 fascinating parallels to societal pressures around emotional expression, 
 offering a sharp critique of enforced positivity. 
  
 Peter Capaldi once again excels as the Doctor, blending his wit and 
 intellect 
 with moments of genuine empathy. His determination to uncover the truth 
 about 
 the colony's tragedy is both captivating and poignant. Pearl Mackie's Bill 
 continues to shine as a fresh, inquisitive companion who questions the 
 Doctor's methods and assumptions. Her observations, from questioning the 
 ethics of technology to marveling at the 
 TARDIS, provide much of the episode's heart. 
  
 The setting-a gleaming, white, high-tech city surrounded by golden fields-is 
 visually stunning and thematically rich. Director Lawrence Gough maximizes 
 the eerie beauty of the Vardy's swarm-like behavior, creating tension 
 without 
 over-relying on overt scares. Murray Gold's minimalist score complements 
 the atmosphere, enhancing both moments of suspense and quiet introspection. 
  
 However, the episode falters in its pacing. The initial exploration of the 
 colony builds intrigue, but the final resolution feels rushed and overly 
 neat. 
 The solution-essentially a "reset" of the Vardy's programming-raises 
 questions 
 about accountability and the future of human-robot relations, 
 but these are left largely unexplored. 
  
 Thematically, *"Smile"* tackles important ideas about grief, emotional 
 repression, and the unintended consequences of technological advancements. 
 Yet, these themes are not fully developed, leaving the story feeling 
 somewhat 
 hollow. While the premise is compelling, the execution lacks the depth 
 and nuance needed to make a lasting impact. 
  
 There are also moments of tonal inconsistency. The lighthearted emoji motif 
 clashes with the darker implications of the Vardy's actions, creating 
 a dissonance that undermines the episode's tension. While the concept 
 of emojis as a language of happiness is clever, it risks veering into 
 gimmick territory. 
  
 For long-time fans, the episode offers echoes of past *Doctor Who* stories, 
 particularly those exploring artificial intelligence, such 
 as *"The Robots of Death"* or *"Silence in the Library"*. However, 
 *"Smile"* struggles to reach the same heights of narrative complexity 
 or emotional resonance. 
  
 In conclusion, *"Smile"* is a visually striking and thought-provoking 
 episode 
 that introduces intriguing ideas but doesn't fully capitalise on them. While 
 it's buoyed by strong performances and engaging character moments, 
 it ultimately feels more like a promising concept than a fully realised 
 story. 
  
 **Rating: 75/100** 
 A solid but uneven exploration of humanity, technology, and emotion, 
 with moments of brilliance overshadowed by rushed storytelling. 
 -- 
 Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca 
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 rising! 
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 Merry Christmas 2024 and Happy New Year 2025 
  
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  * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)