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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 "Oxygen," the fifth episode of *Doctor Who* Series 10, is a tense 
 and thought-provoking story that uses the sci-fi framework to critique 
 capitalism. Written by Jamie Mathieson, the episode sees the Doctor, Bill, 
 and Nardole investigate a mining space station where oxygen is monetised, 
 and malfunctioning spacesuits are killing workers. 
  
 The episode's central concept-a future where air is a commodity-serves as a 
 scathing allegory for corporate greed and exploitation. Mathieson's script 
 is sharp and unflinching, presenting a chillingly plausible dystopian 
 vision. 
 The stakes are immediate and visceral, as the crew faces suffocation 
 and hostile suits. This relentless tension is heightened by the 
 claustrophobic 
 setting, amplified by excellent production design and direction. 
  
 Peter Capaldi is in fine form as the Doctor, balancing intellectual defiance 
 and moral outrage with his characteristic charm. Pearl Mackie's Bill 
 continues 
 to shine as a companion, with her vulnerability and humanity adding 
 emotional 
 weight to the story. Matt Lucas's Nardole also gets moments to shine, 
 providing humour and unexpected depth. 
  
 The episode takes a bold turn when the Doctor temporarily loses his sight-a 
 shocking and consequential development that underscores the narrative's 
 danger. This vulnerability enhances the emotional stakes, though some may 
 feel 
 the resolution, where the Doctor's blindness is not fully resolved, sets up 
 too much for future episodes at the cost of this story's conclusion. 
  
 The supporting characters are functional but not deeply developed, which 
 slightly undercuts the impact of their peril. However, the focus remains 
 squarely on the critique of exploitative systems, 
 making the lack of personal arcs somewhat forgivable. 
  
 **Rating: 88/100** 
 A tightly written, suspenseful episode that cleverly marries sci-fi thrills 
 with biting social commentary, though its setup for future arcs slightly 
 detracts from its standalone impact. 
 -- 
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