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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 "Before the Flood" is the second part of the "Under the Lake" two-parter, 
 and it takes a more complex approach to time travel and causality. 
 Here's a review: 
  
 **Strengths:** 
  
 *   **Time Paradoxes:** The episode delves into interesting time paradoxes 
 and 
  causality loops, creating a mind-bending narrative. The bootstrap paradox 
 is 
   a key element, adding a layer of complexity. 
  
 *   **The Fisher King:** The design and concept of the Fisher King 
    are well-executed, creating a memorable and imposing villain. 
  
 *   **Doctor's Cleverness:** The episode showcases the Doctor's intelligence 
 and ability to manipulate time to his advantage. The pre-titles sequence 
 where 
     he explains the bootstrap paradox while playing the guitar is a 
 highlight. 
  
      *   **Pacing and Tension:** The episode maintains a good pace and 
 builds 
      tension effectively, despite the complex narrative. 
  
      **Possible Weaknesses:** 
  
      *   **Complexity:** The complex time travel elements might be confusing 
      for some viewers who prefer straightforward narratives. 
  
      *   **Resolution:** The resolution of the story, while clever, might 
 feel 
      a bit too convenient or reliant on time travel mechanics for some 
 viewers. 
  
      *   **Impact on "Under the Lake":** Some argue that the events 
      of "Before the Flood" retroactively diminish the impact of "Under the 
 Lake," 
      as the ghosts' actions are predetermined by the Doctor's actions in the 
 past. 
  
      **Overall Impression:** 
  
      *   **Clever and Thought-Provoking:** "Before the Flood" is a clever 
      and thought-provoking episode that explores complex time travel 
 concepts. 
  
      *   **Strong Conclusion to Two-Parter:** It serves as a satisfying 
 conclusion 
      to the "Under the Lake" two-parter, providing answers 
      and resolving the central conflict. 
  
      **Rating:** 
  
      Considering the clever time paradoxes, the imposing villain, and the 
 potential 
      for confusion, I'd rate Doctor Who - Before the Flood an **8/10**. It's 
      a strong and engaging episode that rewards close attention, but its 
 complexity 
      might not appeal to all viewers. 
  
      **Breakdown for viewers:** 
  
      *   **For fans who enjoy time travel stories, complex 
      narratives, and clever solutions:** 8.5/10 or even 9/10 
  
      *   **For fans who prefer straightforward plots 
      and dislike time paradoxes:** 7/10 or 7.5/10 
  
 -- 
 Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca 
 Yahweh, King & country!Never Satan President Republic!Beware AntiChrist 
 rising! 
 Look at Psalms 14 and 53 on Atheism ; 
 Birthdate - 29 January 1969 Redhill, Surrey, England, Uk 
  
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  * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)