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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 "Under the Lake" is a strong opening to a two-part story in Doctor Who 
 Series 
 9, praised for its atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and strong 
 ensemble 
 cast. Here's a breakdown: 
  
 **Strengths:** 
  
 *   **Atmospheric Setting:** The underwater base creates a claustrophobic 
 and 
 eerie atmosphere, enhancing the suspense and horror elements. 
  
 *   **Suspenseful Plot:** The mystery of the ghosts and their origins is 
 well-paced, keeping viewers engaged and guessing. 
  
 *   **Strong Ensemble Cast:** The episode features a memorable supporting 
 cast 
 with distinct personalities, making the base feel like a real community. 
  
 *   **Classic "Base Under Siege" Trope:** The episode effectively uses the 
 classic Doctor Who trope of a "base under siege," 
 creating a sense of danger and urgency. 
  
 *   **Cliffhanger Ending:** The cliffhanger ending is effective, 
 leaving viewers eager to see the resolution in the next episode. 
  
 **Possible Weaknesses:** 
  
 *   **Familiar Trope:** While the "base under siege" trope is well-executed, 
 it's not the most original concept for Doctor Who. 
  
 *   **Limited Character Development (Beyond the Doctor and Clara):** 
 While the supporting cast is memorable, their character development 
 is limited due to the focus on the plot and the Doctor and Clara's 
 reactions. 
  
 **Overall Impression:** 
  
 *   **Effective Horror/Suspense Episode:** "Under the Lake" is a well- 
 crafted 
 horror/suspense episode that effectively uses its setting and ensemble cast 
 to create a tense and engaging story. 
  
 *   **Strong Setup for Part Two:** The episode's strength lies in its 
 effective setup for the second part of the story, leaving viewers with 
 plenty 
 of questions and anticipation. 
  
 **Rating:** 
  
 Considering the atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and some familiar 
 elements, I'd rate Doctor Who - Under the Lake an **8/10**. It's a strong 
 and engaging episode that effectively sets up the conclusion in the 
 following 
 episode. 
  
 **Breakdown for viewers:** 
  
 *   **For fans who enjoy suspenseful stories, horror elements, 
 and the "base under siege" trope:** 8.5/10 or even 9/10 
  
 *   **For fans who prefer highly original concepts and deep character 
 development for all characters:** 7/10 or 7.5/10 
  
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