XPost: rec.arts.drwho, uk.media.tv.sf.drwho, rec.arts.sf.tv 
 XPost: rec.arts.tv 
 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 Mark Gatiss's *"The Empress of Mars"* revisits classic Doctor Who territory 
 by 
 bringing back the Ice Warriors in a 19th-century Victorian setting. The 
 episode cleverly blends steampunk aesthetics with the alien, making for a 
 visually distinctive adventure. The premise of British soldiers colonising 
 Mars provides a satirical yet poignant commentary on imperialism, with the 
 Ice 
 Warrior Empress Iraxxa adding depth to the narrative as a leader navigating 
 survival and diplomacy. 
  
 Peter Capaldi's Doctor balances wit and moral complexity, and Pearl Mackie's 
 Bill delivers curiosity and courage. The soldiers' performances oscillate 
 between caricature and heartfelt moments, making them somewhat uneven. 
  
 The pacing, however, feels inconsistent. The first half carefully 
 establishes 
 the setting and characters, but the resolution arrives too abruptly, relying 
 on plot conveniences that undermine the story's tension. While the nostalgic 
 nod to the Ice Warriors' lore is welcome, it might not resonate as strongly 
 with newer fans. 
  
 **Rating: 80/100** 
 This is a fun, visually rich episode with classic Who charm, but its rushed 
 ending holds it back from being truly great. It's an enjoyable ride for fans 
 of both historical and alien-centered stories. 
 -- 
 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 
  
 --- SoupGate-DOS v1.05 
  * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)