"The Ghost Monument"

"The Ghost Monument" can be seen as fulfilling the same function for Chris Chibnall as "The End of the World" did for Russell T Davies – a simple plot set in an extraordinary location, to plunge the companions headlong into the alien. As with "The End of the World", the plot is secondary to this aim, but, again, the fact that Chibnall is not the writer that his predecessors are is evident. There are stretches of clunky dialogue that would never have passed muster in previous years and the story is haphazardly structured. The central plot of the race is not a very engaging storyline, and, indeed, is not really presented well as a race.

With this in mind, the script is reinforced to a colossal degree by the utterly stunning production. The South African locations are spectacular and Mark Tonderai, gives the episode a very realistic feel by using deliberately messy composiitions – the scene where the spaceship crashes is a fantastic use of this technique. Tonderai also helps bring the Revenants to life, a brilliantly simple monster, evocative of one of M R James’s most famous tales that, unlike the tooth collection last time, is terrifying without being inappropriate. We are finally reunited with the TARDIS and the new set is spectacular. We also finally see the new opening credits and they are a very nice change of pace from before, with a fine arrangement by Segun Akinola.

The half-baked writing for the supporting characters is compensated for by some very nice performances. Shaun Dooley and Susan Lynch round out their characters very well and it is always good to see Art Malik. The best part of Chibnall’s writing is in fleshing out the regulars. We can see the relationships developing nicely and the performances are spot on. Indeed what Chibnall understands very well is the character of the Doctor. The Doctor sizes up each sticky situation and works out a brilliant solution and encourages her companions to use their skills and knowledge to help. Jodie Whittaker completely sells us on the Doctor and her joy at being reunited with the TARDIS is truly wonderful to behold.

Most importantly, despite its flaws, I had a blast watching the story – which is, of course the most important thing!

NEXT: "Rosa"