'Doctor Who: Joy to the World' review: What a star

Dec 26, 2024

'Joy to the World' Christmas special blends fun and emotion as the Doctor confronts time-altering threats in a festive adventure.

'Doctor Who: Joy to the World' review: What a star

: The 2024 Doctor Who Christmas special, 'Joy to the World', sees Steven Moffatt crafting a story where the Doctor confronts a sentient star case. The episode revolves around the Doctor's interaction with hotel staff and guest Joy, hinting at themes of loss and renewal. As Joy becomes embroiled with a mysterious star, the narrative twists lead them to an unexpected biblical setting. Despite its unique plot, it pales against earlier specials, marking an entertaining yet less memorable holiday offering.

The 2024 Doctor Who Christmas Special titled 'Joy to the World' penned by Steven Moffatt presents a mix of light-heartedness and poignancy. It kicks off with the Doctor, portrayed by Ncuti Gatwa, caught in time-travel antics at a hotel enabling historical tourism, including amusing scenes across philosophical time periods.

The narrative gains depth with Doctor's intrigue around a sinister sentient briefcase carrying an embryonic star, which possesses individuals one after another. Meanwhile, holiday cheer is somewhat interrupted as the Doctor bonds with Anita, reflecting an atypical life over mutual adventures, giving the episode a personal angle.

With the orchestration leading to a climactic biblical twist, the Doctor and Joy must thwart imminent danger by masterminding tension with gravity-defying solutions. Yet, despite its inventive plot and festive charm, the disjointed pace and fluctuating tones make it a diversion rather than a classic among Who's holiday episodes.