The Giggle was an absolute joy to watch, from its sinister beginning in an old British toyshop, to a spectacular and unexpected finale.
Russell T. Davies had mischievously warned that there would be a controversial ending to this episode but, no spoilers, I found it the most satisfying of conclusions.
Davies is the master of playing with one's emotions and there were a few moments where I had to hold back the old water works!
Neil Patrick Harris plays The Toymaker, a villainous character last seen way back in 1966. He has a blast in the role; the musical sequence, accompanied by The Spice Girls' "Spice Up Your Life", is television gold, mixing humour with bloodchilling horror.
Speaking of horror, those who suffer from Pupaphobia (a fear of puppets) will be hiding from behind the settee in at least one scene.
As with the preceeding specials, Tennant and Tate are absolutely fantastic. Tennant's 14th is definitely one of my all-time favourite Doctors. The additional years since last playing the role, have given Tennant even more gravitas. He's brilliant.
So, another perfect 10. Welcome to another Golden Age of Doctor Who. I've been watching since 1973 and the show still feels fresh and exciting. The countdown to Christmas Day has begun.
Russell T. Davies had mischievously warned that there would be a controversial ending to this episode but, no spoilers, I found it the most satisfying of conclusions.
Davies is the master of playing with one's emotions and there were a few moments where I had to hold back the old water works!
Neil Patrick Harris plays The Toymaker, a villainous character last seen way back in 1966. He has a blast in the role; the musical sequence, accompanied by The Spice Girls' "Spice Up Your Life", is television gold, mixing humour with bloodchilling horror.
Speaking of horror, those who suffer from Pupaphobia (a fear of puppets) will be hiding from behind the settee in at least one scene.
As with the preceeding specials, Tennant and Tate are absolutely fantastic. Tennant's 14th is definitely one of my all-time favourite Doctors. The additional years since last playing the role, have given Tennant even more gravitas. He's brilliant.
So, another perfect 10. Welcome to another Golden Age of Doctor Who. I've been watching since 1973 and the show still feels fresh and exciting. The countdown to Christmas Day has begun.