This would be perfectly adequate as a good standard 'filler' episode in a season but is less thrilling than I would ideally like for a Christmas Special. It is fun, has some great humour, some touching pathos, some great acting, some smart dialogue and some decent action. It also, though, has a few cheesier aspects and an underwhelming villain with a thinner motive than I would like. It just slightly fails to meet expectations when compared to some of the terrific episodes that had dominated the latter half of the preceding season (Series 3) and that would make up most of the following season (Series 4).
It is overshadowed by the greatness of the standards at the time. However, this is not a poor or even below par episode in my opinion. It is a perfectly solid entertainment with some very good elements and a nice guest role for Kylie Minogue. The great guest cast members Bernard Cribbins, Clive Swift, Geoffrey Palmer and Russell Tovey all also shine in support roles.
David Tennant is always a pleasure to watch for me as he is always delivering a convincing and engaging performance.
My Rating - 7.5/10.
It is overshadowed by the greatness of the standards at the time. However, this is not a poor or even below par episode in my opinion. It is a perfectly solid entertainment with some very good elements and a nice guest role for Kylie Minogue. The great guest cast members Bernard Cribbins, Clive Swift, Geoffrey Palmer and Russell Tovey all also shine in support roles.
David Tennant is always a pleasure to watch for me as he is always delivering a convincing and engaging performance.
My Rating - 7.5/10.