In ’73 Yards,’ the latest Doctor Who episode, Millie Gibson captivates viewers with her performance as Ruby Sunday in a tale of supernatural elements and political intrigue. Departing from the typical Doctor-centered narrative, the episode explores a unique storyline in rural Wales and urban settings, blending horror and thriller genres.
In the latest episode of Doctor Who, titled “73 Yards,” Millie Gibson takes the lead as Ruby Sunday in a narrative filled with supernatural elements and political intrigue. The episode, which aired on May 25, 2024, departs from the usual format by featuring Ruby without the Doctor, portrayed by Ncuti Gatwa.
The storyline begins in rural Wales and extends to a political thriller set between London and Cardiff. Ruby is pursued by a mysterious woman, a theme that persists across her life and adds a horror element to the episode. Aneurin Barnard stars as Roger ap Gwilliam, a nationalist politician with echoes of previous Russell T Davies characters.
Michelle Greenidge plays Ruby’s mother, Carla, who delivers a poignant performance. The Welsh pub night-time sequence is highlighted for its mix of local humor and menacing undertones. However, the ending, involving Ruby encountering an older version of herself, has been noted as less coherent, impacting the episode’s overall acclaim.
The episode, part of a “Doctor lite” format, follows the tradition of past episodes like “Blink,” maintaining a focus on the companion’s narrative. It blends folk horror with psychological elements as Ruby faces the haunting figure in various settings, including a train ride back to London.
“73 Yards” has been praised for its formal excellence and Gibson’s compelling performance, making it a standout in the series despite some narrative inconsistencies towards the end.
