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Subject: Re: ChatGPT reviews Doctor Who - Face the Raven
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The Doctor wrote:
> **Review of "Face the Raven"**
> 
> *"Face the Raven"* is one of *Doctor Who's* most poignant and devastating
> episodes, cementing Clara Oswald's journey as a companion while delivering a
> tense and emotionally charged story. Written by Sarah Dollard, the episode
> focuses on themes of loyalty, consequence, and hubris, presenting a moral tale
> within a richly atmospheric setting.
> 
> The plot centers on Rigsy, a recurring character, who calls the Doctor
> and Clara for help when he discovers a mysterious countdown tattoo on his
> neck. This leads them to a hidden "trap street" in London, a secret community
> for alien refugees overseen by Ashildr (Maisie Williams). The premise
> effectively blends science fiction with urban fantasy, creating a rich,
> visually engaging environment. The trap street and its inhabitants
> are beautifully realised, exuding an air of danger and intrigue.
> 
> The strength of the episode lies in its emotional weight. Clara's impulsive
> decision to take Rigsy's death sentence upon herself, believing the Doctor
> will find a way to save her, is both heroic and tragically misguided. Her
> death, as a result of her own recklessness, is a heart-wrenching moment.
> Jenna Coleman gives a standout performance, showcasing Clara's bravery,
> overconfidence, and ultimate vulnerability in her final moments.
> 
> Peter Capaldi is equally exceptional as the Doctor, oscillating between fury,
> despair, and stoic resolve as he watches Clara face her fate. His quiet,
> raw anger toward Ashildr and his promise of vengeance are some of the
> episode's most chilling moments. The dynamic between the Doctor and Clara is
> at its most poignant here, underscoring the deep bond they share.
> 
> Maisie Williams' Ashildr, while compelling, feels slightly underutilised. Her
> motivations for orchestrating the events are left ambiguous, and her role as
> the reluctant antagonist could have been explored further. The episode also
> introduces a larger arc involving the Time Lords, which feels slightly
> shoehorned and detracts from the otherwise self-contained story.
> 
> While Clara's death is undeniably impactful, it does raise questions about her
> character arc. Her transformation from a grounded schoolteacher to a
> thrill-seeking adventurer is complete, but some viewers may find her fate
> frustratingly avoidable, given her recklessness. Nonetheless, the episode
> succeeds in making her death meaningful and emotionally resonant.
> 
> Technically, *"Face the Raven"* is superb. The direction by Justin Molotnikov
> creates a tense and atmospheric tone, while Murray Gold's haunting score
> amplifies the emotional stakes. The visual effects and set design are
> impressive, particularly the trap street's ethereal aesthetic.
> 
> In conclusion, *"Face the Raven"* is a powerful, bittersweet tale that serves
> as a fitting farewell for Clara Oswald. Despite some minor narrative
> shortcomings, the episode is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling
> and emotional impact.
> 
> **Rating: 90/100**
> With its poignant themes, stellar performances, and atmospheric
> world-building, *"Face the Raven"* stands out as one of the most memorable
> episodes of Capaldi's era.
> 
so there