"The Legend of Ruby Sunday" marks the first half of a two-part season finale
for Doctor Who. As with many season finales, this episode primarily functions as
setup for the climax, leaving a lot of unanswered questions and dangling plot
threads.
The episode throws viewers headfirst into the action with the Doctor and his companions arriving at UNIT headquarters. With UNIT on high alert due to the enigmatic Susan Triad, the episode barrels forward at a breakneck pace, introducing returning characters and establishing various mysteries.
A Story Still Unfolding
While the episode is packed with exciting moments, a sense of unearned plot development lingers. Certain plot threads, like Ruby's parentage and the significance of the memory snow, feel rushed and lack the foundation built throughout the season. This is especially true for the connection between these mysteries and the Doctor's investigation into Ruby's past. The characters themselves seem to acknowledge this disconnect, with the Doctor abruptly introducing the topic to UNIT without a clear narrative reason.
The episode also struggles to connect its various mysteries. The reveal that Susan Triad might be the Doctor's granddaughter is surprisingly underplayed, despite a strong performance by Ncuti Gatwa. Similarly, the episode leaves us with a foggy understanding of Susan Triad's identity, her motives, and the nature of her technology.
Classic Villain Makes a Return
The episode's cliffhanger centers around the reveal of Sutekh, a powerful villain from the Doctor Who classic series. While exciting for longtime fans, this reveal might leave newcomers confused. Sutekh is not a household name like the Daleks or Cybermen, and the episode doesn't provide much context for his significance. The decision to bring back this particular villain is intriguing, and his potential as a final boss for the season is undeniable. However, the episode relies heavily on the weight of Sutekh's name, which might be lost on viewers unfamiliar with the classic series.
Compelling Elements and Performances
Despite its structural weaknesses, "The Legend of Ruby Sunday" boasts several strong elements. The time window sequence is a visually striking concept, and the gradual reveal of Sutekh's cloud is both unsettling and suspenseful. The episode also embraces some classic Doctor Who tropes, including the use of VHS for time travel – a nod to the show's past under Steven Moffat.
The performances are another highlight. Ncuti Gatwa delivers a powerful portrayal of the Doctor's grief and confusion after the death of Colonel Chidozie. Millie Gibson effectively conveys Ruby's pain and vulnerability, and the supporting cast adds depth and humor to the narrative.
A Finale Poised for Greatness
While "The Legend of Ruby Sunday" stumbles in its attempt to juggle multiple plot threads, it successfully builds anticipation for the season finale. The final ten minutes are packed with impactful moments, including the reveal of Harriet Arbinger, Susan's mental breakdown, and the Doctor's mounting fear. The episode ends on a high note, leaving viewers eager to see how the various mysteries will be resolved in the concluding part.