Poor Belinda (Varada Sethu). I think we can say with confidence that she’s not going home anytime soon, especially after that Doctor Who Season 2 premiere cliffhanger. Try as he might, there’s a good chance the Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) is in over his head regarding this potentially Earth-shattering dilemma.
Season 2 Episode 2, “Lux,” finds our titular Time Lord and his new companion landing in the middle of a spine-tingling mystery that tests Belinda’s mettle and trust in this strange alien who has promised to take her home. Read on for our spoiler-free review.
Doctor Who, Season 2 Episode 2, “Lux”
Here’s a synopsis for the episode per Disney:
“The Doctor’s quest to get Belinda home takes the TARDIS to Miami in 1952, where an abandoned cinema is holding a terrifying secret. Can the Doctor uncover Lux’s power?”
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“Lux” guest stars the inimitable Alan Cumming as the eponymous animated character. This isn’t the first time Cumming has appeared on Doctor Who. If you recall, he portrayed King James during the Thirteenth Doctor’s run in the episode “The Witchfinders.” Of course, he’s only lending his voice here. But, as expected, Cumming delivers a buoyant, energetic performance. He showcases his vocal versatility.
A Swing for the Fences
Russell T Davies, who pens this script, throws everything at the wall for “Lux.” Thankfully, much of what’s thrown, well, sticks. It manages to cram in quite a bit narratively without feeling overstuffed. We revisit a few open-ended storylines while weaving this new episodic tale. There’s a lovely blend of comedy, drama, action and campiness.
If you’re a fan of meta-humor, look no further than “Lux.” Without divulging spoilers (insert GIF of River Song shaking her head here), this episode takes a surprising turn for the meta about halfway through. It’s a fun swing for the storytelling fences that really works. Expect a treasure trove of Easter eggs, too, Whovians.
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Performances
Ncuti Gatwa’s energy as the Fifteenth Doctor is infectious. He’s a bright light in every scene. You can’t help but mavitate (hee-hee) toward him. This season, Gatwa feels even more comfortable in this role.
Varada Sethu is continuously up to the challenge of portraying a companion we seldom see in Doctor Who — a no-nonsense character who’d rather stay on Earth than travel through time and space. She also infuses Belinda with more intriguing layers. Sethu’s work is nuanced and wholly human. Belinda is a relatable character.
Together, these two radiate natural onscreen chemistry. There’s a different dynamic between Gatwa and Sethu than Gatwa had with Millie Gibson. Not better, just different. Gatwa’s Doctor adjusts to Belinda’s personality without losing his sparkle. Despite the clashing of demeanors and their eccentricities, the Doctor and Belinda work well together as a pair.
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A Ton of Fun
When all is said and done, “Lux” is simply a ton of fun. It’s not afraid to lean into the silliness of it all and go big with its storytelling choices. Expect bold, vibrant colors, an entertaining plot and a boisterous energy that’s well-maintained throughout.
Doctor Who Season 2 Episode 2 premieres on Saturday, April 19, at 3 am EST/12 am PST on Disney+ and 8 am BST on BBC iPlayer in the UK.
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What I do: I'm GGA's Managing Editor, a Senior Contributor, and Press Coordinator. I manage, contribute, and coordinate. Sometimes all at once. Joking aside, I oversee day-to-day operations for GGA, write, edit, and assess interview opportunities/press events.
Who I am: Before moving to Los Angeles after studying theater in college, I was born and raised in Amish country, Ohio. No, I am not Amish, even if I sometimes sport a modest bonnet.
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Critic: Rotten Tomatoes, CherryPicks, and the Hollywood Creative Alliance.
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