The latest episode, 73 Yards, has taken fans on an emotional journey like no other, especially with the focus on Ruby Sunday. In a surprising twist, this installment features barely any scenes with the Doctor, instead spotlighting Ruby in a standalone storyline reminiscent of Season 4’s Turn Left.
Ruby’s Isolated Challenge
The episode plunges Ruby into an eerie scenario where she is relentlessly followed by a mysterious old woman who keeps exactly 73 yards away from her at all times. Every attempt Ruby makes to have others interact with the figure results in them freaking out and abandoning her.
An Endless Night at the Inn
One of the turning points occurs when Ruby finds herself staying in an inn filled with rude patrons. This sequence vividly depicts her loneliness and vulnerability. Estranged from her foster mother Carla, who delivers a heart-breaking, possessed-like speech rejecting Ruby, she’s forced to navigate life’s challenges solo.
A returning character, Kate Lethbridge-Stewart (played by Jemma Redgrave), briefly appears but offers little solace or clear answers regarding Ruby’s plight, instead highlighting the season’s shift to magic-related dilemmas over scientific ones.
The Mysterious Politician
As the story progresses into its second half, Ruby unearths a potential solution: stopping the rising politician Roger AP Gwilliam, whom the Doctor had warned about. It frames her mission around preventing an impending nuclear catastrophe.
The Dead Zone Inspiration
This twist bears resemblance to Stephen King’s The Dead Zone, where a psychic foresees a politician’s destructive rise to power. However, unlike the pessimistic tone of works like Black Mirror’s Demon 79, “Doctor Who” opts for a more hopeful resolution.
A Renewed Purpose for Ruby
What’s most compelling is how Ruby handles her mission with empathy and perseverance. Instead of eliminating her demon—or disturbing the timeline—she places it near Gwilliam, neutralizing his threat by proxy. This approach maintains the family-friendly essence while setting Ruby apart from past companions.
Navigating Solitude and Strength
Ruby’s journey through decades of solitude before discovering her purpose parallels King’s character Johnny from The Dead Zone. Yet Ruby succeeds in averting disaster without resorting to violence or facing tragic consequences herself.
A New Perspective on Companions
This episode shines not just a light on Ruby’s resilience but also offers viewers deeper insight into her character. It’s reminiscent of how earlier companions such as Rose and Martha were explored and fleshed out in their respective arcs. Russell T Davies’ narrative choice enriches the evolving dynamic without overshadowing the beloved Doctor.
Follow Us
