A review of the ‘Boom’ episode of Doctor Who, delving into its themes of AI dangers and religious extremism, while highlighting standout performances and shortcomings. The episode introduces a new companion and raises questions around ethics and coherence.
Doctor Who: “Boom” Episode Review
The “Boom” episode of Doctor Who aired on May 18, 2024, featuring complex themes such as AI dangers, religious extremism, and the arms industry’s malfeasance. This episode stands as the third in the series, penned by Steven Moffat and showcases Ncuti Gatwa as the Doctor. It also introduces a future companion, Mundy Flynn, played by Varada Sethu.
The plot unfolds on the desert planet Kastarion 3, featuring two futuristic Anglican soldiers navigating a war-torn landscape. Events quickly escalate with the arrival of dangerous robotic ambulance units, the Doctor alongside companion Ruby (Millie Gibson), and an unfolding mystery involving malfunctioning war algorithms.
Despite excellent performances by Gatwa and the supporting cast, the episode’s execution appears inconsistent, particularly in its handling of religious themes and AI ethics. However, the ensemble’s acting effectively elevates the narrative, even when the script suggests some contradictory aspects. The episode concludes with an AI-assisted resolution to the bomb threat, though it leaves some viewers questioning its overarching coherence.
Gatwa and Gibson display convincing on-screen chemistry, with Sethu adding a nuanced performance as Mundy Flynn, hinting at her potential in future episodes. Although visually impressive, “Boom” struggles to balance its ambitious themes, yielding mixed reviews.
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