Introduction: Understanding Doctor Who's Series Nine

Doctor Who, a series beloved for its adventures in space and time, often ignites discussions among fans about what makes an episode 'boring' or exciting. With its rich storytelling, the series has seen its share of debates. In this article, we explore the dynamics of Doctor Who's ninth series, examining the writing process, the impact of certain story arcs, and the experiences of viewers.

The Writing Process: A Study in Comparison

The writing process for Doctor Who and American shows often diverges significantly. In American TV, there is a smaller team of writers who collectively draft story ideas, contributing to the creative process. This team-based approach often results in a more cohesive narrative arc.

In contrast, Doctor Who, under the lead writer Steven Moffat, employs a more individualistic approach. A lead writer crafts the main storyline, while other writers are responsible for other episodes, with minimal collaboration. This can sometimes result in mixed outcomes, depending on the writer's unique style. Fans often find themselves evaluating individual writers or story arcs based on their personal preferences.

Season 9: A Bold Experiment in Storytelling

Season 9 of Doctor Who was particularly noteworthy for its experimental format. Dubbed as the 'Doctor Who that not everyone enjoyed,' this season is often remembered for its two-part episodes and a departure from the usual single-story format. The season saw an effort to reinvent the show, attempting to keep fans engaged by introducing more intricate storytelling.

For instance, Episode 9 marked a significant departure, with a standalone story that was different from the two-part episodes that followed. This created a divide among viewers, with some finding the standalone episode intriguing and others longing for the original format. Stephen Moffat's goal was to prove that the show could thrive with a different narrative approach, a move that didn't resonate with all.

Evaluation and Personal Insights

Personally, I believe that Series Nine was the most compelling and entertaining of the recent seasons. Clara was fleshed out as a character, moving beyond the mystery and becoming a genuine companion. The Tenth Doctor's development was evident, and the introduction of Missy added a unique twist to the series.

However, it is undeniable that the series has not maintained the quality of previous seasons. The decline has been steady since Season 7, a result, in part, of Steven Moffat's dual responsibility for both Doctor Who and Sherlock. Balancing these two shows became too overwhelming, leading to a drop in quality of both shows.

Season 7 saw the abandonment of Amy and Rory, and the introduction of Clara, which felt like a gimmick rather than a well-developed storyline. Episodes like Journey to the Center of the Tardis and The Rings of Akhaten were praised for their intricate narratives and imaginative storytelling, setting a high bar for subsequent seasons. Unfortunately, the season's overarching plot was convoluted and underwhelming, creating a sense of stagnation for viewers.

Conclusion

Doctor Who's ninth series remains a topic of much discussion. While it was an experiment in storytelling, it also marked a shift in the narrative style that some fans found difficult to appreciate. The writing process, characterized by Steven Moffat’s unique approach, has influenced the series in significant ways. As we reflect on these seasons, it is clear that the quality of Doctor Who has seen its ups and downs, with the last few seasons particularly feeling the strain of the creative pressures.