Doctor Who The Well Review Exploring Deafness and Alien Threats in a Midnight Sequel

Doctor Who’s episode “The Well” acts as a compelling sequel to the classic “Midnight,” revisiting the theme of an unseen alien threat in a confined, hostile environment. The story follows the Doctor and his companion Belinda as they attempt to land the TARDIS on a distant planet 500,000 years in the future, only to find a mining colony devastated by a mysterious entity.

A standout aspect of the episode is the inclusion of Aliss Bethick, the colony’s deaf chef, portrayed authentically by Rose Ayling-Ellis. The narrative thoughtfully explores the challenges and nuances of communication with someone who is deaf, incorporating sign language and captioning technology as integral elements of the plot. This approach marks a significant advancement from previous episodes that featured deaf characters in more limited roles.

The alien entity’s mechanics are cleverly tied to the concept of positioning around Aliss, with the threat targeting whoever stands directly behind her—"you’ll die at midnight." This chilling rule drives the tension and action, culminating in a creative solution involving mercury to create a reflective barrier, echoing the original “Midnight” episode’s themes of perception and fear.

Beyond the sci-fi thriller elements, “The Well” excels in character development, particularly highlighting Belinda’s role as a capable and complex companion. The episode’s slower pace compared to earlier season entries allows for richer storytelling and emotional depth, making the alien menace feel more impactful.

Showrunner Russell T. Davies’ commitment to diversity and inclusion shines through, treating accessibility not as a token gesture but as a meaningful narrative and technical challenge. This open-door philosophy broadens storytelling possibilities and enriches the Doctor Who universe with fresh perspectives.

Production values benefit from increased budgets, allowing for detailed sets and atmospheric design that enhance the immersive experience. The episode’s focus on communication technology and accessibility tools also reflects real-world advancements, making the sci-fi elements resonate with contemporary audiences.

In conclusion, “The Well” is a thoughtful, character-driven episode that successfully blends suspense, inclusivity, and innovative storytelling. It demonstrates how science fiction can address accessibility and communication challenges while delivering engaging narratives. This approach not only enriches the Doctor Who series but also sets a benchmark for inclusive media production.