Doctor Who: Season 0, Episode 39 - Best of the Monsters (2011)

"Best of the Monsters" begins with a montage of various iconic monsters from the Doctor Who series, showcasing their terrifying appearances and the impact they have had on the Doctor and his companions. The episode serves as a retrospective, highlighting the most memorable creatures that have haunted the Doctor throughout his adventures.

The first segment focuses on the Daleks, the Doctor's most infamous adversaries. Clips are shown of their menacing exclamations, "Exterminate!" and their relentless pursuit of the Doctor. The emotional weight of the Doctor's encounters with the Daleks is emphasized, particularly the moral dilemmas he faces when confronting their genocidal tendencies. The montage captures the fear and chaos they instigate, illustrating their role as a symbol of ultimate evil in the universe.

Next, the episode transitions to the Cybermen, showcasing their cold, emotionless nature and their quest to convert humanity into their own kind. The visuals depict their chilling march and the Doctor's desperate attempts to thwart their plans. Key moments from past episodes are highlighted, including the Doctor's strategic maneuvers to outsmart the Cybermen and save his companions from being converted. The emotional stakes are raised as the Doctor reflects on the loss of friends and the toll these encounters have taken on him.

The Weeping Angels are introduced next, with scenes that capture their terrifying ability to move only when not being observed. The tension builds as the episode revisits the Doctor's encounters with these quantum-locked creatures, emphasizing the horror of being trapped in a time loop and the emotional strain it places on the Doctor and his companions. The montage includes the heart-pounding moments of escape and the clever tactics the Doctor employs to outwit the Angels.

Following the Weeping Angels, the episode shifts focus to the Silence, a religious order that manipulates humanity's perception. The clips illustrate the disorienting experience of encountering the Silence, where people forget them as soon as they look away. The Doctor's frustration and determination to uncover their secrets are palpable, showcasing his relentless pursuit of truth and justice. The emotional turmoil of his companions, who struggle to comprehend the threat, adds depth to the narrative.

The episode also features the Zygons, highlighting their shapeshifting abilities and the chaos they create when they infiltrate human society. The Doctor's encounters with the Zygons are marked by clever dialogue and strategic thinking, as he navigates the complexities of their plans. The emotional stakes rise as the Doctor must protect innocent lives while confronting the Zygons' deceptive nature.

As the montage continues, the episode revisits the Master, the Doctor's arch-nemesis. The clips depict their intense confrontations, filled with emotional conflict and deep-seated rivalry. The Master's chaotic nature and the Doctor's attempts to save him from his own darkness are explored, showcasing the complexity of their relationship. The emotional weight of their battles is underscored by the Doctor's internal struggle between compassion and the need to stop the Master's destructive plans.

The episode culminates in a reflection on the impact these monsters have had on the Doctor's life. The Doctor's emotional state is laid bare as he grapples with the memories of loss, sacrifice, and the burden of being a hero. The montage concludes with a powerful reminder of the resilience of the Doctor, who continues to fight against these formidable foes, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and hope for a better future.

Throughout "Best of the Monsters," the narrative weaves together the Doctor's encounters with these iconic adversaries, creating a rich tapestry of horror, emotion, and the enduring struggle between good and evil. The episode serves as a celebration of the Doctor Who legacy, encapsulating the essence of what makes the Doctor's battles against these monsters so compelling.

In the ending of "Best of the Monsters," the Doctor reflects on the various monsters he has encountered throughout his travels. He acknowledges the complexity of these creatures, revealing that they often embody deeper themes of fear and humanity. The episode concludes with a montage of iconic monsters from the series, emphasizing their significance in the Doctor's journey and the lessons learned from each encounter.

As the episode draws to a close, the Doctor stands alone, contemplating the nature of monsters and the impact they have had on his life and the lives of others. The screen fades to black, leaving viewers with a sense of nostalgia and reflection on the series' rich history.

The ending of "Best of the Monsters" unfolds with a poignant montage that encapsulates the essence of the Doctor's encounters with various monsters throughout the series. The scene opens with the Doctor, portrayed by Matt Smith, standing in the TARDIS, surrounded by the familiar whirring sounds of the time machine. His expression is contemplative, a mixture of nostalgia and introspection as he prepares to reflect on his past.

The camera zooms in on the Doctor's face, capturing the flicker of emotions as he begins to recount the stories of the monsters he has faced. Each recollection is accompanied by vivid imagery from previous episodes, showcasing iconic creatures such as the Daleks, Cybermen, and Weeping Angels. The Doctor's voice carries a weight of experience, revealing his understanding that these monsters are not merely villains but representations of fear, loss, and the darker aspects of humanity.

As the montage progresses, the scenes shift rapidly, interspersing moments of terror with those of bravery and resilience. The Doctor's narration emphasizes the lessons learned from each encounter, highlighting how these monsters have shaped him and the people he has met along the way. The emotional weight of his words resonates deeply, as he acknowledges the pain and suffering caused by these creatures, but also the strength and courage they have inspired in others.

The visuals become increasingly dynamic, showcasing the Doctor's triumphs and failures, the friends he has lost, and the lives he has saved. Each monster is presented not just as a foe but as a catalyst for growth and change, both for the Doctor and for those who have stood by his side. The montage serves as a reminder of the complexity of good and evil, illustrating that monsters can sometimes be reflections of the very fears that reside within us.

As the final scenes of the montage play out, the Doctor's expression shifts from somber reflection to a determined resolve. He stands tall, embodying the spirit of hope and resilience that defines his character. The screen begins to fade to black, but not before the Doctor delivers a final, heartfelt message about the importance of facing one's fears and the power of compassion in overcoming darkness.

In the closing moments, the audience is left with a lingering sense of nostalgia, as the iconic theme music swells in the background. The Doctor's journey continues, but this moment serves as a poignant reminder of the monsters he has faced and the lessons they have imparted. The episode concludes with a sense of closure, yet also an invitation to reflect on the ongoing battle between light and darkness, both in the universe and within ourselves.

In the episode "Best of the Monsters," there is no post-credit scene. The episode serves as a compilation of various iconic monsters from the Doctor Who series, showcasing their impact and significance throughout the show's history. It features clips and commentary, but it does not include any additional scenes or content after the credits roll. The focus remains on celebrating the legacy of the Doctor's adversaries rather than introducing new plot elements or characters.

The episode 'Best of the Monsters' showcases a variety of iconic monsters from the Doctor Who series, including the Daleks, Cybermen, Weeping Angels, and the Silence. Each monster is highlighted through clips and commentary, emphasizing their unique characteristics and the fear they instill.

Throughout 'Best of the Monsters', the Doctor expresses a mix of fascination and dread towards the various creatures. His emotional state fluctuates as he recalls past encounters, showcasing his deep-seated respect for the dangers they represent, while also revealing his determination to confront them.

Yes, 'Best of the Monsters' provides new insights into the origins and motivations of several monsters. For instance, the episode delves into the backstory of the Weeping Angels, exploring their tragic nature and the paradox of their existence, which adds depth to their character.

The companions of the Doctor are integral to the narrative of 'Best of the Monsters', as their reactions and experiences with the monsters are highlighted. Their fear, bravery, and emotional responses serve to humanize the encounters, illustrating the personal stakes involved when facing such formidable foes.

In 'Best of the Monsters', the Doctor shows a particularly strong connection to the Daleks. His history with them is fraught with conflict and emotional turmoil, and this episode revisits those moments, showcasing the Doctor's internal struggle with the legacy of the Daleks and the impact they have had on his life.

"Best of the Monsters" is a compilation episode that revisits some of the most iconic and frightening creatures from the "Doctor Who" series. While it is generally family-friendly, there are a few aspects that might be considered potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers:

1. Monsters and Creatures: The episode features various monsters, some of which are visually frightening and may evoke fear. This includes creatures like the Daleks, Cybermen, and Weeping Angels, which have been known to cause anxiety in younger viewers.

2. Tense and Suspenseful Moments: The compilation includes scenes that build tension and suspense, which might be unsettling for sensitive viewers. The atmosphere can be dark and foreboding, especially during encounters with the monsters.

3. Themes of Danger and Threat: Many segments highlight the danger posed by the monsters, showcasing moments where characters are in peril. This can create a sense of anxiety, particularly for younger audiences.

4. Emotional Reactions: Characters often express fear, desperation, or sadness in response to the monsters, which might resonate emotionally with viewers and could be distressing for some.

Overall, while the episode is designed to entertain and engage fans of the series, its focus on horror elements and intense moments may not be suitable for all children or sensitive individuals.