Doctor Who: Season 0, Episode 40 - Best of the Companions (2011)

"Best of the Companions" is a special episode of Doctor Who that serves as a retrospective look at the various companions who have traveled with the Doctor throughout the series. The episode is structured as a compilation of clips and highlights, showcasing the relationships and adventures shared between the Doctor and his companions.

The episode opens with a montage of iconic moments from the series, featuring the Doctor in various incarnations alongside his companions. The visuals are vibrant and nostalgic, capturing the essence of the show's long history. The narrator introduces the concept of companions, emphasizing their importance in the Doctor's life and the impact they have on his adventures.

As the montage continues, we see clips of companions such as Sarah Jane Smith, Rose Tyler, Martha Jones, Donna Noble, and Amy Pond. Each companion is highlighted with specific scenes that showcase their unique personalities and contributions to the Doctor's journey. The emotional weight of their departures is also touched upon, illustrating the bittersweet nature of their relationships with the Doctor.

The episode then transitions into a segment focusing on Rose Tyler. Clips of her first encounter with the Ninth Doctor are shown, highlighting her initial curiosity and bravery. The narrative delves into her development as a character, showcasing her growth from a shop girl to a hero who saves worlds. Key moments, such as her reunion with the Tenth Doctor and her ultimate sacrifice, are presented with emotional resonance, emphasizing the deep bond she shares with the Doctor.

Next, the focus shifts to Martha Jones. The episode highlights her intelligence and resourcefulness, showcasing her as a strong companion who stands on her own. Key scenes include her first meeting with the Tenth Doctor and her determination to prove herself. The narrative captures her struggles and triumphs, particularly her journey to save the world from the Master, showcasing her bravery and resilience.

The episode then moves on to Donna Noble, presenting her as a companion who brings humor and heart to the series. Clips of her initial reluctance to travel with the Doctor are shown, followed by her transformation into a confident and capable ally. The emotional climax of her story is depicted, particularly her heartbreaking departure when she loses her memories of the Doctor, leaving viewers with a sense of loss and longing.

Following Donna, the episode highlights Amy Pond and Rory Williams. Their love story is central to their journey with the Doctor, and the episode showcases their adventures together. Key moments include their first meeting with the Eleventh Doctor and their struggles against formidable foes. The emotional stakes are raised as the narrative explores their sacrifices and the challenges they face, culminating in their poignant farewell.

The episode also features brief segments on other companions, such as River Song and Clara Oswald, providing glimpses into their unique relationships with the Doctor. Each segment is filled with memorable quotes and moments that resonate with fans, reinforcing the theme of companionship and loyalty.

As the episode nears its conclusion, the montage returns to the Doctor himself, reflecting on the importance of his companions. The visuals become more introspective, showcasing the Doctor's emotional journey and the impact of his companions on his character. The episode ends with a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the companions, leaving viewers with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the bonds formed throughout the series.

The final scenes are a celebration of the companions, with clips of their laughter, bravery, and sacrifices, culminating in a heartfelt tribute to their contributions to the Doctor's adventures. The episode closes on a hopeful note, suggesting that the spirit of companionship will continue to thrive in the Doctor's future journeys.

In the ending of "Best of the Companions," the episode culminates in a celebration of the Doctor's companions, showcasing their impact on his life and the adventures they shared. The Doctor reflects on their journeys, and the episode concludes with a montage of memorable moments, emphasizing the bonds formed between the Doctor and his companions.

As the episode draws to a close, the Doctor stands in the TARDIS, surrounded by the echoes of laughter and memories of his companions. He expresses gratitude for their contributions to his life, acknowledging that they have shaped him as much as he has shaped them. The screen fades to black, leaving viewers with a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the relationships that have defined the Doctor's journey.

The episode begins with the Doctor, portrayed by Matt Smith, standing in the TARDIS, a familiar yet ever-changing environment that symbolizes his adventures through time and space. The console room is filled with the soft hum of the TARDIS, and the Doctor's expression is a mix of joy and melancholy as he prepares to reflect on the companions who have traveled with him.

The first scene transitions into a series of clips showcasing the Doctor's various companions, including Rose Tyler, Martha Jones, Donna Noble, Amy Pond, and Rory Williams. Each companion is introduced with a brief montage of their most significant moments, highlighting their unique contributions to the Doctor's life. The visuals are vibrant, filled with action-packed sequences, emotional farewells, and moments of triumph, all set against the backdrop of the Doctor's adventures.

As the montage progresses, the Doctor's voiceover narrates his thoughts on each companion. He recalls the bravery of Rose as she faced the Daleks, the intelligence and determination of Martha as she saved the world, and the fierce loyalty of Donna, who brought humor and heart to their travels. The emotional weight of these memories is palpable, as the Doctor grapples with the bittersweet nature of their departures.

The scene shifts to a more intimate setting, where the Doctor sits alone in the TARDIS, reflecting on the impact of his companions. The lighting is dim, casting shadows that mirror his contemplative mood. He acknowledges the pain of loss but also celebrates the joy each companion brought into his life. The camera zooms in on his face, capturing the depth of his emotions as he smiles at the memories while a hint of sadness lingers in his eyes.

In the final moments of the episode, the Doctor stands at the TARDIS console, ready to embark on a new adventure. He takes a deep breath, filled with a sense of hope and determination. The TARDIS begins to hum louder, and the familiar sound of the engines fills the air. As he prepares to leave, he glances back at the console, a silent farewell to the companions who have shaped him.

The screen fades to black, and the credits roll, leaving viewers with a poignant reminder of the importance of companionship, the adventures shared, and the lasting impact of those who have traveled alongside the Doctor. Each companion's fate is left open-ended, but their influence on the Doctor is clear, marking a significant chapter in his ongoing journey through time and space.

In the episode "Best of the Companions" from the Doctor Who specials, there is no post-credit scene. The episode serves as a retrospective look at the various companions who have traveled with the Doctor throughout the series. It features clips and highlights from their adventures, showcasing their growth, emotional moments, and the impact they had on the Doctor and the overall narrative. The focus is on celebrating the companions rather than setting up future storylines or scenes. As such, the episode concludes without any additional scenes after the credits.

The episode features a selection of notable companions from the Doctor Who series, including Rose Tyler, Martha Jones, Donna Noble, Amy Pond, and Rory Williams.

Rose Tyler's moments include her first encounter with the Ninth Doctor, her emotional farewell in 'Doomsday', and her pivotal role in the Tenth Doctor's journey.

The episode showcases the unique bond between the Doctor and Donna, emphasizing their comedic interactions, mutual respect, and the emotional depth of Donna's character, particularly her impact on the Doctor's life.

Key events from Amy Pond's storyline include her initial meeting with the Eleventh Doctor, her complex relationship with Rory, and the emotional weight of her experiences in the 'Silence' arc.

The episode reflects on how each companion has shaped the Doctor's character, highlighting their influence on his decisions, emotional growth, and the way they challenge him to be better.

"Doctor Who: Best of the Companions" is generally considered family-friendly, but there are a few aspects that might be potentially objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers.

1. Emotional Themes: The episode features moments of loss and nostalgia, as it reflects on the companions' journeys with the Doctor. This can evoke feelings of sadness or melancholy.

2. Mild Scares: Some segments may include suspenseful or tense moments that could be frightening for younger viewers, especially when discussing darker themes from past episodes.

3. Mature Concepts: The episode touches on themes of sacrifice, bravery, and the complexities of relationships, which may be difficult for younger audiences to fully grasp.

4. Visuals from Past Episodes: Clips from previous episodes may include monsters or villains that could be unsettling for some children.

Overall, while the episode is designed to celebrate the companions and their adventures, the emotional depth and some visuals may require parental guidance for younger viewers.