As a long-time fan of Doctor Who, I must say that this year’s Christmas special, “Joy to the World,” has left me utterly spellbound. The combination of heartwarming storytelling, thoughtful social commentary, and a healthy dose of humor is something that only the good folks at Doctor Who can pull off so effortlessly.
[This story contains spoilers from the Doctor Who 2024 Christmas Special, “Joy to the World.”]
Fans of “Doctor Who” are currently elated as they’ve just watched the latest Christmas Special on Disney+. This annual spectacle for this year featured the comeback of its main actor, Ncuti Gatwa, who is also known from Netflix’s “Sex Education.” Joining him was guest star Nicola Coughlan, best recognized from “Bridgerton.” Additionally, Steven Moffat, a writer and previous showrunner of “Sherlock,” re-entered the “Doctor Who” universe. Moffat has been responsible for some of the series’ most significant moments since its revival in 2005.
In “Joy to the World,” directed by Alex Sanjiv Pillai (known for shows like Riverdale and Bridgerton), we find the Fifteenth Doctor (played by Gatwa) alone, following a dramatic season finale this year. He arrives at the Time Hotel in 4202, a unique establishment that offers time-travel holiday packages, taking visitors to various moments in history like London during the Blitz or the assassination of JFK.
In the hotel, the Time Lord connects with Joy, portrayed by Coughlan, when she discovers herself shackled to a case that potentially threatens the existence of the universe. However, since it’s Christmas, such an event is avoided.
In this article, representatives from “The Hollywood Reporter” had a conversation with Russell T Davies, the producer of “Doctor Who,” and Moffat, the writer of the episode titled “Joy.” They delved into various aspects of the show, such as the hidden references (Easter eggs), the inclusion of the COVID reference, and the unexpected conclusion. The second part of this interview, which contains spoilers, is presented below.
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Is The Time Hotel teeming with delightful Easter Eggs? Were these hidden gems part of the design since the project’s inception?
STEVEN MOFFAT Yeah. That’s in the script. I made some suggestions of what doors we could have.
Did you notice the ‘Hobbit’-style door? It made me wonder if Peter Jackson, being a fan and having a keen eye, might recognize it too since he often watches carefully.
MOFFAT (Laughs) Yeah, yeah, absolutely, yeah.
And what were the other doors that you suggested?
As a fan myself, one thing that truly tickles my funny bone is the Leaning Tower of Pisa gag, it’s just priceless! Oh, don’t forget the submarine door scene. There were so many amusing elements. To make it more engaging for visitors, we added a shop inspired by everyone’s favorite character, Mr. Benn. Remember him? He would enter a magic door to embark on extraordinary adventures!
Who is responsible for reserving the submarine room? Hold on, hold on. I’ll go ahead and reserve the submarine room. (Laughs) Now when you consider it… to be honest, alright, it’s Christmas time.
Is the concept of The Time Hotel something that could potentially return in upcoming episodes? I’m curious if there’s a possibility for that.
DAVIES A spinoff! You could do a spinoff for that, Steven?
As a devoted admirer, let me tell you, that’s quite the series, don’t you think? It’s like a modern-day revamp of “Mr. Benn” for today’s audience. The Time Hotel could easily make a comeback, and I simply can’t fathom the Doctor resisting the urge to pay it a visit!
Poor Trev, why was he dealt such a unfortunate fate? I wish I could’ve met him once more! [The character Trev, played humorously by Joel Fry, portrayed an amiable security guard. Unfortunately, Trev didn’t last long after the Doctor appeared at his workplace.]
MOFFAT The TV series Doctor Who is meant for kids, and it’s the festive season – so we have to sacrifice the harmless ones! (Chuckles)
Has the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with the public’s frustration and sadness, been something heavy on your heart and felt compelled to express? [A scene unfolds where Joy confides in the Doctor about her loss of her mother due to COVID-19, unable to be there in person while some people callously celebrated; a nod towards U.K. politicians who neglected pandemic restrictions at the time.]
MOFFAT To be honest, there seemed to be quite a lot of disappointment among many individuals. However, it’s not something we should dwell on excessively. It was more like searching for an explanation that could shed light on why someone might feel down on Christmas Day. I’ve heard this story retold so frequently, it feels almost familiar.
It seems as though everyone either personally experienced or knows someone who did experience that event, making it an integral part of our recent history. Given this, it’s understandable if someone might feel angered on Christmas Day. After all, when considering reasons for frustration, this is one that quickly comes to mind: Why would you be angry on a day traditionally known for joy and celebration?
It struck me in a later moment that the original draft contained something different, but I can’t recall what it was now. Then, while pondering, I found myself questioning, “Why would someone be angry on Christmas Day?” Suddenly, an idea hit me – “Ah, of course! That’s the answer!” Once you realize something like that, you don’t easily let go of it. This is why one might be angry on Christmas Day.
DAVIES It seems essential now, given the circumstances, not to overlook it. A significant aspect that has played a big role in our more recent past.
MOFFAT Absolutely.
Were you uncertain about making a trip to Bethlehem during the birth of, I assume, Jesus Christ? [The final lines of “Joy to the World” show the Doctor arriving in Bethlehem in the year “0001,” where joy appears as a bright star for all to see.]
On this joyous Christmas day, let’s take a moment to honor his origins! I believe it’s only just to do so. And since it’s such an enchanting tale, why not share it?
I find it delightful that Joy, who is charming, guided the crowd to the manger. To me, this notion seems wonderful. It’s heartwarming and endearing. Many children who have participated in nativity plays might reflect on this as well.
DAVIES I’m going to write a story set in Bethlehem one day — Mary had twins!
MOFFAT Evil genius!
DAVIES Literally. There’s a film!
MOFFAT The other one’s called Judas. It’s a terrible truth.
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Doctor Who is available on Disney+.
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2024-12-25 21:25