The latest episode of Doctor Who, “The Devil’s Chord,” introduces a malevolent entity named Maestro, played with flamboyant brilliance by Jinkx Monsoon, who steals the joy of music from 1920s London. This episode marks a pivotal point in the season, setting a high bar for future adventures while exploring themes of creativity, cultural impact, and the Doctor’s own place in the universe.
A Symphony of Chaos: Unpacking “The Devil’s Chord”
“The Devil’s Chord” is a dazzling, unsettling, and ultimately thought-provoking episode of Doctor Who. Set in 1925, it sees the Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) land in London, eager to visit a burgeoning music scene. However, they quickly discover that something is terribly wrong. Music itself is vanishing, a phenomenon directly linked to the arrival of Maestro, a powerful being who feeds on the emotions and potential inherent in musical creation.
The episode cleverly blends historical context with fantastical elements. The real-life Abbey Road Studios forms a crucial backdrop, and the budding talents of a young student named Gabriel (played with believable naiveté) become central to the plot. As Maestro drains the joy and creativity from London, the Doctor and Ruby must race against time to rediscover the power of music and restore harmony to the world.
Maestro: A Villain for the Ages?
Jinkx Monsoon’s portrayal of Maestro is truly unforgettable. The character is a flamboyant and unsettling force, radiating both immense power and a terrifying emptiness. Maestro isn’t simply an evil villain; they are a being that fundamentally rejects the beauty and complexity of creation, choosing instead to consume it for their own twisted amusement. This makes them a particularly challenging adversary for the Doctor, who is fundamentally a champion of creativity and exploration.
The episode also leaves viewers questioning the nature of the Doctor’s influence. By repeatedly interfering in historical events, is the Doctor inadvertently creating the conditions for threats like Maestro to emerge? It’s a complex question that adds depth and nuance to the Doctor’s character arc.
Ruby Sunday’s Ongoing Mystery
While “The Devil’s Chord” focuses heavily on Maestro and the power of music, it also continues to subtly weave in the ongoing mystery surrounding Ruby Sunday’s origins. Glimpses of her past, and the inexplicable circumstances surrounding her adoption, continue to surface, hinting at a larger narrative that is sure to unfold as the season progresses. Her connection to the broader universe seems profound, perhaps even destined, and this episode only adds fuel to that fire.
Answering Your Burning Questions: Doctor Who FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about “The Devil’s Chord” and its implications for the future of Doctor Who:
FAQ 1: Who is Jinkx Monsoon and why were they cast as Maestro?
Jinkx Monsoon is a celebrated American drag queen, actor, and singer, best known for winning seasons 5 and 7 of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. Their casting as Maestro is inspired, bringing a theatricality and flair perfectly suited to the character. Russell T Davies, the showrunner, has a history of casting diverse and talented performers, and Monsoon’s unique charisma makes Maestro a truly memorable villain. The casting choice also aligns with the show’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and representation.
FAQ 2: What significance does Abbey Road Studios hold in the episode?
Abbey Road Studios is not merely a backdrop; it’s integral to the story’s theme. As a real-world epicenter of musical innovation, the studio embodies the creative spirit that Maestro seeks to extinguish. Its presence underscores the real-world impact of music and highlights the stakes involved in Maestro’s actions. The studio’s history, its association with iconic artists, and its palpable creative energy all contribute to the episode’s atmosphere and thematic resonance.
FAQ 3: What exactly is the “Devil’s Chord” and why is it important?
The “Devil’s Chord,” also known as the tritone, is a musical interval considered dissonant and unsettling in certain contexts. In the episode, it represents the absence of harmony and the perversion of musical creativity. Its significance lies in its symbolic representation of Maestro’s destructive power and the Doctor’s struggle to restore balance and musical joy. The episode uses this historical musical concept to ground the fantastical elements in reality.
FAQ 4: How does “The Devil’s Chord” connect to previous Doctor Who episodes?
While primarily a standalone episode, “The Devil’s Chord” subtly connects to wider Doctor Who lore. Maestro’s existence raises questions about the Toymaker, another powerful being with a penchant for games and chaos. These higher-level beings, with the power to manipulate reality, hint at a larger, perhaps even cosmic, power structure within the Doctor Who universe. Also, the episode continues to develop the Doctor’s character arc, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to defending creativity and free will.
FAQ 5: What are some of the hidden Easter eggs or references in the episode?
The episode is packed with nods to musical history and Doctor Who lore. Keep an eye out for subtle references to famous musicians of the era, such as early jazz influences. There are also visual cues and dialogue snippets that allude to previous Doctor Who villains and storylines, offering rewards for longtime fans who pay close attention.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of Ruby’s ongoing mystery?
Ruby’s mysterious origins are shaping up to be a central plot thread throughout the season. Her adoption, the recurring snowfall, and the seemingly impossible events surrounding her birth all suggest a deeper connection to the Doctor Who universe than initially apparent. This mystery fuels the audience’s curiosity and keeps them invested in Ruby’s character development. Speculation is rife about her true identity and her potential role in the unfolding events.
FAQ 7: How did the special effects and visual style contribute to the episode’s impact?
The visual effects in “The Devil’s Chord” are particularly impressive, especially the rendering of Maestro’s abilities and the distortion of reality. The episode utilizes a vibrant and dynamic visual style, reflecting the energy of the 1920s music scene while also conveying the growing sense of dread and chaos. The costuming and set design are also meticulously crafted, immersing viewers in the historical setting and enhancing the episode’s overall aesthetic appeal.
FAQ 8: What is Russell T Davies’ vision for this new era of Doctor Who?
Russell T Davies, returning as showrunner, has clearly established a vision for a more vibrant, diverse, and emotionally resonant Doctor Who. His focus on character development, his willingness to tackle complex themes, and his commitment to inclusivity are all evident in “The Devil’s Chord.” He seeks to create a show that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
FAQ 9: What are the potential consequences of the Doctor altering historical events?
“The Devil’s Chord” raises the recurring question of the Doctor’s ethical responsibility when intervening in history. While the Doctor often acts to prevent harm, their actions can have unforeseen consequences. This episode subtly suggests that the Doctor’s meddling might even inadvertently create the conditions for new threats to emerge. This ethical dilemma adds complexity to the Doctor’s character and forces viewers to consider the implications of time travel.
FAQ 10: How does music function as a metaphor in the episode?
Music serves as a powerful metaphor for creativity, emotion, and the human spirit. Maestro’s attack on music is essentially an attack on these fundamental aspects of humanity. The episode underscores the importance of art and self-expression as vital forces in the world, and it champions the power of creativity to overcome adversity.
FAQ 11: How does this episode set the stage for the rest of the season?
“The Devil’s Chord” establishes a high bar for the remainder of the season. It introduces compelling new characters, raises intriguing mysteries, and explores complex themes. It also hints at a larger narrative arc involving Ruby’s origins and the potential emergence of even greater threats to the universe. Viewers can expect more thrilling adventures, emotional moments, and thought-provoking storylines in the episodes to come.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch “The Devil’s Chord” and other Doctor Who episodes?
“The Devil’s Chord” and other new episodes of Doctor Who are available to stream on BBC iPlayer in the UK and on Disney+ internationally. Older episodes are available on various streaming platforms and for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray. Check your local listings for broadcast schedules on traditional television channels.
In conclusion, “The Devil’s Chord” is a triumph – a beautifully crafted episode that successfully blends historical setting, fantastical elements, and compelling character development. With a standout performance from Jinkx Monsoon, this episode cements its place as a memorable entry in the Doctor Who canon and sets the stage for an exciting season ahead.