A Stand-Alone Masterpiece That Rivals “Blink” in Emotional and Psychological Depth

The special episode “73 Yards” has quickly emerged as a modern classic within the Doctor Who franchise, captivating even those sceptical of the long-running series. This self-contained story blends elements of The Wicker Man, The Dead Zone, The Ring, and It Follows to create an intense psychological horror narrative, tackling deep-rooted fears of abandonment and mortality.

“73 Yards” comes as a crucial pivot for the series, offering a more sombre and emotionally complex tone amidst what has been a light-hearted and often vulnerable portrayal of the Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa. This episode employs a similar storytelling device to Blink, focusing on the companion, Ruby Sunday, and relegating the Doctor’s presence, leaving viewers yearning for his return. Ruby, played by Millie Gibson, carries the narrative with a standout performance that explores the depth and resilience of her character.

The story begins with Ruby and the Doctor landing on a remote Welsh clifftop, where an innocent encounter with a folk symbol propels the Doctor’s disappearance. Ruby’s struggle unfolds as she becomes haunted by a mysterious woman, always maintaining a precise distance of 73 yards. Her journey takes unsettling turns as she faces rejection, loneliness, and the unnerving persistence of her haunting spectre.

The episode skilfully blends folk horror, chilling suspense, and a multi-verse twist that sets the stage for greater narrative arcs, promising to shape Ruby’s path and the Doctor’s return in meaningful ways. “73 Yards” solidifies itself as not just a remarkable stand-alone entry but as a transformative moment for the series, affirming Millie Gibson’s prominence and deepening the intrigue surrounding her character’s fate.