A clash of cultures ensues as Victorian soldiers arrive on Mars…

The Monks are no longer with us as series 10 returns to the standalone episodes that have worked well (with just a little bit of movement forward regarding the Vault). Writer Mark Gatiss’ love of the Ice Warriors shines through, as we get numerous additions to their mythos, and get to see elements that have either been mentioned in passing or turned up in the spin-off media. Some of these may offend “purists” who may also choose to forget that the Martians’ appearance and actions changed from story to story in the classic era, and that fan theories are just that – theories, not facts!

The emphasis is on the Doctor and Bill this episode (to the extent that for the first time in some weeks, it really does feel as if Nardole has been slightly shoehorned into the script), and Gatiss gives Capaldi and Mackie some good moments. There’s a strong guest cast, playing both humans and Martians, and although Gatiss uses a trope that he’s played with before, there’s enough of a twist on it for it not to feel lazy.

Verdict: A solid episode that plays with some of the clichés of the late Victorian period, but with enough surprises to keep it constantly engaging. 8/10

Paul Simpson