The Power of Three (Doctor Who)

The Power of Three is the fourth episode of the seventh series of the British science fiction television programme Doctor Who, first broadcast on BBC One on 22 September 2012. It was written by Chris Chibnall and directed by Douglas Mackinnon.

Plot

The episode features the Eleventh Doctor (Matt Smith), along with his companions Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) and Rory Williams (Arthur Darvill). The story revolves around the sudden appearance of millions of small black cubes on Earth. The cubes are initially inert, and the Doctor, along with the UNIT (Unified Intelligence Taskforce), led by Kate Stewart (Jemma Redgrave), investigates their purpose.

As the cubes remain inactive for a year, the Doctor becomes increasingly frustrated. Eventually, the cubes begin to activate, causing various effects on people and technology. It is revealed that the cubes are part of a plan by the Shakri, an alien race, to eliminate humanity. The Doctor manages to thwart their plan and save the Earth.

Characters

• Eleventh Doctor - Matt Smith
• Amy Pond - Karen Gillan
• Rory Williams - Arthur Darvill
• Kate Stewart - Jemma Redgrave

Production

"The Power of Three" was written by Chris Chibnall, who had previously written several episodes for the series. The episode was directed by Douglas Mackinnon. The story was designed to explore the lives of the Doctor's companions when they are not traveling with him, highlighting the impact of their adventures on their everyday lives.

Reception

The episode received mixed to positive reviews from critics. Some praised the character development and the unique premise of the story, while others felt that the resolution was rushed.

Continuity

• The episode marks the return of UNIT and introduces Kate Stewart, the daughter of Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart.
• The Doctor references several past adventures and companions, including Rose Tyler and Martha Jones.

External Links

• List of Doctor Who episodes (2005–present)
• Doctor Who (series 7)
• Eleventh Doctor