The Need for Change: Ncuti Gatwa's Performance in Doctor Who and the Challenges Ahead
As Doctor Who season draws to a close on BBC One, new Time Lord Ncuti Gatwa faces his toughest test yet to secure an order for a Disney series. The show has garnered attention for its diversity, including Black and LGBTQ representation. However, some have expressed concern over whether these changes have positively impacted the quality of the series. This article will delve into the reasons behind the criticisms, highlighting the importance of acting range in such a versatile show, and suggesting potential strategies for improvement.
The Critical Reception of the Gatwa Era
One of the most discussed episodes from the Ncuti Gatwa era, 'Space Babies,' has been singled out as the worst in this run. This episode, aside from being poorly written, exacerbated issues surrounding Gatwa's acting range. It is important to recognize that previous showrunner Russell T. Davies (RTD) also penned the highly criticized "Love and Monsters" arc, which further emphasizes that the problem lies not solely with Gatwa but with the quality of the writing as well.
Acting Range and the Complexity of Doctor Who
Doctor Who is a show known for its diverse range of stories, from deadly serious to extreme farce. An actor capable of handling such a broad spectrum is crucial. Unfortunately, Gatwa's limitations in this regard are becoming increasingly apparent. The writers have attempted to mitigate his shortcomings by focusing on his strengths, such as emotional breakdowns, but this has led to a repetitive narrative structure that has begun to bother dedicated fans.
Mellie Gibson, a character played by a supporting actress, showcased her ability to carry an episode without her presence being dependent on a large supporting cast. This highlights her superior range as an actor in comparison to Gatwa. The tension between Gatwa and Gibson is another factor contributing to this dynamic, leading to Gibson's eventual departure from the show. The removal of an actor like Gibson to replace her with one less capable could further emphasize Gatwa's limitations.
Strategies for Improvement
The suggestion of terminating Gatwa’s contract and bringing on a new actor is not without its downsides. The anti-woke crowd might not return to the show, regardless of the decision. On the other hand, the wake crowd might see this as a betrayal and demand further action, potentially leading to the cancellation of the show and RTD's career.
A more nuanced approach would be to allow Gatwa to work through his contract under an arrangement that leverages the strengths of both Gatwa and a supporting actor with a strong range. Companion roles for such an actor would allow for the necessary emoting, while guest episodes could serve as "Doctor Lite" to provide some variety. A statement could be issued addressing Gatwa's personal issues and the show's desire to support his mental health, which would also help to explain any changes in the dynamic between characters.
Conclusion
The performance of Ncuti Gatwa in Doctor Who has been contentious, particularly in terms of his acting range and the quality of the writing. While the show's diversity is a positive step, it is crucial to have an actor capable of handling the diverse narrative of Doctor Who. Without a capable Doctor, the show risks falling flat. Strategies that focus on supporting both Gatwa and the wider storytelling of the series are needed to navigate these challenges and ensure the continued success of the franchise.