Brink - Doctor

I have mishandled the break of this weekend - trying to cram in all the amenities and entertainment possible, skirting the issue of studying for my college courses. But I have picked up new information nonetheless - trivial, fringe, and perspective reference points have been absorbed for future implementation. In simple language - I read for fun and watched season 3 of Doctor Who over the weekend. Embedded into any work is a worldview, an imprinted message from the creator to his or her audience. The space in between is littered with noise, images, and the filters of the viewers. These filters are the combination of the counter-worldview of the receivers and their degree of perception and observation.

I enjoy British television - it doesn't mollycoddle its audience, lead it with a laugh track to "get" the jokes. The flashes of humor are usually asides and witty banter at an unexpected moment - leaving the viewers stunned and amused at the audacity. Also, there is the element of English stoicism and determination to carry on with dignity, no matter the absurdity of their current environment. But within this system, the messages from sender to receivers are more subtle and set. I really wanted to like Capt. Jack Harkness from the spin-off Torchwood, but as a human born in the 51st century, the social and sexual notions are looser - Capt. Jack has a roguish charm, brilliantly depicted by John Barrowman (the actor), but Jack's lack of standards allow him to flirt with nearly every handsome or beautiful human or alien he meets.

This unsettles me to say the least, but even more disturbing is the fact that Torchwood just accepts his behavior, and hardly questions such open-ended inclinations. I am much more impressed by David Tennant's Doctor, who handles himself with poise and propriety given even the most unimaginable and awkward situations. Yes, the time-travelling and ever fresh-faced Doctor draws attention, even affection, given his intriguing career. But he chooses not to take advantage of any of his companions - warning them that "You can spend your whole life with me, but I can't spend mine with you."

Rose Tyler's end in series 4 was a kind touch by Russell T. Davies, head writer of the Show at the time, during his last season in the position. You'll have to see season 2 and the end of season 4 for the full effect of why it is such a touch of brilliance. I like David Tennant because his Doctor can be conceitedly clever, drawing upon his years of experience. But also, Tennant portrays the sorrow and burden of being the last Time Lord - he reveals both extremes and is convincing in his performance as a well rounded Doctor. Matt Smith, the current Doctor, has manic energy and impeccable comedic timing for dropping a quotable line, but Tennant's run is a hard act to follow.

May I study like a madman tomorrow!