Ep 8. The Doctor, the Widow and the Wardrobe (2011)

The Doctor, the Widow and the Wardrobe is the eighth episode of the first season of Doctor Who Christmas Specials. It features The Doctor, played by Matt Smith, and two new characters - Madge Arwell, played by Claire Skinner, and her two children, Lily and Cyril.

The episode begins during World War II, where Madge receives news that her husband has been killed in action. She decides to take her children away from London for a bit of respite and to give them a happy Christmas. When they arrive at their rented house, the eccentric caretaker, Droxil, informs Madge that the house is enchanted and has a magical wardrobe that can take them to a wondrous world full of snow and magical creatures.

The Doctor, who is on a space mission, crash-lands on Earth and befriends Madge's family. He follows them into the magical world that is revealed to be a forest planet that is being destroyed by acid rain. The Doctor must save the planet and its inhabitants, while Madge's children must help lead the stranded ship back to its home world.

Throughout the episode, The Doctor is his usual quirky and funny self, but also shows his vulnerable side as he mourns the loss of his own people on Gallifrey. Madge, who is a strong and caring mother, demonstrates her bravery and resourcefulness as she helps The Doctor save the inhabitants of the forest planet.

The episode is filled with magical and fantastical elements, as well as emotional moments. It is perfect for the holiday season as it captures the spirit of Christmas and leaves the audience feeling warm and fuzzy inside.