Ep 7. Amy's Choice

In Doctor Who (2005) season 5 episode 7, entitled "Amy's Choice," the Doctor, Amy, and Rory find themselves bouncing between two different realities. In one reality, they are living in the town of Upper Leadworth, happily settling down and getting on with their lives. However, in the other reality, they are still traveling on the TARDIS and facing a deadly new threat.

The episode begins with the trio having fallen asleep and waking up to find themselves in one of these two realities. In the idyllic Upper Leadworth, they are contentedly living out simple, domestic lives. Rory and Amy are married with a child on the way, and the Doctor is their slightly odd neighbor, surrounded by a small collection of strange objects and gadgets. Meanwhile, in the other reality, the TARDIS is spiraling out of control and the three travelers are facing imminent death.

As they move between these two worlds, the characters begin to question what is real and what is not. The Doctor suggests that they are experiencing some kind of dream state or hallucination, but both realities feel equally vivid and convincing. Furthermore, they soon realize that there is a dark force at work, forcing them to make difficult choices and temptations.

What follows is a thrilling game of cat and mouse as they try to work out what is happening and how to escape. The Doctor, Rory, and Amy must face their deepest fears and desires, with the risk of death constantly looming over them. Meanwhile, they are plagued by a recurring figure who seems to be in control of the whole situation, goading them on with cryptic clues and enigmatic warnings.

As ever, the episode is full of humor, heart, and suspense. The exchanges between the Doctor, Rory, and Amy are as witty and charming as ever, and the tension is skillfully built up to a climax that is both shocking and satisfying. There are also some intriguing hints dropped about the overall arc of the season, particularly the role of the enigmatic figure known as the "Silence" and the true nature of the "cracks in time" that have been haunting the Doctor throughout their travels.

Throughout it all, the themes of choice and identity are explored with nuance and sensitivity. The characters must confront the darker aspects of themselves and learn to trust each other in order to survive. Ultimately, "Amy's Choice" is a standout episode that perfectly encapsulates the blend of sci-fi, horror, and humor that makes Doctor Who such a beloved and enduring series.