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**Review of "Face the Raven"**

*"Face the Raven"* is one of *Doctor Who's* most poignant and devastating episodes, cementing Clara Oswald's journey as a companion while delivering a tense and emotionally charged story. Written by Sarah Dollard, the episode focuses on themes of loyalty, consequence, and hubris, presenting a moral tale within a richly atmospheric setting.

The plot centers on Rigsy, a recurring character, who calls the Doctor
and Clara for help when he discovers a mysterious countdown tattoo on his
neck. This leads them to a hidden "trap street" in London, a secret community for alien refugees overseen by Ashildr (Maisie Williams). The premise effectively blends science fiction with urban fantasy, creating a rich, visually engaging environment. The trap street and its inhabitants
are beautifully realised, exuding an air of danger and intrigue.

The strength of the episode lies in its emotional weight. Clara's impulsive decision to take Rigsy's death sentence upon herself, believing the Doctor
will find a way to save her, is both heroic and tragically misguided. Her death, as a result of her own recklessness, is a heart-wrenching moment.
Jenna Coleman gives a standout performance, showcasing Clara's bravery, overconfidence, and ultimate vulnerability in her final moments.

Peter Capaldi is equally exceptional as the Doctor, oscillating between fury, despair, and stoic resolve as he watches Clara face her fate. His quiet,
raw anger toward Ashildr and his promise of vengeance are some of the
episode's most chilling moments. The dynamic between the Doctor and Clara is
at its most poignant here, underscoring the deep bond they share.

Maisie Williams' Ashildr, while compelling, feels slightly underutilised. Her motivations for orchestrating the events are left ambiguous, and her role as the reluctant antagonist could have been explored further. The episode also introduces a larger arc involving the Time Lords, which feels slightly shoehorned and detracts from the otherwise self-contained story.

While Clara's death is undeniably impactful, it does raise questions about her character arc. Her transformation from a grounded schoolteacher to a thrill-seeking adventurer is complete, but some viewers may find her fate frustratingly avoidable, given her recklessness. Nonetheless, the episode succeeds in making her death meaningful and emotionally resonant.

Technically, *"Face the Raven"* is superb. The direction by Justin Molotnikov creates a tense and atmospheric tone, while Murray Gold's haunting score amplifies the emotional stakes. The visual effects and set design are impressive, particularly the trap street's ethereal aesthetic.

In conclusion, *"Face the Raven"* is a powerful, bittersweet tale that serves as a fitting farewell for Clara Oswald. Despite some minor narrative shortcomings, the episode is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling
and emotional impact.

**Rating: 90/100**
With its poignant themes, stellar performances, and atmospheric
world-building, *"Face the Raven"* stands out as one of the most memorable episodes of Capaldi's era.

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