By Lee Travis
The Pyramid and the End of the World
After "Extremis", which was a mind-bending episode, I was excited to see the mysterious Monks return for the second week. However, I didn't find the buildup to be worth the payoff.
I've always found the buildup to climatic battles to be equally as exciting as the conflict itself. Putting what's at stake on the board and seeing how to overcome those obstacles is exhilarating and sometimes scary. The Monks are interesting adversaries since they want to 'save' the world, though doing so will remove our freedom.
However, even within "The Pyramid and the End of the World", the initial start was fantastic and pulse pounding. The episode lost steam throughout and by the conclusion the end of the world didn't seem as scary as it once did.
Part of the allure of the Monks is their mysterious origins and motivations. If these plot points had been cloaked in shadow longer, their intentions would be more intriguing. Though we are still unaware of what they want to do with earth, somehow the Monks don't seem as terrifying as they did a week before.
"The Pyramid and the End of the World" wasn't a total wash for me. The strange time traveling pyramid was an excellent counter to anything that man could throw at it. The moment where the Monks teleported onto the bomber and took control of the military aircraft is especially chilling. Also, the Doctor is the President of the World? How strange yet perfect is that plan? Brilliant.
Ultimately, the execution of the Monks plans to take over the earth wasn't as satisfying as the scheme. Hopefully, whatever is in store next brings back some of that initial excitement that made the Monks such an enjoyable adventure to watch.
What did you think about the Monks grand plan to take over the earth? Let me know in the comments below.