The third episode of the returning Doctor Who was a key one in many ways, not only was it the first historical recreation and the Doctors first interaction with a famous character, but it was the first one written by Mark Gatiss, is a universe debut for Eve Myles and provides the cornels of the idea behind "Torchwood".
After the far future last time, The Doctor (Christopher Eccleston) and Rose (Billie Piper) head to Earths past, not exactly where they were planning on heading too, but they land in Cardiff in 1869. The inhabitant fo the local funeral parlour are, alas not staying as inactive and their death would have suggested, which is much chagrin to the Undertaker Mr Sneed (Alan David) and his assistant Gwen (Eve Myles). The city is also preparing for the celebrated Charles Dickins (Simon Callow) to give a reading of his "A Christmas Carol".
One thing that's struck me, but I haven't mentioned before, is how much I like this version of the theme, with its string section supporting the classic Theremin tune. I don't hate the current version, or any of the ones that have come in between, but this is my favourite.
This is a really strong episode. There's very little CGI, with most of it used to enhance practical or make up effects - so it hasn't aged . . . questionably . . . like elements of the previous two have. The plot is a lot tighter and makes more sense than the last one. Though perhaps it could have done with a little more genuine peril in the middle to keep the story running. I like how much this Doctor loves a good pun (or a bad pun even) but it doesn't effect that pervading dangerousness about this character.