I have complicated feelings about Twelve.
I think Peter Capaldi plays him very well. In the Revival period, he is the strongest actor of the Doctor. He also has a range of acting things to do in this era.
As for Twelve themselves, it’s more 50/50. While I enjoy the brash, in your face, nature of the Doctor, it does get tiresome episode, after episode. Even in the gentle moments, it feels like he is angry that he has a soft side and gentle nature. It almost feels like he is a stereotype of a Scotsman.
My take with Twelve is that he is a modern, Scottish version of First. They share wanderlust, while being annoyed by the injustices they have to face. Him being such a grump, and similar to First, may be explained as him being the first in a new cycle. A cycle he didn’t ask for. Almost like the Doctor is being forced to go on, and resenting it. This is further brought up during his end with First, until he finally relents and we get Thirteen.
While all that is a mix of positive and negative, some parts both at the same time, it isn’t my bone of contention.
I’ve made it no secret that most of Doctor Who after Eleven hasn’t been my jam. It’s fine. People like what they like, and in no way do I begrudge someone enjoying something I don’t.
Part way through Series 9 is when it hit me. I wasn’t enjoying Doctor Who any more. Sure, I could happily watch old stuff, but the new things weren’t doing anything for me. The Doctor’s ‘angry’ nature was starting to get old, and the stories were going from fine to fairly bad. I just couldn’t connect with the stories being presented to me. I have gone back and watched this era properly, but the good stuff I enjoy is mostly related to Missy.
I’ve tried a couple of times now to ‘get’ this era, but it hasn’t happened, and I’ve given up trying to force the issue.
So in conclusion. Great actor, grating character choice.
I’m truly happy for people who enjoy Twelve/this era. It just doesn’t do it for me.