Dave Yadallee's personal blog

Due to the unfortunate circumstance of all episodes of "Doctor Who

- Marco Polo" being lost, a complete review based on viewing the

serial is impossible. However, I can delve into what information

we do have and why it's considered a significant, albeit unseen,

part of Doctor Who history.



The Story:



Airing in 1964, "Marco Polo" is a seven-episode historical serial

set in the court of Kublai Khan during the reign of Marco Polo.

The Doctor and his companions, Ian, Barbara, and Susan,

become entangled in political intrigue and must navigate

the dangers of the Mongol Empire.



What We Know (and Can Speculate On):



Production Quality: Despite being lost, surviving production photos

and audience reviews suggest "Marco Polo" boasted high production

values for its time. The elaborate costumes and sets likely created

a visually immersive experience.



Character Development: Reviews point to strong character development,

particularly for Marco Polo himself. The Doctor's relationship with

his companions is also believed to have grown throughout the serial.



Historical Context: While historical accuracy wasn't a major focus

for Doctor Who in its early days, "Marco Polo" likely explored themes

of cultural exchange and political power struggles within the Mongol

Empire.



The Legacy of a Lost Serial:



Fan Favorite (Despite Being Unseen): "Marco Polo" holds a special place

in the hearts of many Doctor Who fans based on audio recordings, scripts,

and fan recollections.

First Doctor High Point: The First Doctor, played by William Hartnell,

is considered to be at his best in "Marco Polo." His performance is said

to be both authoritative and nuanced.

A Stepping Stone: "Marco Polo" is believed to be a turning point

for the show, moving away from pure historical adventures

and introducing more complex narratives.



The Importance of "Marco Polo":



Even though we can't watch it, "Marco Polo" remains significant

for several reasons:



Influence on the Show: It helped shape the classic era of Doctor Who

by focusing on character development and more nuanced storytelling.

Fan Dedication: The enduring fan interest in "Marco Polo" highlights

the power of storytelling and the show's ability to capture imaginations.

A Hope for Rediscovery: There's always a chance that lost episodes

might resurface someday, fueling a sense of mystery and anticipation

among fans.



While a traditional review based on viewing the serial is impossible,

"Marco Polo" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Doctor Who

and the power of imagination to fill the gaps left by lost media.