Dave Yadallee's personal blog

"Marco Polo" is a seven-part serial from the first season of Doctor Who,

originally broadcast in 1964. Set in the 13th century, the story follows

the Doctor and his companions as they become embroiled in the adventures

of the famous Venetian explorer Marco Polo. Let's review each part of the

serial and rate them out of 10:



Part 1: "The Roof of the World"

In the opening episode, the TARDIS lands in the Himalayas, where the Doctor

and his companions encounter the warlord Tegana and his Mongol forces.

The introduction of Marco Polo and his caravan sets the stage for an epic

journey across the Silk Road.

Rating: 7/10



Part 2: "The Singing Sands"

As the Doctor and his companions join Marco Polo's caravan, they face

numerous challenges, including sandstorms and treacherous terrain.

Tensions rise among the travelers as they navigate the dangers of the desert.

Rating: 7/10



Part 3: "Five Hundred Eyes"

In this episode, the travelers arrive at the walled city of Lop, where they

encounter the enigmatic Kublai Khan and his court. The Doctor's attempts to

recover the TARDIS are thwarted by the scheming Tegana, leading to a tense

confrontation.

Rating: 8/10



Part 4: "The Wall of Lies"

As the Doctor and his companions adjust to life at the court of Kublai Khan,

they become embroiled in palace intrigue and political machinations. The

mystery of Tegana's true motives deepens, setting the stage for a dramatic

confrontation.

Rating: 8/10



Part 5: "Rider from Shang-Tu"

In this episode, the travelers journey to the fabled city of Shang-Tu, where

they encounter the mysterious Ping-Cho and her betrothed. The Doctor's

efforts to thwart Tegana's plans are complicated by the arrival of a new

adversary.

Rating: 7/10



Part 6: "Mighty Kublai Khan"

As tensions escalate between the travelers and Tegana, the Doctor's true

identity is revealed, leading to a dramatic showdown at the court of Kublai

Khan. The fate of Marco Polo's caravan hangs in the balance as alliances are

tested and loyalties are questioned.

Rating: 9/10



Part 7: "Assassin at Peking"

In the thrilling conclusion to the serial, the Doctor and his companions race

to prevent Tegana from assassinating Kublai Khan and seizing power. The fate

of the TARDIS and the future of history itself hang in the balance as the

travelers confront their greatest challenge yet.

Rating: 9/10



Overall Rating: 8/10

"Marco Polo" is a classic Doctor Who serial that combines historical

adventure with thrilling drama and suspense. While some parts may feel

slower-paced compared to modern television, the serial excels in its

character development, intricate plotting, and immersive historical

setting. The performances of the cast, particularly William Hartnell

as the Doctor and Mark Eden as Marco Polo, are highlights of the story.

Overall, "Marco Polo" remains a beloved and memorable entry in the Doctor Who

canon, showcasing the series' ability to blend science fiction

with historical drama in captivating ways.