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"The Sensorites" is the seventh serial in Doctor Who's classic era,

originally airing in 1964 as part of the First Doctor's tenure.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide if you'd like to watch it:



Story



The TARDIS materializes aboard a spaceship captured by the Sensorites,

a race with heightened hearing but poor eyesight. The Doctor

and his companions, Susan, Ian, and Barbara, find themselves

caught in a web of deceit and manipulation as the Sensorites

grapple with a deadly disease and internal conflict.



Review



Strengths:



Early Exploration of Morality: The serial explores themes

of colonialism, exploitation, and the importance

of understanding different cultures. It raises questions

about who the real "monsters" are.



Susan's Role: This story gives Susan Foreman, the Doctor's

granddaughter, a more prominent role. Her telepathic abilities

allow her to communicate with the Sensorites,

creating a unique dynamic.



Early Signs of the Doctor's Complexity: We see glimpses

of the Doctor's cunning and ruthlessness as he navigates

the treacherous situation onboard the spaceship.



Weaknesses:



Limited Special Effects: Being a 1964 serial, the special

effects for the Sensorites themselves might seem primitive

by modern standards.



Slow Pacing by Modern Standards: The narrative unfolds gradually,

with a focus on dialogue and character interactions. This might

feel slow for viewers accustomed to the fast-paced action

of modern Doctor Who.



Limited Character Development for the Doctor's Companions:

While Susan has a more prominent role, Ian and Barbara don't

experience as much growth compared to other serials.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its themes, exploration of morality,

and Susan's role in the story. Some fans also enjoy

the sense of mystery and suspense.



Negative: Criticized for its slow pacing, lack of action,

and somewhat unconvincing alien costumes for the Sensorites.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Sensorites" is an interesting story that offers a glimpse

into the early days of Doctor Who. While it might not be

the most action-packed adventure, it raises thought-provoking

questions and showcases the moral ambiguity the show would

become known for.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 4/10



If you're a die-hard fan of classic Doctor Who and enjoy

character-driven stories with moral dilemmas, "The Sensorites"

is worth checking out. However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures

and cutting-edge special effects, you might find it slow

and less exciting.



Additional Points to Consider:



The Sensorites were later mentioned by the Tenth Doctor

in the 2006 episode "The Impossible Planet," suggesting

a connection between their homeworld and the Ood-Sphere.



If you enjoy "The Sensorites," you might also appreciate

other classic Doctor Who stories that explore ethical dilemmas

and historical settings.



Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch "The Sensorites"

depends on your personal preferences and your tolerance for

slower-paced storytelling with a focus on character development

and moral themes.

"Doctor Who - The Abominable Snowmen" is a classic six-part serial

from the Fifth Season of the original series, first broadcast in 1967.

Set in the Himalayas, the story follows the Second Doctor

and his companions as they encounter the mythical Yeti

and face off against an ancient evil.



Here's a review of each episode individually along with ratings:



Episode 1:

The first episode introduces the setting and premise effectively,

as the Doctor and his companions arrive at the Det-Sen Monastery

and become embroiled in the mystery surrounding the disappearance

of a scientist. The atmosphere is tense and mysterious, with the

snowy landscape adding to the sense of isolation and danger.

Overall, it's a strong start to the serial.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 2:

Episode 2 sees the Doctor and his companions uncovering more clues

about the Yeti and the ancient monastery's secrets. The tension

builds steadily as they encounter the terrifying creatures

and face off against their formidable adversaries. While there

are moments of excitement, the pacing occasionally falters,

slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 3:

This episode ramps up the tension as the Doctor and his companions

delve deeper into the mysteries of the monastery and confront

the true nature of the Yeti. The action sequences are well-executed,

and the stakes feel higher than ever as they race against time

to uncover the truth. While there are moments of excitement,

the pacing occasionally falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 4:

The fourth episode sees the story reach its climax as the Doctor

and his companions face off against the Yeti and their master,

the Great Intelligence. The action sequences are thrilling,

and the resolution is both satisfying and emotionally resonant,

with moments of sacrifice and heroism from the main characters.

While there are moments of excitement, the pacing occasionally

falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 5:

This episode brings the story to a dramatic climax

as the Doctor and his companions confront the Great Intelligence

in a final showdown. The tension builds steadily as the true extent

of the ancient evil's power is revealed, leading to a thrilling

and emotionally charged resolution. While there are moments

of excitement, the pacing occasionally falters, slowing down

the narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 6:

The final episode provides a satisfying conclusion to the

serial as the Doctor and his companions bid farewell to

their new friends and prepare to embark on their next adventure.

The resolution is both poignant and bittersweet, with the Doctor

reflecting on the consequences of their actions and the toll

it has taken on those involved. While there are moments of

excitement, the pacing occasionally falters, slowing down the

narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Overall, "Doctor Who - The Abominable Snowmen" is a gripping and

atmospheric serial that effectively combines elements of science

fiction, horror, and adventure. While some episodes

may have pacing issues, the story remains engaging throughout,

making it a memorable installment in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 7.8/10