Dave Yadallee's personal blog

Here's a review of Doctor Who: The Planets of Giants,

the first serial of the show's second season,

to help you decide if you'd like to watch it:



Story



The TARDIS malfunctions during flight, shrinking the Doctor,

Susan, Ian, and Barbara to the size of insects. They land

on a seemingly normal Earth, only to discover the human

inhabitants are giants oblivious to their presence.

The companions must find a way to communicate

with the humans and get themselves back to normal

size while avoiding being crushed or exterminated.



Review



Strengths:



Unique Premise: The concept of being shrunk to a miniature

size creates a unique and suspenseful situation. The serial

explores the dangers of a familiar world from a new perspective.

Early Companion Dynamics: We see Ian and Barbara working

together to protect Susan and find solutions.

Their resourcefulness and growing trust in the Doctor are on display.

Social Commentary (Subtle for the Time):

The serial touches on themes of power dynamics

and the exploitation of weaker beings, though these themes

are more subtle compared to later Doctor Who stories.



Weaknesses:



Limited Special Effects: The special effects used to depict

the shrunken characters and the giant world might seem primitive

by modern standards.

Slow Pacing in Parts: The narrative can feel slow at times,

especially during exposition scenes explaining the situation.

Reused Plot Elements: The concept of the Doctor

and his companions being shrunk was used in an earlier

episode ("The Shrinking Man"). This might make the plot

feel less original for some viewers.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its unique premise,

early companions dynamics, and subtle social commentary.

Some fans also enjoy the sense of wonder and suspense.



Negative: Criticized for its slow pacing, lack of action

in certain sections, and somewhat unconvincing special

effects for the giant world.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Planets of Giants" is an interesting story with a unique concept.

While the special effects might not hold up entirely today,

it offers a fun adventure and highlights the resourcefulness

of the companions.



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 stories with a sense of wonder

and unique premises, "The Planets of Giants"

is worth checking out. However, if you prefer

fast-paced adventures with cutting-edge special

effects, you might find it slow and less exciting.



Additional Points to Consider:



This serial introduced the work of incidental music

composer Dudley Simpson, who would go on to score

many classic Doctor Who stories.

If you enjoy "The Planets of Giants," you might

also appreciate other classic Doctor Who stories

that feature the companions working together

to solve problems in unique situations.



Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch

"The Planets of Giants" depends on your personal preferences

and your tolerance for slower-paced storytelling with

a focus on companionship and inventiveness.

Here's a review of each episode of "Doctor Who - Enemy of the World"

along with individual ratings:



Episode 1:

The first episode introduces the audience to the intriguing premise

of a world ruled by the dictator Salamander, with the Doctor being

mistaken for him. The setup is compelling, with the Doctor's confusion

and the tension of the situation effectively conveyed. The episode

sets the stage for the unfolding mystery and the Doctor's subsequent

investigation.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 2:

Episode 2 sees the Doctor becoming embroiled in Salamander's

inner circle, as he attempts to uncover the truth behind

the dictator's actions. The tension builds steadily

as the Doctor navigates the political intrigue

and confronts the ruthless nature of Salamander's regime.

The episode maintains a strong sense of momentum,

keeping viewers engaged throughout.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 3:

This episode sees the Doctor continuing his investigation

into Salamander's activities, as he uncovers more clues

about the dictator's true intentions. The tension escalates

as the Doctor's allies become increasingly suspicious

of his motives, leading to a thrilling climax that leaves

viewers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is solid,

and the narrative remains engaging throughout.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 4:

The fourth episode sees the story reach its climax

as the Doctor confronts Salamander in a final showdown.

The action sequences are thrilling, and the resolution

is both satisfying and emotionally resonant,

with moments of sacrifice and heroism

from the main characters. The episode delivers on both

suspense and excitement, making it a standout installment

in the serial.

Rating: 9/10



Episode 5:

This episode provides a satisfying resolution 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: 7/10



Episode 6:

The final episode brings the story to a dramatic conclusion

as the Doctor and Salamander face off in a final battle

for the fate of the world. The tension builds steadily

as the true extent of Salamander's plans 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



Overall, "Doctor Who - Enemy of the World" is a gripping

and atmospheric serial that effectively combines elements

of science fiction, suspense, and political intrigue.

While some episodes may have pacing issues, the story

remains engaging throughout, making it a standout installment

in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 8/10