Dave Yadallee's personal blog

Doctor Who: The Time Meddler - A Monk Mishap



"The Time Meddler" is a 1965 serial from Doctor

Who's classic era, part of the First Doctor's adventures.

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

embark on this timey-wimey adventure with a meddling menace:



Story



The TARDIS materializes on the Northumbrian coast in the

11th century. The Doctor, Vicki, and Steven encounter

a mysterious figure called the Monk who is tampering

with history by aiding the Vikings

against the Saxons. The Doctor must foil

the Monk's interference and ensure the historical

timeline remains relatively unchanged, all while

dealing with anachronisms caused by the Monk's meddling.



Review



Strengths:



Introduction of the Meddling Monk: This serial introduces

the Monk, a time-traveling renegade who becomes a recurring

foe of the Doctor. He presents an interesting contrast

to the Doctor, willing to alter history for his own gain.



Focus on Historical Preservation: The story highlights

the importance of preserving the flow of time

and the unintended consequences of historical manipulation.



Early Exploration of Time Travel Dilemmas: "The Time Meddler"

touches upon the ethical dilemmas of time travel

and the Doctor's responsibility to safeguard history.



Weaknesses:



Limited Special Effects: The special effects used for the Monk

and certain historical elements might seem primitive

by modern standards.



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

especially during exposition scenes explaining the Monk's

motivations and the historical context.



Repetitive Nature of the Conflict: The Doctor and the Monk

essentially play a game of cat and mouse throughout

the serial, which might feel repetitive for some viewers.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its introduction of the Meddling

Monk, focus on historical preservation, and early

exploration of time travel dilemmas. Some fans

also enjoy the contrast between the Doctor and the Monk.



Negative: Criticized for its limited special effects,

slow pacing in certain sections, and somewhat

repetitive nature of the Doctor versus the Monk conflict.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Time Meddler" offers an interesting introduction

to a recurring villain and explores the concept

of responsible time travel. While the pacing might

be slow for modern viewers, it provides a glimpse

into the development of Doctor Who's lore

and the challenges of maintaining the timeline.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10

(Especially those interested in the show's

recurring villains and exploration of time travel consequences)



For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 4/10



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

and enjoy the introduction of new adversaries,

"The Time Meddler" might be worth checking out.

However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures with

cutting-edge special effects, you might find it

dated and less engaging.



Additional Points to Consider:



The Meddling Monk would go on to appear in a few other

classic Doctor Who stories, becoming a foil to the Doctor's morality.



If you enjoy "The Time Meddler" and find the concept

"Doctor Who: The Seeds of Death" is a classic serial

from the Patrick Troughton era, originally broadcast

in 1969. Here's a review of the serial:



Episode 1: The TARDIS lands in the 21st century Earth

where the Doctor, Jamie, and Zoe find a world reliant

on the T-Mat, a teleportation system. The introduction

of the T-Mat system and the mystery surrounding

its malfunctioning set a promising stage for the story. Rating: 7/10



Episode 2: The tension escalates as it's revealed that

the Ice Warriors are behind the disruption of the T-Mat system.

The Ice Warriors' presence adds an element of danger

and urgency to the story. Rating: 7/10



Episode 3: The Doctor and his companions, along with

the Earth crew, attempt to stop the Ice Warriors' takeover.

The suspense builds as they face various challenges,

including sabotage and attacks by the Ice Warriors. Rating: 7/10



Episode 4: The climax of the story sees the Doctor devising a plan

to defeat the Ice Warriors and save Earth. The action sequences

are engaging, and the resolution is satisfying. Rating: 8/10



Overall, "The Seeds of Death" is a solid Doctor Who serial

with a compelling storyline, memorable villains in the form

of the Ice Warriors, and strong performances from the cast,

particularly Patrick Troughton as the Second Doctor.

The serial effectively combines elements of science fiction

and suspense to create an engaging adventure. Overall Rating: 7.25/10

Doctor Who: The Chase - A Dalek Extravaganza



"The Chase" is a classic Doctor Who adventure from 1965,

part of the Second Doctor's regeneration cycle.

It holds a special place in the show's history

for bringing back the iconic villains, the Daleks.

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

to join this thrilling chase through time and space:



Story



The Doctor and his companions, Barbara and Ian,

land on the desert planet Aridius. While exploring,

they encounter the peaceful Aridians under

threat of Dalek invasion. It turns out the

Daleks have constructed their own time machine

and are determined to exterminate the Doctor

throughout history. The narrative follows

the Doctor, Barbara, and Ian on

a desperate chase through various

time periods and locations like

the Empire State Building, the Mary Celeste,

and even a haunted house,

all while being pursued by the ruthless Daleks.



Review



Strengths:



Iconic Dalek Story: "The Chase" is considered

one of the best Dalek stories ever written.

It showcases their intelligence, ruthlessness,

and vulnerability in a high-stakes chase across time.



High-Concept Premise: The idea of the Daleks hunting

the Doctor through various points in history is inventive

and keeps the narrative engaging.



Companion Performances: Barbara and Ian play pivotal

roles in helping the Doctor throughout the chase,

showcasing their courage and resourcefulness.



Weaknesses:



Dated Special Effects: While groundbreaking for its time,

the special effects used for the Daleks

and the various historical settings might seem primitive

by modern standards.



Repetitive Dialogue: The Daleks' catchphrases ("Exterminate!")

might become repetitive for some viewers after a while.



Uneven Pacing at Times: The story switches between

different time periods quickly, which can disrupt

the flow for some viewers.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its iconic status, high-concept

premise, memorable chase sequence, and strong companion

performances. This serial solidified the Daleks

as the Doctor's arch-nemesis.



Negative: Criticized for its dated special effects,

repetitive dialogue from the Daleks,

and uneven pacing as the narrative jumps between time periods.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Chase" is a landmark serial in Doctor Who history.

While the production values might not hold up entirely today,

it offers a thrilling adventure and an important chapter

in the ongoing conflict between the Doctor and the Daleks.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 8/10 (A must-watch

for understanding the significance of the Daleks

and appreciating the Second Doctor's era)



For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 6/10 (It might be enjoyable

for its historical setting hopping and iconic villain focus,

but be prepared for the limitations of classic Doctor Who production)



Additional Points to Consider:



This serial introduced the Daleks' iconic battle cry "Exterminate!"

which has become synonymous with the show and the Daleks themselves.



If you enjoy "The Chase" and find yourself intrigued by the Daleks,

you might also appreciate

Doctor Who: The Space Museum - A Review with Timey-Wimey Twists



"The Space Museum" is a 1965 serial from Doctor Who's classic era,

part of the First Doctor's adventures. Here's a breakdown to help

you decide if you'd like to embark on this journey through a museum

of galactic conquests:



Story



The TARDIS lands on a seemingly empty planet. The Doctor, Ian,

Barbara, and Vicki soon discover it's actually a giant

space museum dedicated to the victories of the ruthless

Morok race. However, things get complicated when our heroes

find themselves stuck in a time loop, witnessing

their own capture and display as museum exhibits.

The Doctor must unravel the mystery of the time loop

and find a way to escape becoming permanent museum

pieces themselves.



Review



Strengths:



Unique Premise: The concept of a space museum housing artifacts

from across the universe is inventive and intriguing. It allows

for glimpses of past alien civilizations defeated by the Morok.



Early Introduction of Time Loop: This serial is one of the first

Doctor Who stories to feature a time loop narrative, which was

a novel concept at the the time.



Focus on Companions: The companions play a significant

role in trying to break the time loop, showcasing their

resourcefulness and courage.



Weaknesses:



Limited Special Effects: The special effects used for

the space museum and the Morok costumes might seem primitive

by modern standards.



Repetitive Nature of Time Loop: While initially intriguing,

the time loop narrative can feel repetitive as the events

cycle back on themselves.



Mixed Pacing: The story starts strong with the museum

exploration but can drag in the middle sections

as the companions try to break the loop.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its unique premise, early use

of a time loop narrative, and focus on

the companions' roles in solving the problem.

Some fans also enjoy the sense of mystery and suspense.



Negative: Criticized for its dated special effects,

repetitive nature of the time loop, and uneven

pacing throughout the serial.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Space Museum" has an interesting concept

but suffers from the limitations of its era.

While the time loop might feel repetitive

for modern viewers, it offers a glimpse into

the inventiveness of early Doctor Who

and a thought-provoking puzzle for the Doctor

and companions to solve.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10

(Especially those interested in the show's

development of narrative concepts and companion roles)



For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 4/10



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

and are willing to overlook the dated effects,

"The Space Museum" might be worth checking out

for its unique premise and early use of a time

loop. However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures

with cutting-edge special effects, you might

find it slow and less engaging.

Doctor Who: The Crusade - A Mixed Bag in the Holy Land



"The Crusade" is a four-episode historical serial from

Doctor Who's classic era, airing in 1965 as part of the

First Doctor's tenure. Here's a breakdown to help you

decide if you'd like to embark on this timey-wimey pilgrimage:



Story



The TARDIS materialises in 1191 during the Third Crusade.

The Doctor, Susan, Barbara, and Ian find themselves caught

between King Richard the Lionheart of England and Saladin,

the Muslim leader. As political intrigue and warfare

unfold, the companions get separated, and the Doctor

must navigate the complexities of the conflict while

trying to reunite with his friends.



Review



Strengths



Exploration of Historical Context: "The Crusade" attempts

to depict the Third Crusade from multiple perspectives,

offering a glimpse into the political climate

and cultural clash of the era.



Character Development: The serial allows for Barbara

to shine as her knowledge of history becomes an asset.

We also see the companions grappling with the morality

of war and the importance of tolerance.



Guest Star Performances: The serial features well-regarded

guest stars like Julian Glover and Jean Marsh, who elevate

the drama with their performances.



Weaknesses



Missing Episodes: Unfortunately, episodes 2 and 3 of "The Crusade"

exist only as photo reconstructions, which can disrupt the narrative

flow for modern viewers.



Limited Scope by Modern Standards: The historical depiction might

seem simplistic compared to modern productions with richer detail

and cultural nuance.



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

especially during exposition scenes explaining the historical context

and political landscape.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its attempt to tackle a complex historical

period, character development for Barbara, and strong guest star

performances. Some fans also appreciate the themes of war

and tolerance.



Negative: Criticised for its missing episodes that disrupt

the narrative, limited historical scope, and slow pacing

in certain sections.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Crusade" is an interesting experiment in historical Doctor Who.

While the missing episodes and simplistic historical depiction might

be drawbacks for some viewers, it offers a thought-provoking

exploration of war and cultural understanding through

the companions' eyes.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10

(Especially those interested in historical stories

and character development for the companions)



For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 4/10



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

and enjoy historical settings, "The Crusade"

might be worth checking out despite the missing episodes.

However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures with complete

narratives and a more nuanced approach to history,

you might find it slow and less engaging.



Additional Points to Consider:



This serial is considered significant for being the First Doctor's

first historical adventure, paving the way for future historical

stories in the show.



If you enjoy "The Crusade" for its exploration of historical conflict

and the companions' roles

"The Mind Robber" is a Doctor Who serial from the Patrick Troughton era, originally broadcast in 1968. Here's a review and rating for each episode:



Episode 1: The TARDIS is forced out of normal space and time, leading the Doctor and his companions into a mysterious and surreal world. The introduction of the white void and the appearance of the mysterious figure effectively set up an intriguing premise. Rating: 8/10



Episode 2: The Doctor and his companions find themselves in a strange world where fiction becomes reality, encountering characters from various literary works. The concept is fascinating, and the pacing remains engaging. Rating: 8/10



Episode 3: The story continues to unfold as the Doctor and his companions navigate through different literary landscapes, facing new challenges and dangers. The creativity in adapting literary elements into the Doctor Who universe is commendable. Rating: 8/10



Episode 4: Tension builds as the Doctor and his companions try to escape the clutches of the Master of the Land of Fiction. The surreal nature of the story adds to the suspense, and the resolution is both satisfying and clever. Rating: 9/10



Episode 5: The Doctor and his companions face their greatest challenge yet as they confront the Master of the Land of Fiction and try to find a way back to reality. The climax is thrilling, and the conclusion ties up the story neatly. Rating: 9/10



Overall, "The Mind Robber" is a highly imaginative and surreal Doctor Who serial that stands out for its creativity and originality. The concept of a world where fiction comes to life is executed brilliantly, making it one of the highlights of the Troughton era. Overall Rating: 8.4/10

"The Web Planet" is a serial from Doctor Who's classic era, originally airing in 1964 as part of the First Doctor's tenure. It holds a somewhat mixed reputation, so here's a breakdown to help you decide if you'd like to watch it:



Story



The TARDIS lands on a seemingly barren planet covered in webs. The Doctor, Susan, Ian, and Barbara encounter the Zarbi, insectoid humanoids who control the planet through a massive web intelligence called the Animus. The companions get caught in the webs and must find a way to free themselves and defeat the Animus while the Doctor negotiates with the Zarbi.



Review



Strengths



Early Exploration of Alien Concepts: The story introduces the idea of a sentient web intelligence and insectoid humanoids, which were unique concepts for television at the time.

Focus on Teamwork: The companions must work together to escape the webs and overcome challenges, showcasing their resourcefulness and camaraderie.

Moral Complexity: The Zarbi are not inherently evil, but their reliance on the Animus raises questions about blind obedience and the dangers of a hivemind mentality.



Weaknesses



Low-Budget Special Effects: The special effects used for the webs and the Zarbi costumes might seem primitive and unconvincing by modern standards.

Slow Pacing: The narrative can feel slow at times, especially during scenes explaining the situation on the planet and the Animus' power.

Repetitive Dialogue: The Zarbi have a limited vocabulary, which can lead to repetitive dialogue and exposition scenes.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its unique concepts, early exploration of alien societies, and focus on companionship. Some fans also appreciate the underlying themes of control and free will.



Negative: Criticized for its low-budget special effects, slow pacing, repetitive dialogue, and somewhat uninspired monster design for the Zarbi.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Web Planet" has interesting ideas but suffers from production limitations of its time. While the story might feel slow for modern viewers, it offers a glimpse into the inventiveness of early Doctor Who and explores thought-provoking themes.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 5/10 (Especially those interested in the show's history and development)

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 3/10



If you're a die-hard fan of classic Doctor Who and are willing to overlook the low-budget effects, "The Web Planet" might be worth checking out for its unique concepts. However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures with cutting-edge special effects, you might find it dated and less exciting.



Additional Points to Consider:



This serial introduced the concept of the TARDIS being a living entity, which would be touched upon in later stories.

If you enjoy "The Web Planet" for its exploration of alien societies and moral dilemmas, you might also appreciate other classic Doctor Who stories like "The Sensorites" or "The Ark."



Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch "The Web Planet" depends on your personal preferences and your tolerance for slow pacing, low-budget effects, and stories with

"The Dominators" is a Doctor Who serial from the Patrick Troughton era, originally broadcast in 1968. Here's a review and rating for each episode:



Episode 1: The story starts with the TARDIS landing on the planet Dulkis, where the Doctor and his companions encounter the pacifist Dulcians and the aggressive Dominators. The introduction effectively sets up the conflict and establishes the setting. Rating: 7/10



Episode 2: Tension begins to build as the Dominators' plan to use the planet's resources becomes clearer. The Doctor and his companions try to warn the Dulcians, but their pacifism hinders their ability to respond effectively. Rating: 7/10



Episode 3: The situation escalates as the Dominators begin their drilling operation, threatening the very existence of Dulkis. The Doctor and his companions must find a way to stop them before it's too late. Rating: 7/10



Episode 4: The conflict between the Dominators and the Dulcians comes to a head, leading to a climactic showdown. The action sequences are engaging, but some may find the resolution slightly underwhelming. Rating: 6/10



Episode 5: The Doctor's plan to defeat the Dominators takes shape, leading to some tense and exciting moments. However, the pacing feels somewhat uneven, and the story drags in places. Rating: 6/10



Overall, "The Dominators" is a somewhat average Doctor Who serial with an interesting premise but execution that falls short in some aspects. While it has its moments, it's not among the strongest stories of the era. Overall Rating: 6.6/10

"The Romans" is a historical adventure from Doctor Who's classic era,

originally airing in 1965 as part of the First Doctor's tenure.

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



Story



The TARDIS materializes in ancient Rome, landing the Doctor

and his companions, Ian and Barbara, right in the middle

of political intrigue. Mistaken for a powerful seer,

the Doctor must navigate the dangers of the Roman court

while trying to find a way back to their own time.

Expect chariot races, gladiatorial combat, and a healthy dose

of slapstick humour.



Review



Strengths



Comedy Gold (for Classic Who): "The Romans" is considered

one of the First Doctor's funniest stories. The Doctor's

interactions with the Romans, his attempts to blend in,

and the general misunderstandings create lighthearted entertainment.



Early Historical Exploration: While historical accuracy

wasn't a major focus in early Doctor Who, "The Romans"

offers a glimpse into ancient Roman society and culture.



Character Development: The story allows for the development

of the relationship between the Doctor and his companions,

particularly the Doctor and Vicki (introduced in the previous serial).



Weaknesses



Campy Humour by Modern Standards: The humor in "The Romans"

might be considered campy or over-the-top by modern viewers

accustomed to more subtle comedy.



Limited Special Effects: The special effects used for ancient

Rome and any fantastical elements might seem primitive by today's

standards.



Historical Inaccuracy: As mentioned, historical accuracy wasn't

a priority. Viewers seeking a realistic depiction of ancient

Rome might be disappointed.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its humour, lighthearted adventure,

and early attempts at exploring historical settings.

Some fans also enjoy the dynamics

between the Doctor and his companions.



Negative: Criticized for its campy humor,

lack of historical accuracy, and somewhat

unconvincing special effects.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Romans" is a fun and comedic romp through time. While

it might not be the most serious historical adventure,

it offers a charming escape with memorable interactions

between the Doctor and his companions.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 7/10

(Especially those who enjoy the First Doctor's comedic flair)

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 5/10



If you're open to campy humor and enjoy classic Doctor Who's

lighter adventures, "The Romans" is worth checking out.

However, if you prefer serious historical stories

with cutting-edge special effects, you might find it dated

and less appealing.



Additional Points to Consider:



"The Romans" is considered a significant serial for being

the First Doctor's first comedy-focused story, paving the

way for future adventures with a more humourous bent.



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

other classic Doctor Who stories that feature the Doctor

and companions in historical settings, like "The Aztecs"

or "Marco Polo" (though the latter is unfortunately lost).



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

depends on your personal preferences and your tolerance

for campy humour and a less serious approach

to historical settings.

"The Wheel in Space" is a Doctor Who serial from the Patrick Troughton era,

originally broadcast in 1968. Here's a review and rating for each episode:



Episode 1: The story begins with the TARDIS materialising

on a mysterious spaceship, setting up an intriguing premise.

The introduction of the Cybermen adds excitement and anticipation

for the events to come. Rating: 7/10



Episode 2: Tension builds as the crew of the spaceship discovers

the threat posed by the Cybermen. The pacing is steady,

and the sense of danger increases as the situation escalates.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 3: This episode sees the Cybermen's plan unfolding,

with the crew of the spaceship facing increasing peril.

The stakes feel higher as the Doctor and his companions race

to stop the Cybermen's scheme. Rating: 7/10



Episode 4: The danger reaches its peak as the Cybermen

launch their attack, leading to some thrilling action

sequences. The resolution is satisfying, though some

may find it slightly rushed. Rating: 8/10



Episode 5: The Doctor's plan to thwart the Cybermen's

invasion takes shape, leading to a tense and exciting climax.

The resolution provides closure while leaving room

for future adventures. Rating: 8/10



Overall, "The Wheel in Space" is an engaging Doctor Who

serial with a compelling storyline and memorable villains.

While some episodes may have pacing issues, the overall

experience is enjoyable for fans of classic Doctor Who.

Overall Rating: 7.4/10

"The Rescue" is the third serial of Doctor Who's second season,

originally broadcast in 1965. Here's a breakdown to help you

decide if you'd like to watch it:



Story



The TARDIS lands on the planet Dido, where the Doctor, Ian,

and Barbara encounter two human survivors, Vicki and Bennett.

They discover the seemingly peaceful Didovian civilisation

is hiding a dark secret, and the survivors are being

threatened by a mysterious figure called Koquillion.

The Doctor must unravel the truth and ensure everyone's safety.



Review



Strengths:



Introduction of Vicki: This serial introduces Vicki,

a new companion who would become a significant character

in the show's history. Her resourcefulness and optimism

add a new dynamic to the TARDIS team.



Moral Complexity: The story explores themes of deception,

cultural misunderstanding, and the dangers of blind trust.

It doesn't have clear-cut heroes and villains, making it

more thought-provoking.



Early World-Building: While a relatively contained story,

"The Rescue" offers a glimpse into the culture and ecosystem

of the planet Dido, adding depth to the world-building of the show.



Weaknesses:



Limited Special Effects: The special effects used for the Didovian

creatures and technology might seem primitive by modern standards.



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

especially during exposition scenes introducing the characters

and setting.



Limited Character Development for Existing Companions: While Vicki

is introduced, Ian and Barbara don't experience as much growth

compared to other serials.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its introduction of Vicki,

moral complexity, and early attempts at world-building.

Some fans also enjoy the sense of mystery and suspense.



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

and somewhat unconvincing special effects.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Rescue" is a significant serial for introducing

a beloved companion and exploring moral themes.

While the pacing might be slow for modern viewers,

it offers a glimpse into the evolution of Doctor Who

and the beginnings of a new era for the TARDIS team.



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 introductions of new companions

and moral dilemmas, "The Rescue" 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:



Vicki would go on to travel with the Doctor

for several serials, becoming a popular companion among fans.

If you enjoy "The Rescue," you might also appreciate other

classic Doctor Who stories that introduce new companions

and explore themes of trust and deception.



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

depends on your personal preferences and your tolerance

for slower-paced storytelling with a focus on character

introduction and moral complexity.

"Fury from the Deep" is a classic Doctor Who serial from

the Patrick Troughton era, originally broadcast in 1968.

Here's a brief review and rating for each of its episodes:



Episode 1: The story kicks off with a mysterious

and intriguing premise as the TARDIS lands near

a gas refinery where strange occurrences are taking place.

The atmosphere is effectively established, and the tension

begins to build. Rating: 7/10



Episode 2: The tension continues to mount as the dangers

lurking beneath the surface become more apparent.

The introduction of the weed creatures adds a creepy

and unsettling element to the story. Rating: 7/10



Episode 3: This episode sees the situation at the gas

refinery deteriorating rapidly as the weed creatures

begin to exert their influence. The sense of unease

is palpable as the Doctor and his companions try

to uncover the truth. Rating: 7/10



Episode 4: The danger escalates as the weed creatures

take control of key personnel at the refinery, leading

to a thrilling confrontation. The pacing is brisk,

and the stakes feel higher than ever. Rating: 8/10



Episode 5: The Doctor's plan to defeat the weed creatures

takes shape, leading to some tense and exciting moments.

The resolution is satisfying, though some may find it

slightly rushed. Rating: 8/10



Episode 6: The climax of the story delivers on the buildup,

with the Doctor and his companions facing off against

the ultimate threat posed by the weed creatures.

The resolution provides closure while leaving room

for future adventures. Rating: 8/10



Overall, "Fury from the Deep" is a gripping and atmospheric

serial with a compelling storyline and strong performances.

While some episodes may suffer from pacing issues,

the overall experience is highly enjoyable. Overall Rating: 7.5/10

The Web of Fear" is a classic Doctor Who serial

from the Patrick Troughton era, originally broadcast in 1968.

Here's a brief review and rating for each of its episodes:



Episode 1: This episode effectively sets up the mysterious

atmosphere of the story, introducing the Yeti

and the web-like substance. The introduction of the military

adds tension and intrigue. Rating: 8/10



Episode 2: The tension builds as the situation escalates, with

the Yeti attacking and the web spreading further.

The claustrophobic setting of the underground tunnels

adds to the suspense. Rating: 8/10



Episode 3: This episode sees the characters facing

increasing danger as they try to find a way to stop

the Yeti and the web. The sense of isolation

and paranoia is palpable. Rating: 8/10



Episode 4: The Doctor's plan to defeat the Yeti begins

to take shape, leading to some exciting action sequences.

The stakes feel higher as the threat grows. Rating: 9/10



Episode 5: The tension reaches its peak as the Doctor

and his companions confront the Great Intelligence.

The resolution is satisfying, though some may find

it slightly rushed. Rating: 9/10



Overall, "The Web of Fear" is a thrilling

and atmospheric serial with strong performances

and a compelling storyline. While some episodes

may have pacing issues, the overall experience

is highly enjoyable. Overall Rating: 8.5/10

"The Dalek Invasion of Earth" is a landmark six-episode serial

in Doctor Who's classic era, airing in 1966. It marks

the triumphant return of the Daleks, solidifying them

as the Doctor's most iconic enemies. Here's a breakdown

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



Story



The TARDIS lands in 2150 AD Earth, a desolate wasteland

under Dalek occupation. The Doctor and his companions,

Susan, Ian, and Barbara, find themselves embroiled

in a resistance movement fighting for humanity's survival.

The story follows their struggle against the Daleks

and their ruthless leader, Supreme Dalek.



Review



Strengths:



Iconic Dalek Story: This serial is considered one

of the best Dalek stories ever written. It showcases

their ruthlessness, intelligence, and vulnerability

in a high-stakes conflict.



Earth Invasion Setting: The Dalek occupation of Earth

creates a sense of urgency and raises questions about

humanity's resilience.



Companion Departures: The serial features the emotional

departure of Susan Foreman, the Doctor's granddaughter.

This adds a layer of poignancy to the story.



Weaknesses:



Dated Special Effects: While groundbreaking for its time,

the special effects used for the Daleks and the devastated

Earth might seem primitive by modern standards.

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

especially during exposition scenes explaining the situation on Earth.

Repetitive Dialogue: The Daleks' catchphrases ("Exterminate!") might

become repetitive for some viewers after a while.



Reception:



Positive: Praised for its iconic status, high stakes narrative,

and emotional weight of Susan's departure. The story

is considered a turning point for the show's popularity.



Negative: Criticized for its slow pacing, dated special effects,

and repetitive dialogue from the Daleks.



Overall Thoughts:



"The Dalek Invasion of Earth" is a classic Doctor Who story

with historical significance. While the production values

might not hold up entirely today, it offers a thrilling

adventure and an important chapter in the Doctor

and the Daleks' ongoing conflict.



Would I recommend watching it?



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 8/10

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 6/10



If you're interested in the history of Doctor Who

and enjoy stories featuring the Daleks,

"The Dalek Invasion of Earth" is a must-watch.

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 iconic Dalek catchphrase

"Exterminate!" which has become synonymous with the show

and the Daleks themselves.



If you enjoy "The Dalek Invasion of Earth," you might

also appreciate other classic Doctor Who stories that

feature high-stakes conflicts and iconic monsters.



Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch

"The Dalek Invasion of Earth" depends on your personal preferences

and your tolerance for slower-paced storytelling

with historical significance and a focus on the

Doctor's arch nemesis: the Daleks.

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.