Dave Yadallee's personal blog

"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

Here's a review of all 4 episodes of Doctor Who: The Aztecs

to help you decide if you'd like to watch it and form your own opinion:



Background



"The Aztecs" originally aired in 1964 as part of the First Doctor's era.

This four-episode serial takes the Doctor, Susan, Ian, and Barbara

to 15th-century Mexico, during the reign of the Aztec Empire.

The companions find themselves mistaken for Aztec gods,

leading to ethical dilemmas and dangerous situations.



Review



Here's a breakdown of some key points to consider:



Historical Drama with Sci-Fi Twist: "The Aztecs" blends historical

drama with science fiction elements. It explores the Aztec culture

and beliefs while weaving in the time travel narrative

of the Doctor and his companions.



Ethical Dilemmas: A core theme of the serial is the ethical

quandary of interference in history. The Doctor

and his companions must decide how far they can go

to avoid disrupting the past.



Character Development: We see the companions grapple with the moral

complexities of their situation. Barbara in particular wrestles

with her knowledge of history and the desire to help

the Aztecs.



Limited Set Design: Due to production limitations, the sets

and costumes might not be entirely accurate depictions

of Aztec civilization. However, they still evoke a sense

of the period.



Reception



Positive: Praised for its exploration of historical themes,

ethical dilemmas, and the companions' inner struggles.

It's also considered a well-acted and suspenseful story.



Negative: Criticized for certain inaccuracies in its portrayal

of Aztec culture. Some viewers might find the historical

context less engaging than pure science fiction narratives.



Overall Thoughts



"The Aztecs" is a thought-provoking story that tackles mature themes

like cultural sensitivity and altering history. While some

historical elements might not be entirely accurate, it offers

a fascinating blend of historical drama

and science fiction adventure.



Would I recommend watching it?



If you're interested in Doctor Who exploring historical settings

and ethical dilemmas, "The Aztecs" is a must-watch. However,

if you prefer fast-paced space adventures with entirely fictional

settings, you might find it slow and less exciting.



Rating:



Here's a breakdown to help you decide:



For Fans of Historical Drama: 8/10

For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 7/10

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 6/10



Ultimately, the enjoyment of "The Aztecs" depends on your

personal preferences and your interest in historical

settings within a science fiction narrative.

"Doctor Who - Tomb of the Cybermen" is a classic four-part serial

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

This story is often regarded as one of the finest examples of Doctor Who's

early years, featuring the Second Doctor and his companions uncovering

the long-lost tomb of the Cybermen on the planet Telos.



Here's a review of each episode individually:



Episode 1:

The first episode sets up the premise of the story effectively,

as the Doctor and his companions arrive on Telos

and discover the expedition team led by Professor Parry.

The mystery surrounding the Cybermen's tomb is introduced,

building anticipation for the discoveries to come.

Overall, it's a strong start that establishes the tone

and atmosphere of the serial.

Rating: 9/10



Episode 2:

Episode 2 sees the Doctor and his companions exploring

the interior of the Cybermen's tomb, uncovering its secrets

and facing off against its deadly defenses. The tension builds

steadily as the true extent of the Cybermen's threat is revealed,

leading to a thrilling climax that leaves viewers on the edge

of their seats. While there are moments of excitement,

the pacing occasionally falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 3:

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

confront the Cybermen and their plans to revive their army.

The action sequences are well-executed, and the stakes feel

higher than ever as the Doctor races against time to stop

the Cybermen's schemes. While there are moments of excitement,

the pacing occasionally falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 4:

The final episode brings the story to a satisfying conclusion

as the Doctor and his companions face off against the Cybermen

in a desperate bid to save themselves and the expedition team.

The resolution is both action-packed 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



Overall, "Doctor Who - Tomb of the Cybermen" 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 standout installment in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 8.25/10

I can provide you with a review of "Doctor Who: The Keys of Marinus"

(all six episodes) to help you form your own opinion

and decide if you'd like to watch it.



Background



"The Keys of Marinus" aired in 1964 as part of the First Doctor's era.

It's a six-episode serial that takes the Doctor, Susan, Ian, and Barbara

to the fictional planet Marinus. There, they become entangled in a quest

to find the five Keys of Marinus, which are needed to avert a planetary

disaster.



Review



Here's a breakdown of some key points to consider:



Puzzle Box Story: The narrative follows a classic puzzle-box structure,

with the Doctor and his companions needing to find the scattered keys

to solve a larger mystery. This can be engaging for viewers who enjoy

a good mystery.



Slow Pacing by Modern Standards: The story unfolds gradually, with

a focus on exploration and dialogue. This might feel slow for viewers

accustomed to the fast-paced action of modern Doctor Who.



Character Dynamics: The serial offers opportunities to see the Doctor

and companions working together and their individual personalities

emerge. Susan in particular plays a significant role in the story.



Limited Special Effects: Being a 1964 serial, the special effects are

primitive by today's standards. However, they might hold

a certain charm for those who appreciate classic television

aesthetics.



Reception



Positive: Praised for its sense of wonder, exploration, and focus

on puzzle-solving. Some fans also enjoy the atmospheric setting

of Marinus.



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

derivative plot (borrowing elements from shows like "Fireball XL5").



Overall Thoughts



"The Keys of Marinus" is a mixed bag.

While it might not be the most action-packed story,

it offers a glimpse into the early days of Doctor Who

with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and character development.



Would I recommend watching it?



If you're a die-hard Doctor Who fan or interested in the history

of television, "The Keys of Marinus" is worth checking out.

However, if you prefer fast-paced adventures with cutting-edge

special effects, you might find it slow and lacking in excitement.



Rating:



It's difficult to assign a single rating as enjoyment is subjective.

Here's a breakdown to help you decide:



For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 7/10

For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 5/10



Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch

"The Keys of Marinus" depends on your personal preferences

and your tolerance for slower-paced storytelling.

"Doctor Who - The Evil of the Daleks" is a seven-part serial from the Fourth

Season of the original series, first broadcast in 1967. This iconic story

sees the Second Doctor and his companions embroiled in a deadly game

orchestrated by the Daleks, as they attempt to unlock the secrets of human

emotions.



Here's a review of each episode individually:



Episode 1:

The first episode sets the stage for the story, introducing the mystery

surrounding the Daleks' interest in human emotions and the enigmatic

figure of Edward Waterfield. The tension builds steadily as the Doctor

and his companions are drawn into the Daleks' machinations, setting the

tone for the ensuing adventure. Overall, it's a strong start that grabs

the viewer's attention and leaves them eager for more.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 2:

Episode 2 delves deeper into the Daleks' plot as the Doctor and Jamie

are transported back in time to 1866 London. The historical setting adds

an intriguing dimension to the story, as the Doctor investigates

the origins of the Daleks' experiments with human emotions.

Despite some pacing issues, it's an engaging installment that keeps

viewers guessing.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 3:

This episode sees the Doctor and Jamie confronting the Daleks in their

underground laboratory, as they attempt to thwart their plans

and rescue Victoria. The tension escalates as the true extent

of the Daleks' manipulation is revealed, leading to a thrilling climax

that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite some pacing

issues, it's a satisfying installment that delivers on both suspense

and excitement.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 4:

Episode 4 sees the Doctor and his companions caught in a deadly game

of cat and mouse with the Daleks, as they attempt to escape their

clutches and uncover the truth behind their experiments. The action

sequences are well-staged, and the stakes feel higher than ever as

the Doctor races against time to save his friends and stop the Daleks'

plans. While there are moments of excitement, the pacing occasionally

falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 5:

This episode sees the story reach its climax as the Doctor confronts

the Daleks in a final showdown, leading to a thrilling and emotionally

charged resolution. The action sequences are well-executed,

and the resolution is both satisfying and poignant, 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 6:

The penultimate episode brings the story to a dramatic climax

as the Doctor and his companions face off against the Daleks

in a desperate bid to save humanity. The tension builds steadily

as the true extent of the Daleks' plans is revealed, leading to

a thrilling and emotionally resonant conclusion. While there

are moments of excitement, the pacing occasionally falters,

slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 7:

The final episode brings the story to a satisfying conclusion

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 Evil of the Daleks" is a gripping

and emotionally resonant serial that effectively combines

elements of science fiction, suspense, and drama.

While some episodes may have pacing issues,

the story remains engaging throughout, making it a standout installment

in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 7.8/10

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.

"Doctor Who - The Faceless Ones" is a six-part serial from the Fourth Season

of the original series, originally aired in 1967. In this story,

the Second Doctor and his companions become embroiled in a mystery involving

missing persons at Gatwick Airport and a sinister alien plot.



Here's a review of each episode individually:



Episode 1:

The first episode effectively establishes the central mystery

of the story, as the Doctor and his companions arrive at Gatwick Airport

and encounter strange occurrences involving missing passengers.

The introduction of the Chameleons and their ability to assume human

identities adds an intriguing layer of suspense to the narrative.

Overall, it's a strong start that sets the stage for the ensuing

adventure.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 2:

Episode 2 builds upon the mystery established in the first episode,

as the Doctor and his companions continue their investigation into

the disappearances at Gatwick Airport. The tension escalates

as they uncover more clues and encounter the enigmatic figure of Spencer,

who seems to be connected to the Chameleons' activities. Despite some

pacing issues, it's an engaging installment that keeps viewers guessing.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 3:

This episode sees the Doctor and his companions delving deeper

into the Chameleons' plot as they infiltrate their headquarters

and uncover their true intentions. The action sequences

are well-executed, and the stakes feel higher than ever

as the Doctor races against time to thwart the Chameleons' plans.

While there are moments of excitement, the pacing occasionally

falters, slowing down the narrative momentum.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 4:

Episode 4 ramps up the tension as the Doctor and his companions face off

against the Chameleons in a desperate bid to save the missing passengers.

The stakes feel higher than ever as the true extent of the Chameleons'

deception is revealed, leading to a thrilling climax that leaves viewers

on the edge of their seats. Despite some pacing issues, it's a satisfying

installment that delivers on both suspense and excitement.

Rating: 8/10



Episode 5:

This episode sees the story reach its climax as the Doctor confronts

the Chameleons and exposes their plot to the authorities. The action

sequences are well-staged, 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: 7/10



Episode 6:

The final episode brings the story to a satisfying conclusion

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



Overall, "Doctor Who - The Faceless Ones" is a gripping

and atmospheric serial that effectively combines elements

of mystery and suspense. While some episodes may have pacing issues,

the story remains engaging throughout, making it a memorable installment

in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 7/10

Here's a review of Doctor Who: The Edge of Destruction / The Brink of

Disaster (sometimes listed as simply "The Edge of Destruction"):



Background



Airing in February 1964, "The Edge of Destruction"

(originally titled "Inside the Ship") is the third Doctor Who serial

and the first written by Script Editor David Whitaker. It marks

a turning point in the show, introducing a more psychological

and character-driven approach to storytelling compared to the historical

adventures of the first two serials.



Story



The TARDIS crew – the Doctor, Susan, Ian, and Barbara – find themselves

disoriented and suspicious of each other. A broken safety switch on the

TARDIS disrupts the crew's mental state, leading to paranoia, fear,

and even violence. The Doctor must not only fix the TARDIS

but also navigate the fractured relationships within his crew.



Review



"The Edge of Destruction" is a unique and experimental story in Doctor Who

history. Here are some key points to consider:



Psychological Thriller: This serial departs from the sci-fi adventure

format of the previous stories. It delves into the psychological effects

of the malfunctioning TARDIS, creating a tense and claustrophobic

atmosphere.



Character Development: "The Edge of Destruction" focuses heavily

on character development. We see the Doctor's resourcefulness

and his struggle to maintain control. The companions also grapple

with fear and suspicion, revealing their inner strengths and weaknesses.



Mixed Pacing: The story starts slow, establishing the mystery

and the characters' growing unease. The pace picks up as the situation

becomes more desperate.



Controversial Elements: Some viewers find the acting and dialogue a bit

over-the-top, especially the Doctor's uncharacteristically aggressive

behaviour.



Reception



Positive: Praised for its originality, psychological depth, and focus

on character development. It's also considered a turning point for the

show's direction.



Negative: Criticised for its slow pacing, melodramatic acting,

and departure from the established format.



Overall Thoughts



"The Edge of Destruction" is a bold experiment in Doctor Who history.

While not without its flaws, it offers a unique and thought-provoking

story that delves into the characters' psyches. It represents

a significant step in the show's evolution from pure sci-fi adventure

to a more complex and character-driven format.



Would I recommend watching it?:



If you're interested in the history of Doctor Who and seeing the show evolve,

"The Edge of Destruction" is a valuable watch. However, if you prefer

fast-paced adventures with clear heroes and villains, you might find it

slow and confusing.



Here are some additional points to consider:



The Historical Context: Remember, this serial aired in 1964. Television

production values and storytelling techniques have changed significantly

since then.

The Doctor's Character: This is still the early days of the First Doctor.

His personality and relationship with his companions are still being

established. He might come across as more ruthless or even cruel compared

to later incarnations.



Ultimately, whether you enjoy "The Edge of Destruction" depends on your

personal preferences. It's a unique and experimental story that

offers a different flavour of Doctor Who.

"Doctor Who - The Macra Terror" is a classic four-part serial from the Fourth

Season of the original series, first broadcast in 1967. Set on a futuristic

human colony, the story follows the Doctor and his companions as they uncover

a sinister plot orchestrated by giant crab-like creatures known as the Macra.



Here's a breakdown of each episode individually:



Episode 1:

The first episode effectively sets up the premise of the story, introducing the

idyllic colony of New New York and the strange occurrences that hint at darker

forces at play. The tension builds steadily as the Doctor and his companions

investigate the mysterious disappearances and encounter the mind-controlling

Episode 2 continues to ramp up the suspense as the Doctor and his companions

delve deeper into the secrets of the colony. The introduction of the Macra as

the primary antagonists adds a sense of danger and urgency to the story. The

episode effectively explores themes of conformity and manipulation, showcasing

the insidious nature of the Macra's control over the colony's inhabitants.

Despite some pacing issues, it's a solid installment

that keeps viewers engaged.

Rating: 7/10



Episode 3:

This episode sees the tension reach its peak as the Doctor and his companions

confront the Macra head-on. The action sequences are well-executed, and the

stakes feel higher than ever as the truth behind the colony's facade is

revealed. The Doctor's resourcefulness and quick thinking are on full display

as he devises a plan to defeat the Macra and free the colony from their

influence. Overall, it's a thrilling installment that delivers on both suspense

and excitement.

Rating: 9/10



Episode 4:

The final episode brings the story to a satisfying conclusion as the Doctor

and his companions confront the true masterminds behind the Macra's plot. The

resolution is both action-packed and emotionally resonant, with moments of

sacrifice and heroism from the main characters. The episode ties up loose ends

effectively and leaves viewers with a sense of closure, while also setting the

stage for future adventures. Overall, it's a strong ending to a memorable

serial.

Rating: 8/10



Overall, "Doctor Who - The Macra Terror" is a gripping and atmospheric serial

that effectively combines elements of science fiction and horror. While some

episodes may have pacing issues, the story remains engaging throughout,

making it a classic installment in the Doctor Who canon.



Total Rating: 8/10

"Doctor Who - The Moonbase" is a classic four-part serial from the Fourth

Season of the original series, originally aired in 1967. In this story, the

Second Doctor and his companions find themselves on a moonbase

in the year 2070, where they confront a deadly threat from the Cybermen.



Episode 1 sets up the premise effectively, introducing the futuristic setting

of the moonbase and establishing tension with the discovery of mysterious

silver creatures lurking in the shadows. The Cybermen's return as the primary

antagonists adds a sense of menace and raises the stakes for the Doctor

and his companions.



Throughout the serial, the Cybermen are portrayed with chilling effectiveness,

emphasising their emotionless nature and relentless pursuit of their goals. The

design of the Cybermen is particularly striking, showcasing their iconic silver

suits and distinctive voices.



"The Moonbase" benefits from strong pacing, with each episode building upon the

tension and escalating the threat posed by the Cybermen. The serial also

features memorable moments of suspense and drama,

keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.



The characterisation of the Doctor and his companions is well-handled, with

Patrick Troughton delivering a charismatic and resourceful performance as the

Second Doctor. The interactions between the Doctor, Jamie, Ben, and Polly add

depth to the story and highlight the importance of teamwork in overcoming

adversity.



Overall, "Doctor Who - The Moonbase" is a classic serial that successfully

combines elements of science fiction, horror, and adventure. While some aspects

of the production may feel dated by modern standards, the serial remains a

compelling and entertaining watch for fans of classic Doctor Who.



Episode 1: 8/10

Episode 2: 8/10

Episode 3: 8/10

Episode 4: 8/10



Overall Rating: 8/10

I can provide you with some reviews and insights to help you form your own

opinion on "Doctor Who: The Daleks"

(also sometimes referred to as "Doctor Who and the Daleks"):



Background



"The Daleks" is the second serial of Doctor Who, originally airing in six

parts in December 1963 and January 1964. It features the iconic debut of the

Daleks, one of the show's most enduring villains. The story follows the

Doctor, Susan, Ian, and Barbara as they land on the planet Skaro,

home to the Daleks.



Review



Here's a breakdown of some key points to consider:



Landmark in Television History: The Daleks were a revelation in television.

Their unique design, electronic voices, and ruthless nature

made them instant pop culture icons.



Limited Special Effects by Modern Standards: The special effects used to

create the Daleks might seem primitive by today's standards. However,

they were groundbreaking for their time.



Simple Plot but Effective Execution: The plot of "The Daleks" is fairly

straightforward. However, the suspenseful atmosphere, moral dilemmas,

and introduction of the Daleks make it an engaging watch.



Character Development: This serial shows some development in the

characters, particularly Ian who becomes more assertive.



Reception



Positive: Praised for introducing the Daleks, creating a tense atmosphere,

and exploring themes of war and genocide.



Negative: Criticized for its simplistic plot and limited special effects

(by modern standards).



Overall Thoughts



"The Daleks" is a significant serial in Doctor Who history. While some

aspects might not hold up entirely against modern productions, its historical

significance and the introduction of the Daleks make it a must-watch for

any fan of the show.



Would I recommend watching it?:



If you're a die-hard Doctor Who fan or interested in television history,

"The Daleks" is a must-watch. However, if you're new to the show

and prefer more complex narratives with cutting-edge special effects,

you might want to start with a later serial.

Both Tom Baker's 4th Doctor and David Tennant's 10th Doctor are incredibly

popular among Doctor Who fans, but for different reasons.

Here's a breakdown of their strengths and why they resonate with viewers:



Tom Baker (4th Doctor):



Strengths:

Iconic Status: Baker's portrayal is arguably the most iconic Doctor. His

long tenure (seven seasons) and flamboyant costume cemented him

in popular culture.



He was both alien and charming.



Exploration and Wonder: Baker's era captured the spirit of exploration and

wonder inherent in Doctor Who. His stories often emphasised fantastical

as the quintessential Doctor Who.



David Tennant (10th Doctor):



Strengths:

Modern Appeal: Tennant brought Doctor Who back to mainstream popularity in

the revived series. His Doctor was charismatic, heroic, and had a strong

emotional connection with his companions.

Darkness and Vulnerability: While Tennant's Doctor had a heroic side, he

also grappled with inner darkness and the burden of his long life. This

complexity made him relatable.

Fast-Paced Adventures: The revived series offered a more modern approach to

storytelling, with faster pacing and higher production values. Tennant's

Doctor thrived in this format.



Popularity: David Tennant is hugely popular among newer fans,

particularly those who watched the revived series during his tenure.

He's often seen as a gateway to the wider world of Doctor Who.



Who is More Popular?



It's difficult to say definitively who is more popular. Here are some factors

to consider:



Generational Bias: Fans who grew up with Baker tend to favour him,

while those who started with Tennant might lean towards him.

Accessibility: The revived series with Tennant is more readily

available than classic Doctor Who with Baker. This can influence

perception of popularity.



Ultimately, both Tom Baker and David Tennant are fantastic Doctors who have

brought joy to millions of fans. Their unique strengths and the eras they

represent ensure their continued popularity

within the vast Doctor Who universe.

"Doctor Who - The Underwater Menace" is a four-part serial from the Fourth

Season of the original series, first broadcast in 1967. The story revolves

around the Doctor and his companions landing on the lost underwater city of

Atlantis, where they encounter a megalomaniacal scientist intent on raising

Atlantis from the depths of the ocean.



Episode 1 introduces the intriguing premise of an underwater civilisation,

showcasing impressive set design and atmosphere. However, subsequent episodes

struggle to maintain momentum, with the plot becoming increasingly convoluted

and the pacing uneven.



One of the standout elements of "The Underwater Menace" is the memorable

performance of Joseph Furst as Professor Zaroff, the deranged scientist

determined to conquer the world. Furst brings a charismatic yet sinister

presence to the role, elevating the story whenever he appears on screen.



Unfortunately, the serial suffers from production limitations, particularly

evident in the underwater sequences, which are hampered by primitive special

effects. Additionally, the characterisation of the Doctor and his companions

feels somewhat underdeveloped, with less focus on their interactions and

dynamics compared to other serials.



While "The Underwater Menace" has its flaws, including a somewhat lackluster

resolution, it still offers moments of entertainment and showcases the

creativity of Doctor Who's early years.



Episode 1: 6/10

Episode 2: 5/10

Episode 3: 4/10

Episode 4: 5/10



Overall Rating: 5/10

"Doctor Who - The Highlanders" is a classic serial from the Second Doctor era, originally aired in 1966. Set in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden during the Jacobite rising of 1745, this four-part adventure sees the Doctor, Jamie, and Polly caught up in historical intrigue and rebellion.



The story presents an engaging historical backdrop, rich in detail and atmosphere. It explores the clash between the Scottish Highlanders and the Redcoats, capturing the essence of the period with authenticity. The serial features strong characterizations, particularly of Jamie McCrimmon, who becomes a pivotal companion for the Doctor.



One notable aspect of "The Highlanders" is its humor. The Second Doctor, played by Patrick Troughton, shines with his quirky mannerisms and quick thinking. His interactions with Jamie and Polly provide moments of levity amidst the tense political backdrop.



However, the story does suffer from pacing issues, particularly in the second half. Some scenes feel drawn out, and the plot could have been more tightly woven. Additionally, the absence of surviving episodes (as most of them are missing from the BBC archives) makes it challenging to fully appreciate the visual aspects of the story.



Overall, "Doctor Who - The Highlanders" is a solid historical adventure with strong performances and a captivating setting. While it has its flaws, particularly in pacing, it remains an enjoyable watch for fans of classic Doctor Who.



Rating: 7/10