As anticipation builds for the latest series of “Doctor Who,” and with mere days until its premiere, hopes are high for new classics that honor the show’s legacy of fun and imaginative storytelling. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on some of the most memorable adventures from the program’s rich past, revisiting serials that defined the early eras of “Doctor Who.”
From the very beginning, with William Hartnell as the First Doctor, certain stories stood out. For many, “The Dalek Invasion of Earth” remains a defining moment. The extensive use of London locations brought a chilling realism to the science fiction narrative. While some elements, like the Robomen and the somewhat rudimentary flying saucer effects, might appear dated today, the serial’s impact is undeniable. Iconic imagery, such as Daleks emerging from the River Thames and patrolling Trafalgar Square, cemented its place in “Doctor Who” history. Beyond the spectacle, the story also delivered a poignant farewell to Carole Ann Ford’s Susan Foreman, the Doctor’s granddaughter, marking a significant emotional moment after ten serials.
The era of the Second Doctor, portrayed by Patrick Troughton, is often considered a golden age for serials. Amongst a wealth of excellent stories, “Fury from the Deep” stands out for its sheer terror. This serial tapped into primal fears, with scenes of characters being consumed by the sea and Victoria engulfed by creeping seaweed and foam in a locked room. The chilling cliffhangers and pervasive sense of dread made it particularly memorable. Sadly, this serial is currently lost, intensifying the desire of many fans to see it rediscovered.
Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor era began a run of complex and engaging serials, particularly the first six. “The Mind of Evil” is a standout from this period, although “Inferno” by the same writer, Don Houghton, is a close contender. “The Mind of Evil” resonates because its central threat is not a physical monster, but a parasite preying on human fear. This psychological horror element proved to be far more unsettling and thought-provoking than typical monster-of-the-week scenarios.
Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor era, synonymous with many fans’ idea of “Doctor Who,” boasts numerous classics. Despite its frequent re-airing, “Genesis of the Daleks” remains a firm favorite. Writer Terry Nation, the Daleks’ creator, introduced Davros in this serial, enriching the dynamic between the Doctor and his nemesis by delving into moral and philosophical debates. The cliffhanger featuring Sarah Jane Smith’s apparent fall from scaffolding is another iconic moment, demonstrating the high stakes and dramatic tension of the serial.
Cliffhangers are crucial to the success of many “Doctor Who” serials, and “The Caves of Androzani,” from Peter Davison’s Fifth Doctor era, is exemplary in this regard. The shocking ending of the first episode, where both the Doctor and Peri are seemingly killed, was genuinely unexpected and masterful. Director Graeme Harper delivered a gripping and powerful story, considered by many to be a highlight of the classic series. Christopher Gable’s portrayal of Sharaz Jek is electrifying, and the poignant scene of the dying Doctor carrying Peri back to the TARDIS is a powerful act of self-sacrifice leading to his regeneration.
“Revelation of the Daleks,” from Colin Baker’s Sixth Doctor era, offers a more mature and complex “Doctor Who” narrative. Writer Eric Saward presents a darker, alternative perspective on the Doctor through the character of Orcini, and his less-than-hygienic companion. This serial allows Colin Baker’s Doctor to emerge gradually, building tension and intrigue. Nicola Bryant’s Peri benefits from Harper’s direction once again, contributing to her status as a fan-favorite companion. The serial also achieves moments of genuine pathos, such as Natasha’s grim discovery about her father and the surprising death of the morally questionable Jobel.
The Sylvester McCoy era, often unfairly criticized, began to rediscover its footing in its final years. “The Curse of Fenric” from this period is a strong example of the show’s resurgence. It moved beyond simple humor to explore deeper themes. While the Haemovores and the Ancient One are memorable monsters, the true horror lies in the allegory of moral decay represented by the transformation of young women into vampires. This metaphorical approach, combined with sharp dialogue, elevates the serial. The chilling line, “We play the contest again… Time Lord?” remains iconic.
If forced to choose just one serial from these seven Doctors to take to a desert island, it would have to be “Fury from the Deep.” Despite its missing status in the BBC archives, its enduring impact on memory suggests a truly powerful and unforgettable piece of television. The hope remains that one day, this lost classic will be rediscovered and enjoyed by new generations of “Doctor Who” fans.
