“An Unearthly Child,” the inaugural episode of Doctor Who, remains a captivating and seminal moment in television history. Often hailed as one of the most compelling series premieres ever crafted, this 23-minute introduction masterfully lays the foundation for the iconic science fiction show that would span decades. Within this concise timeframe, viewers are seamlessly introduced to the core characters of Doctor Who’s first season, plunged into the enigma surrounding the Doctor himself, and drawn into the realistically portrayed emotions of Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright. Remarkably, this initial episode functions effectively as a standalone narrative, distinct from the overarching storyline of the first Doctor Who serial, demonstrating the strength of its individual construction.
“The Cave of Skulls” follows, and it continues to impress as the Doctor and his companions find themselves journeying into the past. This episode excels in its exploration of a primitive caveman tribe and their struggle for survival centered on the mastery of fire. The nuanced character development, particularly for Ian and Barbara, alongside the tribespeople, is a noteworthy achievement of the writing. However, the narrative momentum wanes somewhat in “The Forest of Fear,” the third installment, which, despite moments of atmospheric intrigue, drifts into a less engaging pace. It’s in “The Firemaker,” the concluding episode of this initial serial, where the story regains its footing, delivering a solid and often tense resolution that echoes the strengths of its opening chapters.
Directed with notable flair by Waris Hussein, “An Unearthly Child” showcases innovative stylistic choices, particularly in the debut episode. Hussein’s direction elevates the episode beyond its video-taped origins, imbuing it with a cinematic quality rarely seen in early Doctor Who productions, which often leaned towards a more theatrical presentation throughout its original 26-year run. This directorial talent propelled Hussein to a successful career in film and television, collaborating with acclaimed actors and directing the memorable film “Melody,” among other respected works.
“An Unearthly Child,” also alternatively titled “The Tribe of Gum,” stands as an unexpectedly potent and robust commencement for Doctor Who’s remarkable 26-year journey – a longevity likely unforeseen by its initial creators. While the overall narrative arc of “An Unearthly Child” might not be inherently action-packed or strikingly memorable in summary, its execution in these episodes, particularly the first, is exceptionally well-realized and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Episode Ratings:
- Episode 1: 10/10
- Episode 2: 8/10
- Episode 3: 5/10
- Episode 4: 7/10
Overall Average: 7.5/10
