10 Best Doctor Who Episodes For New Fans

9. Survival (1989)

The story with the people in giant fake cat suits, you ask? Why would you show someone this story? Well, actually, Survival has a lot going for it and it is perhaps the perfect place for someone who has seen one or two episodes of Nu Who and is curious about the classic era. If you ignore the TV movie, then the last story before the show's cancellation feels like a natural precursor to Rose and the rebooted TV franchise. A Doctor's companion discovering a mystery lurking in her own estate, aliens kidnapping people from the streets, plus the London suburb of Perivale feels much like Rose's Powell Estate in many ways. Ace too is very much in the same vein as modern companions. She has a background that is explored to great depth throughout her final series, culminating in the events of Survival. Survival is actually quite a thrilling story too. The cheetah people might be people in naff costumes but they are still quite striking as they hunt humans in Perviale and take them back to their own planet. Better still is Ace, who finds herself drawn to the enemy. But the best thing about this episode is the surprise return of the Master. This was Anthony Ainley's best performance as the Master - a far more subdued and menacing performance - and his battle with the Doctor as the planet crumbles around them is gripping. It may feel a little dated - Hale and Pace's cameo is great for those who remember them - but Survival is a great step back into the multiple episode storytelling of Classic Who.