4. The Macra Terror (1967, 4 Out Of 4 Missing)
The crablike Macra creatures are (probably) great. Youve already seen a dumbed-down version of them in the new series Gridlock but when the Second Doctor meets them in this episode, they appear as ruthless, intelligent monsters. Black and white could do wonders for imperfect props and so could small TV screens. Just add a bit of smoke, dim lighting, sharp incidental music, a screaming Polly and youve got yourself some properly scary giant crabs. But the monsters are not the true reason why this one is so high up the list. After all, who
isn't a sucker for dystopian societies? This is the first time Doctor Who explores such a world. The strange behaviour of the denizens of the planet colony and the benevolent yet demanding voice of the Controller gives viewers an uneasy feeling from the very beginning. As such, the absolutely perfect cliffhanger of the second part is even more shocking. Thankfully, a few seconds of that scene survive but it would still be a great shame if fans never get to experience this episode in full. What more can be added about The Macra Terror? A well designed, alien-ruled, Orwellian planet colony, great acting from the guest cast, lots of twists and plausible dangerous situations for the Doctors team as they try to convince a bunch of brainwashed people that theyre being utterly manipulated... Oh yes, this is also the very first episode with a new title sequence, complete with Patrick Troughtons face morph. Marvellous.