How could it not be? From the outset its absolutely game-changing stuff. The new Doctor, is exiled on earth by the Timelords after being on trial (see The War Games), hes managed to get himself roped into U.N.I.T (United Nations Intelligence Taskforce) his companion is (almost) his intellectual equal, hes got a tattoo and hes driving a car!? Thats just onscreen. Offscreen, theres a new production team, new lead actor, new companions and the return of several actors from previous stories. Oh and its also the first Doctor Who of the 1970s. Oh and its the first Doctor Who thats broadcasted in colour. Oh and its shot entirely on film (as opposed to film and video its technical stuff) thanks to a BBC production screw up. Of course those arent the only reasons why its at number one. Its at number one because its stone cold brilliant. Jon Pertwees Doctor is absolutely mesmerizing, Caroline Johns performance as scientist Liz Shaws equally brilliant, and Nicholas Courtneys Brigadier is as sharp and dashing as he always is. U.N.I.T is very homespun and quaint by todays standards, and it hasnt quite reach its potential yet.The concept of the Nestene Intelligence as devised by Doctor Who genius Robert Holmes is so dark and fascinating, despite being so basic. An alien life form that can manipulate plastic to give it life in order to carry out its needs is so firmly based in science fiction, but is also so close to home that it feels genuinely scary. The only slight down point is the confrontation with the Nestene, which features The Doctor doing some incredible facial expressions whilst being strangled by unexplained tentacles, being watched by a perplexed Liz Shaw. On the whole its an absolutely wonderful story, and its a wonderful introduction to a wonderful Doctor. Most fans of the classic era will say that Season 7 (1970) is the best in the shows history (see also The Silurians, The Ambassadors of Death and Inferno), and theyre probably right.
Massive Doctor Who fan, guitarist, chubby fella with a passion for long coats and heavy metal. Journalism graduate, and comedy fascist. Occasionally spotted in dark alleys dressed as The Undertaker. Tweet me.
