Doctor Who: 10 Most Infuriating Cliffhangers Of The Classic Series

7. Invasion Of Time (Episode 2)

This episode which takes place on the Doctor's home planet of Gallifrey climaxes with the surprise reveal of the Vardans as the secret group behind the plot to eliminate the HIgh Council, which should be shocking but is ultimately just rather sad. This cliffhanger features what could quite accurately be described as the worst visual effect in the entirety of the classic series which, given the show's longstanding microscopic budget, is really saying something. The Doctor kneels down before the High Council of Gallifrey and introduces the Vardans to his baffled audience which are nothing more than strips of tinfoil that some unfortunate studio hand had to hold up to the camera and shake, superimposed over the shot. The Doctor grins maniacally, at least partly from the inherent ridiculousness of the scene itself. It's so bad that only the most devoted Doctor Who fan could stop themselves from breaking into derisive laughter, despite the addition of some crunchy sound effects that are meant to be intimidating. It's a good thing the Sontarans are around to take the viewers attention away from the pathetic Vardans.