Adventure 26 in this marathon takes us to The Savages, a four-part serial first broadcast in May and June 1966. Written by Ian Stuart Black, this story is notable for its thematic depth, exploring issues of exploitation, class disparity, and the morality of technological progress. It also marks the departure of Steven Taylor, one of the Doctor’s longest-serving companions.
Sadly, all four episodes of The Savages are missing from the BBC archives. For this rewatch, I experienced the story through the soundtrack recordings, accompanied by Peter Purves’ evocative linking narration, which brought the narrative to life despite the absence of visuals. With an animated version announced for release on 24 March 2025, I look forward to revisiting this story in its new form later in this marathon.
The Story: A Utopian Facade
The TARDIS lands on an unnamed planet in the far future, where the Doctor, Steven, and Dodo discover a society that appears to have achieved a utopian existence. The Elders, an advanced and seemingly benevolent people, live in peace and prosperity, praising the Doctor for his wisdom and scientific achievements.
However, the truth soon emerges: the Elders’ utopia is built on the exploitation of the Savages, a group of primitive outsiders whose life force is drained to sustain the Elders’ advanced civilization. Horrified, the Doctor and his companions become embroiled in a moral struggle to end the Elders’ cruel practices and restore balance to the planet.
The Doctor: A Moral Authority
William Hartnell’s Doctor is at his most commanding in The Savages. His disgust at the Elders’ exploitation of the Savages is palpable, and he takes an active role in dismantling their unjust system.
Hartnell’s performance, as conveyed through the audio recordings, is full of righteous indignation and moral authority. His confrontation with Jano, the leader of the Elders, is a standout moment, showcasing the Doctor’s unwavering commitment to justice and equality. When Jano absorbs some of the Doctor’s essence during an attempted transfer of life force, it leads to a fascinating dynamic as Jano begins to question his actions and ally with the Doctor.
Steven: A Hero’s Farewell
Peter Purves delivers a strong performance as Steven in what becomes his final story. Steven’s courage and leadership come to the forefront as he helps rally the Savages against their oppressors.
Steven’s departure is handled with thoughtfulness and respect. At the story’s conclusion, the Elders and the Savages agree to work toward a more equitable society, and Steven is chosen to act as their mediator and leader. His decision to stay behind and take on this responsibility feels earned and fitting, reflecting his growth over his time in the TARDIS.
Dodo: A Companion’s Role Growing
Dodo Chaplet continues to develop as a companion, showing empathy for the plight of the Savages and a willingness to challenge the Elders. Jackie Lane’s portrayal, as described in the narration, captures Dodo’s growing confidence and resourcefulness, even as the story focuses more on Steven and the Doctor.
Themes of Exploitation and Equality
The Savages is a story with a strong moral core, using its science fiction premise to explore real-world issues of exploitation, privilege, and the cost of progress. The Elders’ reliance on the life force of the Savages mirrors historical and ongoing inequalities, making the story’s critique of these practices both timely and timeless.
The Doctor’s refusal to condone or ignore the Elders’ actions reinforces his role as a champion of the oppressed, while the Savages’ fight for autonomy and dignity serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of resistance and solidarity.
The Soundtrack: A Window into a Lost Story
Peter Purves’ narration is invaluable in bridging the gaps left by the missing visuals. His descriptions of the Elders’ technologically advanced city, the harsh conditions of the Savages, and the climactic struggle between the two groups help paint a vivid picture of the story’s setting and events.
The performances of Hartnell, Purves, and Jackie Lane shine through the audio, while the sound design and music underscore the tension and drama of the narrative. Listening to the story in this format required imagination, but it also highlighted the strength of the script and the actors’ performances.
Revisiting in 2024: A Personal Perspective
Listening to The Savages in its audio form was a deeply engaging experience. The story’s themes and character dynamics resonated strongly, and Steven’s departure added an emotional weight that lingered long after the final scenes.
The Elders’ exploitation of the Savages felt eerily relevant, serving as a reminder of the importance of challenging systems of inequality and advocating for justice. The Doctor’s moral leadership and Steven’s selfless decision to stay behind made this story both inspiring and bittersweet.
Legacy and Significance
The Savages is a standout story in the Hartnell era, notable for its thematic ambition and the departure of a beloved companion. Its exploration of exploitation and equality adds depth to the series, showcasing Doctor Who’s ability to tackle complex issues within the framework of science fiction.
Steven’s farewell is a pivotal moment, reflecting the show’s willingness to let characters grow and evolve beyond their time in the TARDIS. His role as a mediator between the Elders and the Savages underscores the story’s hopeful message of reconciliation and progress.
Final Thoughts
Revisiting The Savages has been a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience. Its themes of exploitation, equality, and the power of leadership remain as relevant today as they were in 1966, making it a timeless piece of Doctor Who storytelling.
While I eagerly await the animated release in 2025, the audio recordings and Peter Purves’ narration have offered a rich and engaging way to experience this lost classic. The Savages is a reminder of the show’s ability to entertain, challenge, and inspire, even when much of its original form has been lost to time.
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