365 Days of Doctor Who: Relistening to The Highlanders - Warped Factor - Words in the Key of Geek.

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365 Days of Doctor Who: Relistening to The Highlanders

Adventure 31 in this marathon brings us to The Highlanders, a four-part historical serial first broadcast in December 1966 and January 1967. Written by Elwyn Jones and Gerry Davis, this story sees the Doctor, Ben, and Polly caught in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden in 1746. It’s notable for introducing Jamie McCrimmon, who would go on to become one of the Doctor’s longest-serving and most beloved companions.

All four episodes of The Highlanders are missing from the BBC archives, but the audio soundtrack recordings, released on CD with linking narration by Frazer Hines, provide an engaging way to experience this adventurous and character-driven tale.


The Story: Danger in the Scottish Highlands

The TARDIS lands in the Scottish Highlands shortly after the Battle of Culloden, where the defeated Jacobite forces are being hunted by victorious British troops. The Doctor, Ben, and Polly quickly find themselves entangled in the conflict, aligning with a small group of Jacobites, including the courageous young piper Jamie McCrimmon.

The group is captured and sold into slavery by the scheming Solicitor Grey, who plans to profit from the misfortune of the Jacobites. The Doctor and his companions must outwit Grey and his accomplices while rallying the Scots to escape captivity and rebuild their lives.


The Doctor: A Master of Disguise

Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor fully comes into his own in The Highlanders, showcasing the cunning, humor, and charm that define his portrayal. Disguises and deception play a key role in the Doctor’s strategy, with Troughton relishing the opportunity to outwit his foes using clever ruses and playful manipulation.

From posing as a German doctor to trick Grey and his men to rallying the Jacobites with a blend of compassion and cleverness, the Doctor’s quick thinking and resourcefulness are on full display. Troughton’s ability to balance lighthearted moments with moments of sincerity cements his place as a compelling and unpredictable incarnation of the Doctor.


Ben and Polly: Bold and Resourceful

  • Ben Jackson (Michael Craze) is at his action-hero best in The Highlanders, using his physicality and street smarts to fend off enemies and protect his friends. His defiance in the face of captivity and his ability to rally the Scots make him a vital part of the story.
  • Polly Wright (Anneke Wills) shines as a bold and clever companion, using her wit and modern sensibilities to manipulate Grey’s clerk, Perkins, and turn him against his employer. Polly’s determination and ingenuity make her a key player in the group’s escape plan.

Together, Ben and Polly demonstrate their adaptability and courage, proving themselves as invaluable allies to the Doctor and the Jacobites.


Jamie McCrimmon: A Hero is Born

The Highlanders introduces Jamie McCrimmon, played by Frazer Hines, who would go on to become one of the most iconic companions in Doctor Who. Jamie’s bravery, loyalty, and sense of humor immediately endear him to the audience, and his chemistry with the Doctor is evident from the start.

Jamie’s perspective as a young Highlander adjusting to life in the TARDIS adds a unique dynamic to the crew. His decision to join the Doctor at the end of the story feels organic, reflecting his adventurous spirit and the bond he has formed with the TARDIS team.


Themes of Survival and Resistance

At its heart, The Highlanders is a story about survival and resistance in the face of oppression. The Jacobites’ struggle to retain their dignity and hope amid defeat mirrors broader themes of resilience and the human spirit.

The Doctor’s role as a protector and advocate for the downtrodden is central to the narrative, as he helps the Jacobites find a way to escape their captors and rebuild their lives. The story also critiques exploitation, with Solicitor Grey’s greed and callousness serving as a stark contrast to the Doctor’s compassion and sense of justice.


Frazer Hines’ Narration: Bringing the Story to Life

Frazer Hines’ linking narration is a highlight of the CD release, providing vivid descriptions of the action, settings, and character dynamics. Hines’ warm and engaging delivery captures the tone of the story while offering unique insights into the production and his role as Jamie.

The narration bridges the gaps left by the missing visuals, allowing the listener to fully immerse themselves in the tense and atmospheric world of 18th-century Scotland.


The Historical Setting: Authenticity and Adventure

The Battle of Culloden and its aftermath provide a rich and evocative backdrop for The Highlanders. The tension between the defeated Jacobites and the occupying British forces creates a dramatic and morally complex setting, while the Scottish Highlands add a sense of rugged beauty and danger.

The story’s use of historical figures and events, combined with its focus on the personal struggles of its characters, grounds the narrative in a way that feels both authentic and engaging.


Revisiting in 2025: A Personal Perspective

Relistening to The Highlanders was a thoroughly enjoyable experience, made all the more engaging by Frazer Hines’ narration. The story’s balance of humor, tension, and character-driven drama kept me captivated throughout, while the introduction of Jamie added an exciting new dynamic to the TARDIS crew.

Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor continues to delight, his playful yet determined approach to conflict underscoring his unique take on the character. The story’s themes of resilience and resistance resonated deeply, reminding me of the enduring power of Doctor Who to tell stories that entertain and inspire.


Legacy and Significance

The Highlanders is a pivotal story in Doctor Who history, introducing Jamie McCrimmon, who would become a cornerstone of the Second Doctor’s era. The serial also demonstrates Patrick Troughton’s growing confidence in the role, blending humor and gravitas to great effect.

As one of the last pure historical adventures in Doctor Who, The Highlanders marks the end of an era while paving the way for the more science fiction-focused stories of the Troughton years.


Final Thoughts

Revisiting The Highlanders has been a rewarding journey into one of Doctor Who’s most atmospheric and character-driven historicals. The story’s compelling narrative, engaging characters, and rich themes make it a standout in the early Troughton era, even in its missing form.

With Jamie joining the TARDIS crew and the Second Doctor continuing to define his unique persona, The Highlanders stands as a testament to the show’s ability to adapt, evolve, and capture the imagination of its audience.

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