The Web of Fear plunges the Doctor, Jamie, and Victoria into a tense and claustrophobic battle deep beneath the streets of London. Originally broadcast in February and March 1968, this six-part serial is the 41st adventure in Doctor Who and follows directly from the events of The Enemy of the World. It marks the return of the Great Intelligence and the Yeti while introducing one of the most beloved recurring characters in the series, Colonel Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart.
Rediscovered in near-complete form in 2013, The Web of Fear showcases a gripping narrative and atmospheric tension that make it one of the standout stories of the Troughton era.
The Story: Terror in the Underground
The TARDIS materializes in the London Underground, where the Doctor, Jamie, and Victoria discover a city in panic. The Great Intelligence has returned, using the Yeti to spread a deadly web-like fungus that isolates the Underground and threatens to overrun the city. The Doctor must ally with the military, led by Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart, to uncover the Intelligence’s plan and stop the invasion before it is too late.
As the web tightens, the Doctor and his companions face mounting dangers, including betrayals, the relentless Yeti, and the pervasive influence of the Great Intelligence. The story builds to a dramatic climax, testing the Doctor’s resolve and ingenuity.
Patrick Troughton: A Steady Hand in Chaos
Patrick Troughton’s Doctor shines in The Web of Fear, balancing his usual humor and charm with a more serious, commanding presence as he leads the fight against the Great Intelligence. Troughton’s portrayal emphasizes the Doctor’s intellect and resourcefulness, as well as his ability to inspire trust and unity in the face of overwhelming odds.
One of Troughton’s standout moments is his confrontation with the Intelligence, where his determination and defiance underscore his role as a protector of humanity. His ability to convey both vulnerability and strength adds depth to his performance.
Jamie and Victoria: Courage and Compassion
Jamie McCrimmon (Frazer Hines) continues to prove his worth as a steadfast companion. His bravery and quick thinking are invaluable in protecting Victoria and aiding the Doctor, particularly in the dangerous tunnels of the Underground.
Victoria Waterfield (Deborah Watling) adds emotional resonance to the story with her compassion for the terrified civilians and her resolve to stand firm despite her fears. Her growing confidence as a companion is evident, making her an integral part of the team.
Jamie and Victoria’s strong bond with the Doctor provides a heartwarming counterpoint to the story’s darker elements.
The Yeti: More Menacing Than Ever
The Yeti, reintroduced with an updated design, are more menacing than ever. Their lumbering movements and glowing eyes create an eerie presence, while their association with the spreading web fungus heightens their threat. The scenes of Yeti patrolling the fog-filled tunnels are particularly chilling, emphasizing their role as instruments of terror for the Great Intelligence.
The Great Intelligence: A Sinister Return
The Great Intelligence’s return solidifies its role as a recurring adversary for the Doctor. Its ability to manipulate minds and orchestrate complex schemes makes it a formidable foe. The Intelligence’s plan to drain the Doctor’s mind of its knowledge is a chilling demonstration of its ambition and cruelty, further establishing it as a villain capable of long-term influence in the series.
Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart: A Hero is Born
The Web of Fear introduces Colonel Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart, played by Nicholas Courtney. His leadership, courage, and tactical acumen make an immediate impression, laying the foundation for his future role as a trusted ally to the Doctor and a key figure in UNIT.
Lethbridge-Stewart’s interactions with the Doctor highlight their mutual respect and differing approaches, adding depth to the narrative and foreshadowing their enduring partnership.
Themes of Trust and Isolation
At its core, The Web of Fear explores themes of trust and isolation. The trapped survivors in the Underground must learn to work together despite their differences and suspicions, reflecting the importance of unity in the face of adversity. The pervasive web fungus and the Yeti’s relentless pursuit create a sense of claustrophobia and paranoia, amplifying the tension and stakes.
Production and Atmosphere
The London Underground setting is brought to life with remarkable attention to detail, creating a convincing and immersive backdrop for the story. The foggy, shadow-filled tunnels enhance the atmosphere of suspense and danger, while the practical effects, including the web fungus, add to the story’s visual impact.
The direction by Douglas Camfield is superb, balancing action and character-driven moments to maintain a gripping pace. The cast’s performances, particularly Nicholas Courtney’s debut as Lethbridge-Stewart, add depth and intensity to the narrative.
Revisiting in 2025: A Personal Perspective
Rewatching The Web of Fear was an exhilarating experience. The story’s suspenseful pacing, atmospheric setting, and compelling characters kept me riveted from start to finish. Patrick Troughton’s Doctor continues to captivate, while Jamie and Victoria’s courage and compassion add heart to the narrative.
The Yeti’s menace and the Great Intelligence’s cunning make them memorable antagonists, while the introduction of Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart adds a significant milestone to the series’ lore. The story’s themes of trust and isolation resonate deeply, offering timeless insights into human resilience and cooperation.
Final Thoughts: A Masterpiece of Suspense
The Web of Fear is a standout entry in Doctor Who’s history, combining suspenseful storytelling with rich character development and atmospheric production. Its introduction of Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart and the return of the Great Intelligence and the Yeti solidify its place as a classic in the series’ canon.
As the Doctor and his companions continue their journey, The Web of Fear serves as a testament to the show’s ability to innovate and captivate, delivering stories that challenge and inspire in equal measure.
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