Inferno is a story that takes risks, and those risks pay off in extraordinary ways. Broadcast in seven parts from May to June 1970, this 54th adventure of Doctor Who pushes the boundaries of the series by exploring parallel worlds, ecological catastrophe, and the darker sides of human nature. It’s a gripping tale with a scale and intensity that make it one of the most memorable stories in the Third Doctor’s era.
The plot centres around a dangerous drilling project aiming to penetrate the Earth’s crust to tap into a new energy source. Led by the ambitious and often stubborn Professor Stahlman, the project’s progress is hindered by unexplained anomalies and growing tensions among the team. As the Doctor investigates the mysterious phenomena surrounding the drilling, he is accidentally transported to a parallel Earth where the project has progressed further but with catastrophic consequences. This parallel world is a dystopian version of our own, with authoritarian rule and familiar allies transformed into unrecognisable and dangerous figures.
Jon Pertwee delivers one of his finest performances as the Doctor. His desperation to prevent disaster is palpable, whether he’s clashing with the obstinate Stahlman or trying to reason with the oppressive leaders of the parallel Earth. Pertwee’s Doctor is commanding, compassionate, and unrelenting in his efforts to avert the apocalypse. The scenes where he pleads with the leaders of the parallel world to abandon the project are particularly powerful, showcasing his unwavering commitment to doing what is right, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Inferno is its exploration of character. The parallel world gives us alternate versions of familiar faces, such as the Brigadier and Liz Shaw, who are transformed into colder, more ruthless versions of themselves. Nicholas Courtney’s portrayal of the Brigade Leader is chilling, a stark contrast to the dependable and honourable Brigadier we know. Caroline John’s alternate Liz is equally compelling, a brilliant but icy scientist whose loyalty to the regime is as unsettling as it is tragic. These performances highlight the versatility of the cast and add layers of complexity to the story.
The pacing of Inferno is deliberate but effective, building tension steadily as the drilling project inches closer to disaster. The shifts between the primary and parallel worlds are handled seamlessly, creating a sense of urgency and inevitability that keeps the viewer engaged. The parallel Earth’s descent into chaos as the drilling unleashes deadly volcanic forces is a masterclass in escalating stakes, with each episode ratcheting up the intensity.
The production values for this story are impressive, especially considering the era. The drilling facility set is detailed and atmospheric, and the use of green screen and practical effects to depict the lava flow and destruction is ambitious. The Primords, human workers transformed into monstrous creatures by the project’s radiation, are a genuinely unsettling addition, their savage behaviour underscoring the story’s themes of hubris and the unintended consequences of technological advancement.
What sets Inferno apart is its thematic depth. The story grapples with issues of environmental exploitation, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the fragility of human cooperation. Stahlman’s refusal to heed warnings and his single-minded pursuit of success are mirrored in both worlds, a stark reminder of the perils of ignoring expertise and dismissing dissenting voices. The parallel Earth’s authoritarian regime serves as a cautionary tale, showing how societal structures can collapse under the pressure of disaster.
From a 2025 perspective, Inferno feels strikingly relevant. Its commentary on environmental recklessness and the consequences of ignoring scientific warnings resonates in an era grappling with climate change and ecological crises. The parallel world’s descent into chaos also serves as a potent reminder of the importance of resilience, adaptability, and compassion in the face of adversity.
Watching Inferno again, I was struck by how well it balances its ambitious narrative with character-driven drama. Pertwee’s Doctor is a force of nature, but he’s surrounded by a cast of characters who feel fully realised and integral to the story. The tension between the Doctor and Stahlman is a highlight, their ideological clash reflecting broader debates about progress and responsibility. The interactions with the alternate versions of Liz and the Brigadier add emotional weight, as the Doctor’s attempts to appeal to their better natures underscore his belief in the potential for redemption.
Inferno is more than just an apocalyptic tale; it’s a story that challenges its audience to think critically about the choices we make as individuals and societies. Its mix of science fiction, moral complexity, and high-stakes drama makes it a quintessential Doctor Who adventure.
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