Rewatching Spearhead from Space always feels like revisiting an old friend. This story has been part of my consciousness for as long as I can remember. First broadcast in January 1970, the same year I was born, it holds a special significance for me. While I was too young to appreciate Doctor Who during Jon Pertwee’s tenure, his portrayal of the Doctor has always been part of the series’ lore that I grew up with. Revisiting his debut in the role, I find myself both nostalgic and freshly appreciative of what Pertwee brought to the character and how the show reinvented itself during this pivotal moment.
Before taking on the mantle of the Doctor, Jon Pertwee was already a well-known name in British entertainment. His comedic talents were showcased in radio and film, most notably in The Navy Lark, where his knack for impressions and characterisation cemented his reputation. I always wondered how this comedic background would translate to the gravitas required for the Doctor. Watching Spearhead from Space, it’s clear that Pertwee’s unique blend of humour and authority breathes new life into the role. His Third Doctor is charismatic, self-assured, and delightfully eccentric, yet there’s a seriousness and depth to his performance that commands attention. It’s a performance that feels entirely fresh while still honouring the character’s core essence.
The story itself is a masterclass in reinvention. Following the Doctor’s forced regeneration and exile to Earth by the Time Lords, Spearhead from Space resets the series in full colour and introduces a more grounded, Earth-centric format. UNIT, led by the ever-reliable Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, provides a practical and military counterpoint to the Doctor’s scientific brilliance. Nicholas Courtney’s portrayal of the Brigadier is as engaging as ever, and it’s fascinating to see the initial dynamics between these two very different yet equally compelling characters. Their partnership would go on to define the Pertwee era, but even here, in its nascent stage, the interplay crackles with energy.
The inclusion of Caroline John’s Liz Shaw as the Doctor’s new companion adds another layer of sophistication to the story. Liz is intelligent, independent, and sceptical—a true equal to the Doctor in intellect. Unlike some of her predecessors, she’s not a wide-eyed traveller but a scientist in her own right, reluctant to believe in extraterrestrial threats until confronted with undeniable evidence. Her initial hesitation to trust the Doctor mirrors the audience’s journey, grounding the fantastical elements of the story in a relatable scepticism that gradually gives way to awe and admiration.
Of course, the real stars of Spearhead from Space are the Autons. As the foot soldiers of the Nestene Consciousness, these plastic antagonists deliver one of the most terrifying debuts in Doctor Who history. The image of shop window mannequins coming to life, smashing through glass, and marching with single-minded purpose is iconic for a reason. Even rewatching it today, I found myself gripped by the sheer audacity of the concept. It’s a brilliant use of the mundane made sinister, a hallmark of the series’ best moments.
From a production standpoint, Spearhead from Space stands apart. The BBC’s studio strike necessitated filming entirely on location, and the result is a cinematic quality that gives the story a distinct visual identity. The exterior shots lend a sense of realism and immediacy, whether it’s the rural scenes of meteorite landings or the sterile, ominous interiors of the plastics factory. Derek Martinus’ direction makes full use of these locations, creating an atmosphere of both wonder and menace. The decision to shoot in full colour only enhances this, adding a vibrancy that feels perfectly suited to the show’s reinvention.
Watching Spearhead from Space with modern eyes, I was struck by how well it balances action, character development, and thematic depth. The Doctor’s recovery from regeneration is handled with humour and intrigue, giving Pertwee ample opportunity to establish his take on the character. His love of gadgets, flair for the dramatic, and willingness to dive headfirst into danger are all on display. The scene where he commandeers a vintage car to chase down a lead—complete with a cheeky smile—is quintessential Pertwee.
Yet for all its charm and spectacle, the story doesn’t shy away from darker undertones. The Nestene Consciousness’s plan to replace humanity with plastic replicas is chillingly plausible, and the Autons’ blank, featureless faces evoke a primal unease. The parallels to contemporary fears of automation and loss of individuality feel as relevant today as they did in 1970. This blend of timeless themes and innovative storytelling is a testament to the series’ enduring appeal.
Reflecting on Jon Pertwee’s debut, I can’t help but marvel at how seamlessly he steps into the role. His Doctor is a man of action, unafraid to take charge yet always driven by curiosity and compassion. Pertwee’s background in comedy brings a lightness to his performance, but it’s his command of drama that truly sets him apart. He exudes a quiet authority that makes it impossible to look away, whether he’s sparring verbally with the Brigadier or confronting the Nestene threat head-on.
As I consider the broader significance of Spearhead from Space, it’s clear that this story set the template for the 1970s era of Doctor Who. The introduction of recurring Earth-based threats, the expansion of UNIT’s role, and the focus on more grounded, character-driven storytelling would become hallmarks of the Pertwee years. This shift not only reinvigorated the series but also demonstrated its capacity for reinvention, a quality that has kept Doctor Who relevant and beloved for over six decades.
Revisiting this story has deepened my appreciation for what it achieved. It’s not just a great introduction to a new Doctor; it’s a bold statement of intent for the series as a whole. Jon Pertwee’s charisma, the Autons’ unforgettable menace, and the lush, filmic quality of the production make Spearhead from Space a joy to watch. Even after all these years, it feels fresh, exciting, and full of possibility. As I look ahead to the rest of the Pertwee era, I can’t wait to revisit how this reinvigorated Doctor Who continues to unfold.
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