The Time Monster, first broadcast in May and June 1972, closes out the Ninth Season of Doctor Who with a blend of time travel antics, mythological themes, and the enduring rivalry between the Doctor and the Master. The 64th adventure in the series is an ambitious, if uneven, tale that balances intriguing ideas with moments of camp and spectacle.
The story begins with the Master, posing as a scientist at the Newton Research Unit, conducting experiments to manipulate time using a device called TOMTIT (Transmission of Matter Through Interstitial Time). His goal is to summon Kronos, a powerful and destructive being from Greek mythology known as the Chronovore. The Doctor and Jo Grant, investigating the anomalies caused by the Master’s experiments, soon find themselves embroiled in a conflict that spans from modern-day England to the ancient city of Atlantis.
Jon Pertwee’s Doctor is as charismatic as ever, his commanding presence anchoring the narrative amidst its more fantastical elements. Pertwee excels in moments of tension and drama, particularly in his confrontations with the Master. The Doctor’s moral conviction and quick thinking are on full display, whether he’s defusing dangerous situations or attempting to reason with Kronos. Pertwee’s portrayal brings gravitas to a story that often teeters on the edge of absurdity.
Katy Manning’s Jo Grant continues to shine as a loyal and resourceful companion. Jo’s courage and determination are evident as she navigates the story’s escalating stakes, and Manning’s chemistry with Pertwee remains a highlight. Her interactions with the Atlanteans, particularly Queen Galleia, add emotional depth to the narrative, showcasing Jo’s ability to connect with people from vastly different worlds.
Roger Delgado’s Master is at his most flamboyant here, delighting in his schemes to control Kronos and bend time to his will. Delgado’s performance captures the Master’s charm and menace, his playful arrogance making him a captivating villain. His dynamic with the Doctor continues to provide the story’s emotional core, their philosophical clashes adding depth to their rivalry.
The supporting cast and settings contribute to the story’s ambitious scope. The modern-day laboratory scenes are balanced by the lavish depictions of Atlantis, with Queen Galleia (played by Ingrid Pitt) and King Dalios (George Cormack) providing a compelling human element to the mythological backdrop. The interactions between the Atlanteans and the Time Lords highlight the story’s themes of power, hubris, and the consequences of meddling with forces beyond comprehension.
The design and effects are a mixed bag, with TOMTIT and Kronos themselves eliciting both awe and amusement. The depiction of Kronos as a giant, ethereal birdlike creature is striking but somewhat constrained by the limitations of the era’s technology. Despite these constraints, the ambition of the production shines through, with the juxtaposition of scientific experimentation and mythological elements creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.
From a thematic perspective, The Time Monster explores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the interplay between science and mythology. The Master’s attempts to exploit Kronos for his own gain serve as a cautionary tale about the consequences of hubris, while the Doctor’s efforts to mitigate the damage emphasize the importance of responsibility and humility in the face of the unknown. The story’s use of time as both a narrative device and a thematic focal point adds an intriguing layer to its sprawling plot.
Watching The Time Monster in 2025, I was struck by its balance of bold ideas and lighthearted moments. While the narrative can feel disjointed at times, the strength of the performances and the creativity of the concept carry the story. Pertwee’s Doctor, Delgado’s Master, and Manning’s Jo bring depth and charisma to the adventure, while the exploration of Atlantis and the myth of Kronos lend it a sense of grandeur.
The Time Monster may not be the most polished entry in the Pertwee era, but its ambition and charm make it a fascinating piece of Doctor Who history. It’s a story that dares to mix science fiction with mythology, offering a glimpse into the series’ willingness to take risks and push boundaries. For all its eccentricities, it remains an entertaining and thought-provoking adventure that encapsulates the strengths and quirks of the Third Doctor’s tenure.
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