Returning to Peladon a half-century after its original exploration, The Monster of Peladon revisits themes of political strife, labor unrest, and the interplay between superstition and progress. First broadcast in March and April 1974, this six-part serial is the 73rd adventure in Doctor Who and provides a fascinating contrast to the earlier The Curse of Peladon. However, while it reuses some familiar elements, it also delves deeper into the complexities of Peladon’s society.
The story is set 50 years after the events of The Curse of Peladon. The Doctor and Sarah Jane Smith arrive to find Peladon in the midst of turmoil. The planet’s mines, a critical resource for the Galactic Federation, are plagued by mysterious incidents blamed on the mythical creature Aggedor. The miners’ growing discontent and fear are exploited by external forces, threatening to destabilize both Peladon and its role in the Federation. The Doctor and Sarah must uncover the truth behind the sabotage, confront political manipulation, and restore balance to a planet on the brink of chaos.
Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor is as commanding and compassionate as ever. Pertwee brings a sense of moral authority to the role, whether he’s negotiating with Peladon’s Queen Thalira, rallying the miners, or outsmarting the Ice Warriors. His rapport with Sarah Jane is a highlight, with the Doctor’s paternal warmth balancing his more fiery moments of indignation. Pertwee’s ability to navigate the story’s shifting dynamics with charm and conviction keeps the narrative grounded, even as the stakes escalate.
Elisabeth Sladen’s Sarah Jane Smith continues to shine as a fiercely independent and resourceful companion. Sarah’s modern sensibilities and no-nonsense attitude create a compelling dynamic with Peladon’s more traditionalist culture. Her advocacy for workers’ rights and her determination to expose the truth highlight her courage and integrity. Sladen’s performance adds an emotional depth to the story, particularly in scenes where Sarah confronts the dangers of superstition and blind loyalty.
The supporting cast is integral to the story’s exploration of political and social themes. Nina Thomas’ Queen Thalira portrays a young monarch grappling with her inherited responsibilities and the challenges of leadership in a divided society. The miners, led by Ettis and Gebek, reflect the tensions between reform and rebellion, while the scheming Chancellor Ortron serves as a foil to both the Doctor and the Queen. The reappearance of the Ice Warriors adds a layer of intrigue, with their role shifting from the peacemakers of The Curse of Peladon to a more duplicitous agenda.
The production design effectively captures the duality of Peladon’s setting. The grandeur of the royal palace contrasts sharply with the oppressive, dimly lit mines, emphasizing the division between the ruling class and the workers. The creature design for Aggedor, though familiar from the previous story, remains imposing, while the visual effects for the Ice Warriors and their technology enhance the story’s tension.
From a thematic perspective, The Monster of Peladon explores the dangers of exploitation, the struggle for representation, and the manipulation of fear for political gain. The miners’ plight and their demand for better conditions resonate strongly, reflecting real-world labor movements and the push for social justice. The story’s critique of blind faith in authority and its call for unity and understanding feel remarkably timely.
Rewatching The Monster of Peladon in 2025, I found myself appreciating its ambition, even as its pacing occasionally falters. The narrative’s slower moments allow for deeper character exploration, particularly in the interactions between the Doctor, Sarah, and the Queen. The parallels to contemporary issues of labor rights and environmental stewardship underscore the story’s relevance, making it more than just a sequel to its predecessor.
While it may not reach the heights of The Curse of Peladon, The Monster of Peladon stands as a thoughtful and engaging exploration of the complexities of societal progress. Its blend of political intrigue, character-driven drama, and timeless themes ensures its place as a worthy entry in the Doctor Who canon.
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