Few stories in Doctor Who balance audacious concepts with such an eclectic mix of charm and complexity as Invasion of the Dinosaurs. First broadcast in January and February 1974, this six-part serial is the 71st adventure in the series and one that juxtaposes prehistoric spectacle with biting political commentary. It’s a tale of deception, ecological extremism, and the lengths to which some will go to achieve their vision of utopia.
The narrative begins with the Doctor and Sarah Jane Smith arriving in a seemingly deserted London, only to discover that the city has been evacuated due to the sudden appearance of dinosaurs. As the pair investigate, they uncover a conspiracy involving time manipulation, a secret organisation, and a sinister plot to return the Earth to a prehistoric state, erasing modern humanity in the process. What follows is a layered and gripping tale that challenges the Doctor’s wits and Sarah Jane’s courage.
Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor is in his element here, blending action, intellect, and moral conviction. His performance is particularly strong during moments of confrontation, whether he’s unmasking traitors within UNIT or dismantling the villains’ plans. Pertwee’s natural authority shines as the Doctor attempts to rally humanity against fear and deception. His disdain for those who manipulate others in the name of a misguided ideal is palpable, adding an edge to his interactions with the story’s antagonists.
Elisabeth Sladen’s Sarah Jane Smith continues to impress as a companion who is more than a match for the Doctor. Sarah’s journalistic instincts drive much of the narrative, her determination to uncover the truth leading her into both danger and discovery. Sladen’s performance captures Sarah’s bravery and resourcefulness, particularly in scenes where she finds herself trapped and must rely on her ingenuity to escape. Her chemistry with Pertwee remains a cornerstone of the era, providing moments of warmth and levity amidst the tension.
The supporting cast is filled with memorable characters, from the duplicitous General Finch to the idealistic but misguided Professor Whitaker and Butler. The moral ambiguity of the story’s villains adds depth to the narrative, as their motivations stem from a genuine desire to save the Earth from environmental collapse. This nuanced portrayal challenges the audience to grapple with the ethical implications of their actions, even as the Doctor exposes the flaws in their methods.
The dinosaurs themselves, while ambitious in concept, are a mixed success in execution. The practical effects and puppetry, though innovative for the time, occasionally fall short by modern standards. However, the sheer audacity of incorporating prehistoric creatures into a story about political and ecological extremism is commendable, and their presence adds an element of spectacle that elevates the adventure.
The production design effectively captures the eerie emptiness of an evacuated London, with deserted streets and abandoned vehicles creating an atmosphere of unease. The juxtaposition of this desolation with the chaos wrought by the dinosaurs underscores the story’s themes of disruption and renewal. The direction by Paddy Russell ensures that the pacing remains tight, balancing moments of action with quieter, character-driven scenes.
Rewatching Invasion of the Dinosaurs in 2025, I was struck by the story’s prescience and relevance. Its exploration of environmentalism, radicalism, and the consequences of technological manipulation feels remarkably timely. The villains’ idealistic but flawed vision of a utopian Earth serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of extremism and the importance of ethical responsibility in the pursuit of change.
The interplay between the Doctor, Sarah Jane, and UNIT provides a strong emotional core to the story. The tension within UNIT, particularly with the presence of traitors working against the Doctor, adds a layer of intrigue and keeps the narrative engaging. The resolution, which sees the Doctor thwarting the villains’ plans while reaffirming his faith in humanity’s potential, is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
Invasion of the Dinosaurs is a quintessential example of Doctor Who’s ability to blend spectacle with substance. Its ambitious narrative, compelling performances, and exploration of complex themes ensure its place as a standout entry in the series’ history. Despite its occasional production flaws, the story’s heart and ingenuity make it a joy to revisit.
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