Broadcast in February and March 1978, The Invasion of Time is a sprawling six-part tale that serves as both a grand finale to Season 15 and an ambitious exploration of Gallifreyan politics and power struggles. As the 97th adventure in the series, it stands out for its twists, its examination of the Doctor’s enigmatic relationship with his home planet, and its blend of intrigue and absurdity. Written by David Agnew (a pseudonym for script editors Anthony Read and Graham Williams) and directed by Gerald Blake, this story is as divisive as it is bold.
The narrative begins with the Doctor returning to Gallifrey, seemingly having struck a deal with the sinister Vardans to hand over his home planet to their control. Posing as a willing accomplice, the Doctor seizes the presidency of the Time Lords and sets about dismantling Gallifreyan defences to allow the Vardans access. However, it soon becomes clear that the Doctor’s apparent betrayal is part of an elaborate scheme to expose and defeat the Vardans. As the plot unfolds, the true threat emerges: the Sontarans, who seize the opportunity to invade Gallifrey in the chaos.
Tom Baker’s Fourth Doctor is in full command of this story, delivering a performance that oscillates between playful mischief and steely resolve. His portrayal of the Doctor as an unpredictable and cunning strategist keeps both his enemies and allies guessing. Baker revels in the opportunity to play up the Doctor’s duplicity, particularly in the early episodes where his motivations remain shrouded in mystery. As the true extent of the Doctor’s plan is revealed, Baker’s shift to a more traditional heroic role feels earned and satisfying.
Leela, played by Louise Jameson, is as resourceful and fearless as ever. Her outsider status on Gallifrey allows her to act as a bridge between the lofty, insular Time Lords and the more immediate, human stakes of the story. Jameson’s performance highlights Leela’s loyalty to the Doctor, even when his actions appear incomprehensible. Her interactions with the Gallifreyan guards and her eventual leadership of the resistance against the Sontarans underscore her adaptability and strength.
The supporting cast includes standout performances from John Arnatt as Borusa, the Doctor’s former mentor, and Milton Johns as the obsequious Castellan Kelner. Borusa’s nuanced arc, from skeptical ally to grudging collaborator, adds depth to the story’s exploration of Gallifreyan politics. Kelner, with his self-serving allegiance to whichever faction holds power, serves as a darkly comic embodiment of bureaucratic survivalism. The Vardans, unfortunately, are less compelling, their threat undermined by lacklustre visual effects and limited development. However, the arrival of the Sontarans in the later episodes injects much-needed tension and urgency into the narrative.
Gallifrey itself is a significant presence in this story, with its labyrinthine halls and imposing Citadel providing a fitting backdrop for the drama. The use of real-world locations, such as a disused hospital, to represent the depths of the Citadel adds a sense of scale, even if the aesthetic disparity occasionally jars. The production design captures the grandeur and decay of Gallifreyan society, reinforcing the story’s themes of hubris and decline.
From a thematic perspective, The Invasion of Time delves into questions of power, loyalty, and the Doctor’s ambivalent relationship with his people. The Doctor’s willingness to manipulate his allies and take extreme risks reflects both his resourcefulness and his isolation. The Time Lords’ arrogance and internal divisions are laid bare, highlighting the fragility of their authority and the dangers of complacency.
The Invasion of Time is both ambitious and it's willingness to take risks, even when the execution falters. The story’s pacing is uneven, with the early episodes focused on political intrigue and the latter half dominated by the Sontaran invasion. However, the shifts in tone and focus ultimately contribute to a sense of unpredictability that keeps the narrative engaging. The climax, which sees the Doctor outwitting both the Vardans and the Sontarans, is a testament to his ingenuity and resilience.
Leela’s departure at the story’s conclusion is bittersweet, as she chooses to remain on Gallifrey with Andred, a Gallifreyan guard she has grown close to. While the romance feels somewhat rushed, it provides a fitting end to Leela’s journey, emphasizing her ability to find a place and purpose even in the most alien of environments. Jameson’s final scenes are heartfelt, marking the end of a partnership that has been defined by mutual respect and admiration.
The Invasion of Time is a story that encapsulates both the strengths and weaknesses of Doctor Who’s 1970s era. Its ambition and scope are admirable, and its exploration of Gallifrey adds depth to the series’ mythology. While its execution is uneven and its villains inconsistent, the story’s character-driven moments and its audacious twists ensure that it remains a memorable and significant entry in the Fourth Doctor’s tenure.
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