Broadcast in January 1983, Arc of Infinity marks the beginning of Season 20 and the 123rd adventure in Doctor Who. Written by Johnny Byrne and directed by Ron Jones, this story takes viewers from the majestic halls of Gallifrey to the canals of Amsterdam, blending political intrigue with an alien invasion. While its ambition and scale are commendable, the narrative complexity occasionally threatens to overwhelm its strengths.
The plot begins with the TARDIS being diverted to Gallifrey, where the Time Lords uncover a sinister plot involving anti-matter creatures attempting to breach into our universe. The Doctor’s very existence is at stake, as a traitor on Gallifrey has aligned with the malevolent Omega, a legendary Time Lord exiled to the anti-matter universe. As the Doctor battles to save his life and prevent Omega’s return, Tegan—who left the TARDIS crew in Time-Flight—finds herself inadvertently drawn back into the Doctor’s world during a trip to visit her cousin in Amsterdam.
Peter Davison’s Fifth Doctor shoulders the heavy narrative with his characteristic mix of calm intellect and quiet determination. In this story, the Doctor is placed under immense pressure, both physically and morally, as he faces the threat of termination on Gallifrey and the moral dilemma of confronting Omega, a tragic figure whose desperation drives him to catastrophic actions. Davison captures the Doctor’s resolve and compassion, particularly in his final confrontation with Omega, where his reluctance to destroy a fellow Time Lord is palpable.
The supporting characters are a mix of intriguing and underutilized. Janet Fielding’s Tegan makes a welcome return to the TARDIS, her fiery personality and loyalty to the Doctor providing a strong emotional anchor amidst the cosmic stakes. Her interactions with Nyssa, played by Sarah Sutton, highlight the growing camaraderie between the companions. Sutton’s Nyssa remains a figure of quiet strength, her scientific acumen and moral clarity proving invaluable in unraveling Omega’s plot.
Omega, portrayed by Ian Collier, is a fascinating antagonist. His tragic backstory and yearning for existence outside the anti-matter universe imbue him with a degree of sympathy, even as his methods become increasingly destructive. Collier’s performance captures Omega’s torment and desperation, though the character’s ultimate plan to fully inhabit the Doctor’s physical form feels underdeveloped, diminishing the impact of his menace.
Gallifrey itself is once again presented as a hub of political intrigue, with the High Council embroiled in debates over the Doctor’s fate and the threat of Omega’s incursion. Among the Time Lords featured is Commander Maxil, portrayed by Colin Baker in a role that exudes authority and cold precision. Maxil’s no-nonsense demeanor and unyielding adherence to protocol make him a striking presence, offering a glimpse of the intensity Baker would later bring to his portrayal of the Sixth Doctor. While the depiction of the wider Time Lord society adds depth to the story, some of the council scenes feel overly drawn out, slowing the narrative’s momentum. The interplay between the political machinations on Gallifrey and the more grounded scenes in Amsterdam creates an uneven tonal balance, though the location filming in the Dutch capital adds a unique and visually striking element to the story.
Visually, Arc of Infinity is ambitious but uneven. The sets for Gallifrey, while regal and imposing, lack a sense of lived-in realism, and some of the special effects struggle to convincingly portray the anti-matter incursions. However, the location work in Amsterdam is a highlight, with the city’s canals and iconic architecture providing a memorable backdrop for the Doctor’s earthly escapades.
Thematically, the story explores identity, betrayal, and the costs of power. Omega’s quest for a physical form and his desire to return to Gallifrey reflect a deep yearning for belonging and recognition, while the traitor’s actions underscore the corrupting influence of ambition. The Doctor’s refusal to take shortcuts, even when his life is on the line, reinforces the series’ enduring message about the importance of integrity and moral courage.
Looking back at Arc of Infinity from a 2025 perspective, it’s clear that the story’s ambition is both its greatest strength and its Achilles’ heel. The intricate plot and high stakes provide plenty of drama, but the execution often feels uneven, with some characters and subplots left underexplored. Despite these flaws, the story’s emotional core—particularly Tegan’s reunion with the Doctor and Omega’s tragic downfall—ensures its lasting impact.
The climax, which sees Omega’s plan thwarted and his physical form disintegrating as he is pulled back into the anti-matter universe, is both thrilling and poignant. The Doctor’s reluctance to destroy Omega, despite his actions, highlights the complexity of their relationship and the Doctor’s enduring empathy, even for his enemies.
Arc of Infinity is a story of contrasts: cosmic and personal, grand and flawed, tragic and hopeful. While not without its shortcomings, it remains a significant chapter in Doctor Who’s rich tapestry, setting the stage for the evolving dynamics of the TARDIS team and the continuing adventures of the Fifth Doctor.
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