First broadcast in November 1983 as part of Doctor Who’s 20th Anniversary celebrations, The Five Doctors remains a landmark in the series’ history. Written by Terrance Dicks and directed by Peter Moffatt, this multi-Doctor extravaganza brings together a treasure trove of characters, settings, and nostalgic callbacks, making it a love letter to fans while propelling the show’s legacy forward. For this rewatch, I revisited the enhanced Special Edition, first released in 1995, which features extended scenes and updated special effects that refine the story without overshadowing its original charm.
The plot kicks off with the mysterious kidnapping of the Doctor’s various incarnations by a powerful force within the Death Zone on Gallifrey. The Time Lords, alarmed by this disruption, enlist the Fifth Doctor to investigate. The resulting adventure brings together the First (portrayed by Richard Hurndall in place of the late William Hartnell), Second (Patrick Troughton), Third (Jon Pertwee), and a glimpse of the Fourth (Tom Baker, appearing via unused footage from Shada). Each incarnation faces challenges within the Death Zone, from Daleks and Cybermen to the treacherous Raston Warrior Robot. At the heart of the mystery lies Rassilon, the Time Lord founder, and the scheming ambition of a familiar adversary.
Watching the Special Edition provides an enhanced visual experience. The updated effects give the story a polish that elevates its cinematic quality, particularly in scenes like the Raston Warrior Robot’s rapid dismembering of a Cyberman patrol. Subtle changes, such as improved lighting and compositing in the Time Scoop sequences, add clarity to the action. Extended scenes, such as additional dialogue between the Doctors and companions, enrich the narrative by giving it more breathing room without disrupting its brisk pacing.
Peter Davison’s Fifth Doctor anchors the story with grace and authority. Amid the chaos of the Death Zone, Davison’s Doctor remains steady, embodying the intellect and compassion that define the character. His interactions with his predecessors provide moments of humor and poignancy, particularly his exchanges with the brusque and confident Third Doctor.
The returning Doctors bring their own distinct energy. Patrick Troughton’s Second Doctor is mischievous and quick-witted, his partnership with the Brigadier providing delightful nostalgia. Jon Pertwee’s Third Doctor exudes charisma and action-hero flair, his scenes brimming with confidence and charm. Richard Hurndall captures the spirit of the First Doctor’s wisdom and imperiousness, though his performance, while commendable, lacks the subtlety of Hartnell’s original portrayal. Tom Baker’s limited appearance, while brief, is seamlessly integrated into the narrative, his enigmatic presence adding a sense of mystique.
The companions, too, shine. Tegan and Turlough, played by Janet Fielding and Mark Strickson, work well alongside the Fifth Doctor, their growing camaraderie evident. Meanwhile, the return of Sarah Jane Smith (Elisabeth Sladen), Susan Foreman (Carole Ann Ford), and Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart (Nicholas Courtney) adds layers of nostalgia and emotional resonance. Sarah Jane’s reunion with the Third Doctor and Susan’s interactions with her grandfather evoke fond memories of their original adventures.
The villains are a mix of familiar threats and intriguing new elements. The Cybermen, though not central to the plot, are effectively menacing, particularly during the Raston Warrior Robot’s brutal assault. The Dalek’s appearance, though brief, is memorable for its claustrophobic intensity. At the heart of the story, Anthony Ainley’s Master continues to revel in his role as the Doctor’s nemesis, his schemes adding a layer of tension. The climax reveals Borusa as the ultimate villain, his quest for immortality serving as a cautionary tale about unchecked ambition.
Visually, The Five Doctors balances the constraints of its budget with inventive direction. The Death Zone’s barren landscapes and the imposing Tomb of Rassilon create an eerie and mysterious atmosphere. The improved effects of the Special Edition, particularly the enhanced Time Scoop animations and the holographic projection of Rassilon, lend the story a modern sheen while preserving its 1980s aesthetic.
Thematically, the story celebrates the enduring power of teamwork and the Doctor’s resilience. The interactions between the Doctors highlight their shared values while showcasing their distinct personalities, emphasizing that each incarnation contributes uniquely to the legacy of the Time Lord. Rassilon’s final decision to grant true enlightenment only to those who reject immortality reinforces the series’ recurring theme that power must be wielded responsibly, if at all.
Revisiting The Five Doctors in 2025, it’s impossible not to marvel at its ambition and charm. The Special Edition’s refinements enhance the experience, making it an even more engaging celebration of the series’ rich history. The story’s pacing, bolstered by the extended scenes, allows for deeper character interactions, giving the narrative a sense of balance and cohesion.
The climax, with the united Doctors foiling Borusa’s plans and Rassilon’s intervention restoring order, is as satisfying as it is symbolic. The image of the Doctors returning to their respective timelines, each carrying the weight of their adventures, encapsulates the series’ ability to blend continuity with constant reinvention.
The Five Doctors stands as a triumph of storytelling and fan service, a testament to the enduring appeal of Doctor Who. Its blend of nostalgia, humor, and drama ensures its place as one of the series’ most beloved stories. For newcomers and long-time fans alike, it remains a perfect encapsulation of what makes Doctor Who truly special.
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