It’s time for another brief detour into the expanding Doctor Who universe with The Sarah Jane Adventures. First broadcast on September 24, 2007, Revenge of the Slitheen serves as the official start of the spin-off series after the successful pilot episode, Invasion of the Bane. Written by Gareth Roberts and directed by Alice Troughton, this two-part adventure introduces viewers to Sarah Jane’s young team, establishes the show’s tone, and reintroduces a familiar alien foe in a story that balances humor, horror, and heart.
Rewatching in 2025, it’s clear that The Sarah Jane Adventures was designed as a gateway to Doctor Who for younger audiences. However, rather than simply mimicking its parent show, it carves out its own identity, focusing on children’s perspectives while still delivering mature storytelling. Revenge of the Slitheen is a prime example of this balance—featuring an outlandish invasion plot with some comedic elements but also tackling real issues such as environmental responsibility and the impact of technology in schools.
The story begins with Luke Smith (Tommy Knight), Sarah Jane’s adopted son, starting his first day at Park Vale School. As expected, normality doesn’t last long. The school’s new headteacher, Mr. Blakeman (played with gleeful menace by Martyn Ellis), is behaving suspiciously, and it quickly becomes apparent that he is not the only member of staff hiding something. When Luke, Clyde (Daniel Anthony), and Maria (Yasmin Paige) investigate, they discover the truth—their school is under the control of the Slitheen.
The return of the Slitheen is an interesting choice for the first major villain of the series. Originally introduced in Doctor Who’s Aliens of London/World War Three, they were divisive due to their mix of grotesque horror and broad humor. Here, the show leans more into their comedic potential while still maintaining an element of menace. The practical effects and suits hold up well, though some of the CGI moments, particularly the Slitheen’s rapid transformations, show their age when viewed today. The show also introduces a new variation: baby Slitheen, adding a fresh (and mildly disturbing) twist to the familiar foes.
One of the episode’s strongest aspects is how it develops the core cast. Maria, already established in the pilot, continues to shine as the inquisitive, level-headed member of the group. Clyde, introduced here as the new kid in school, brings a rebellious charm and comedic energy that rounds out the dynamic perfectly. Luke, still adjusting to human life after his creation by the Bane, provides a unique perspective on emotions, relationships, and even basic social interactions. His awkward but endearing attempts to understand the world add depth to his character, making him far more than just the “child genius” trope.
Elisabeth Sladen, as always, is magnificent. Sarah Jane remains one of the best-realized characters in Doctor Who’s expanded universe, and this episode reinforces her role as both a mentor and protector. Her frustration with the Slitheen’s return is played with just the right mix of exasperation and determination—she’s faced them before, and she’s not about to let them take over her town. Her scenes with the young cast continue to show why she was the perfect lead for a spin-off, effortlessly blending authority with warmth.
The actual plot involving the Slitheen’s plan is delightfully absurd. Using technology embedded in an eco-friendly initiative, they aim to drain Earth’s energy for their own benefit, with devastating consequences. While the logic may be a bit wobbly, the environmental message is clear, and it ties into real-world concerns about corporate greed disguised as sustainability efforts. This blend of social commentary and alien shenanigans is what makes The Sarah Jane Adventures feel like a natural extension of Doctor Who—accessible to children but layered enough to engage older viewers.
The climax is an exciting, fast-paced race against time, featuring classic Doctor Who-style problem-solving. Luke’s intelligence, Clyde’s quick thinking, and Maria’s bravery all contribute to the resolution, reinforcing the idea that this is a team effort rather than just Sarah Jane saving the day. The resolution, with the Slitheen being outwitted rather than simply defeated by force, aligns perfectly with the show’s ethos—brains over brawn.
Rewatching Revenge of the Slitheen in 2025, it remains a strong opening story for The Sarah Jane Adventures. It establishes the core team, revisits a familiar villain with a fresh perspective, and delivers a fun, engaging story with an underlying message. While the humor might not land for all audiences, and the effects occasionally show their limitations, the heart of the show—the dynamic between its leads and its commitment to adventure and mystery—remains as compelling as ever.
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