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"THE ANDROIDS OF TARA: A SWASHBUCKLING ROMP WITH A THIN PLOT"

David Fisher’s The Androids of Tara is a lighthearted adventure that embraces its Prisoner of Zenda-inspired premise, blending classic swashbuckling intrigue with subtle sci-fi elements. With its minimal focus on futuristic technology, the story allows its period-drama aesthetics, witty performances, and grand sword fights to take centre stage. While not the most original or gripping instalment of Doctor Who, it remains an entertaining, if somewhat shallow, entry in the Key to Time arc.

A RELAXED START AND A FAMILIAR FORMULA

The adventure opens in a refreshingly uncharacteristic way—on a beautiful day, with the Doctor more interested in fishing than in galactic heroics. Romana casually discovers the fourth segment of the Key to Time within minutes, seemingly setting the stage for an easy mission. Of course, things don’t stay simple for long.

The story’s core premise—android duplicates and political power struggles—is nothing new for Doctor Who. It shares strong similarities with The Ribos Operation, and in some ways, it even foreshadows Robot of Sherwood from the Revival. Both stories feature medieval settings infused with robotic elements, a villain striving for power, and a playful, high-energy tone. However, The Androids of Tara arguably executes the concept more effectively, with its lush location filming, refined costume design, and a distinct sense of regal intrigue.

AN UNDERUSED ROMANA AND A SCENE-STEALING VILLAIN

Tom Baker is in top form as the Fourth Doctor, leaning into the lighthearted tone with his trademark wit and effortless charm. Mary Tamm, however, is largely sidelined, despite having the opportunity to play multiple roles (Romana, Princess Strella, and their android duplicates). The script fails to take full advantage of this setup, and Romana once again finds herself more of a damsel than an active participant in the action.

The true highlight of the story is Peter Jeffrey as Count Grendel, one of Doctor Who’s most entertaining villains. With his suave arrogance and theatrical flair, he feels like a medieval precursor to the Master, exuding charisma even as he plots treachery. His fencing duel with the Doctor in the final episode is a standout moment, delivering one of the series’ best action sequences—more reminiscent of Star Wars than historical swordplay, but thrilling nonetheless.

Neville Jason makes for a suitably noble Prince Reynart (and his android double), bearing an uncanny resemblance to Freddie Mercury. Meanwhile, the supporting cast is filled with recognisable faces, including Paul Lavers as the overly enthusiastic Farrah and Cyril Shaps in his final Doctor Who role as the Archimandrite. A special mention goes to Declan Mulholland as the hulking Servant Till—a minor but memorable character whose presence adds a certain fairytale charm.

STRONG PRODUCTION VALUES BUT A THIN STORY

For all its strengths in character and setting, The Androids of Tara struggles with its pacing and depth. The plot is little more than a stretched-out rescue mission, with the android lookalike element adding some complexity but not enough to make it truly engaging. The stakes never feel particularly high, and the political scheming lacks the weight of The Ribos Operation’s more intricate intrigue.

That said, the production values are excellent. The heavy reliance on location filming lends the story a rich, cinematic quality, with lush forests, castle grounds, and atmospheric dungeons creating an authentic medieval feel. The BBC’s expertise in period dramas shines through in the costume design, while Dudley Simpson’s score enhances the illusion of a grand historical adventure.

📝VERDICT: 7/10

The Androids of Tara is an enjoyable but ultimately lightweight adventure. While it lacks narrative depth and originality, its charming performances, witty dialogue, and well-staged action sequences make it an easy and entertaining watch. Peter Jeffrey’s Count Grendel steals the show, and the lavish setting adds to the story’s appeal. Though not the most memorable of the Key to Time arc, it delivers enough swashbuckling fun to be worth a visit—just don’t expect too much substance beneath the spectacle.