📝8/10

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“The Time Meddler: A Meddling Delight”

The Time Meddler ushers in a new TARDIS dynamic while breaking fresh ground as Doctor Who’s first pseudo-historical, blending historical intrigue with science fiction in a tale that’s equal parts whimsical and groundbreaking. Though it stumbles occasionally in pacing and tension, its charm and historical significance make it a standout adventure.

Reminiscing and Rebuilding

The opening moments of The Time Meddler offer a rare gem in Classic Who: quiet character introspection. Reflecting on Ian and Barbara’s departure, the episode tenderly marks their absence while setting the stage for a new TARDIS team. The delightful introductory sequence inside the TARDIS seamlessly integrates Steven into the crew, offering both a primer for new viewers and a warm, comedic nod to returning fans.

History with a Twist

Marking the debut of the pseudo-historical genre, The Time Meddler cleverly juxtaposes the Viking era with futuristic anachronisms, such as 20th-century technology. While the narrative doesn’t fully explore the potential of this blend, it sets a fascinating tone, particularly in the early episodes. The story shifts focus from historical events to a compelling battle of wits between two opposing Time Lords, a bold departure for the series.

A Showdown of Icons

The heart of the serial lies in the clash between the Doctor and the Meddling Monk, played with mischievous brilliance by Peter Butterworth. As the first Time Lord adversary in the series, the Monk’s playful yet selfish motives make him a refreshing change from traditional villains. Butterworth’s chemistry with William Hartnell is a joy to watch, particularly in the second half when their rivalry takes center stage.

A New Team Takes Shape

Without Ian and Barbara, Maureen O’Brien’s Vicki comes into her own as a confident and capable companion, proving she can hold her own. Meanwhile, Steven’s debut is energetic, if still a little rough around the edges. His skeptical defiance contrasts nicely with Vicki’s seasoned pragmatism, and their dynamic shines in their shared escapades throughout the story.

Missed Opportunities and Clumsy Moments

Despite its innovation, The Time Meddler suffers from some uneven plotting. Steven and Vicki spend much of the story aimlessly wandering, while the Doctor takes a backseat in the first half due to Hartnell’s absence. The Saxons and Vikings are underdeveloped and largely forgettable, serving more as window dressing than integral parts of the plot.

The action sequences, usually a strength in historicals, feel clumsy and unconvincing here, especially when compared to earlier serials. Additionally, while the ending is cleverly satisfying, it lacks the sense of grandeur or climax that would have elevated the story.

Visuals and Wit

The production’s simple sets and costumes effectively evoke the historical setting, supported by solid direction that lends the story a sense of scale. The script sparkles with memorable lines, from Hartnell’s poetic description of the TARDIS (“Sheer poetry, dear boy”) to his sardonic quip about a Viking helmet being “a space helmet for a cow.” These moments of wit are quintessential Hartnell and inject much-needed levity into the slower stretches of the serial.

The Time Meddler strikes a unique balance of humor, innovation, and character-driven storytelling. While its pacing falters and some elements feel undercooked, the introduction of the Monk and the evolving TARDIS team dynamics make it a pivotal and entertaining chapter in Doctor Who history.

RANDOM OBSERVATIONS:

• The Monk’s meddling, while mischievous, almost makes you root for his victory—a testament to Butterworth’s charming performance.
• The Saxons’ resemblance to the tribe members from An Unearthly Child is amusing, especially given Aletha Charlton’s return in a similar role.