The Three Doctors: Episode Three

Review of all 4 episodes:

This story marked the 10th anniversary of the series and it is a very good birthday party as all three actors who had played The Doctor appear and have dialogue together. The production is not perfect but it is perfectly magic! It is the interplay of the 3 versions of The Doctor which adds the real magic to this adventure.

The storyline involves a legendary Time Lord, Omega, who is trapped in a world of antimatter inside a Black Hole which he created to bring the power of time travel to the Time Lords. He has been there for a very long time and has become mad with bitterness and rage at being 'left' trapped after giving the Time Lords their powers by his ingenuity and bravery. Over the vast time he has been trapped he has developed ways to attack the known universe and the Time Lords using antimatter. The Time Lords realise The Doctor may be able to fight Omega and to increase his chances they allow his two previous incarnations to cross into their own future so that the three Doctors can combine their intellect and battle Omega. The first Doctor (Hartnell) is caught in a 'time eddy' so cannot physically join them but he is able to communicate with the 2nd and 3rd Doctors. They bicker and banter but along with Jo, Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart and Sgt. Benton they bravely pool their efforts to save the universe.

The production in general is very good but not necessarily really great in every respect. Limitations of technology and budget mean the effects are not very good. The blob monsters serving Omega are the worst example of the imperfections to be found and the effect of the power transporting things into Omega's world is another. However the magic touch from the three Doctors make this something special and I never judge things purely by effects. Indeed if they were to make an enhanced CGI version with everything exactly the same except for improving the effects then this would basically eliminate any real gripes I might have with this serial. I can overlook the unimpressive effects as apart from that there is so much charm and brilliance on show.

The dialogue is beautifully written by writers Bob Baker and Dave Martin and all the character interaction is great. Patrick Troughton and Jon Pertwee are marvelous, performing their roles to perfection whilst William Hartnell's special quality shines through in his scenes despite ill health limiting his contribution. The scripting and performance of all their scenes together is terrific and often very amusing with the fun banter working really well.

There is an epic quality to the storyline with the universe being threatened and the involvement of the Time Lords and their legendary hero turned adversary Omega. The idea is interesting and Omega is a fascinating villain. The plot works in spite of its convoluted scientific ideas. It comes across as menacing, engrossing and fun.

Nicholas Courtney adds real quality as the Brigadier with some hilarious reactions and strong involvement in the story. Benton has one of his best adventures while Jo brings her usual endearing nature. Guest characters are well played also.

A really charming and enjoyable romp with some superb work from the 3 tremendous actors who made Doctor Who's first 10 years so fantastic.

Effects aside, this is a 10/10 classic throughout.

Doctor Who: The Three Doctors Part 3 receives an impressive 8 out of 10 rating for its delightful blend of exciting adventure and gentle humor. The Second and Third Doctors collaborate to rescue their friend from Omega's unpredictable universe, providing thrilling moments that remain suitable for all ages. Lighthearted dialogue maintains a warm atmosphere, and the clear themes of teamwork, courage, and hope make it perfect for family viewing. The slightly dated special effects add a nostalgic touch without hindering younger viewers' enjoyment. The performances are engaging and easy to follow, ensuring viewers of all ages can understand the plot and root for the heroes. Part 3 expands the narrative without losing its inviting tone-a testament to classic Doctor Who's ability to entertain and comfort the entire family simultaneously.

The Doctor discovers who the puppet Master pulling the strings, Omega.

The Three Doctors was released as an anniversary special comma and this episode does not disappoint, we are given plenty of information surrounding Time Lord history, and Omega's involvement in the Time Lords becoming so powerful. Omega is a fascinating character, and looks great, Stephen Thorne is very charismatic, and has a vocal skill.

Lots of info that would be used in later episodes has its origins here, Remembrance of The Daleks, Arc of Infinity and spinoff Downtime. Plenty of rich content, I'd love to see Omega return in the new series.

Plenty of fun Dialogue between Doctor number two and The Brigadier, The Brig's stoic character and Pat's jovial character contrast so nicely. It's a good episode for Jo. Sadly we don't get much Hartnell, his health by this stage wasn't great, wonderful to see him though.

Best of the special so far 10/10

The Third Doctor comes face to face with the person pulling the strings.

It is Omega the engineer who developed time travel but long thought to be dead.

He has survived in the realm of anti matter but he has gone bad thinking he has been abandoned by the Time Lords.

The Third Doctor is soon joined by the Second Doctor who has also been pulled into this antimatter world.

Stephen Thorne gives a shouty performance. He threatens to make Omega look like a bad watch but it highlights his insanity.

The third episode does look beautiful on Blu Ray with crisp colours.

I would've given the mediocrity good episode a 7, but omega was an interesting villain. It was OK. The second episode was the best, this was the second best, episode 1 was by far the worst part.