Ep 9. The Deadly Assassin: Part 1
- October 30, 1976
- 21 min
The Deadly Assassin: Part 1 is the ninth episode of the fourteenth season of the classic Doctor Who series. It was originally aired on October 30, 1976. This episode marks a significant turning point in the show as it is the first time that the Doctor has been without a regular companion.
The story begins with the Doctor returning to his home planet of Gallifrey. He is summoned to the capital city of Arcadia to attend the presidential inauguration of his old friend, Castellan Spandrell. However, things quickly take a dark turn when the Doctor is framed for the assassination of the newly elected president.
The rest of the episode sees the Doctor on the run as he tries to clear his name and uncover a sinister plot that threatens the very foundations of Time Lord society. Along the way, he encounters a number of familiar faces from his past, including his former teacher, Chancellor Goth, and his nemesis, the Master.
One of the standout aspects of this episode is its portrayal of Gallifrey and Time Lord society. The Doctor's home planet has always been a mysterious and intriguing location in the show, and this episode provides a rare glimpse into its inner workings. From the imposing architecture of the capital city to the intricate political maneuverings of the Time Lords, it's clear that Gallifrey is a complex and fascinating place.
Another highlight of this episode is the performance of Tom Baker as the Doctor. As always, Baker brings wit, charm, and a touch of eccentricity to the role. However, in this episode, we also see a different side to the character. With no companions to rely on, the Doctor is forced to rely solely on his wits and ingenuity in order to survive. This gives Baker the chance to showcase a more intense and serious side to the Doctor's personality, and he rises to the challenge admirably.
The supporting cast is also excellent, with Bernard Horsfall turning in a memorable performance as Chancellor Goth. Goth is a character who is torn between his loyalty to the Time Lords and his own sense of justice, and Horsfall does an excellent job of conveying this conflict. Meanwhile, Peter Pratt makes a suitably chilling appearance as the Master, who is revealed to be involved in the conspiracy against the Doctor.
Overall, The Deadly Assassin: Part 1 is a gripping and engaging episode of Doctor Who. It sets up a complex and intriguing mystery that will keep viewers guessing until the very end, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Time Lords. With strong performances, inventive direction, and a thrilling script, this is an episode that is sure to delight fans of the classic series.