Classic Doctor Who Season 2 Episode 21 The Web Planet: The Centre

The second season of the classic Doctor Who series takes viewers on a wild adventure with the twenty-first episode, The Web Planet: The Centre. This exciting episode follows the adventures of the first Doctor, played by William Hartnell, and his companions Barbara, Ian, and Vicki as they explore a mysterious planet occupied by giant insects.

The episode starts with the Doctor and his companions landing on the planet Vortis, which is shrouded in a thick web-like substance. As they step out of their TARDIS, they are immediately greeted by a race of giant ants known as the Zarbi. The Zarbi are a peaceful species, but they are quickly revealed to be slaves to another group of insects called the Animus.

The Doctor, Barbara, Ian, and Vicki decide to try and help the Zarbi and free them from the Animus's control. They embark on a dangerous journey to the heart of the Web Planet, where the Animus resides. Along the way, they encounter many other strange creatures and obstacles, including a race of butterfly-like creatures known as the Menoptera. The Menoptera are also fighting against the Animus and are trying to find a way to stop it.

As the Doctor and his companions get closer to the Animus, they discover that it is an intelligent, sentient being that has taken control of the planet. The Animus wants to spread its web-like substance throughout the universe and enslave all other lifeforms. The Doctor, with the help of the Menoptera and the Zarbi, comes up with a plan to destroy the Animus and save Vortis.

One of the most impressive aspects of The Web Planet: The Centre is the imaginative and highly detailed sets and costumes. The planet Vortis is filled with strange and exotic creatures, all brought to life with incredible prosthetics and makeup. The Menoptera's wings and antennae are particularly impressive, and the Zarbi's huge, imposing frames are both terrifying and fascinating.

The episode also features some impressive special effects for its time. The giant Zarbi and the web-like substance that covers the planet are both created using practical effects, and they hold up surprisingly well even by today's standards. The animatronic Animus is particularly impressive, and its smooth movements and lifelike appearance make it a truly memorable part of the episode.

As with many Doctor Who episodes, The Web Planet: The Centre also features some clever and witty dialogue. The Doctor's interactions with his companions and the various alien creatures they encounter are both humorous and insightful, adding depth and character to the story.

Overall, The Web Planet: The Centre is a thrilling and visually stunning episode of classic Doctor Who. Its imaginative setting, memorable creatures, and exciting plot make it an excellent example of the classic sci-fi show's unique charm and appeal. Whether you're a fan of the original Doctor Who series or a newcomer to the show, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves imaginative and exciting science fiction.