Classic Doctor Who Season 26 Episode 1 Battlefield: Part 1
- September 6, 1989
- 24 min
It's the first episode of the twenty-sixth and final season of Classic Doctor Who, and the Doctor and Ace arrive in the middle of a battle in a rural English village. The Doctor is puzzled by the appearance of a medieval knight and believes that something more than just an ordinary battle is taking place. The knight believes the Doctor to be Merlin and the two become entwined in a prophecy foretelling an epic battle for the fate of the universe.
Meanwhile, a group of archaeologists led by Professor Rachel Jensen are excavating an ancient battlefield nearby. They discover a spaceship buried in the earth and inside, a powerful being from another dimension who has been summoned to Earth by the presence of the legendary sword Excalibur. The being, known as the Destroyer, is eager to cause destruction and chaos, and is capable of controlling the minds of those around it.
As the Doctor investigates the strange happenings in the village, he comes into contact with Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, who has been retired from UNIT for some time. Both men are pleased to see each other again and quickly begin working together to uncover the truth about the mysterious knight, the spaceship, and the powerful being. Ace, on the other hand, is thrilled to be fighting alongside the knight in battle and is dangerously close to being seduced by the power of the sword.
The tension between the Doctor and the Destroyer is palpable as they come face to face, and it soon becomes clear that the fate of the universe is at stake. As they race to prevent the destruction of Earth, the Doctor and his allies are faced with countless obstacles and challenges, including greedy businessmen, traitorous allies, and powerful mystical forces.
Throughout the episode, the performances are excellent, particularly from Sylvester McCoy as the Doctor and Sophie Aldred as Ace. There are some truly poignant moments when the Doctor and the Brigadier reminisce about old times, and fans of the show will undoubtedly be pleased to see the return of some beloved characters and themes. The special effects are impressive for the time, and the setting adds to the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the episode.
With its thrilling plot, strong characters, and tight pacing, Battlefield: Part 1 is a fitting start to the final season of Classic Doctor Who. It sets the stage for an epic battle between good and evil that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Whether you're a longtime fan or just starting out, this episode is sure to leave you eagerly anticipating the rest of the season.