Classic Doctor Who Season 26 Episode 4 Battlefield: Part 4
- September 27, 1989
- 24 min
In Battlefield: Part 4, the final episode of Classic Doctor Who's 26th season, the Doctor and his companions Ace and Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart continue to battle against the forces of Merlin and Morgaine, who have emerged from another dimension to conquer Earth. With the help of a medieval knight named Ancelyn, the group attempts to thwart the villains' plans and save the planet from destruction.
As the episode opens, Morgaine has taken possession of the powerful and mysterious artifact known as the sword Excalibur, and she seeks to use it to gain control of the planet's ley lines, which she believes will grant her unlimited power and serve as a gateway to another dimension. The Doctor and his allies race to stop her, but they are hampered by Morgaine's army of knights and her loyal henchman, the sorcerer Mordred.
During the course of their battles, the Doctor discovers that Morgaine is not the only one seeking control of the ley lines. A group of entities from another dimension, known as the Destroyer, also seeks to harness their power for their own nefarious purposes. The Doctor must not only outwit Morgaine and Mordred, but also prevent the unleashing of the destructive forces of the Destroyer.
As the action unfolds, the characters are put in grave danger and must make tough decisions about their loyalties and priorities. The Brigadier, now retired from UNIT, must reconcile his duty to protect the Earth with his loyalty to his friend the Doctor. Ace, meanwhile, finds herself torn between her feelings for Ancelyn and her commitment to her companions. The Doctor, as always, must balance his sense of adventure and curiosity with his responsibility to protect the universe.
The climactic battle between the forces of good and evil takes place at an ancient stone circle, where the ley lines converge. Amidst the chaos and destruction, the Doctor and his allies must use their wits and courage to outmaneuver their adversaries and stop them from destroying the Earth.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the classic Doctor Who mix of sci-fi, adventure, and humor. Jon Pertwee and Sylvester McCoy both make appearances as former incarnations of the Time Lord, adding to the show's sense of continuity and history. The performances of the actors are strong and engaging, especially Sophie Aldred as the plucky and resourceful Ace.
In all, Battlefield: Part 4 is a thrilling and satisfying conclusion to a classic Doctor Who story arc. With its blend of action, drama, and humor, it exemplifies the qualities that have made the show an enduring favorite of science fiction fans worldwide.