Ep 21. The Time Monster: Part 1

The Time Monster: Part 1 is a classic episode from season 9 of Doctor Who that first aired in May 1972. In this episode, the Doctor, played by Jon Pertwee, and his companion Jo Grant, played by Katy Manning, arrive at the Newton Research Unit in the UK, where they discover that scientist Professor Thascales has been conducting dangerous experiments involving time travel.

The Doctor is immediately suspicious of Thascales' work, as he fears that he may be unknowingly opening up a portal to the Greek underworld of Kronos. However, the Professor is convinced that his experiments will lead to great discoveries and refuses to listen to the Doctor's warnings.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that the Doctor was right to be concerned, as strange events begin to occur. A mysterious force begins to interfere with the TARDIS, causing it to malfunction and threatening the safety of the Doctor and Jo. Meanwhile, a cult known as the TOMTIT (the Temple of the Mind's Eye and the Temple of the Time's Illusionary Techniques) has infiltrated the Newton Research Unit and is working towards their own nefarious goals.

In addition to these threats, the Doctor and Jo must also deal with the arrival of a woman named Ruth Ingram, who claims to be a journalist investigating Thascales' research but seems to know more than she is letting on. As the episode reaches its climax, the Doctor and his companions find themselves in a race against time to stop Thascales and the TOMTIT from unleashing a powerful force that could bring about the end of the world as we know it.

The Time Monster: Part 1 is a thrilling and action-packed episode that showcases some of the best elements of classic Doctor Who. Jon Pertwee is in top form as the Third Doctor, displaying both his trademark humour and his impressive physicality in the face of danger. Katy Manning is equally impressive as Jo Grant, proving herself to be a capable and resourceful companion despite her relative lack of experience.

The episode also benefits from a strong supporting cast, including Wanda Ventham as Ruth Ingram and Ingrid Pitt as the sinister high priestess Galleia. The special effects may be dated by modern standards, but they still manage to convey a sense of wonder and otherworldliness that is essential to the science fiction genre.

Overall, The Time Monster: Part 1 is a must-see episode for fans of classic Doctor Who. It combines elements of science fiction, fantasy, and mythology to create a truly unique and memorable viewing experience. Whether you are a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer looking for an exciting introduction to the world of Doctor Who, this episode is sure to delight and entertain.