Ep 18. The Planet of the Spiders, Episode 4

The Best of The Third Doctor showcases classic episodes from the popular British science fiction series Doctor Who, featuring the character of the Third Doctor, portrayed by actor Jon Pertwee. In season 1, episode 18, viewers are treated to the fourth and final installment of the exciting adventure entitled The Planet of the Spiders.

The episode opens with the Third Doctor and his companion Sarah Jane Smith in pursuit of the villainous Lupton, who has stolen a powerful crystal from their friend Mike Yates. As they track him down, they stumble across a group of meditation practitioners who live in seclusion in a remote location. These individuals are in possession of another piece of the crystal, and they warn the Doctor of the dangers associated with its power.

Meanwhile, Lupton has arrived at a Tibetan monastery, where he intends to use the two halves of the crystal to summon the giant spiders that inhabit the planet Metebelis Three. The Doctor soon arrives on the scene, but it becomes apparent that the spiders have their sights set on Earth as well.

The rest of the episode revolves around the Doctor and his allies' attempts to stop the spiders from reaching Earth and causing widespread destruction. Along the way, they must navigate various obstacles, including a mind-controlled Sarah Jane and a web-infested Lupton.

As is typical of Doctor Who, the episode blends thrilling action sequences with thought-provoking ideas about the nature of power and responsibility. It also features strong performances from Pertwee and Elisabeth Sladen, who played Sarah Jane. Overall, The Planet of the Spiders serves as a memorable conclusion to the Third Doctor's era and a prime example of the classic Doctor Who storytelling that has captured the hearts of fans for generations.

Fans of classic sci-fi, action, and adventure will not want to miss this exciting installment of Doctor Who: The Best of The Third Doctor.