Our first look at the centuries-spanning beautiful frenemy-ship that is the Doctor and the Master. It’s played out with numerous regenerations for both characters, but it begins here with the classic Pertwee-Delgado relationship. The story additionally features the introduction of Jo and Yates and the return of the Autons.
After the exit of Liz, the Third Doctor is dubious when the Brigadier sends him a new “assistant” in the form of Jo Grant, a keen but somewhat flighty young woman that the Doctor doubts can handle the job. Things get heavy for UNIT when the Master, the Doctor’s old pal/nemesis from Gallifrey, shows up on Earth with a dastardly plan. With the Master nosing around a plastics factory, it’s no surprise who his allies are (hint: they’re in the title of the serial.)
It’s true that this era, and this season in particular, can get into some definite Master overload, but his first appearance is classic. I love the whole James-Moriarty-meets-alien-Bond-villian vibe he has going on, and his designs for world conquest play out with a suaveness that no Master has really matched since. He and the Autons prove formidable foes in their team-up here. And really, with the Doctor earthbound for the UNIT years, it makes sense to introduce a recurring villain to wreak havoc (just not every story, which the show figured out after series 8!) Plus, it’s always fun to have another Time Lord around, especially one with a fully-functioning TARDIS – it’s good to get those reminders of how a chameleon circuit is supposed to work.
As I said, this is also the first appearance of Jo. While I of course prefer my beloved Liz and the show can overdo it on the sweet-ditziness now and again, I do like that she’s a very different character than Liz. Despite clearly being in over her head, she’s tenacious and eager to prove to the Doctor, and UNIT as a whole, that she can be of use. And yes, she makes some major mistakes in this story, but she brings it around too and is able to help out at key moments.
This is kind of a transitional time for Three. While he still has itchy feet and is continually trying to find a way off Earth, he’s less contrary about working for UNIT. He’s taking on more of a real role there, even if he’s not exactly thrilled about it. With the arrival of the Master, his wanderlust is stronger than ever, but at the same time, he knows UNIT is going to need his help if the Master is to be defeated.
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