Four to Doomsday

Four to Doomsday is a great example of how a well-worn premise (aliens wish to invade Earth) can still make intelligent and surprising television. It seems, at times, that Terence Dudley has never seen or read any science-fiction, but this is his advantage as he does not get bogged down in the usual clichés. The alien Urbankans are nothing like the usual would-be conquerors- their invasion plan is about as culturally sensitive as an invasion plan can be. There are only two fully developed characters apart from the regulars- Monarch and Bigon. Monarch is an insane autocrat with a God delusion, but he also recognises the need for doubt, which is why Bigon is allowed a great deal of freedom. Monarch's relationship with Persuasion and Enlightenment, his counsellors is expertly written as being a mix between the relationship between a king and his ministers and a god and his priests.

This is brought to life in a gently paced, but visually stunning production. The ship is brilliantly realised, with good model work, excellent sets (note the subtle matte work in the throne room) and truly outstanding lighting. John Black puts in a masterful job as director- the 'recreationals', featuring Mayan, Aboriginal, Chinese and Greek dances are wonderful and Black recognises the unparalleled effectiveness of an arresting image, from Bigon's revelation about his true nature to the Doctor's use of the cricket ball to get back to the TARDIS. The guest performances are excellent (although I'm surprised an actor of Burt Kwouk's stature was used in such a limited role) but the laurels have to be handed to Stratford Johns as Monarch, flawlessly portraying the madness, apparent benevolence and omnipresent arrogance of the character- I love it when Monarch's explanation for being unable to penetrate the TARDIS is that the TARDIS is too primitive for his instruments.

Peter Davison is wonderful here- this was his first story filmed and he is immediately recognisable. The Doctor goes around with a winning smile but conspires against his enemy under his breath. His dressing down of Adric is wonderful. Matthew Waterhouse's performance is strangely helped by the fact that Adric has to be duped by Monarch in the story. Nyssa doesn't make much of an impression, but Janet Fielding's grouchy interpretation of Tegan is easily the best performance among the companions.

This is a story that grabs hold of you and keeps your attention to the very end- highly recommended.

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