“The Enemy of the World” is a classic Doctor Who serial from 1967, starring Patrick Troughton as the second incarnation of the Doctor. The six-part story is set in the year 2018 and follows the Doctor as he investigates the mysterious activities of a ruthless dictator named Salamander, who is using advanced technology to manipulate the world’s food supply and consolidate his power.
One of the standout elements of “The Enemy of the World” is Patrick Troughton’s performance as both the Doctor and Salamander. Troughton is a master of his craft, and he effortlessly switches between the two roles, creating two distinct characters with their own unique mannerisms and personalities. The scenes where the Doctor and Salamander interact are particularly engaging, as Troughton is essentially playing off himself.
The supporting cast is also strong, with Frazer Hines and Deborah Watling returning as the Doctor’s companions Jamie and Victoria. The chemistry between the three leads is excellent, and they work together to unravel the plot and expose Salamander’s true intentions.
The story itself is well-written and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience guessing. The plot is somewhat reminiscent of James Bond films of the era, with Salamander using his high-tech gadgets and henchmen to stay one step ahead of the Doctor and his companions.
In addition to the strong performances and well-written plot, “The Enemy of the World” also features impressive production values for its time. The story takes place in various locations around the world, including a futuristic underground complex and a sunny beach resort, all of which are brought to life with convincing set design and location shooting.
The serial also tackles some interesting themes, particularly the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of transparency and accountability in government. Salamander’s rise to power is aided by his ability to manipulate the media and control information, and the Doctor and his companions work to expose his true nature and bring him to justice.
© BBC Studios
One potential downside of “The Enemy of the World” is that some of the special effects and action sequences may appear dated to modern audiences. However, this is to be expected for a show that aired in the 1960s, and it’s important to view it within the context of its time.
Overall, “The Enemy of the World” is a must-watch for fans of classic Doctor Who, and is a great introduction for viewers looking to explore the show’s earlier seasons. The combination of strong performances, engaging story, and impressive production values make it a standout serial that still holds up today.
You can pick this serial up here on Amazon on DVD.