Tom Baker is one of the most iconic actors to have played the Doctor in the long-running British science fiction series Doctor Who. His tenure as the Fourth Doctor, from 1974 to 1981, remains one of the most beloved eras of the show. Baker’s portrayal of the Doctor as an eccentric, witty, and sometimes mysterious figure has left an indelible mark on the series and its fans. With such a rich catalog of episodes to choose from, determining the “best” Tom Baker episode is no small task. This article will explore the key episodes of Tom Baker’s era, analyze their impact on the series, and ultimately identify which episode stands out as the best.
The Legacy of Tom Baker’s Doctor
The Fourth Doctor’s Impact on the Series
Tom Baker’s Doctor brought a unique blend of humor, intelligence, and unpredictability to the role. His long scarf, curly hair, and wide-brimmed hat became iconic symbols of the character. Baker’s interpretation of the Doctor as a more alien and enigmatic figure contrasted sharply with the more grounded portrayals of his predecessors. This shift in tone resonated with audiences, making the Fourth Doctor a fan favorite and solidifying Doctor Who as a cultural phenomenon.
A Period of Iconic Storytelling
During Baker’s seven-year tenure, Doctor Who produced some of its most memorable and influential episodes. The Fourth Doctor’s era is often credited with expanding the show’s narrative depth and complexity, exploring darker and more philosophical themes. This period also introduced several beloved companions, such as Sarah Jane Smith, Leela, and Romana, and saw the return of classic villains like the Daleks, Cybermen, and the Master.
Criteria for Determining the Best Episode
What Makes a Doctor Who Episode Great?
To determine the best Tom Baker episode, it’s essential to consider several factors that contribute to a great Doctor Who story. These include:
Character Development: How well the episode develops the Doctor and his companions.
Storyline: The strength and originality of the plot.
Villains: The effectiveness and memorability of the antagonists.
Impact on the Series: The episode’s influence on the overall Doctor Who lore.
Fan Reception: The popularity and legacy of the episode among fans.
Notable Contenders
Several episodes from Tom Baker’s era are frequently cited as some of the best in the entire series. These include:
“Genesis of the Daleks” (1975): A dark and morally complex story that explores the origins of the Doctor’s greatest enemies, the Daleks.
“The Ark in Space” (1975): A gripping survival story set on a space station, showcasing the Doctor’s resourcefulness and determination.
“Pyramids of Mars” (1975): A gothic horror tale that blends science fiction with ancient Egyptian mythology.
“The Deadly Assassin” (1976): A politically charged episode that delves into the inner workings of the Time Lords and Gallifrey.
“City of Death” (1979): A humorous and stylish adventure set in Paris, co-written by Douglas Adams.
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Analysis of Key Episodes
Genesis of the Daleks
Genesis of the Daleks is often hailed as one of the greatest Doctor Who stories ever told. Written by Terry Nation, the creator of the Daleks, this six-part serial takes the Doctor back in time to the planet Skaro, where he is tasked with preventing the creation of the Daleks. The story delves into the moral dilemmas of altering history, as the Doctor grapples with the question of whether it is right to destroy an entire species, even one as malevolent as the Daleks. The introduction of the Daleks’ creator, Davros, adds a new layer of complexity to the Daleks’ origin, making this episode a cornerstone of the Doctor Who mythos.
The Ark in Space
The Ark in Space is another standout episode from Tom Baker’s first season. Written by Robert Holmes, the story is set aboard a space station where the last remnants of humanity are in suspended animation, waiting to repopulate Earth. The station is under threat from an alien parasite, the Wirrn, which feeds on human hosts. The episode is a masterclass in building tension and claustrophobia, with the Doctor, Sarah Jane, and Harry Sullivan working together to save humanity. The story’s themes of survival, evolution, and the resilience of the human spirit resonate strongly with viewers.
Pyramids of Mars
Pyramids of Mars is a fan-favorite that combines science fiction with elements of gothic horror. Written by Stephen Harris (a pseudonym for Robert Holmes and Lewis Greifer), the episode sees the Doctor and Sarah Jane arriving in 1911 England, where they encounter the ancient and powerful Sutekh, an alien being worshipped as a god in ancient Egypt. The story’s atmospheric setting, strong performances, and engaging plot make it a classic of the Fourth Doctor’s era. The exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and the dangers of unchecked ambition adds depth to the narrative.
The Deadly Assassin
The Deadly Assassin is a unique episode in the history of Doctor Who, as it is the only story in which the Doctor is without a companion. Written by Robert Holmes, the episode takes place on Gallifrey, the Doctor’s home planet, where he is framed for the assassination of the President of the Time Lords. The story is a political thriller that reveals much about Time Lord society and introduces the concept of the Matrix, a virtual reality used to store the memories and experiences of Time Lords. The episode’s darker tone and exploration of the Doctor’s origins have made it a landmark in the series.
City of Death
City of Death is a lighter, more humorous episode, co-written by Douglas Adams and Graham Williams. Set in Paris, the story follows the Doctor and Romana as they investigate a series of time distortions linked to the theft of the Mona Lisa. The episode is known for its witty dialogue, charming performances, and memorable villain, Count Scarlioni, played by Julian Glover. The blend of science fiction and art history, along with the beautiful Parisian backdrop, makes City of Death a unique and beloved entry in the Doctor Who canon.
The Best Tom Baker Episode
Why Genesis of the Daleks Stands Out
While each of the episodes discussed has its merits, Genesis of the Daleks stands out as the best Tom Baker episode of Doctor Who. Its exploration of the origins of the Daleks, the Doctor’s moral quandary, and the introduction of Davros make it a story of immense significance to the series. The episode’s themes of power, war, and the consequences of technological advancement resonate just as strongly today as they did when the episode first aired. Genesis of the Daleks is not only a pivotal moment in the history of Doctor Who but also a powerful piece of television that continues to captivate audiences.
Legacy and Influence
Genesis of the Daleks has left a lasting impact on Doctor Who and its fans. The episode has been frequently cited as one of the greatest Doctor Who stories of all time and has influenced subsequent Dalek stories and the portrayal of the Doctor’s character. The moral dilemmas faced by the Doctor in this episode have been revisited in later stories, highlighting the episode’s enduring relevance. Moreover, the character of Davros has become one of the most iconic villains in the series, appearing in numerous episodes across different eras of Doctor Who.
Conclusion
Tom Baker’s era as the Fourth Doctor is filled with many outstanding episodes, each contributing to the legacy of Doctor Who in its own way. However, Genesis of the Daleks stands out as the best episode of Tom Baker’s tenure. Its compelling story, rich character development, and profound themes make it a quintessential Doctor Who experience. Whether you are a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer, Genesis of the Daleks is an episode that exemplifies the brilliance of Doctor Who and the enduring appeal of the Fourth Doctor.
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