The Caves of Androzani
| 136 – The Caves of Androzani | |
|---|---|
| Doctor | Peter Davison Colin Baker |
| Writer | Robert Holmes |
| Director | Graeme Harper |
| Script Editor | Eric Saward |
| Producer | John Nathan-Turner |
| Executive Producer(s) | None |
| Production Code | 6R |
| Length | 4 episodes, 25 mins each |
| Transmission date | March 8 – March 16, 1984 |
| Preceded by | Planet of Fire |
| Followed by | The Twin Dilemma |
The Caves of Androzani is a serial in the British science fiction television series Doctor Who, which originally aired in four twice-weekly parts from March 8 to March 16, 1984. It was Peter Davison's last story as the Doctor, and marks the first appearance of Colin Baker in the role.
Synopsis
The TARDIS lands on the desolate planet of Androzani Minor. The Doctor and his new companion Peri are caught up in the greedy, decadent affairs of the planet, which involve Morgus, a corrupt businessman who will kill a President and workers alike to achieve his goals; Sharaz Jek, a scarred inhabitant of the caves who commands an army of deadly androids; an army led by a foolish general; a group of vicious gunrunners; and the Magma Creature, a monster that stalks the dark caves of the planet. In addition, the Doctor and Peri contract the wasting disease spectrox toxaemia. In its raw state, spectrox can kill, but in controlled form it can give humans immortality: making it the most valuable substance in the known universe, and the reason behind the various characters' machinations and betrayals. Although the Doctor is able to obtain an antidote for the disease, there is only enough for one; as a consequence, he gives what there is to Peri, then regenerates.
Notes
- Morgus' asides to the camera are in the style of Restoration theatre.
- In 2003's 40th Anniversary Doctor Who Magazine poll, The Caves of Androzani was voted the best serial of all time.
External links
Categories: Doctor Who serials