Tread Perilously is a podcast in which hosts Erik Amaya and author Justin Robinson watch the “worst” episodes of popular TV shows, attempting to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on the most off-key moments.
This Week: Doctor Who‘s “The Time Meddler”
Tread Perilously‘s celebration of Doctor Who‘s 60th anniversary continues with “The Time Meddler.”
When The Doctor and Vicki discover astronaut Steven Taylor stowed away on the TARDIS before they left Mechanus, the pair try to convince him that the ship can travel in time and space. They soon land in Northumbria circa 1066, when Viking raiders are still causing problems for the Saxons but William is not yet “the Conqueror.” All of which suits a lone monk in a nearby abbey just fine. But why is he so interested in the TARDIS and why does he have a phonograph player? Will The Doctor and his new team foil the monk’s plans?
Justin compares Doctor Who with the work of J.R.R. Tolkien. He also enjoys the provincial attitude toward history on display throughout the story. Erik suggests other points in time the Monk could go to create a worldwide Flemish Empire. Inflection points outside of western Europe are also considered. The revolving door of First Doctor companions gets examined — as does the four-person dynamic of the early show. Justin reframes the Fifth Doctor era. Erik spots a moment where William Hartnell truly breaks character, and guest actor Alethea Charlton earns an MVP spot.
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