Movie spotlight
When scientists start to go missing in the 20th century, the Doctor is called in by the Brigadier to investigate. His investigations lead him to deduce that they are being kidnapped through time and he sets off in pursuit, unknowingly kidnapping journalist Sarah Jane Smith in the process. Arriving in the middle ages, the Doctor and Sarah find themselves caught up in the machinations of the robber baron Irongron and his man from the stars. The alien, a Sontaran named Linx, is arming him with modern weapons in return for helping him repair his damaged ship, and it's up to the Doctor and Sarah to stop him from ruining the Earth's timeline.
The Doctor and his companion Sarah Jane Smith crash-land in 11th-century England during a period of conflict between the Saxon King Edward of Wessex and a ruthless alien warlord named the 'Sontaran'. The Sontaran, commanding a unit of futuristic soldiers, seeks to conquer Earth and steal the TARDIS. The Doctor must rally the Saxons and use his ingenuity to defeat the technologically advanced invaders and protect the timeline. This story notably introduces the memorable alien race, the Sontarans, and marks the first full story appearance of Sarah Jane Smith.
As a classic Doctor Who serial, 'The Time Warrior' is highly regarded for its introduction of the Sontarans and its compelling portrayal of historical conflict. Jon Pertwee delivers a strong performance in his penultimate adventure, and Elisabeth Sladen shines as the resourceful Sarah Jane Smith. The serial is praised for its engaging plot, well-developed villain in Linx, and its significant contribution to the show's mythology. While some of the production values reflect the era, its storytelling and character introductions remain impactful.
Praised for introducing the iconic Sontaran race.
Elisabeth Sladen's performance as Sarah Jane Smith is a highlight.
An engaging historical adventure with a strong alien antagonist.
Google audience: Audience reception for classic Doctor Who serials like 'The Time Warrior' is generally positive, with viewers appreciating the blend of historical settings and science fiction elements, particularly the introduction of enduring alien species.
The Sontarans were conceived by Robert Holmes and visual designer Raymond Cusick. Holmes wanted a warrior race that was cloned and bred for battle, lacking individuality, to contrast with the Doctor's uniqueness and heroic qualities. The design of the Sontarans, particularly their potato-like helmets and the 'shoulder-mounted potato' look, has become iconic within the show's history.
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Still sort of vaguely attached to the United Nations specialist outfit "UNIT", the "Doctor" (Jon Pertwee) arrives to meet with the "Brigadier" (Nicholas Courtney) and discuss some mysteriously vanishing scientists. He sets up a tracking mec...