One day when I was in middle school, I was staying home sick. My father had to run out to do some errands. On his way home he stopped by the library, and saw the E-space boxset. He loved Doctor Who in the 70s-80s, and brought these home to see if I would like it. All these years later and I'm a lifelong Whovian, and Tom is still "My Doctor". Great review Jess!
Tom Baker’s portrayal of The Doctor is so iconic, and you did such a great job capturing what made his Doctor so unique. His eccentricity, wit, and that incredible sense of mystery. I loved how you went into detail about the companions, and overall tone of his era. From Sarah Jane and Leela to Romana, it’s fascinating how each companion brought out a different side of the Doctor. I agree with you how each companion felt like a mini-era within the Fourth Doctor's run. The Doctor, Leela and K9 is one of my all time favourite TARDIS teams in Doctor Who. I'm already looking forward to your next Classic Who review now. Especially given how much you've grown to love the Fifth Doctor and his era this year.
He came to our school in 1975....and secretly brought a dalek with him. Kids were running screaming in all directions while the parents queued for Tom's autograph. Such happy days!!
Another great Classic Who review Jess. I just wanted to show some appreciation for all the time and effort that you put into making them, especially with this one. Imagine having Jamie, Leela and Duggan as the TARDIS team. No one would stand a chance against that deadly trio. As for who I'd choose to play Harrison Chase in New Who. I'd probably go for Michael Sheen. He looks quite similar to Tony Beckley and I think he'd do a great job in that role. I'd also totally be here for some Harrison Chase plant music composed by Murray Gold. The quest is the quest. Ben is dead.
Tom Baker was my first Doctor, watching and being terrified by Pyramids Of Mars at age seven cemented me as a Doctor Who fan for life! I had a strong hunch The Seeds Of Doom would crack the top 3 judging from your delightful reactions to Harrison Chase and his machinations. My own Top 10: 1. The Talons Of Weng-Chiang 2. Genesis Of The Daleks 3. Pyramids Of Mars 4. The Seeds Of Doom 5. The Robots Of Death 6. Horror Of Fang Rock 7. The Deadly Assassin 8. The Ark In Space 9. City Of Death 10. Terror Of The Zygons
The Fourth Doctor was my first Doctor and is still "MY Doctor" to this day. I was introduced to Doctor Who when my parents got me 'The Ark in Space' and 'Genesis of the Daleks' for Christmas and it was those stories and Tom Baker's Fourth Doctor that made me the Doctor Who fan I am today. The great man made a huge impact on the show and I personally loved that is era is so incredibly diverse; the blend of gothic horror and dark sc-fi of Phillip Hinchcliffe's tenure (seasons 12-14), the pulpy sci-fi action-adventure antics of Graham Williams' tenure (seasons 15-17), and the hard sci-fi, funereal atmosphere of John Nathan-Turner's tenure (season 18). Plus, he had some of the most memorably iconic companions in the show's history, particularly Sarah Jane Smith and K9. More than anything, Tom Baker is proof that it's never too late for things to change. He went from being a penniless nobody to being a national treasure and one of the most beloved actors in British history. He said himself that he wasn't acting or playing a role, but was just being Tom. His charisma, passion, dynamism and love for children and families is what made him so iconic, and I can't blame him for staying too long in the role. Choosing my favourite Fourth Doctor stories was incredibly difficult with so many brilliant stories to choose from, but my top 5 would probably go like this: 1. Genesis of the Daleks 2. The Ark in Space 3. Pyramids of Mars 4. The Brain of Morbius 5. Seeds of Doom
Tony Beckley who played Harrison Chase in Seeds of Doom is buried at Hollywood Forever in Califonia. My mate paid his respects a couple of years ago. Left a potted plant at his grave. A lovely surprise video, thanks Jess
Thank you so much for recognizing Leela!!! She was kind of the first of what I call the "Protector" companions, people useful in a battle. People like Ace, Jack, Martha, Rose, etc. She's amazing in the Gallifrey audio adventures as well!!!
My personal top five stories would be: 1. Warriors’ Gate 2. City of Death 3. Genesis of the Daleks 4. Horror of Fang Rock 5. The Face of Evil Honourable mentions go to The Stones of Blood and Full Circle, Season 18 remains my favourite Tom Baker season.
Of course both Leela and Romana broke the pattern of the companion being a contemporary Earth (British) woman. I wish NuWho would have the courage to explore the potential for companions from other time periods or civilisations. I still think that Moffat missed a golden opportunity with Victorian Clara!
I agree with you so much about Sarah Jane. Love her sense of justice but I always say Sarah Jane never gets enough to do in any of her stories. I used to blame that on Harry but that's not fair because even after Harry leaves, Sarah Jane isn't given enough of a spotlight. I believe you're right about the fans generally preferring Romana II but I'm with you, I prefer Romana I. I love all of her sass. The back-and-forth arguments with the Doctor are some of the most fun interactions with a companion. I can't disagree with fans that say she was smug but that's part of what I like; if she's going to be a damsel in distress in EVERY story (sometimes more than once) and the Doctor is going to save the day, she needs to have a very strong personality to stand out and make her memorable. I just wish Romana I was kidnapped less and had some of the great technobabble dialogue that Romana II got. Your story for your number 5 pick both broke my heart and warmed my heart. I'm sorry you had such a rough time but glad that the comments could give you a little bit of a pick-me-up.
A Chicagoan born and raised, our PBS station showed Doctor Who at 11:00 pm on Sunday nights. Mom wouldn’t let me stay up to watch it until I graduated from junior high in 1980, then told me it was up to me if I wanted to be tired at school the next day. (Most stories would end at 12:35 am.) Since it was 1980, they were showing Tom Baker pretty much non-stop before going back to Pertwee. So, My Doctor will always be Tom Baker. My first convention was in 1982 at Rosemont, IL, where he was the featured guest. I asked him if I could kiss him on the cheek, and he said yes! A very tall man, btw. When he popped up on Day of the Doctor, I nearly fell off my couch in shock.
The PBS station in Rochester (NY) aired it at 11 on Saturdays in the 80s so I didn't have the same problem with school fatigue. (There were times when they would air all 4 parts of a story the same night.)
@@mmattson8947 In Chicago, they always showed the entire story in one night, unless it was extended past four parts. Edited together, a four-part story would usually last 93 minutes or so.
The 4th Doctor very much does have 2s energy. I categorise Doctors into three primary groups: 1. Otherworldly alien, quirky, wanderer of the 4th dimension, cosmic hobo 2. More serious and emotionally dark (at least at the start of their tenure) but still has a heart of gold and tries to do the right thing 3. Generally a nice guy, the easiest to be able to pass off as s regular human Using this you can probably tell where I place each doctor, out of the ones you've seen 2nd, 4th, 11th and 13th go in group 1. 1st, 9th and 12th go in group 2 and 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th go in group 3
Considering how much you love Romana I, I have to share a Mary Tamm story: At a convention meeting Mary Tamm with my friend. My friend went up to her and said: "I always thought you were the prettiest companion... until John Barrowman came along." Mary Tamm's response??? "Well, it's true!"
As beloved as Sarah Jane is I do think Leela is also equally as beloved, people just don't bring her up as much, so you won't really find anyone disagreeing with you for preferring her over Sarah Jane (I also prefer Leela and think she's one of the best Classic Who companions of all time alongside Jamie). Once you've finished the classic series if you want more Leela and closure around her exit and arc, I would definitely recommend the audio series Gallifrey which I think you'd really love.
"Twin peaks shaped hole in my heart" (in response to Warrior's Gate) - This just adds to my impression that you'd enjoy Sapphire and Steel (an ITV show from around 1980 which attempts to reinvent the ghost story for a 1980s television audience and gets a bit weird at times, in part due to being cheap even in comparison to Doctor Who) and The Prisoner (A seminal 1960s sci-fi adjacent series that goes heavy on the surrealism, particularly towards the end), whether you watched those on the channel or off of it.
Absolutely love that your review both started and ended with the two iconic phrases/memes from your channel. There is a sequel to Seeds of Doom in Big Finish's Eighth Doctor Adventures, but unfortunately no Harrison Chase.
Tom was my first Doctor and he basically changed the life of a lonely teen, because his character basically let me know it was ok for me to be me. And thank you for your candid talk of what you've been through, I can relate that too. :) You're the best Jess, so grateful to be on this journey with you!
OMG I have had OCD for years. It is such a difficult and misunderstood disorder. It means a lot to see someone else talk about it. Also since I know you've already watched "Snakedance" but I've found that story to be a great allegory for OCD. I agree with much of your top five also. Genesis is my favorite classic story. And Seeds of Doom, State of Decay, City of Death are all favorites as well. Fang Rock used to be my #1 and is still top ten!
I too love the Key to Time, and adore Mary Tamm’s Romana. She and Tom were great on screen. Tom has admitted he was in awe of her, probably what he needed at the time. Lalla is great and had a hard act to follow. I think there is room to bring Romana back and have her in her own spin off.
@@DocRobAC Yes I assumed you did mean for TV but was just bringing up Gallifrey in case you were unaware because it is genuinely one of the best things Big Finish have ever produced.
Good to see such a positive view of Sarah Jane, who lives on with Big Finish Audio stories, played by Elisabeth Sladen's daughter, Sadie Miller opposite Tom Baker (91 in January 2025!)
I don’t normally comment but I’m 33 minutes in and your description of Sarah Jane and her time with Tom is so touching, I’m genuinely a little teary-eyed! ❤
My first time commenting. Loved your top five choices and did predict first and second place. However, because when you reviewed The Ribos Operation, you loved the character of Binro the heretic, I definitely thought this story would be in your top five. Hoping it might have been number six. Keep up the wonderful reviews of Classic Who, as a fan watching them growing up I am so invested in hearing your reactions to watching episodes for the first time without any prior knowledge. Also your reviews are always balanced, fair and as Peter Capaldi's Doctor said....kind.
Include Troughton and the tail end of Hartnell in that and I’ll agree. S4 to Horror of Fang Rock is Peak Who. Even the “bad” stuff is good compared to the worst of what came later.
Honestly I'd say Season 1 to 14 is all very consistent, it just depends on your personal tastes what the 'golden age' is or which one you grew up with if you watched it at the time.
When I was first introduced to Dr. Who was in 1998 when I was 9 years old and it was Tom Baker who was my first and favourite Doctor which was "The Talons of Weng-Chiang" on VHS and I immediately fell in love with the show. I love all the Tom Baker stories even the worse ones I'm really not the biggest fan of ranking but I will say the highest ones for me are his most 10 iconic ones. 1. The Talons of Weng-Chiang 2. Pyramids of Mars. 3. The E-Space Trilogy. 4. The Robots of Death. 5. Terror of the Zygons. 6. City of Death. 7. The Seeds of Doom. 8. Genesis of the Daleks. 9. The Brain of Morbius. 10. Horror of Fang Rock.
Terrance Dicks, script editor from 68 to 74 didn't write many stories of his own. As a TD fan I'm happy to see 2 of his stories are in your top 5! Five Doctors was his last Who script for TV I love all his stories, especially the co-written War Games. Great video and I admire your openness on your videos. Good luck with the rest of season 21.
I was NOT expecting Genesis to be your third favourite! I love that. I really appreciate the time and effort you put in to make this, it means so much to me. 💙
To do an in-depth review and talk about so many personal issues within that, while staring down the lens of a webcam for an hour and a quarter - I certainly couldn't do that! Respect!
NO ONE reviews an era of any show like Sesska!!! The notes, the writing and rewriting, the editing, all the off camera work!! Bravo!! You really have to divide this era by companions, from their chemistry with The Doctor to the stories and showrunners connected with all that. There is at least one State of Decay sequel, a novel featuring the Fifth Doctor, Adirc, Nyssa, and Tegan! It's called "Goth Opera" and lots of fun!! City of Death is the most Douglas Adams story in Who, even if he co-wrote it as "David Agnew", featuring the punchout king, Duggan!! Genesis of the Daleks- -- Hmm, Davros - -yep! I KNEW Seeds of Doom was on the list, hahaha!! Harrison Chase is one of the best villains ever!! Could he return as a plant man? I can see it!! Jason Isaacs would be perfect, but what about Terence Stamp? Horror of Fang Rock number 1?!? Hot take, but it's great! For me I'll always love how they turned Leela's brown eyes blue.
40:50 Re. Leela and the response to her from the audience. As far as I know she was received really well. When you hear children of the time, some respond like Sarah was their annoying little sister but with Leela they liked that she killed people. 😇
Sorry for what you went through. Glad you got/are getting help. Hope you have a good community/village outside of this. 🙏🙌 Thanks again for helping me experiencing these moments/stories for the first time…again.
I honestly cannot pick the top 5, or dare to guess your own, however...I legitimately own more #4 (MY Dr.!) Tom Baker DVD's and my favorite were always the ones that his true personality came through. Each Companion brought a different side, and I love each for their own special reasons. I am looking forward to watching your review and learning your favorites! ❤️
What a great review of the 4th Doctor era. For me 10 & 12 are my fav Doctors with 4 is 2nd place right behind them. Top 5 fav 4th Doc stories: (no particular order) • Robot • Genesis of the Daleks • The Robots of Death • City of Death • The Keeper of Traken
It is brave of you to share your anxiety journey. I understand. I have severe depression & anxiety. I decided to try being on camera... I managed to make 1 video. Now I can't face it again.
I believe your assessments of the companions were spot on!!! Like your comparison of Leela to Jamie makes is so insightful, and your notes on her loyalty and inner softness makes me love her all the more.
Oh, Jess. I empathize greatly about anxiety. Having Asperger's - our amygdalas don't help -we are also very much prone to it. I couldn't get in front of a camera and do what you are so brilliant at. I should be, according to old friends and colleagues, an art teacher. As soon as I tried to take over an adult class, for a friend of mine that was ill - and it wasn't even an official class, more of a small cartooning class on the upper floor of the local library - my stammer came back in full force. You manage with this incredibly and have helped me - I could possibly say, a very many others - through some tough times of our own by being such a wonderful presence. For many, many years, I had to be caregiver to my mother who gradually descended into dementia over the last ten years that I cared for her. Each day, literally, felt like Twelve's confession dial and I still have nightmares, though they are diminishing. Your reactions to Doctor Who were a complete gift. I can only say because, at the moment, I want to finish watching your review and then go on to your Star Trek TNG reaction, that you are a star! May you have happy times and places, Jess. Very best wishes💖💖
Your absolutely right about the Doctors incarnations being a response to the previous version ( This is more obvious and interesting with the Classic doctors than new who ) once you get to the end of classic who I'll explain more but I've always thought the classic regens felt like a character development rather than random personalities.
1 Digging the scarf 2 Great top five list. Genesis and City of Death are iconic and are on most people's lists, and you're right, your love for Seeds and Fang Rock was plain for all of us to see. 3 I''m sorry to hear about the problems you've been having with anxiety, I know how crippling that can feel. If thoughts and prayers are any comfort to you at all, you have mine. But just so you know, I've been watching your reactions since you began Doctor Who, many years ago now and I can attest that you've never made a bad reaction. Whatever's going on under the surface. 4 A great review, well worth the wait.
As for who would be best playing Harrison Chase - that has to be one of the toughest questions ever! I'm hopeless with actors, but I'd say it would have to be someone with the campness of Kenneth Williams combined with the grittiness of William Shatner. Tom Baker described his performance as a 'posh cockney', which sounds like a contradiction in terms because cockney's aren't as such, posh, but I feel he nailed that description! If I had to choose, I'd pick an actor who most have probably never heard of. An actor called James Wynn. He played a School teacher called Mr Sutcliffe (nickname Sooty) in the iconic & often very gritty School Drama Grange Hill between 1979 - 1983. He definately had certain similarities for me & I think he could just about pull it off. I'm sure others will have a much better guess!
Five very solid choices. I love all those stories. The interesting one is State of Decay, written by Terrance Dicks who was script editor during the Pertwee era. Terrance also wrote the 5 Doctors. 🙂
1 Genesis of the Daleks 2 The Robots of death 3 The Pirate planet 4 The Pyramids of Mars 5 Full Circle State of decay, The stones of blood and the mind of evil are also my favorites.
Awesome review. This is such a massive, diverse era of the show that it really is impossible to summarise. It does need to be considered as three eras, according to the producers *the 3 amazing Hinchcliffe/Holmes seasons *the erratic, somewhat under-appreciated Graham Williams seasons *the final, JNT season that dovetails into the 80s 5th Doc era The first 3 are the pinnacle Who, in terms of consistency and impact, and are the era in which a very young me first became aware of the program. There’s so many great episodes in there, but it did become a bit of a millstone for the program afterwards. The Williams seasons were a bit all over the place stylistically and prone to production issues and declining production standards, but again some classic episodes and some ideas and inventiveness JNT was new and full of new ideas and approaches to begin with. Add in the impact (not always positive) of Christopher Bidmead’s ‘hard sci fi’ approach and it made for an interesting, but inconsistent season that improved as it went on. Tom Baker was also reined in after getting rather OTT at times in the Williams era. Right up to Adric, all previous companions for 4 has been top notch, though I do agree that the Sarah/Harry combo has been heavily overrated by fans. They were really good, but not so much better as many make them out to be. I think Harry appeals to Brits of a certain era. Anyway, top 5 for the 1st 3 seasons (in broadcast order) The Ark In Space Genesis of the Daleks The Seeds of Doom the Deadly Assassin the Robots of Death And of the rest: Horror of Fang Rock The Ribos Operation City of Death Warrior’s Gate The Keeper of Traken Honourable mentions to: The Sontaran Experiment, Pyramids of Mars, The Brain of Morbius, The Sunmakers, Androids of Tara, Logopolis
I'll take my best guess at it but my guess would be probably your top five would be Arc in space which is a really great story city of draft which is a terrible title but it's probably one of the funniest and best written episodes by Douglas Adams turn the zygons just because of the good writing underworld and face of evil
Sometimes autocorrect comes up with real gems: "City of draft" is a lovely typo... And a very intriguing title! =;o} Hmm... A city built high on a hill, maybe, and thus constantly exposed to the wind? And also to "the winds of change"... Actually, that could describe the Citadel of Peladon pretty well! =:oo Now to add the third layer of meaning, we just need the Galactic Federation to be facing an imminent war, and the young people of Peladon being called upon to contribute.
What a lovely surprise to to see this uploaded & loving the scarf! OK, leaving this comment before watching: My guess for Jess's top 5 stories of this era are: 5. Image of the Fendahl; 4. Robot; 3. Genesis of the Daleks 2. City of Death 1. The Seeds of Doom If that's correct, you'll have to take my word for it that I guessed based on how much I felt she enjoyed each story. I may be wrong. Either way, I hugely enjoyed Jess's journey through this era & hope she has a fab holiday!
Still seems like the quintessential Doctor to me. Leela was my favorite companion as well, maybe only tied with Ace. Really wish she had gotten a better ending.
Obviously an excellent Doctor, definitely one of my three favorites. I think his first four seasons contained still some of the greatest stories in the shows history. The later seasons are...sort of pretty good, city of death being the absolute standout.
Brilliant review Jess. I didn't guess absolutely right for the order of your top 5, but I did guess your top 3 would be among them. The other two I wrongly thought might be in were "The Pyramids of Mars" and "The Brain of Morbius". "State of Decay" and "City of Death" were a bit of a surprise to me, but in retrospect I can totally see why you picked them.
I was thrilled to see State of Decay in your top 5. I had harboured high hopes it would appear. I love it too. Andrew Scott could play Harrison Chase. I adore Harry Sullivan. Loved that chemistry he shared with The Doctor and Sarah. I liked Leela straight away. Think she has always been popular in fandom. Louise is a great actress. She’s brilliant in The Factor and Tenko. Also she’s very warm and friendly at conventions. Hope you have a good break.
I've been waiting for this overview of Tom's doctor. Loved it, loved it! The Seed's of Doom of course! My favourite story in ALL of Who. As for a Chase comeback, well strangely I had given this a thought before you had even said. The only way I can see him coming back is as a younger version of himself, to answer questions like. Why does he prefer plants over people? When did he first slip into those black leather gloves? What's it like to live on a totally carnivorous, tea and coffee free diet, and does it course constipation? No wine too🍷 I would go nuts! Oh, but nuts is plant's too! Anyway Jess I have your reaction to Frontios, (probably spelt it wrong, dyslexia and all that) this afternoon. A Jess double bill, absolutely a perfect day.
yo jess just wanted to say that state of decay is one of my favourite classic who stories and I tuned in specifically for your reaction to it. I've been there with anxiety i know that feeling and i just need you to know i have never been disappointed or felt any type of way other than joy when watching your reactions.
I'm a bit partial to the 8th Doctor webcast version of Shada, but Tom Baker's last scene in 4's version just hits different. Actually, I thought Shada would make your list just because of Skagra's capes.😁 Other quick notes: I think 4 & Romana 1 worked so well because she was book-smart & he was street-smart. He's usually written as the smartest person in the room so having someone that could credibly challenge that was refreshing. That's not to say Romana 2 wasn't, but like you said, she's just more subdued about showing off. She absolutely shines in Horns Of Nimon though. Who should play the new Seeds Of Death plant man? Easy: Matt Smith (but make him ginger) 😀
Hi Sesska….hope u have a nice break. U deserve it. Your top 5 is actually close to my top five. And my guesses for your top 5 (which I’ve deleted in embarrassment) were not very close. I got 2 right.
Pausing this at about 15 minutes to go as I have to meet some friends for dinner, but I have to say I wouldn't have guessed "State of Decay", but I'm glad it was there as I love it for probably the same reasons you do. Thinking back to how much I enjoyed your reaction to it I could understand why it was on the list, and I would never have guessed your state of mind by how enjoyable those videos were. As for what's on the rest of the list, the only guess I'm going to make is "City of Death". I also suspect at least one of these will be in there: "Genesis of the Daleks", "Terror of the Zygons", "The Seeds of Doom", "The Ribos Operation" or "The Androids of Tara". Thank you so much for posting, this, take care of yourself, and have a great break!
Called it! ETA after watching whole video - I meant "City of Death" with that comment, but pleased I got the middle 3. I thought about Fang Rock, but didn't quite remember your reaction to that. Loved the video! I'm going to throw out Alan Cumming for Harrison Chase just 'cuz he's who came to mind quickest.
I think your comments about Harry are spot on. I don’t think you’re that wrong about Leela. I gather that her greatest uphill battle was with Tom. I really love all of Tom’s companions as they all bring something to the show. I can certainly relate to your opinions. I come to watch your take on a show I love, not to hear my views validated. I love sarah Jane but a lot of that is because my earliest memories are of her and Tom on the show.
I was hoping you'd have The Seeds Of Doom. It's possibly my fave Doctor Who story (hard to pinpoint, obviously, with such a breadth) but I love - this is a very specific niche - plant based sci-fi horror. So The Day Of The Triffids, Invasion Of The Body Snatchers, all that sort of thing. And I feel like it's underrated in the fandom. Not that people think it's bad, but that nobody ever really talks about it compared to all the other stories around it (which tbf, when you're surrounded by the likes of Terror Of The Zygons, Pyramids Of Mars, The Brain Of Morbius, The Deadly Assassin and The Robots Of Death, fair enough, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle). As for who could play Harrison Chase - you say nobody could ever match his energy. There's an actor, Reece Shearsmith, who's written and starred in a lot of brilliant horror comedy series (which I'd recommend watching, whether you react to it or in your own time) The League Of Gentlemen, Psychoville, Inside No. 9. Incredibly dark, disturbing, and hilarious. He ALWAYS plays absolute freaks. You know the kinda guys. Angry pathetic little gremlins. He's been in Doctor Who, he was in the sandman POV found footage episode with 12 and Clara, and also briefly played Pat Troughton at the end of David Bradley's An Adventure In Space And Time docudrama. He would be perfect for the Harrison Chase role. Now, I don't know if he's going to play that type of character, but Big Finish recently announced they're doing a spinoff series sequel to The Seeds Of Doom, with Reece Shearsmith in the lead role. Needless to say, one to anticipate.
That's a great top 5. Mine would be very similar. 1. Horror of Fang Rock 2. City of Death 3. Genesis of the Daleks 4. The Talons of Weng Chiang 5. Pyramids of Mars Honourable mentions to Brain of Morbius and Seeds of Doom
This is how good the writer Terrance Dicks is: he wrote one of your top five stories (state of decay) and when the BBC wouldn’t let them make it because it clashed with a production of Dracula, he rush-wrote a replacement story which was your favourite story - Horror of Fang Rock! Of course they eventually made State of Decay,but can you imagine it starring the fourth doctor and Leela? It nearly happened!
Excellent Top 5. Tom Baker was my first Doctor. The Seeds of Doom is the first story I remember watching. But excellent review of the whole era. PS My favourite Doctor Who story is The Horns of Nimon. Yes, I know. But favourite and best are not the same thing as you said.
I won't predict 4 stories I am anticipating The Seeds of Doom are in there somewhere Plus the story with the virus where Leela and K9 team up made you happy despite the use of needles to shrink and inject the clones The ark in space where cybermen and cyber mats meets the planet of Voga must rate a mention Ultimately, I know Sarah Jane is an all time fan favourite companion,but personally, Leela will ALWAYS remain my #2 favourite companion behind #1 BILL POTTS (,with ,#12) I firmly believe Leela and Bill deserved longer runs Finally, I believe Tom #4 is a fan favourite purely because he had such a long run My favourite classic doctor remains JP #3 Enjoy your break Footnote , after contemplation I also feel INVASION of TIME deserves a SPECIAL MENTION especially for the SURPRISE ELEMENTS #1 the first adversaries being revealed as HUMANS causing so much havoc for GALLIFREY and the TIMELORDS #2 the doctor finally saves the day with help of Leela and k9.only to have the MASSIVE REVEAL of the SONTARAN invasion force #3 the sad shock that LEELA and K9 after saving gallifrey, BOTH decide to remain behind on Gallifrey That was SO MUCH to take in for ANY WHOVIAN!!!
So, *two* stories by Terrance Dicks in your top five! Given that he only wrote three in this entire Doctor's run, that's quite an achievement for him! =:o} Sad that he's not around to collect his accolade. =:o(
Properly enjoyed this review … and you really rocked the scarf 😊 the only question in my mind, completely hypothetical and unanswerable: I wonder if you had seen the fourth Doctor serials back in the mists of time like an older chap like me, how you would’ve felt at the appearance of the Curator in Day of the Doctor.
omg i actually predicted most of her top 5s. i didn't predict the order, but i was right about which ones would appear. the only exceptions are "state of decay" didn't know she loved that and i also thought "the sun makers" would be in it. when she got to number 1, i did think "It'll either be 'Horror of fang rock' or 'The sun makers'" so i suppose it's still 4/5 score for me XD
Tom Baker and Elisabeth Sladen were the ones on the tv back when I was first watching Dr Who reruns on public television. That's why they are my favorite TARDIS team. Nostalgia.
My fave Doctors all begin with T. (Tom, Troughton, Tennant.) Weird coincidence, or is there something special about that letter? Anyway my fave 4th Doctor stories are: 1. Genesis of the Daleks 2. City of Death 3. Seeds of Doom 4. Androids of Tara 5. The Leisure Hive (But that can change depending on my mood)
The first Doctor Who I ever saw was back in the 80's and Public Television would show the fourth Doctor stories over and over again and I would watch them over and over again so I fell in love with Tom Baker version he will always be my favorite Doctor
Your favorites first: Robot, Pyramids of Mars, The Face of Evil, The Horror of Fang Rock, and The Creature from the Pit. My honorable mentions top five include Shada, The Leisure Hive, Meglos, Full Circle, and Logopolis.
I absolutely agree with you about Leela. Sarah Jane is still brilliant, but I really enjoyed the 4th Doctor and Leela dynamic. She was bright, although uneducated, and I enjoyed the teacher and student dynamic. I wish they had explored it more. Unlike some companions, she could also take care of herself. The outfit was just a bonus.
Sesska, you wear your heart on your sleeve, and I applaud you for your bravery in that way. You are the best DW reactor, but I am scared of your claws :-)
Tom was my first, but it was only the last few episodes before regenerating into Peter. Toms interpretation is how I see the doctor in my head. For all its issues, the talons is my favourite, followed by pyramids and fang rock
Top 5 guesses: Genesis of the Daleks Robots of Death Horror of Fang Rock The Pirate Planet City of Death Wildcard pick: The Horns of Nimon Edit: Dang it, I almost included Seeds of Doom but figured a part of Key to Time would make the cut!
One day when I was in middle school, I was staying home sick. My father had to run out to do some errands. On his way home he stopped by the library, and saw the E-space boxset. He loved Doctor Who in the 70s-80s, and brought these home to see if I would like it.
All these years later and I'm a lifelong Whovian, and Tom is still "My Doctor".
Great review Jess!
Tom Baker’s portrayal of The Doctor is so iconic, and you did such a great job capturing what made his Doctor so unique. His eccentricity, wit, and that incredible sense of mystery. I loved how you went into detail about the companions, and overall tone of his era. From Sarah Jane and Leela to Romana, it’s fascinating how each companion brought out a different side of the Doctor. I agree with you how each companion felt like a mini-era within the Fourth Doctor's run. The Doctor, Leela and K9 is one of my all time favourite TARDIS teams in Doctor Who.
I'm already looking forward to your next Classic Who review now. Especially given how much you've grown to love the Fifth Doctor and his era this year.
He came to our school in 1975....and secretly brought a dalek with him. Kids were running screaming in all directions while the parents queued for Tom's autograph.
Such happy days!!
Another great Classic Who review Jess. I just wanted to show some appreciation for all the time and effort that you put into making them, especially with this one.
Imagine having Jamie, Leela and Duggan as the TARDIS team. No one would stand a chance against that deadly trio.
As for who I'd choose to play Harrison Chase in New Who. I'd probably go for Michael Sheen. He looks quite similar to Tony Beckley and I think he'd do a great job in that role. I'd also totally be here for some Harrison Chase plant music composed by Murray Gold.
The quest is the quest.
Ben is dead.
Thank you, you didn’t have the do that💙
@@sesskasays 💙💙
Thanks!
Tom Baker was my first Doctor, watching and being terrified by Pyramids Of Mars at age seven cemented me as a Doctor Who fan for life! I had a strong hunch The Seeds Of Doom would crack the top 3 judging from your delightful reactions to Harrison Chase and his machinations. My own Top 10:
1. The Talons Of Weng-Chiang
2. Genesis Of The Daleks
3. Pyramids Of Mars
4. The Seeds Of Doom
5. The Robots Of Death
6. Horror Of Fang Rock
7. The Deadly Assassin
8. The Ark In Space
9. City Of Death
10. Terror Of The Zygons
Much respect for being open with what you're going through. Stay strong.
The Fourth Doctor was my first Doctor and is still "MY Doctor" to this day. I was introduced to Doctor Who when my parents got me 'The Ark in Space' and 'Genesis of the Daleks' for Christmas and it was those stories and Tom Baker's Fourth Doctor that made me the Doctor Who fan I am today. The great man made a huge impact on the show and I personally loved that is era is so incredibly diverse; the blend of gothic horror and dark sc-fi of Phillip Hinchcliffe's tenure (seasons 12-14), the pulpy sci-fi action-adventure antics of Graham Williams' tenure (seasons 15-17), and
the hard sci-fi, funereal atmosphere of John Nathan-Turner's tenure (season 18). Plus, he had some of the most memorably iconic companions in the show's history, particularly Sarah Jane Smith and K9. More than anything, Tom Baker is proof that it's never too late for things to change. He went from being a penniless nobody to being a national treasure and one of the most beloved actors in British history. He said himself that he wasn't acting or playing a role, but was just being Tom. His charisma, passion, dynamism and love for children and families is what made him so iconic, and I can't blame him for staying too long in the role. Choosing my favourite Fourth Doctor stories was incredibly difficult with so many brilliant stories to choose from, but my top 5 would probably go like this:
1. Genesis of the Daleks
2. The Ark in Space
3. Pyramids of Mars
4. The Brain of Morbius
5. Seeds of Doom
Tony Beckley who played Harrison Chase in Seeds of Doom is buried at Hollywood Forever in Califonia. My mate paid his respects a couple of years ago. Left a potted plant at his grave.
A lovely surprise video, thanks Jess
The scarf is chef's kiss. Hahaha I wish I grew up with the Fourth Doctor, he is just... THE Doctor.
I did and he really was!
@robalexander8065 this is when I started watching. Sunday nights at 11 on PBS, after Dave Allen At Large. Iykyk
Tom Baker was my first Doctor and as much as I loved the subsequent incarnations he will alway be my Doctor.
Best reactor in the game ❤
Thank you so much for recognizing Leela!!! She was kind of the first of what I call the "Protector" companions, people useful in a battle. People like Ace, Jack, Martha, Rose, etc. She's amazing in the
Gallifrey audio adventures as well!!!
I think this era probably had the best companions in classic Who. Sarah Jane, Leela, Romana were Peak Companion IMHO.
My personal top five stories would be:
1. Warriors’ Gate
2. City of Death
3. Genesis of the Daleks
4. Horror of Fang Rock
5. The Face of Evil
Honourable mentions go to The Stones of Blood and Full Circle, Season 18 remains my favourite Tom Baker season.
Of course both Leela and Romana broke the pattern of the companion being a contemporary Earth (British) woman. I wish NuWho would have the courage to explore the potential for companions from other time periods or civilisations. I still think that Moffat missed a golden opportunity with Victorian Clara!
I agree 100%! There are too many alien races that look human where that wouldn't be a problem, or use a reality filter.
I loved Leela. Those leather outfits
I think the new companion who was introduced last year is from the future, finally.
I agree with you so much about Sarah Jane. Love her sense of justice but I always say Sarah Jane never gets enough to do in any of her stories. I used to blame that on Harry but that's not fair because even after Harry leaves, Sarah Jane isn't given enough of a spotlight.
I believe you're right about the fans generally preferring Romana II but I'm with you, I prefer Romana I. I love all of her sass. The back-and-forth arguments with the Doctor are some of the most fun interactions with a companion. I can't disagree with fans that say she was smug but that's part of what I like; if she's going to be a damsel in distress in EVERY story (sometimes more than once) and the Doctor is going to save the day, she needs to have a very strong personality to stand out and make her memorable. I just wish Romana I was kidnapped less and had some of the great technobabble dialogue that Romana II got.
Your story for your number 5 pick both broke my heart and warmed my heart. I'm sorry you had such a rough time but glad that the comments could give you a little bit of a pick-me-up.
Since you are now in his era, I thought these words would be appropriate.
Brave Heart, Jess.
A Chicagoan born and raised, our PBS station showed Doctor Who at 11:00 pm on Sunday nights. Mom wouldn’t let me stay up to watch it until I graduated from junior high in 1980, then told me it was up to me if I wanted to be tired at school the next day. (Most stories would end at 12:35 am.) Since it was 1980, they were showing Tom Baker pretty much non-stop before going back to Pertwee. So, My Doctor will always be Tom Baker. My first convention was in 1982 at Rosemont, IL, where he was the featured guest. I asked him if I could kiss him on the cheek, and he said yes! A very tall man, btw. When he popped up on Day of the Doctor, I nearly fell off my couch in shock.
The PBS station in Rochester (NY) aired it at 11 on Saturdays in the 80s so I didn't have the same problem with school fatigue. (There were times when they would air all 4 parts of a story the same night.)
@@mmattson8947 In Chicago, they always showed the entire story in one night, unless it was extended past four parts. Edited together, a four-part story would usually last 93 minutes or so.
The 4th Doctor very much does have 2s energy. I categorise Doctors into three primary groups:
1. Otherworldly alien, quirky, wanderer of the 4th dimension, cosmic hobo
2. More serious and emotionally dark (at least at the start of their tenure) but still has a heart of gold and tries to do the right thing
3. Generally a nice guy, the easiest to be able to pass off as s regular human
Using this you can probably tell where I place each doctor, out of the ones you've seen 2nd, 4th, 11th and 13th go in group 1. 1st, 9th and 12th go in group 2 and 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th go in group 3
Considering how much you love Romana I, I have to share a Mary Tamm story:
At a convention meeting Mary Tamm with my friend. My friend went up to her and said: "I always thought you were the prettiest companion... until John Barrowman came along."
Mary Tamm's response??? "Well, it's true!"
As beloved as Sarah Jane is I do think Leela is also equally as beloved, people just don't bring her up as much, so you won't really find anyone disagreeing with you for preferring her over Sarah Jane (I also prefer Leela and think she's one of the best Classic Who companions of all time alongside Jamie). Once you've finished the classic series if you want more Leela and closure around her exit and arc, I would definitely recommend the audio series Gallifrey which I think you'd really love.
"Twin peaks shaped hole in my heart" (in response to Warrior's Gate) - This just adds to my impression that you'd enjoy Sapphire and Steel (an ITV show from around 1980 which attempts to reinvent the ghost story for a 1980s television audience and gets a bit weird at times, in part due to being cheap even in comparison to Doctor Who) and The Prisoner (A seminal 1960s sci-fi adjacent series that goes heavy on the surrealism, particularly towards the end), whether you watched those on the channel or off of it.
Bless you Jess. We are all here for you mate 👍👍 Very touching what you said during your 5th placed story x
Absolutely love that your review both started and ended with the two iconic phrases/memes from your channel. There is a sequel to Seeds of Doom in Big Finish's Eighth Doctor Adventures, but unfortunately no Harrison Chase.
Tom was my first Doctor and he basically changed the life of a lonely teen, because his character basically let me know it was ok for me to be me. And thank you for your candid talk of what you've been through, I can relate that too. :) You're the best Jess, so grateful to be on this journey with you!
City of Death was my first Classic Who story and I instantly fell in love with Tom and Lalla as 4 and Romana. I’m glad it took a spot in your top 5❤
OMG I have had OCD for years. It is such a difficult and misunderstood disorder. It means a lot to see someone else talk about it.
Also since I know you've already watched "Snakedance" but I've found that story to be a great allegory for OCD.
I agree with much of your top five also. Genesis is my favorite classic story. And Seeds of Doom, State of Decay, City of Death are all favorites as well. Fang Rock used to be my #1 and is still top ten!
I too love the Key to Time, and adore Mary Tamm’s Romana. She and Tom were great on screen. Tom has admitted he was in awe of her, probably what he needed at the time. Lalla is great and had a hard act to follow. I think there is room to bring Romana back and have her in her own spin off.
As folk have no doubt mentioned, Romana 1,2 and even 3 appear in many Big Finish audios. Played by the actresses themselves. Really great stuff.
She does lead her own spin off alongside Leela in Gallifrey
@ yeah I was really meaning on TV. I wasn’t precise enough in my post. I love Gallifrey though.
@@DocRobAC Yes I assumed you did mean for TV but was just bringing up Gallifrey in case you were unaware because it is genuinely one of the best things Big Finish have ever produced.
Good to see such a positive view of Sarah Jane, who lives on with Big Finish Audio stories, played by Elisabeth Sladen's daughter, Sadie Miller opposite Tom Baker (91 in January 2025!)
"I'm Romana 1 and I know more than you" 🤣
I don’t normally comment but I’m 33 minutes in and your description of Sarah Jane and her time with Tom is so touching, I’m genuinely a little teary-eyed! ❤
My first time commenting. Loved your top five choices and did predict first and second place. However, because when you reviewed The Ribos Operation, you loved the character of Binro the heretic, I definitely thought this story would be in your top five. Hoping it might have been number six. Keep up the wonderful reviews of Classic Who, as a fan watching them growing up I am so invested in hearing your reactions to watching episodes for the first time without any prior knowledge. Also your reviews are always balanced, fair and as Peter Capaldi's Doctor said....kind.
The Third Doctor (Jon Pertwee) and The Fourth Doctor (Tom Baker) were the golden age of Classic Who.
Include Troughton and the tail end of Hartnell in that and I’ll agree. S4 to Horror of Fang Rock is Peak Who. Even the “bad” stuff is good compared to the worst of what came later.
Honestly I'd say Season 1 to 14 is all very consistent, it just depends on your personal tastes what the 'golden age' is or which one you grew up with if you watched it at the time.
When I was first introduced to Dr. Who was in 1998 when I was 9 years old and it was Tom Baker who was my first and favourite Doctor which was "The Talons of Weng-Chiang" on VHS and I immediately fell in love with the show.
I love all the Tom Baker stories even the worse ones I'm really not the biggest fan of ranking but I will say the highest ones for me are his most 10 iconic ones.
1. The Talons of Weng-Chiang
2. Pyramids of Mars.
3. The E-Space Trilogy.
4. The Robots of Death.
5. Terror of the Zygons.
6. City of Death.
7. The Seeds of Doom.
8. Genesis of the Daleks.
9. The Brain of Morbius.
10. Horror of Fang Rock.
Terrance Dicks, script editor from 68 to 74 didn't write many stories of his own. As a TD fan I'm happy to see 2 of his stories are in your top 5! Five Doctors was his last Who script for TV I love all his stories, especially the co-written War Games.
Great video and I admire your openness on your videos. Good luck with the rest of season 21.
I was NOT expecting Genesis to be your third favourite! I love that.
I really appreciate the time and effort you put in to make this, it means so much to me. 💙
To do an in-depth review and talk about so many personal issues within that, while staring down the lens of a webcam for an hour and a quarter - I certainly couldn't do that! Respect!
It's here! The video all us Whovians have been waiting for! At least, I've been waiting for.
Great 4th doctor review, can't wait for the next !
NO ONE reviews an era of any show like Sesska!!! The notes, the writing and rewriting, the editing, all the off camera work!! Bravo!! You really have to divide this era by companions, from their chemistry with The Doctor to the stories and showrunners connected with all that.
There is at least one State of Decay sequel, a novel featuring the Fifth Doctor, Adirc, Nyssa, and Tegan! It's called "Goth Opera" and lots of fun!!
City of Death is the most Douglas Adams story in Who, even if he co-wrote it as "David Agnew", featuring the punchout king, Duggan!!
Genesis of the Daleks- -- Hmm, Davros - -yep!
I KNEW Seeds of Doom was on the list, hahaha!! Harrison Chase is one of the best villains ever!! Could he return as a plant man? I can see it!! Jason Isaacs would be perfect, but what about Terence Stamp?
Horror of Fang Rock number 1?!? Hot take, but it's great! For me I'll always love how they turned Leela's brown eyes blue.
40:50 Re. Leela and the response to her from the audience. As far as I know she was received really well. When you hear children of the time, some respond like Sarah was their annoying little sister but with Leela they liked that she killed people. 😇
Sorry for what you went through. Glad you got/are getting help. Hope you have a good community/village outside of this. 🙏🙌
Thanks again for helping me experiencing these moments/stories for the first time…again.
Thanks Jess. A great review
State of Decay is my favourite story of all so absolutely pleased it made your list
I honestly cannot pick the top 5, or dare to guess your own, however...I legitimately own more #4 (MY Dr.!) Tom Baker DVD's and my favorite were always the ones that his true personality came through. Each Companion brought a different side, and I love each for their own special reasons. I am looking forward to watching your review and learning your favorites! ❤️
Fourth Doctor was my first and favourite and was the highlight of every Saturday.
What a great review of the 4th Doctor era.
For me 10 & 12 are my fav Doctors with 4 is 2nd place right behind them.
Top 5 fav 4th Doc stories: (no particular order)
• Robot
• Genesis of the Daleks
• The Robots of Death
• City of Death
• The Keeper of Traken
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. Good on you doing these watchings. I hope you're in a good place now
I'm very happy Horror Of Fang Rock made number one. That's my favorite too.
Ah dang, I can't remember which review, "Ben is dead" came from. Guess I'll have to rewatch them all! 😅
I'd love a story with Leela and Jamie. And I suspect that Jamie would love a story with Leela and Jamie, too.
It is brave of you to share your anxiety journey. I understand. I have severe depression & anxiety. I decided to try being on camera... I managed to make 1 video. Now I can't face it again.
I believe your assessments of the companions were spot on!!! Like your comparison of Leela to Jamie makes is so insightful, and your notes on her loyalty and inner softness makes me love her all the more.
Oh, Jess. I empathize greatly about anxiety. Having Asperger's - our amygdalas don't help -we are also very much prone to it. I couldn't get in front of a camera and do what you are so brilliant at. I should be, according to old friends and colleagues, an art teacher. As soon as I tried to take over an adult class, for a friend of mine that was ill - and it wasn't even an official class, more of a small cartooning class on the upper floor of the local library - my stammer came back in full force. You manage with this incredibly and have helped me - I could possibly say, a very many others - through some tough times of our own by being such a wonderful presence. For many, many years, I had to be caregiver to my mother who gradually descended into dementia over the last ten years that I cared for her. Each day, literally, felt like Twelve's confession dial and I still have nightmares, though they are diminishing. Your reactions to Doctor Who were a complete gift. I can only say because, at the moment, I want to finish watching your review and then go on to your Star Trek TNG reaction, that you are a star! May you have happy times and places, Jess. Very best wishes💖💖
Your absolutely right about the Doctors incarnations being a response to the previous version ( This is more obvious and interesting with the Classic doctors than new who ) once you get to the end of classic who I'll explain more but I've always thought the classic regens felt like a character development rather than random personalities.
1 Digging the scarf
2 Great top five list. Genesis and City of Death are iconic and are on most people's lists, and you're right, your love for Seeds and Fang Rock was plain for all of us to see.
3 I''m sorry to hear about the problems you've been having with anxiety, I know how crippling that can feel. If thoughts and prayers are any comfort to you at all, you have mine. But just so you know, I've been watching your reactions since you began Doctor Who, many years ago now and I can attest that you've never made a bad reaction. Whatever's going on under the surface.
4 A great review, well worth the wait.
Leela was a powerhouse. I think she could only work with the bombastic Tom. But with him, she’s definitely in the top 3 companions ever
As for who would be best playing Harrison Chase - that has to be one of the toughest questions ever! I'm hopeless with actors, but I'd say it would have to be someone with the campness of Kenneth Williams combined with the grittiness of William Shatner. Tom Baker described his performance as a 'posh cockney', which sounds like a contradiction in terms because cockney's aren't as such, posh, but I feel he nailed that description!
If I had to choose, I'd pick an actor who most have probably never heard of. An actor called James Wynn. He played a School teacher called Mr Sutcliffe (nickname Sooty) in the iconic & often very gritty School Drama Grange Hill between 1979 - 1983. He definately had certain similarities for me & I think he could just about pull it off. I'm sure others will have a much better guess!
Five very solid choices. I love all those stories. The interesting one is State of Decay, written by Terrance Dicks who was script editor during the Pertwee era. Terrance also wrote the 5 Doctors. 🙂
1 Genesis of the Daleks
2 The Robots of death
3 The Pirate planet
4 The Pyramids of Mars
5 Full Circle
State of decay, The stones of blood and the mind of evil are also my favorites.
Awesome review. This is such a massive, diverse era of the show that it really is impossible to summarise. It does need to be considered as three eras, according to the producers
*the 3 amazing Hinchcliffe/Holmes seasons
*the erratic, somewhat under-appreciated Graham Williams seasons
*the final, JNT season that dovetails into the 80s 5th Doc era
The first 3 are the pinnacle Who, in terms of consistency and impact, and are the era in which a very young me first became aware of the program. There’s so many great episodes in there, but it did become a bit of a millstone for the program afterwards.
The Williams seasons were a bit all over the place stylistically and prone to production issues and declining production standards, but again some classic episodes and some ideas and inventiveness
JNT was new and full of new ideas and approaches to begin with. Add in the impact (not always positive) of Christopher Bidmead’s ‘hard sci fi’ approach and it made for an interesting, but inconsistent season that improved as it went on. Tom Baker was also reined in after getting rather OTT at times in the Williams era.
Right up to Adric, all previous companions for 4 has been top notch, though I do agree that the Sarah/Harry combo has been heavily overrated by fans. They were really good, but not so much better as many make them out to be. I think Harry appeals to Brits of a certain era.
Anyway, top 5 for the 1st 3 seasons (in broadcast order)
The Ark In Space
Genesis of the Daleks
The Seeds of Doom
the Deadly Assassin
the Robots of Death
And of the rest:
Horror of Fang Rock
The Ribos Operation
City of Death
Warrior’s Gate
The Keeper of Traken
Honourable mentions to: The Sontaran Experiment, Pyramids of Mars, The Brain of Morbius, The Sunmakers, Androids of Tara, Logopolis
Love the scarf you look great
unfortunately I haven't seen it very much the classic series I want to try one at some point
I'll take my best guess at it but my guess would be probably your top five would be Arc in space which is a really great story city of draft which is a terrible title but it's probably one of the funniest and best written episodes by Douglas Adams turn the zygons just because of the good writing underworld and face of evil
Sometimes autocorrect comes up with real gems: "City of draft" is a lovely typo... And a very intriguing title! =;o}
Hmm... A city built high on a hill, maybe, and thus constantly exposed to the wind? And also to "the winds of change"... Actually, that could describe the Citadel of Peladon pretty well! =:oo
Now to add the third layer of meaning, we just need the Galactic Federation to be facing an imminent war, and the young people of Peladon being called upon to contribute.
I love the old special effects too 😊 good old fashion bubblewrap monsters and tin-foil robots.
What a lovely surprise to to see this uploaded & loving the scarf! OK, leaving this comment before watching: My guess for Jess's top 5 stories of this era are:
5. Image of the Fendahl;
4. Robot;
3. Genesis of the Daleks
2. City of Death
1. The Seeds of Doom
If that's correct, you'll have to take my word for it that I guessed based on how much I felt she enjoyed each story. I may be wrong. Either way, I hugely enjoyed Jess's journey through this era & hope she has a fab holiday!
Still seems like the quintessential Doctor to me. Leela was my favorite companion as well, maybe only tied with Ace. Really wish she had gotten a better ending.
Obviously an excellent Doctor, definitely one of my three favorites. I think his first four seasons contained still some of the greatest stories in the shows history. The later seasons are...sort of pretty good, city of death being the absolute standout.
Thanks so much for this Jess! Appreciate it! ❤️❤️❤️
Brilliant review Jess. I didn't guess absolutely right for the order of your top 5, but I did guess your top 3 would be among them. The other two I wrongly thought might be in were "The Pyramids of Mars" and "The Brain of Morbius". "State of Decay" and "City of Death" were a bit of a surprise to me, but in retrospect I can totally see why you picked them.
I was thrilled to see State of Decay in your top 5. I had harboured high hopes it would appear. I love it too.
Andrew Scott could play Harrison Chase.
I adore Harry Sullivan. Loved that chemistry he shared with The Doctor and Sarah.
I liked Leela straight away. Think she has always been popular in fandom. Louise is a great actress. She’s brilliant in The Factor and Tenko. Also she’s very warm and friendly at conventions. Hope you have a good break.
Love Tom Baker Dr Who is was shown in New Zealand in the Mid 80s .
I've been waiting for this overview of Tom's doctor. Loved it, loved it!
The Seed's of Doom of course! My favourite story in ALL of Who. As for a Chase comeback, well strangely I had given this a thought before you had even said.
The only way I can see him coming back is as a younger version of himself, to answer questions like. Why does he prefer plants over people? When did he first slip into those black leather gloves? What's it like to live on a totally carnivorous, tea and coffee free diet, and does it course constipation? No wine too🍷 I would go nuts! Oh, but nuts is plant's too!
Anyway Jess I have your reaction to Frontios, (probably spelt it wrong, dyslexia and all that) this afternoon. A Jess double bill, absolutely a perfect day.
yo jess just wanted to say that state of decay is one of my favourite classic who stories and I tuned in specifically for your reaction to it. I've been there with anxiety i know that feeling and i just need you to know i have never been disappointed or felt any type of way other than joy when watching your reactions.
I'm a bit partial to the 8th Doctor webcast version of Shada, but Tom Baker's last scene in 4's version just hits different. Actually, I thought Shada would make your list just because of Skagra's capes.😁
Other quick notes:
I think 4 & Romana 1 worked so well because she was book-smart & he was street-smart. He's usually written as the smartest person in the room so having someone that could credibly challenge that was refreshing. That's not to say Romana 2 wasn't, but like you said, she's just more subdued about showing off. She absolutely shines in Horns Of Nimon though.
Who should play the new Seeds Of Death plant man? Easy: Matt Smith (but make him ginger) 😀
Hi Sesska….hope u have a nice break. U deserve it.
Your top 5 is actually close to my top five. And my guesses for your top 5 (which I’ve deleted in embarrassment) were not very close. I got 2 right.
Horror of Fang Rock is my top choice too.
Pausing this at about 15 minutes to go as I have to meet some friends for dinner, but I have to say I wouldn't have guessed "State of Decay", but I'm glad it was there as I love it for probably the same reasons you do. Thinking back to how much I enjoyed your reaction to it I could understand why it was on the list, and I would never have guessed your state of mind by how enjoyable those videos were. As for what's on the rest of the list, the only guess I'm going to make is "City of Death". I also suspect at least one of these will be in there: "Genesis of the Daleks", "Terror of the Zygons", "The Seeds of Doom", "The Ribos Operation" or "The Androids of Tara". Thank you so much for posting, this, take care of yourself, and have a great break!
Called it!
ETA after watching whole video - I meant "City of Death" with that comment, but pleased I got the middle 3. I thought about Fang Rock, but didn't quite remember your reaction to that. Loved the video! I'm going to throw out Alan Cumming for Harrison Chase just 'cuz he's who came to mind quickest.
Sesska, you should not apologize for anything!!! Such great comment!!!
And good point about #Robot being a #ThirdDoctor story!!!
I think your comments about Harry are spot on. I don’t think you’re that wrong about Leela. I gather that her greatest uphill battle was with Tom. I really love all of Tom’s companions as they all bring something to the show. I can certainly relate to your opinions. I come to watch your take on a show I love, not to hear my views validated. I love sarah Jane but a lot of that is because my earliest memories are of her and Tom on the show.
I was hoping you'd have The Seeds Of Doom. It's possibly my fave Doctor Who story (hard to pinpoint, obviously, with such a breadth) but I love - this is a very specific niche - plant based sci-fi horror. So The Day Of The Triffids, Invasion Of The Body Snatchers, all that sort of thing. And I feel like it's underrated in the fandom. Not that people think it's bad, but that nobody ever really talks about it compared to all the other stories around it (which tbf, when you're surrounded by the likes of Terror Of The Zygons, Pyramids Of Mars, The Brain Of Morbius, The Deadly Assassin and The Robots Of Death, fair enough, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle).
As for who could play Harrison Chase - you say nobody could ever match his energy. There's an actor, Reece Shearsmith, who's written and starred in a lot of brilliant horror comedy series (which I'd recommend watching, whether you react to it or in your own time) The League Of Gentlemen, Psychoville, Inside No. 9. Incredibly dark, disturbing, and hilarious. He ALWAYS plays absolute freaks. You know the kinda guys. Angry pathetic little gremlins. He's been in Doctor Who, he was in the sandman POV found footage episode with 12 and Clara, and also briefly played Pat Troughton at the end of David Bradley's An Adventure In Space And Time docudrama.
He would be perfect for the Harrison Chase role. Now, I don't know if he's going to play that type of character, but Big Finish recently announced they're doing a spinoff series sequel to The Seeds Of Doom, with Reece Shearsmith in the lead role. Needless to say, one to anticipate.
That's a great top 5.
Mine would be very similar.
1. Horror of Fang Rock
2. City of Death
3. Genesis of the Daleks
4. The Talons of Weng Chiang
5. Pyramids of Mars
Honourable mentions to Brain of Morbius and Seeds of Doom
This is how good the writer Terrance Dicks is: he wrote one of your top five stories (state of decay) and when the BBC wouldn’t let them make it because it clashed with a production of Dracula, he rush-wrote a replacement story which was your favourite story - Horror of Fang Rock! Of course they eventually made State of Decay,but can you imagine it starring the fourth doctor and Leela? It nearly happened!
Excellent Top 5. Tom Baker was my first Doctor. The Seeds of Doom is the first story I remember watching. But excellent review of the whole era. PS My favourite Doctor Who story is The Horns of Nimon. Yes, I know. But favourite and best are not the same thing as you said.
I won't predict 4 stories
I am anticipating The Seeds of Doom are in there somewhere
Plus the story with the virus where Leela and K9 team up made you happy despite the use of needles to shrink and inject the clones
The ark in space where cybermen and cyber mats meets the planet of Voga must rate a mention
Ultimately, I know Sarah Jane is an all time fan favourite companion,but personally, Leela will ALWAYS remain my #2 favourite companion behind #1 BILL POTTS (,with ,#12)
I firmly believe Leela and Bill deserved longer runs
Finally, I believe Tom #4 is a fan favourite purely because he had such a long run
My favourite classic doctor remains JP #3
Enjoy your break
Footnote , after contemplation
I also feel INVASION of TIME deserves a SPECIAL MENTION especially for the SURPRISE ELEMENTS
#1 the first adversaries being revealed as HUMANS causing so much havoc for GALLIFREY and the TIMELORDS
#2 the doctor finally saves the day with help of Leela and k9.only to have the MASSIVE REVEAL of the SONTARAN invasion force
#3 the sad shock that LEELA and K9 after saving gallifrey, BOTH decide to remain behind on Gallifrey
That was SO MUCH to take in for ANY WHOVIAN!!!
Leela is amazing, owns virtually all of “most bad ass companion lines”. Particularly: “You will do as the Doctor says or I shall cut out your heart!”
So, *two* stories by Terrance Dicks in your top five! Given that he only wrote three in this entire Doctor's run, that's quite an achievement for him! =:o}
Sad that he's not around to collect his accolade. =:o(
Properly enjoyed this review … and you really rocked the scarf 😊 the only question in my mind, completely hypothetical and unanswerable: I wonder if you had seen the fourth Doctor serials back in the mists of time like an older chap like me, how you would’ve felt at the appearance of the Curator in Day of the Doctor.
omg i actually predicted most of her top 5s. i didn't predict the order, but i was right about which ones would appear. the only exceptions are "state of decay" didn't know she loved that and i also thought "the sun makers" would be in it. when she got to number 1, i did think "It'll either be 'Horror of fang rock' or 'The sun makers'" so i suppose it's still 4/5 score for me XD
Tom Baker and Elisabeth Sladen were the ones on the tv back when I was first watching Dr Who reruns on public television. That's why they are my favorite TARDIS team. Nostalgia.
My fave Doctors all begin with T. (Tom, Troughton, Tennant.) Weird coincidence, or is there something special about that letter?
Anyway my fave 4th Doctor stories are:
1. Genesis of the Daleks
2. City of Death
3. Seeds of Doom
4. Androids of Tara
5. The Leisure Hive
(But that can change depending on my mood)
The first Doctor Who I ever saw was back in the 80's and Public Television would show the fourth Doctor stories over and over again and I would watch them over and over again so I fell in love with Tom Baker version he will always be my favorite Doctor
Leela was always the best. My first childhood crush
Your favorites first: Robot, Pyramids of Mars, The Face of Evil, The Horror of Fang Rock, and The Creature from the Pit.
My honorable mentions top five include Shada, The Leisure Hive, Meglos, Full Circle, and Logopolis.
Thanks for giving us Doctor Who fans something to watch on Doctor Who Day 💙💙 Happy 61st Birthday to this gem of a show!
I absolutely agree with you about Leela. Sarah Jane is still brilliant, but I really enjoyed the 4th Doctor and Leela dynamic. She was bright, although uneducated, and I enjoyed the teacher and student dynamic. I wish they had explored it more. Unlike some companions, she could also take care of herself.
The outfit was just a bonus.
Sesska, you wear your heart on your sleeve, and I applaud you for your bravery in that way. You are the best DW reactor, but I am scared of your claws :-)
Tom was my first, but it was only the last few episodes before regenerating into Peter. Toms interpretation is how I see the doctor in my head. For all its issues, the talons is my favourite, followed by pyramids and fang rock
Top 5 guesses:
Genesis of the Daleks
Robots of Death
Horror of Fang Rock
The Pirate Planet
City of Death
Wildcard pick: The Horns of Nimon
Edit: Dang it, I almost included Seeds of Doom but figured a part of Key to Time would make the cut!