Whovians can once again delve into the initial segment of “The Daleks’ Master Plan,” a sprawling 12-part adventure, as two previously lost William Hartnell episodes from this 1960s classic have been unexpectedly restored to the BBC archive. This allows fans to experience the cunning “pepperpots” at their most formidable, a treat unseen since 1965.
The now-available five surviving episodes offer a compelling reintroduction to this saga. The initial three parts particularly impress with their grand sets, depicting both the Earth control centre and the Dalek vessel, juxtaposed against the menacing, dense jungle landscapes of the planet Kembel. Director Douglas Camfield’s use of frequent, tight close-ups on the actors’ faces enhances the claustrophobic atmosphere, particularly during the jungle sequences.
Noteworthy among the cast is Courtney, who would later achieve fame as Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart. He holds the unique distinction of being the only actor to have appeared opposite all seven original classic Doctors, a count that includes his memorable interaction with Colin Baker during the “Dimensions in Time” Comic Relief skit.
Significantly, “The Daleks’ Master Plan” marked William Hartnell’s final encounter with the Daleks as the primary antagonists. These iconic villains would reappear in two of Patrick Troughton’s Season Four stories before taking an extended hiatus. Their absence spanned from 1967’s “Evil of the Daleks” until 1972’s “Day of the Daleks,” an episode that notably showcased them in color on television for the very first time.
A singular prequel episode, “Mission to the Unknown,” aired in October 1965, setting the stage for “The Daleks’ Master Plan.” This unique installment remains the only Doctor Who episode to date that did not feature any members of the regular cast. While the original “Mission to the Unknown” episode is lost, students at the University of Central Lancashire, with BBC approval, successfully remounted it in 2019, allowing fans to experience this vital prelude.