Doctor Who: State of Decay (1980) written by Terrance Dicks and directed by Peter Moffatt
Fourth Doctor Tom Baker is still trapped in e-space (which for the 1980s is something totally different from what we'd think of now) trying to get back to the regular universe (called "n-space" in the series). He stops off at a primitive planet where there's one village with a semi-gothic tower looming over it. The three lords of the tower (actually two lords and one lady) have oppressed the locals from time immemorial. They use the locals as slave labor and as occasional mysterious sacrifices. Soon enough, the Doctor discovers that the lords are not just sucking the metaphorical life-blood from the villagers, they suck actual blood.
The story is an interesting blending of Doctor Who and vampire tropes. The Doctor explains a bit of the folklore, and not just Earth folklore. Having other planets' vampire mythology enables one or two variations on the theme and some interesting twists. Some of the acting and set designs are too obviously inspired by Hammer-horror vampire movies. The big monster at the end is disappointing, probably due to budget constraints. Overall, I found it fun.
Recommended for the classic Doctor Who fan.
No comments:
Post a Comment