Planet of the Spiders [TV/1974.5.4 ~ 6.8]

★★★★☆

  It's quite the bold decision to show the normally stoic, steadfast and dependable Third Doctor at his most vulnerable in his final TV adventure. I quite like this aspect of the serial, as it lends the story some newfound gravitas as it proclaims itself something more thought-provoking, something more challenging than your average Dr. Who. Jon Pertwee definitely rises to the challenge, giving one final hurrah of a performance as he portrays all the complex emotions -- the burgeoning fear, the equally strong will to overcome it, and so much more -- with remarkable skill. What we have here is an actor giving his all in the final moments of a role he treasured so much, a final goodbye... and it's such an amazing thing to witness. Rest in peace, Jon Pertwee.

  Apart from being a touching and poignant story about facing your fears (quite literally for many people; this is arachnophobia central), Planet of the Spiders is a celebration of everything in the Pertwee era. Glimpses of UNIT, the involvement of the Brigadier and his regulars (with Mike Yates returning for one final TV role), Buddhist themes and intellectual discussions, an entire elongated chase sequence reserved for the Doctor and all his wonderful vehicles -- it's got 'em all. Bonus points if you're a Whomobile truther like I am. Elisabeth Sladen is wonderful as Sarah Jane, and the Eight Legs are such terrifying beasts with very little onscreen mobility. The CSO used this time around is one of the show's best attempts at that particular technology, bringing alive Metebelis III with great effect (in my mind). I always find myself sitting on the edge of my seat during the last two episodes in particular, as the greater Eight Leg narrative takes a backseat to a more introspective look into the Doctor as a character and as a hero. I can only imagine contemporary kids, or at least the more intellectually inclined ones, had their eyes glued to their television screens as well. Fascinating in concept, gorgeous in execution, this was a fine serial for the Pertwee era to go out on.