The Mark of the Rani [TV/1985.2.2 ~ 2.9]

★★★★☆

  Yes, I am a big fan of the tree mines. Contrary to what practically everyone else thinks, I rather like the idea and how it was executed onscreen. The cuts are pretty seamless, if you ask me. It helps that the entire main cast (as well as, of course, the actors who "step on" them and promptly turn into plant life) sells the danger and shock quite well. Colin Baker hanging from a stake, desperately trying not to turn into a tree as he escapes his trap is such a fun moment.

  The Mark of the Rani's a delightful watch; it's more relaxed, less of an end-of-the-world scenario and more a local problem with a particularly troublesome Time Lord (and if you've read my review of Black Orchid, you'd know just how fond I am of these adventures), and with Sarah Hellings's confident direction, the entire affair is something of a pleasing meal that you savour. Season 22 is quite fast-paced in speed and piercing in subject matter, so this is a breather that allows the viewer to sit back and enjoy the countryside visual splendor. The Sixth Doctor and Peri are a formidable duo by now, with both actors visibly comfortable with each other. This time around, Nicola Bryant is given a beautiful dress to wear and runs around the scenery with newfound confidence in her character/portrayal, and Baker needs no more explanation -- he's truly fantastic as the Doctor, being warm to Peri (while bickering with her in an affectionate way, of course) and ice cold towards the Master and the Rani. People bemoan the Master's role in this adventure because, admittedly, he leaves very little impact and can theoretically be written out without much bother, but including him makes the serial that much more fun. Anthony Ainley interacting with Kate O'Mara, scheming and being evil in a most delightful way? Count me in. O'Mara makes an immediate impression as the Rani as well, basking in her fetish for science and disregard for human life, and her TARDIS remains one of the most well-designed TARDIS interiors of the classic era. I just love how slight the actual story is, how focused it is on this Rani and her abhorrent academic endeavors, and how that relaxed nature allows the viewer to take in the location filming a bit more. Not a particularly accurate representation of Geordie society, sure, but I'll take the inaccuracy if it means we get a Doctor vs Rani/Master tag-team match of wits and delicious dialogue. Pip & Jane Baker are delightful writers, and will always be that way inside my mind.

  My suggestion is, let a serial be laid back and relaxing for once, and you may find The Mark of the Rani an enthralling experience. With a cleverly written script realised by a seasoned production team and equally talented actors, there's really nothing here to offend you (ahem, unless you're a Geordie)... and plenty to sink your teeth into.