Doctor Who, season 2 continued …

The adventure continues but the plot doesn’t progress (which, given how little plot there is, is quite a disappointment).  Hartnell is absent, even from the cliffhanger in which Ian supposedly finds him.

Hartnell’s absence is both a blessing and a curse.  We miss his input into the story but, as a consequence, we get to see Ian step up to the plate and have some nice moments.

The slow progress of the story had me distracted on more than one occasion.  I can’t be the only viewer in the 21st Century to think that Vicki’s dress and long socks are an awfully refreshing change from the styles we’re used to these days.

On the same note, Maureen O’Brien is doing a subtle but fantastic job with Vicki.  Having had to take over from Carole Ann Ford’s Susan, Vicki has some great moments from playing up to the Doctor to the expressions on her face when Ian and Barbara are arguing.

In the annals of Doctor Who companions, Vicki is largely a forgotten companion which I think is a shame.  She brings a nice perkiness to the series.

Next time … The Final Phase