Doctor Who-The Horror of Fang Rock (Review With Spoilers)
The Horror of Fang Rock is one of my favorite Tom Baker stories, which is really amusing to me, as Tom did not like the script. This is an atmospheric horror story of the type that is really more closely associated with Hinchcliffe rather than Williams as producer. Of course, this is Williams’ first story as producer. With the exception of Image of the Fendahl, this type of story will not be found again during his tenure with the program. I personally find The Horror of Fang Rock to be a much better story.
The story is visually appealing. Except for a few scenes where the painted ocean is very visible in Episode 1, the set does not look fake. It is also appropriately claustrophobic, which adds to the tension. The BBC fog machines certainly proved their worth in this tale, as they sell the story in many ways. The model work is not bad, either.
While many people criticize Terrance Dicks’ scripts, I find this one to be quite good. For one thing, the characters are more than just ciphers. Some back story is created, giving them motivations much more complex and personal than just survival. Few of them were all that likeable. I will even admit to a cheer when Leela slaps Adelaide. That’s not the point, however. The point is that the characters are realistically portrayed in the script. The actors do a good job in bringing them to life as well.
The pacing is spot on. There is no wasted time and even the small moments either propel the story or give characterization.
I guess one could argue that the Rutan is not visually impressive, but the powers make it a formidable enemy. The power drain from the Doctor’s attack does seem to stop it from changing back into human form to traverse the stairs better (my personal explanation), but that hardly matters. The Rutan has killed everyone but the Doctor and Leela. Also the creature is suitably alien looking, which is important in the reveal. Those of you who have watched The Invasion of Time and remember the reveal of the Vardans understand.
Speaking of Leela, I’d like to note that Louise Jameson does a fantastic job in this story. Seldom has her performance been better, or maybe I notice it more because she is not in the skins. ;)
Overall, this is a great story, full of suspense and very good characterization. A solid 9 of 10 in my book.
The story is visually appealing. Except for a few scenes where the painted ocean is very visible in Episode 1, the set does not look fake. It is also appropriately claustrophobic, which adds to the tension. The BBC fog machines certainly proved their worth in this tale, as they sell the story in many ways. The model work is not bad, either.
While many people criticize Terrance Dicks’ scripts, I find this one to be quite good. For one thing, the characters are more than just ciphers. Some back story is created, giving them motivations much more complex and personal than just survival. Few of them were all that likeable. I will even admit to a cheer when Leela slaps Adelaide. That’s not the point, however. The point is that the characters are realistically portrayed in the script. The actors do a good job in bringing them to life as well.
The pacing is spot on. There is no wasted time and even the small moments either propel the story or give characterization.
I guess one could argue that the Rutan is not visually impressive, but the powers make it a formidable enemy. The power drain from the Doctor’s attack does seem to stop it from changing back into human form to traverse the stairs better (my personal explanation), but that hardly matters. The Rutan has killed everyone but the Doctor and Leela. Also the creature is suitably alien looking, which is important in the reveal. Those of you who have watched The Invasion of Time and remember the reveal of the Vardans understand.
Speaking of Leela, I’d like to note that Louise Jameson does a fantastic job in this story. Seldom has her performance been better, or maybe I notice it more because she is not in the skins. ;)
Overall, this is a great story, full of suspense and very good characterization. A solid 9 of 10 in my book.