It was a rainy Saturday afternoon, the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a cup of tea and a good show. I had been meaning to start Doctor Who for ages, intrigued by the eccentric characters and fantastical storylines. I pressed play on the first episode, “An Unearthly Child,” which I had heard was a bit different from the later seasons. What I didn’t realize was that I was about to embark on a journey that would take me through time and space, and make me fall in love with a quirky, time-traveling, alien adventurer.
Image: hmv.com
As the episode unfolded, I was enthralled by the world that William Hartnell’s Doctor created. It was a world full of mystery, wonder, and unbridled imagination. The episode felt like a portal to a whole other reality, a reality where anything was possible, and anything could happen. The episode wasn’t just a story, it was an experience, and one that I was determined to share with everyone.
The Unassuming Beginning: An Unearthly Child
“An Unearthly Child,” the very first episode of Doctor Who, introduces us to the iconic time traveler, William Hartnell, in a way unlike any other. It doesn’t start with a grand spectacle or a flashy spaceship, instead, it starts with a seemingly ordinary group of school children, the iconic Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright, their curiosity piqued by a strange, seemingly impossible, encounter. The episode is a slow burn, the first glimpse of the world of Doctor Who.
It subtly lays the foundation for the show’s intricate universe. The first glimpses of the TARDIS, which looks like an old police box, hinting that it is more than it appears, become the seed of mystery that draws the viewers in. The concept of time travel is explained through a seemingly everyday situation – a missing father revealed to be actually a time traveler – a genius move that grounds the extraordinary in the ordinary.
The Doctor Unveiled: A Genius Disguised
“An Unearthly Child” doesn’t just introduce the Doctor, it introduces his companions, who are crucial to the series. We see Ian and Barbara, pulled into the Doctor’s world, experiencing the unknown and pushing their own boundaries. The episode also starts to explore the Doctor’s personality. He’s portrayed by William Hartnell as a gruff yet brilliant individual, a genius shrouded in mystery. The Doctor’s initial resistance to explaining his abilities builds tension, making the audience yearn to uncover his secrets.
The episode establishes the themes that will define the show: the pursuit of knowledge, the exploration of the unknown, the challenges of facing the unexpected, and the enduring power of friendship. This humble beginning becomes the cornerstone of a timeless series, and the first episode proves that simplicity can lay the groundwork for something truly spectacular.
Key Moments in “An Unearthly Child”: Exploring the Seeds of Doctor Who
The episode is filled with moments that leave a lasting impression. The Doctor’s introduction, the TARDIS’s first appearance, the revelation that the Doctor’s granddaughter Susan is actually an alien, and the first encounter with the Cybermen, although they are not called Cybermen yet, contribute to the episode’s impact. It cleverly blends the mundane with the extraordinary, paving the way for the adventures to come.
The episode, although simple in its narrative, reveals the inherent power of Doctor Who – its ability to take the ordinary and make it extraordinary. It’s the start of a story that will span decades, introduce countless characters, explore countless worlds, and continue to inspire generations of viewers. The seemingly mundane becomes the launchpad for an incredible show.
Image: www.ebay.co.uk
Beyond “An Unearthly Child”: The Legacy of the First Episode
The legacy of “An Unearthly Child” transcends the episode itself. It set the stage for the Doctor Who phenomenon. The episode sparked the imagination of millions, making the Doctor Who fandom one of the largest and longest-lasting fan communities. It became the foundation for an iconic show, a cultural phenomenon that continues to evolve and re-invent itself.
It also became the cornerstone for future Doctor Who episodes. The introduction of the TARDIS, the Doctor’s companions, and the exploration of time and space are themes that continue to be explored and revisited throughout the series. “An Unearthly Child” is a testament to the power of simplicity in creating something truly extraordinary.
Expert Advice: Embracing the Original Doctor Who
For those new to Doctor Who, “An Unearthly Child” might seem a little dated, a little different from the later seasons. But that’s part of its charm. It’s a glimpse into the origins of one of the greatest television shows ever made. Take a step back, embrace the history, and revel in the simple yet powerful story that laid the foundation for everything that followed.
Don’t be afraid to experience Doctor Who as it was intended to be experienced. Embrace the black and white visuals, the simple sets, and the slower pace. It’s a journey back in time, an exploration of a different era in television, and a unique perspective on the Doctor Who universe.
Doctor Who: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes “An Unearthly Child” so important?
A: It’s the starting point of Doctor Who, introducing the key elements of the show: the Doctor, the TARDIS, and time travel. It’s also the episode that started the fandom and shaped the series’ trajectory.
Q: Is “An Unearthly Child” a good starting point to watch Doctor Who?
A: While it’s the beginning, it might feel a bit different from later seasons. If you’re looking for a more modern Doctor Who experience, you can start with “Rose,” the first episode of the 2005 revival.
Q: Should I watch it in black and white or color?
A: “An Unearthly Child” was originally filmed in black and white. While some colorized versions exist, the original black and white format captures the show’s historical context better.
Dr Who Season One Episode One
Conclusion
Doctor Who Season 1 Episode 1, “An Unearthly Child,” is a testament to the power of simple storytelling, creating a show that continues to be loved and admired. The episode’s themes of exploration, knowledge, and friendship resonate across generations. It’s a must-watch for any Doctor Who fan, a journey into the heart of the show’s origin, and a reminder of the enduring power of imagination.
Are you a Doctor Who fan? Have you seen “An Unearthly Child”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
