Doctor Who: The Twin Dilemma In Review

Doctor Who, the long-running British science fiction series, has had its fair share of ups and downs over the years. One of the most controversial episodes of the series is "The Twin Dilemma," which marked the end of Peter Davison's tenure as the Fifth Doctor and the beginning of Colin Baker's era as the Sixth Doctor. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at "The Twin Dilemma" and discuss its impact on the Doctor Who series.

The Premise

"The Twin Dilemma" follows the Sixth Doctor as he struggles with his regeneration, which has left him unstable and unpredictable. The Doctor, along with his companion Peri Brown, finds himself embroiled in a dangerous plot involving a pair of alien twins who possess immense powers. With the fate of the universe hanging in the balance, the Doctor must overcome his internal turmoil and save the day.

The Controversy

"The Twin Dilemma" received mixed reviews from fans and critics when it first aired in 1984. Many fans were critical of the sudden shift in tone and characterization, as the Sixth Doctor was portrayed as erratic and egotistical. Some felt that the episode failed to capture the essence of Doctor Who and took the series in an unwelcome direction.

Doctor Who: The Twin Dilemma in Review

by Andrea Maller(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1053 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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However, over time, "The Twin Dilemma" has gained somewhat of a cult following. Some fans appreciate the boldness of the episode, which dared to present a flawed and troubled Doctor. The episode also introduced the character of the Rani, a recurring villain in the series, who added a fresh dynamic to the Doctor's adventures.

The Performances

Colin Baker's portrayal of the Sixth Doctor was a point of contention for many viewers. Some felt that his interpretation of the character was too abrasive and unlikeable. However, others admired Baker's commitment and energy in the role, even if the writing did him no favors. Ultimately, Baker's performance as the Sixth Doctor left a lasting impact on the series, making him a memorable incarnation of the Time Lord.

Nicola Bryant, who played Peri Brown, brought a sense of vulnerability and strength to her character. Despite the negative reception towards "The Twin Dilemma," Bryant's performance was widely praised, and she continued to be a fan-favorite companion for years to come.

The Legacy

"The Twin Dilemma" may not be remembered as one of Doctor Who's greatest episodes, but it was a turning point for the series. The episode marked a departure from the more traditional Doctor Who formula, experimenting with new ideas and darker themes. While not universally loved, "The Twin Dilemma" pushed the boundaries and set the stage for the ever-evolving nature of the Doctor Who series.

, "The Twin Dilemma" is a polarizing episode in the Doctor Who canon. Its bold choices and controversial portrayal of the Doctor sparked debates among fans that continue to this day. Whether you view it as a misstep or an audacious experiment, "The Twin Dilemma" remains a significant chapter in the rich history of Doctor Who.

Doctor Who: The Twin Dilemma in Review

by Andrea Maller(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1053 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	17 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

This short read by bestselling author Adrian Sherlock (The Quatermass Experiment and its Legacy) looks at the controversial Doctor Who serial The Twin Dilemma in its historical context, examines the way it was received at the time and attempts to re-evaluate the story from a more objective standpoint and demonstrate some of the positive strengths in this often misunderstood serial.