Classic Who: The Chase

This is quite a mad story, with a crazy central plot-line and a lot of content obviously played for laughs. But that doesn't mean it should be dismissed as merely silly. Doctor Who was so new at this time that each story was still helping to define and develop the format of the programme, and this is very much true here too. Several of what appear to be passing fancies in this patchwork of short scenarios can be seen in retrospect as early experiments in ideas and formats which went on to become staples of the show. Also, a lot of the comic content in it actually springs from meta-references to the nature of Doctor Who as a TV drama - something which had begun to emerge in the previous two stories, and which I always enjoy. It speaks of self-confidence and self-awareness on the part of the production crew; a sense that they have got well enough into their stride to start playing around a bit.

( The Time-Space Visualiser )

( Other meta-references )

( Inventing the pseudo-historical and the Gothic horror genres )

( Time-travellers other than the Doctor )

( Resonances in later stories )

( And it's goodbye to Ian and Barbara - sob! )

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