Sunday, April 22, 2012
U.N.I.T. Files
First, twenty years before Jurassic Park...
Invasion of the Dinosaurs isn't a bad story (aside from being two episodes long. My constant complaint with most six parters!). But everyone remembers it for the dinosaurs. They're not that bad and director Paddy Russell keeps them in the background as much as possible. The story's a little far-fetched but there are some good moments. The opening sequences in deserted London are really effective (maybe it should be thirty years before 28 Days Later?).
The Android Invasion likewise is a story that's underrated, but only because it;s surrounded by other classics. It's probably Terry Nation's second best script for the series (after Genesis of the Daleks. But you've got to wonder how much of that was the influence of Roberts Holmes?). Again, a little far-fetched (hello Guy Craven's eye patch) but enjoyable. The cliffhanger to episode 2, where the android Sarah falls to the ground as her "face" falls off. has always stuck out in my mind. I remember when I first saw it and it scared the hell out of me!
The best bit on the discs? Phillip Hinchcliffe sitting down with his daughter reviewing his career post-Doctor Who. Beautifully made and very touching.
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