"Erm. It's more than likely that we won't be able to defeat this menace. And that London, in fact the whole of England, might be completely wiped out. There. Did you get that?"
Based on its reputation alone, The Web of Fear was one of my top stories I wanted returned to the archives. So when the news broke that four out of the five missing episodes had been found it was greatly exciting. So does it live up to its reputation?
The answer is a resounded YES! As strange as it may seem the first thing I'm going to comment on its the quality of the sets. The story of London Transport threatening legal action against the BBC for - alleged - unauthorised filming on the Underground is easy to understand because it does look like it was filmed on the Underground! But what else do you expect with Douglas Camfield directing? As usual his casting was spot on and the whole production has a wonderful tense, spooky feel to it.
Of course The Web of Fear was the first story to feature (the then) Colonel Lethbridge-Stewart. It's another one of those happy accidents that litter Doctor Who's history that the original actor cast in the role pulled out and Nicholas Courtney took over the role. And thus another Doctor Who legend was born.
It's great to have most of The Web of Fear back in the archives. Now if only episode 3 would turn up (it must be out there somewhere!).
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