Review of all 5 episodes:
This story begins with an absolutely fantastic episode which is Doctor Who at its very best. The atmospheric, eerie goings on and brilliantly believable characterisations exude sheer class. The acting and writing are of the highest standard and the production values are good for the day. This excellence continues as the story continues into a great 2nd episode. The middle and end part of the story is slightly more variable in a way with moments that are not perfectly executed and parts that are less well thought through (such as the Master's manipulation of villagers, satanic rituals and morris dancing) than the magnificent best aspects of the story but there is enough really great stuff going on all the way through to keep every episode at a minimum of 9/10. The Doctor and the UNIT team are at their absolute peak with engaging and funny performances all round.
The story involves magic versus science with The Master using black magic incantations to summon an ancient and ultra-powerful being to try to conquer the Earth. There is a sleepy English village, a mysterious barrow, a stone gargoyle coming to life to attack, an enormous cloven-hooved being, a wonderful white witch, an impressively exploding church and some great guest performances. For example there is a terrific cameo by Robert Wentworth as the cynically gritty but amusing archaeologist Professor Horner and a funny but realistic TV crew led by David Simeon as Alastair Fergus. One such nice cameo is from UNIT technical expert Sgt. Osgood who Steven Moffatt much later intended to be the father of the character Osgood in 21st Century Doctor Who. He apparently decided against officially naming him as her father because he worried it would have annoyed fans by contradicting Osgood's life as portrayed in extended universe material although fear of upsetting fans seems out of character.
The final episode is basically all brilliant fun except for a very slight anticlimax with how the Daemon Azal suddenly overreacts to Jo's willingness to sacrifice her life for the Doctor. It is a small complaint though as the Doctor's performance makes up for it with the moral and environmental themes raised very well indeed. Jon Pertwee is exceptional throughout this story with fine support from Nicholas Courtney. There is great action with John Levene and Richard Franklin particularly active in punch ups, helicopter/motorcycle chases and shootouts. Roger Delgado exudes class and charisma as the Master and the dialogue all the way through is excellent.
Magic is in the air in more ways than one and that magic touch and charm shines through this story overcoming any production limitations or small issues.
My ratings: Episodes 1 & 2 - 10/10, Episode 3 - 9.5/10, Episode 4 - 9/10, Episode 5 - 9.5/10. Overall - 9.6/10.
Season 8 Overall Review:
Season 8 was a great season introducing the iconic villain The Master and maintaining high standards of script and fun ideas.
Season 8 average rating: 8.66/10.
