Doctor Who 'Daleks' Master Plan' Episodes 1965 Resurface on BBC iPlayer

The long-lost episodes of 'The Daleks' Master Plan,' a cornerstone of the early 'Doctor Who' narrative, are finding their way back into public consciousness. Two installments, 'The Nightmare Begins' and 'Devil's Planet,' once thought lost to time, have been recovered and are now available on 'BBC iPlayer'. This recovery marks a significant moment for fans and archivists alike, bringing crucial pieces of television history back from obscurity. The initial broadcast of this twelve-part story dates back to 1965, a period marked by ambitious science fiction storytelling.

The narrative centres on the malevolent 'Daleks,' a fictional alien race, and their audacious scheme to conquer the 'Solar System.' Their plan involves the possession of a devastating weapon known as the 'Time Destructor,' capable of threatening all existence. In their path stands the 'Doctor,' portrayed by William Hartnell, and his companions, including 'Steven Taylor' (Peter Purves), 'Katarina' (Adrienne Hill), and 'Sara Kingdom' (Jean Marsh). They are pitted against the treacherous 'Guardian of the Solar System,' Mavic Chen (Kevin Stoney), who collaborates with the Daleks, only to be ultimately betrayed by them. The story is notable for being the first in the series where the lives of two of the Doctor's companions are lost.

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The recovery of these episodes is a testament to dedicated efforts, with rediscovered films emerging from 'private collections' and charitable trusts like 'Film is Fabulous!' This resurgence of interest coincides with broader archival efforts, including past discoveries from overseas television stations and the creation of reconstructions for the missing segments. The ongoing process of unearthing and restoring these classic narratives highlights the fragility of media preservation and the immense value placed on these historical broadcasts.

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Companions and Betrayal in the Master Plan

Within the sprawling narrative of 'The Daleks' Master Plan,' the fates of several companions are woven into the high-stakes conflict. 'Katarina,' a Trojan companion, and 'Bret Vyon' (Nicholas Courtney), a 'Special Security Agent' who later reprises his role as the 'Brigadier,' are among those whose time is cut short. The nature of their departures, often sudden and at the hands of the Daleks or treachery, underscores the perilous universe depicted. The plot itself is characterized by complex alliances and betrayals, with Mavic Chen's opportunistic alliance with the Daleks serving as a prime example of the volatile nature of intergalactic politics.

A Historical Broadcast and its Legacy

Originally aired in 1965 and 1966, 'The Daleks' Master Plan' was a monumental undertaking, spanning twelve episodes. Its production involved writers Terry Nation and Dennis Spooner, with John Wiles serving as producer and Douglas Camfield as director. The story's epic scope, traversing diverse planetary landscapes and futuristic cities, pushed the boundaries of television production at the time. The ambitious scale and narrative depth of 'The Daleks' Master Plan' have cemented its status as a classic, resonating with audiences through its exploration of existential threats and the courage of its protagonists. The recent rediscovery and release of previously missing episodes have reignited discussions about the series' formative years and the enduring appeal of its foundational narratives.

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