I enjoyed EMPRESS OF MARS for the most part, because I have always been a fan of the Ice Warriors. I thought that one of the strongest facets of this serial was that we finally got to see the transition of this alien species from a simple one-dimensional villain into a more fully realized alien civilization, capable of both good and evil. I felt that this transition benefited greatly from finally seeing a female of the species in action too. It was also nice to see Humans being the threat for a change. In my personal opinion, we get to see this far too little in DOCTOR WHO in particular and in science fiction in general.
However, I don't see why they had to start this serial with an idiotic and pointless visit to NASA. This was simply an irritating and a needless attempt at lame and unnecessary humour, which completely failed. I thought it was awkward and embarrassing. Despite this, I still found this serial to be vastly better and more enjoyable than the previous three episodes. Of course, these days, any DOCTOR WHO serial that does not feature a surprisingly unexpected and totally unnecessary regeneration scene is a positive bonus.
I must admit however, I felt like slapping Bill repeatedly when she wouldn't shut up about all of those films - then the Doctor fucking started too! By the end of the episode, I was surprised that Alpha Centauri didn't get in on the act. Although I must admit it was a welcome treat to see him back once more. However, for me this raises the question of exactly how long does that species live for? I wasn’t terribly impressed by the new effect for the Ice Warriors’ sonic weapon. I feel that a cross between the new effect and the old effect might have worked better - but that’s just me. Also, the serial as a whole reminded me strongly of a certain other DOCTOR WHO serial that featured a tomb as well as some Cybermen...
For a pseudo historical DOCTOR WHO serial that featured British soldiers on Mars during the Victorian era, I found it interesting that I was more preoccupied by the historical accuracy and authenticity with regards to a black British soldier being present. I am certainly no expert on British military history, but for some reason, it just didn’t ring true with me. And as for him having a photograph of a white girlfriend… I don’t think so. It’s little wonder he went to Mars. If he’d stayed on Earth he’d have had a very bad time of it. In fact, the only scene that rang true to me was the part where a white soldier literally sacrificed the black soldier to save his own neck.
I feel that the whitewashing of history - please pardon the bad choice of word - is fundamentally dishonest and extremely insulting to all of the unfortunates who had to try and survive as best they could through a difficult era in history. It does a disservice to modern TV audiences - especially the younger ones - who might not be aware of the true historical facts regarding this matter. Why would you wish to gloss over these facts, when you could take the chance to educate and inform your audience? Why give up a classic opportunity to provide insightful social commentary about it? It’s a great disservice to the truth and to those who have, who do and who will continue to fight for equality and justice. Besides, once upon a time, if the Doctor became aware of an alteration to history, it would have been a major plot point...
By the way, I’m sure this is just a coincidence…
Of course, Classic Who also borrowed heavily from other sources, but I can't remember them ever doing so quite so blatantly. Of course, I could be mistaken.
GATISS: Generally Appropriates Talented Individuals' Suitable Scripts.
