Planet of Evil is an interesting story, loosely based on Forbidden Planet, with a serious ecology message about not despoiling the environment, and some cutting edge – for the time – effects. The anti-matter creature, done as a visual effect showing just a glowing outline of the creature, was extraordinarily good for 1975. the mistakes of Robot and Green Death seem a thing of the past. Even the studio based set was convincing. It was a triumph. The simple plot – Sorenson refusing to give up his dream of a new source of energy and the ant-matter creature refusing to give up him, worked well.

10/10

 

 

Extras

Commentary – Tom Baker stole the show, of course. He’s a very powerful man in every way and always takes over any conversation. Liz Sladen held her own. Of the two guests, Phillip Hinchcliffe is the most interesting, and has a very nice voice to listen to. Prentiss Hancock comes over as the has-been bit part actor.

10/10

A Darker Side – 25 minute documentary about the making of the episode, including the set design, film versus video, and more.

10/10

Planetary Performance. A documentary about acting in Doctor Who generally and in this episode. Tom and Liz talk about ‘corridor acting’ and the supporting cast reminisce.

10/10

Studio Scene – a very brief scene of Tom and Liz setting up for a take. Quite pointless.

3/10

Continuity compilation – oh please! Somebody tell me what is the point of these?

0/10

Production Subtitles – excellent as ever, technical information.

10/10

 

 

Photo Gallery – Not bad. A few less common pictures. Some of Sarah Jane in her tight denim number.

9/10

Radio Times Billing. DVD Rom – Again quite pointless

0/10

Coming Soon promo – a very fast paced one for Destiny of the Daleks.

8/10

Limited DVD extras, but apart from the usual space fillers, not at all bad.

9 out of 10.