Doctor Who Sentence of Death (1963–1989) Online

Review for all 6 episodes:

This story from Dalek creator Terry Nation begins with the episode the Sea of Death. It is in my view an excellent opening episode. It features an intriguing, well written plot with the TARDIS crew searching a strange planet. The design of the planet and its Voord creatures is very good indeed, ideas such as seas of acid and beaches of glass are cleverly used to create a truly interesting and exciting alien planet. The Voord look good, there is menace and suspense, an excellent alien landscape and building design, a proficient script and quality acting all round which gives a 10/10 opening episode to the story.

However, episodes 2-4 are a little disappointing in comparison. The idea of the story means each episode of the first 5 takes place in a different location with a self contained adventure searching for the hidden Keys of Marinus. This really would be a great idea for a story but is a pity when the original world in the opening episode is so well designed. Episode 2 has a hugely different location and features the crew suffering mind control. This second episode is very good in most aspects but a few less impressive aspects such as a minor plot hole cause its quality to suffer. This plot hole is that Barbara is meant to travel, via a kind of teleportation device, just a minute before the rest of the travellers and yet in that minute before they join her numerous things are meant to have happened.

Episodes 3 and 4 are not as interesting or well executed as the first part either with episode 4 the weakest. Episodes 5 and 6 return to a higher standard and are like a murder mystery. Very good but they still are not a match for the top quality first part.

My Ratings: Episode 1 - 10/10, Episode 2 - 8/10, Episode 3 - 7.5/10, Episode 4 - 7/10, Episode 5 - 9/10, Episode 6 - 9/10

This is a real high point from The Keys of Marinus, it's a whodunit among five other episodes of science fiction. It really is so unusual, but it works for many reason, the sets and costumes are exceptional, everything is substantial, and quality looking. There are some terrific performances, I particularly loved Fiona Walker, outstanding as Kala.

The TARDIS crew really do feel like a real time, each doing their part to prove Ian's innocence. One question though, why was Sabetha not arrested early on? Everyone could see she was wearing micro keys around her neck.

Love it.