The Sontaran Experiment

Review: We assess the new DVD.

Not unlike a Sontaran, BBC DVD's first 'budget' Doctor Who release is compact but powerful.

Visiting a desolate future Earth, the TARDIS crew battle lone Sontaran warrior Field Major Styre, who has been sent on a day trip to assess its invasion potential.

Oddly, the planet poses such little threat (it's more deserted than Milton Keynes bus station on a Sunday afternoon) that the poor Styre has to torture some unsuspecting colonists instead.

Despite this gaping chasm in the plot, and a very wobbly robot, The Sontaran Experiment is never less than dark, thrilling and gorgeous to look at.

Tom Baker has a great time confronting people, while companions Sarah and Harry lend admirable support. Such is their chemistry with Baker, it's hard to believe that this is only the second story they filmed together.

Sladen, co-writer Bob Baker and producer Philip Hinchcliffe make for a lively commentary team, recalling the 'fun' of being stuck half way up a mountain in the pouring rain.

The disc's single documentary, Built for War, takes us through the history of the Sontarans and their arch enemy the Rutans. With contributions from former script editor Terrance Dicks, Elisabeth Sladen, Colin Baker and others, it's framed by new footage of a lone Sontaran wandering around Dartmoor. The sun even came out this time around.

The usual info text and picture gallery round off the release.

This might be a minimal release by Doctor Who standards, but it's hard to feel short-changed by such a fun story and enjoyable bonus material. A worthy experiment.

Watch a clip of Sarah Jane in peril.

Watch a clip with commentary from The Sontaran Experiment.

Watch a clip from the Sontaran Experiment documentary.