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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 Doctor Who: Mission to the Unknown - A Curious Case 
  
 "Mission to the Unknown" is a unique entry in Doctor Who lore. 
 Airing in 1965 as part of the First Doctor's era, 
 it holds the distinction of being the shortest Doctor Who 
 story ever,  a single 25-minute episode.  Here's a breakdown 
 to  help you decide if you want to embark on this brief 
 but intriguing mission: 
  
 Story 
  
 This serial  does not feature the Doctor  and  his companions. 
 Instead, it  focuses  on  space  security  agents  sent 
 to  investigate  a  distress  call  from  a  damaged 
 alien  vessel.  Upon arrival, they  encounter  strange 
 plant  life  with  mind-altering  effects 
 and  the  deadly  threat  of  the Daleks, 
 who  were  introduced  in  the  previous  serial. 
  
 Review 
  
 Strengths 
  
     A Prequel to Dalek Greatness: "Mission to the Unknown" 
  serves as a prelude to the epic serial 
  "The Daleks' Master Plan," introducing the Daleks' 
  master plan and setting the stage for their confrontation 
  with the Doctor. 
   
     Focus on Dalek Threat: This short episode showcases 
  the ruthlessness and intelligence of the Daleks, 
  building suspense for their future encounters with the Doctor. 
   
     Atmospheric Setting: Despite limited resources, the episode 
  creates a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere onboard 
  the damaged spaceship. 
  
 Weaknesses 
  
     Lack of the Doctor and Companions: The absence 
  of the familiar faces might be a drawback for some viewers 
  accustomed to the Doctor's presence. 
   
     Limited Scope Due to Length: Being a single episode, 
  "Mission to the Unknown" lacks the character development 
  and plot complexity found in longer serials. 
   
     Dated Special Effects: The special effects used 
  for the alien plants and the Daleks might seem primitive 
  by modern standards. 
  
 Reception: 
  
     Positive:  Praised for  its  connection  to 
  "The Daleks' Master Plan,"  focusing  on  the  Dalek  threat, 
  and  creating  an  atmospheric  setting  within  the  time 
  constraints.  Some  fans  also  appreciate  the  experimentation 
  with  a  Doctor-lite  story. 
  
     Negative:  Criticised for  the  absence  of  the  Doctor 
  and  companions,  limited  scope  due  to  the  short  length, 
  and  dated  special effects. 
  
 Overall Thoughts: 
  
 "Mission to the Unknown"  is  a  historical  curiosity 
 in  Doctor Who.  While  the  lack  of  the  Doctor  might 
 be  a  turn-off  for  some,  it  offers  a  different 
 perspective  on  the  Dalek  threat 
  and  sets  the  stage  for  a  larger  narrative. 
  
 Would I recommend watching it? 
  
     For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10 (Especially those completing 
  "The Daleks' Master Plan" and interested in seeing the introduction 
  of the Dalek masterplan) 
   
     For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 2/10 (The short length 
  and lack of the Doctor might make it less appealing for modern viewers) 
   
  
 Additional Points to Consider: 
  
     This episode was originally intended as the first episode 
  of "The Daleks' Master Plan" but was later separated due 
  to scheduling constraints. 
   
     If you enjoy "Mission to the Unknown" 
  and find the concept of stories focusing 
  on characters besides the Doctor intriguing, 
  you might want to explore other "Doctor-lite" 
  episodes produced throughout the show's history. 
  
 -- 
 Member - Liberal International This is doctor@nk.ca Ici doctor@nk.ca 
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