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 From: doctor@doctor.nl2k.ab.ca 
  
 Here's a review of Doctor Who: The Planets of Giants, 
 the first serial of the show's second season, 
 to help you decide if you'd like to watch it: 
  
 Story 
  
 The TARDIS malfunctions during flight, shrinking the Doctor, 
 Susan, Ian, and Barbara to the size of insects.  They land 
 on a seemingly normal Earth,  only to discover the human 
  inhabitants are giants  oblivious  to  their  presence. 
  The companions  must  find  a  way  to  communicate 
  with  the  humans  and  get  themselves  back  to  normal 
  size  while  avoiding  being  crushed  or  exterminated. 
  
 Review 
  
 Strengths: 
  
     Unique Premise: The concept of being shrunk to a miniature 
  size creates a unique and suspenseful situation. The serial 
  explores the dangers of a familiar world from a new perspective. 
     Early Companion Dynamics: We see Ian and Barbara working 
  together to protect Susan and find solutions. 
  Their resourcefulness and growing trust in the Doctor are on display. 
     Social Commentary (Subtle for the Time): 
  The serial touches on themes of power dynamics 
  and the exploitation of weaker beings, though these themes 
  are more subtle compared to later Doctor Who stories. 
  
 Weaknesses: 
  
     Limited Special Effects: The special effects used to depict 
  the shrunken characters and the giant world might seem primitive 
  by modern standards. 
     Slow Pacing in Parts: The narrative can feel slow at times, 
  especially during exposition scenes explaining the situation. 
     Reused Plot Elements: The concept of the Doctor 
  and his companions being shrunk was used in an earlier 
  episode ("The Shrinking Man"). This might make the plot 
  feel less original for some viewers. 
  
 Reception: 
  
     Positive:  Praised for its  unique  premise, 
  early  companions  dynamics,  and  subtle  social commentary. 
  Some  fans  also  enjoy  the  sense  of  wonder  and  suspense. 
  
     Negative:  Criticized for its  slow pacing,  lack of action 
  in  certain  sections,  and  somewhat  unconvincing  special 
  effects  for  the  giant  world. 
  
 Overall Thoughts: 
  
 "The Planets of Giants" is an interesting story  with  a  unique  concept. 
  While  the  special effects  might  not  hold up  entirely  today, 
  it  offers  a  fun  adventure  and  highlights  the  resourcefulness 
  of  the  companions. 
  
 Would I recommend watching it? 
  
     For Fans of Classic Doctor Who: 6/10 
     For Fans of Modern Doctor Who: 4/10 
  
 If you're a die-hard fan of classic Doctor Who 
 and  enjoy  stories  with  a  sense  of  wonder 
 and  unique  premises,  "The Planets of Giants" 
 is worth checking out.  However,  if you prefer 
 fast-paced adventures with cutting-edge special 
 effects,  you might  find  it  slow  and  less  exciting. 
  
 Additional Points to Consider: 
  
     This serial introduced the work of incidental music 
  composer Dudley Simpson, who would go on to score 
  many classic Doctor Who stories. 
     If you enjoy "The Planets of Giants," you might 
  also appreciate other classic Doctor Who stories 
  that feature the companions working together 
  to solve problems in unique situations. 
  
 Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch 
 "The Planets of Giants"  depends on your personal preferences 
   and  your  tolerance  for  slower-paced storytelling  with 
   a  focus  on  companionship  and  inventiveness. 
  
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