Stones of Blood (1980) is one of those Baker-era serials that blends folkloric dread with classic sci-fi, delivering a heady cocktail of myth, mystery, and some genuinely eerie visuals. Set in the English countryside, the Fourth Doctor (Tom Baker) faces the Druids—an ancient, malevolent order that draws its power from mystical standing stones.
What makes this serial stand out is its grounding in Celtic mythology and the way it leans into the uncanny. The petrified victims, the twisting moors, and the quiet menace of the Druids all contribute to an unsettling atmosphere that doesn’t rely on high-tech threats or alien invasions. Caroline John (Liz Shaw) would have approved of this deep dive into Britain’s own legends.
Director Pennant Roberts gives the story a visually striking style: long, brooding shots of the stones, shadowed forests, and moments of creeping tension. Anthony Ainley’s portrayal of Eldrad—though brief—foreshadows the kind of menace that would later be explored with the Master.
The serial also showcases Baker at his storytelling best. His Doctor oscillates between dry wit, curiosity, and righteous indignation at the Druids’ machinations. Supporting characters are memorable in their own right, particularly Professor Rumford, whose skeptical nature acts as a foil to the Doctor’s adventurous intellect.
On the downside, some pacing issues and slightly dated effects may pull modern viewers out of the story. Yet the blend of horror, folklore, and Baker-era eccentricity make it a quintessentially “weird and wonderful” Doctor Who adventure.
Verdict: A charmingly creepy story that proves the Baker years could mix myth and mystery as effectively as any high-tech alien threat. Not the most famous of the era, but a hidden gem for fans who love folklore with their sci-fi.
No comments:
Post a Comment