By Philip Purser-Hallard

Obverse Books, out now

Obverse Books’ ongoing series of monographs focusing on a Doctor Who serial or story hits the first story of 1989’s Season 26, Battlefield, with author Philip Purser-Hallard taking a look at this generally unloved entry.

Season 26 would be the last full season to be broadcast in the 20th century, and Purser-Hallard makes the point that Battlefield is seen less favourably than the other stories in that season – Ghost Light, The Curse of Fenric and Survival – although it was his own personal favourite Doctor Who story for 16 years. Until The Lie of the Land, Battlefield held the undesirable record for lowest ever viewing figures, but is that a fair reflection on its quality? The case is made that all the right ingredients were there, but a combination of factors led to its shortcomings, though the author here does not attempt to be an apologist for it.

Over the book’s chapters we learn how what reached the screen differed from the original idea and story treatments, how the input (interference?) of script editor Andrew Cartmel and producer John Nathan-Turner led to changes that ultimately were less than satisfying – the killing of Arthur and the saving of the Brigadier. Aaronovitch’s desire to rehabilitate Lethbridge-Stewart and make UNIT more credible are discussed, but was this achieved, and were characters like Bambera really planned to have a life beyond this story?

Purser-Hallard’s analysis continues with a look at how mythology is used in different ways within Doctor Who, and expresses surprise that it took 26 years to use the Arthurian legend so explicitly. And then we get to talk about the Doctor as Merlin, something that fans love or hate, and the author presents a balanced look at both sides of the argument.

Verdict: Battlefield is no classic, and arguably is worthy of the many brickbats thrown at it since 1989. What’s not in doubt is Philip Purser-Hallard’s affection for this runt of Season 26’s litter, and even if he can’t change your opinion, he presents a credible defence and suggests that there’s more to it than you initially thought. 7/10

Nick Joy