One of the long-missing episodes of classic Doctor Who, The Underwater Menace, is finally coming to DVD! BBC Worldwide announced yesterday that the serial starring Patrick Troughton will be available from the 26th October, priced at £20.42.
The Underwater Menace is the fifth serial of the fourth season from 1967. The story introduces fan-favourite Jamie McCrimmon (Frazer Hines) on his first journey in the TARDIS. This special release will contain the two re-mastered existing episodes, with the two missing episodes represented with restored audio and surviving stills.
This is a break from the recent tradition of animation being employed to bring the missing episodes to life, as we saw in The Invasion, among others.
Commentary – For episode 1, Interview with actor Michael Troughton Part 2 (from Ice Warriors). For episodes 2 and 3, a commentary with actors Anneke Wills, Frazer Hines and Catherine Howe, special sounds supervisor Brian Hodgson and floor assistant Quentin Mann. For episode 4, archive material featuring Patrick Troughton, directors Julia Smith and Hugh David, and producer Innes Lloyd. Moderated and linked by Toby Hadoke.
A Fishy Tale (Feature, dur. 28’ 30”) – cast and crew look back on the making of the story. With actors Anneke Wills, Frazer Hines and Catherine Howe, AFM Gareth Gwelan, production assistant Berry Butler and new series writer Robert Shearman. Narrated by Peter Davison.
The Television Centre of the Universe – Part Two (dur. 32’ 10” ) – Yvette Fielding continues her tour of BBC Television Centre in the company of actors Peter Davison, Janet Fielding and Mark Strickson, with contributions from former colleagues along the way. With senior camera supervisor Alec Wheal, AFM Sue Hedden, former BBC producer and writer Richard Marson, exhibitions assistant Bob Richardson, production assistant Jane Ashford and videotape engineer Simon Anthony.
