Doctor Who and The Daleks: In Colour: Blu Ray Review

Released by Madman Home Entertainment
Published by BBC

One of Doctor Who's most iconic adventures was given an edit and a colourisation as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations in 2023.

The second-ever adventure from 1963 sees William Hartnell's Doctor take his very first trip to the Daleks' home world of Skaro, along with companions Barbara and Ian and granddaughter Susan.

Originally a seven-part serial lasting a couple of hours, the edit's culled it down to around 85 minutes - for better or worse. Parts of the serial have been jettisoned in favour of speed, but in the film's final wash, some of the ending feels rushed, sequences of peril feel too quick in their resolution.

Throughout the colourisation is impeccable and it's almost impossible to tell that this was not an original colour series. From oranges and vibrant blues, the show's never felt more alive - and while it's hard to forego some of the edits, the colourisation is sensational.

It's to be hoped more like this are done - especially given a trailer at the end that shows future adventures as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations, but only time will tell.