David Bradley’s Portrayal of the First Doctor in 'Twice Upon A Time': A Critical Analysis

David Bradley, a renowned actor known for his capabilities in portraying historical and mythological figures, delivered a notable performance as the First Doctor in the 2020 episode 'Twice Upon A Time.' This essay aims to critically analyze Bradley's performance in contrast to Richard Hurndall's portrayal in 'The Five Doctors,' examining the quality of acting, characterization, and the overall execution of the episode.

The Quality of Acting

David Bradley's acting in 'Twice Upon A Time' surpassed that of Richard Hurndall significantly. Bradley's performance in 'An Adventure in Space and Time' had already established him as a believable Hartnell, bringing the actor to life in a way that enhanced the portrayal. Bradley's physical appearance, demeanor, and voice all contributed to a more convincing rendition of the First Doctor.

The Characterization

Despite Bradley's efforts, the characterization of the First Doctor in 'Twice Upon A Time' was notably off the mark. The portrayal of Hartnell's Doctor as overtly sexist, ordering someone to clean the TARDIS based on their gender, and boasting about past relationships with people of the "fairer sex," detracted from the nuanced portrayal of the character. Such elements, while possibly in keeping with the era, failed to align with the development of Hartnell's performance and the evolution of the role.

Humor and Timeliness

The humor in the episode's writing was often misplaced and outdated. Bradley's character's jokes about relationships with women and his boastful demeanor were not humorous, especially given the historical context and the show's broadened views on gender and equality. This casual sexism was treated as a joke, yet the repetition of such elements rendered the humor obsolete. The writing amplified elements to absurd levels, potentially missing the mark on the original show's subtle humor and its evolution over the years.

Audience Reception and Technical Aspects

While the writing's flaws were significant, Bradley's portrayal was overall excellent. His grasp of Hartnell's manner of speech, body language, and general personality was commendable. There were moments when Bradley's performance was so believable that viewers could momentarily forget he was an actor and instead saw William Hartnell reprising his iconic role. Such moments elevated the episode and added a layer of authenticity that was lacking in Hurndall's portrayal in 'The Five Doctors.'

Technological Advancements

The episode benefited from the advancements in makeup and special effects technology since 1983. The budget constraints of the past had limited the ability to fully capture the essence of Hartnell. In contrast, Bradley's portrayal was enhanced by the technological improvements, making it possible to create a more lifelike version of the First Doctor. This led to a more immersive and engaging viewing experience, especially for fans of the series who sought a connection to Hartnell's legacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while David Bradley brought a richer and more nuanced performance as the First Doctor in 'Twice Upon A Time,' the writing's choices erred on the side of over-the-top and outdated humor. The episode was elevated by Bradley's acting and the advancements in special effects but fell short in its ability to accurately represent the original character's evolution. Nevertheless, Bradley's performance remains a standout in the episode, offering a compelling and believable portrayal of Hartnell's Doctor.