Exploring the Best UNIT Stories in Doctor Who

When it comes to determining which UNIT stories in Doctor Who are the best, opinions can be as varied as the Time Lord himself. However, certain episodes often hold significant places in the hearts of fans and critics alike due to their action, mystery, and the iconic characters they introduced. In this article, we'll delve into five notable UNIT stories, exploring what makes them stand out and why they are beloved by many.

The Second Doctor: Invasion of the Dinosaurs

This six-part serial featuring the Second Doctor and introducing the beloved character of Brigadier Alistair Lethbridge-Stewart is a standout among UNIT stories. The story involves the Cybermen attempting to invade Earth, showcasing UNIT's role in defending the planet. The blend of action, suspense, and the introduction of iconic characters like Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart makes it a memorable and beloved tale. Fans and critics often highlight this story as a shining moment in the UNIT narrative.

The Talons of Weng-Chiang

This Third Doctor story, which combines elements of science fiction and political intrigue, is another favorite among viewers. The story revolves around the return of astronauts and a mysterious alien race, with UNIT playing a crucial role in the investigation. The themes explored in this story—such as trust and misunderstanding—add depth and intrigue to the narrative, making it a compelling watch.

The Sontarans: State of play

The two-part series of episodes from the Tenth Doctor's era featuring UNIT in a modern context, dealing with the Sontarans' invasion plans, offer a blend of classic monsters in a contemporary setting. The involvement of former companions and the contemporary storyline contribute to the depth and excitement of the story. This series is particularly notable for its modern twist on a classic Doctor Who element.

Time War: Twice Upon a Time

Twice Upon a Time, while not strictly a UNIT story, prominently features the organization and plays a significant role in its narrative. The multi-Doctor format and UNIT's involvement in the Time War provide a grand scale and emotional weight to the story. Fans appreciate the time-jumping narrative and the complex backstory that UNIT plays in the series.

The Green Death

One of the Third Doctor’s best stories, The Green Death, is a fan favorite. This two-part story deals with themes of identity and conflict, with UNIT playing a pivotal role in mediating between humans and Zygons. Strong writing and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters have made it a symbol of the best UNIT stories. The story also features the doctor cousins Jo Grant and Mike Yates, adding an extra layer of emotional depth and nostalgia for many viewers.

A Real Fan's Pick: The Green Death

As a real fan, my favorite UNIT showcase occurs after the Seventh and before the Eleventh Doctor, where both Jo Grant and Mike Yates are part of the narrative. My favorite UNIT story is The Green Death. This story not only features the iconic Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart but also includes significant character development for Jo Grant, who leaves at the end, giving the story an extra layer of sentimentality. For Mike Yates, his experience in The Green Death leaves a lasting impact, never to be the same again. This story combines action, emotion, and a deep dive into UNIT’s role, making it a standout for its era.

A Close Second: The Mind of Evil

For a runner-up, The Mind of Evil stands out. This story, one of the best featuring the original Master Roger Delgado, offers terrific material for both the Brigadier and the Time Lord. The story's exploration of mind manipulation and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters make it a standout for many fans.

In conclusion, while opinions may differ, these UNIT stories stand out due to their blend of action, emotion, and character development. Whether it's the classic Cybermen invasion in Invasion of the Dinosaurs, the modern twist in The Sontarans: State of Play, or the emotional depth of The Green Death, each story offers a unique take on UNIT's role in the Doctor Who universe.