The Worst Doctor Who Theme Song Openings: A Comparative Analysis

In the ongoing debate about the best and worst elements of the long-standing BBC series Doctor Who, theme song discussions take center stage. While modern revivals are appreciated by many fans, some episodes are consistently cited as underperforming. Let's dive into the comparative analysis of some of the worst Doctor Who theme song openings.

Overview of Contenders

Throughout the series' history, Doctor Who theme songs have undergone several iterations, each with its unique characteristics and fan reception. Here are the contenders for the worst theme song openings:

11th Doctor's Theme

While the 11th Doctor's visual presentation is notably praised, many fans still find the theme song to be their least favorite. The arrangement by Murray Gold was deemed overly dramatic and not in line with the classic era's tone. This discrepancy between the visuals and the musical score seems to be a recurring issue, as several fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the approach.

1980s Theme

The 1980s theme, particularly the version used from 1986 to 1989, has received mixed reviews. Its heavy use of synthesizers marked a significant departure from the original iconic style. While innovative for its time, the 1980s theme is sometimes perceived as less engaging compared to both the classic and modern versions.

Ultimately, these variations pale in comparison to the original Ron Grainer/Delia Derbyshire version from the 1960s, which set the bar for future themes. The latest theme, despite improvements, is still considered irritating by some fans.

The Derbyshire Variant (Late Jon Pertwee to Tom Baker)

One of the notable contenders is the Derbyshire variant from the late Jon Pertwee to Tom Baker. Fans appreciate the resemblance to earlier versions but note that the removal of the middle eight—the best part of the song—makes it sound monotonous and skippable.

McCoy's Theme Song

McCoy's theme song stands out as one of the worst, not just for its monotonous instrumental but also for the uninspired visuals. By the 6th series, the production team "updated" the intros with CGI, but the result feels more outdated than modern. The instrumental is described as a "long fart," which speaks to the quality and fan reception of this particular iteration.

The 2023 Theme

The 2023 theme song, while generally well-received during the specials, can feel flat without a cold open and next time trailer. Fans recognize the issue particularly during regular series episodes, where the lack of these elements can make the theme less engaging. However, opinions have since evolved, with some fans coming to enjoy it during Series 14 due to the context in which it is presented.

Analysis of Sound and Visual Elements

When evaluating the theme songs, both sound and visual elements are crucial factors. For instance, series 7’s theme is cited as particularly grating, with some fans finding it shrill and lacking in quality. Conversely, series 12’s theme is noted for being too shrill and grating to the ears. Series 7's visuals, on the other hand, are often singled out for their aesthetic appeal, making them a standout in this category.

Overall, the theme songs of Doctor Who have a rich history, with each era bringing its own strengths and weaknesses. While the modern revivals have brought new audiences to the series, some classic themes continue to hold a special place in the hearts of long-time fans.