The Edge of Destruction - Masterpiece or Mess?

[rushy]

The fandom seems to be very split on this story either being a brilliant atmospheric thriller or an incoherent cobbled-together bit of filler between bigger stories. 

Personally, this is a story I really want to like for its paranoid vibe, and because I genuinely love the resolution just being a broken switch. I also love the idea of the TARDIS having an artificial intelligence.

However, I can't look past how ridiculously obtuse the TARDIS's attempts to warn the crew are, as well as Susan's completely unexplained mental breakdown (stabbing the chair with the scissors). So for me, it's ultimately an unsalvageable mess. Those elements overshadow the great parts. 

What do you guys think?

[iank]

It's alright.



It's okay.









Doesn't really matter if you're old and grey.

[Deleted]

I just see it as a breezy two parter in between two seven parters. A bit like having a quick wank inbetween two long and steamy sex orgies.

[medicusitic]

It was created as filler for the show. They had to make two more episodes with very little budget. It would probably be preferable to have two episodes of Marco Polo, the Massacre, or the Smugglers than this one, but its fine.

[iank]

Its main job is to smooth out the relationship between the leads and solidify them as a team of friends rather than hostile strangers.

[Spark Doll King]

It's ok, it's one of those short experimental stories in the First Doctor's era. It is however very important because it's the part of the starting arc were the main caste finally get over their issues with eachother, The Doctor finally lightens up to his companions and they can finally start adventuring in time & space proper.

[Ludders II]

I like it.
I wouldn't say it was brilliant or anything, but it does have the Twilight Zone vibe.