I'm out of breath... The Web of Fear was outstanding.
Of course I've seen episode 1 many times before but it never tires, especially based on the fact that I knew it wouldn't end after the credits
Watching episode 2 and beyond felt so wrong... It was the story I wanted back the most.
Okay if you want a brief review here goes (NO CRUCIAL SPOILERS): Episode 2 speeds along and you don't even notice Troughton's absence (he was on holiday). Highlights include the shoot-out in the tunnels between the soldiers and the Yeti and the scene where Travers reunites with Jamie and Victoria.
Episode 3 was admittedly a chore to watch based on the fact that is still missing. The fact we still can't see the Brigadier's first appearance is frustrating. But if you can stomach recons, its pretty good, based on recon standards.
Episode 4 was the one which I wanted back out of all the missing episodes. It didn't disappoint. The battle in Convent Gardens between the Yeti and the soldiers is outstanding. The Yeti are quite brutal. Douglas Camfields direction helps. I also thought the scene where the Yeti attack in the shop was nicely done, same with when the trolley is pushed into the web. I can't help imagining if this episode was the one they couldn't find out of the batch...
Episode 5 is more constrained than the previous one in terms of action but the story keeps going well. The part where Troughton is giggling over a Yeti sphere is priceless.
Episode 6 concludes it perfectly. There is a "who done it" kind of thing going on throughout the story regarding one of the cast and although I knew who it was having seen the re-con last year, it's kind of obvious anyway. Won't give it away though, see it yourselves. The last scene with the intelligence is also quite tense...
Theres my take. 10/10. The lack of extras is somewhat irritating (not even a commentary) and the absence of episode 3 hurts but i'm just greatful we have what we have.
Heres to a good outcome regarding the Omnirumour and more returns! With The Web of Fear back mostly, I would now like some season 4 Troughton. Ignoring The Smugglers and The Tenth Planet, there are another 35 Troughton episodes in it. only 7 out of 35 exist. Having something like The Power of the Daleks or The Macra Terror in existence would make it look better...