The very first episode of Doctor Who, “An Unearthly Child,” initially aired in 1963, and thanks to the BBC’s commitment to making its extensive archive accessible, it can be readily viewed through several reputable online platforms. Currently, you can watch the first episode of Doctor Who on BritBox, the streaming service dedicated to British television, often available as part of a subscription through platforms like Amazon Prime Video.
A Journey Through Time to Find the Origin
The quest to watch the genesis of the Doctor’s adventures is a surprisingly simple one, considering the show’s age. However, knowing precisely where to look ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience. Let’s break down the best options:
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BritBox: This is arguably the most consistent and reliable platform for accessing classic Doctor Who. BritBox offers a vast catalog of episodes, including the complete run of “An Unearthly Child” and many other early adventures. Subscribing directly or through Amazon Prime Video’s BritBox channel guarantees access.
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Amazon Prime Video (with BritBox): As mentioned, integrating BritBox into your Amazon Prime Video subscription provides a convenient, all-in-one solution. You’ll be able to browse the Doctor Who section within BritBox without having to navigate to a separate website or application.
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DVD/Blu-ray: For those who prefer a physical medium, the “An Unearthly Child” story is available on DVD and Blu-ray. This option not only offers the episodes but also often includes bonus features, such as documentaries and behind-the-scenes content, providing a deeper dive into the production and context of the episode.
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Legal Streaming Alternatives (Check Availability): Keep an eye on other streaming services that may periodically license episodes of Doctor Who. Services like Apple TV+, Google Play Movies, or even YouTube (legally) can sometimes offer individual episodes or entire series for purchase or rent. However, these are not guaranteed and their availability fluctuates.
It is crucial to emphasize the importance of watching the episode through legal and authorized channels. Downloading from unauthorized sources can be harmful, supporting piracy and potentially exposing your devices to malware.
Deeper Dive: What Makes “An Unearthly Child” So Important?
“An Unearthly Child” isn’t just the beginning; it’s the foundation upon which the entire Doctor Who universe is built. It introduces us to the First Doctor, played by William Hartnell, a mysterious and initially irritable character. We also meet his granddaughter, Susan Foreman, and two schoolteachers, Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright, who become accidental companions on the Doctor’s travels.
The episode is split into two distinct parts:
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Part One (An Unearthly Child): Set in contemporary (1963) London, this segment focuses on Ian and Barbara investigating Susan’s strange behavior and abilities. It culminates in their discovery of the TARDIS, disguised as a police box, and their forced entry into the Doctor’s world. This is the part most people mean when they ask about “the first episode.”
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Parts Two-Four (The Cave of Skulls/The Forest of Fear/The Firemakers): The remaining three parts transport the Doctor, Ian, Barbara, and Susan to a prehistoric landscape, where they become entangled in the power struggles of a group of cavemen. While often considered less engaging than the first part, they are crucial for establishing the show’s format and introducing recurring themes of survival, morality, and exploration.
The episode’s significance lies not only in its historical context but also in its enduring themes. The mystery surrounding the Doctor, the wonder of time travel, and the exploration of different cultures – all these elements, established in “An Unearthly Child,” have continued to define Doctor Who for over six decades.
Doctor Who FAQs: Unlocking the Secrets of Time Travel
Here are some frequently asked questions about watching Doctor Who, focusing on accessibility, episode details, and historical context:
FAQ 1: Why is “An Unearthly Child” considered so groundbreaking?
“An Unearthly Child” was groundbreaking because it combined science fiction, historical settings, and educational elements in a way that was unprecedented for children’s television at the time. It sparked a fascination with time travel, alien life, and historical events, and its innovative storytelling captivated audiences for generations.
FAQ 2: Is “An Unearthly Child” available in color?
Originally broadcast in black and white, “An Unearthly Child” has been colorized by fans. The BBC has also released a digitally remastered version, which enhances the picture quality but remains in black and white, preserving the historical accuracy of the original broadcast.
FAQ 3: Are there any missing episodes from the First Doctor era?
Unfortunately, yes. Due to the BBC’s historical practice of wiping and reusing master tapes, many episodes from the First and Second Doctor eras are missing, including parts of some stories from the First Doctor era. The BBC continues to search for these missing episodes, and occasionally, fragments or even entire episodes are recovered. However, “An Unearthly Child” is complete and readily available.
FAQ 4: What’s the best way to watch Doctor Who episodes in chronological order?
The easiest way is to use a streaming service like BritBox that organizes episodes by series and story arc. Online episode guides are also invaluable resources, providing the correct viewing order and historical context for each episode.
FAQ 5: Is there a “definitive” version of “An Unearthly Child”?
The “definitive” version is subjective. The original broadcast version is considered the most historically accurate. However, the digitally remastered version offers improved picture and sound quality, making it a more enjoyable viewing experience for some. The DVD/Blu-ray releases often contain bonus features that provide valuable context and insight.
FAQ 6: Are subtitles available for “An Unearthly Child”?
Yes, subtitles are generally available on streaming services like BritBox and DVD/Blu-ray releases. These subtitles are helpful for viewers who are hard of hearing or who may struggle to understand the accents or terminology used in the episode.
FAQ 7: How did the TARDIS get its police box disguise?
In “An Unearthly Child,” the TARDIS’s chameleon circuit, which is supposed to disguise it to blend into its surroundings, malfunctioned and became stuck in the shape of a British police box. This explanation has become an iconic part of Doctor Who lore.
FAQ 8: Who were the original companions of the Doctor?
The original companions of the Doctor were his granddaughter, Susan Foreman, and two schoolteachers, Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright. Their adventures with the Doctor in the TARDIS formed the basis for the show’s early years.
FAQ 9: Is “An Unearthly Child” suitable for children?
While the episode is generally considered family-friendly, it may be slow-paced and dialogue-heavy compared to modern television. Some scenes involving the prehistoric cavemen could be mildly unsettling for younger children. Parental guidance is advised.
FAQ 10: How does “An Unearthly Child” connect to later Doctor Who series?
“An Unearthly Child” establishes the core concepts of Doctor Who, including the Doctor’s mysterious origins, the TARDIS, time travel, and the importance of exploration and compassion. These themes have been explored and expanded upon throughout the show’s history. Many characters and concepts introduced later in the series trace their origins back to this first episode.
FAQ 11: Where can I find more information about the making of “An Unearthly Child”?
DVD/Blu-ray releases often include documentaries and behind-the-scenes footage about the making of “An Unearthly Child.” Online resources, such as the Doctor Who Wiki and BBC websites, also provide detailed information about the episode’s production and reception.
FAQ 12: Will there be a remastered or updated version of “An Unearthly Child” in the future?
The BBC is continually working to preserve and enhance its archive. While there are no confirmed plans for a further remastered version of “An Unearthly Child,” it is likely that the episode will continue to be updated and made available in the best possible quality for future generations of viewers. As technologies advance, new opportunities to improve the viewing experience may arise.
By exploring the diverse avenues for accessing “An Unearthly Child” and understanding its enduring legacy, viewers can embark on a truly unforgettable journey through time and space, beginning with the very first step.