Ep 4. The Trial of a Time Lord: Part 4

The fourth episode of season 23 of Classic Doctor Who is titled "The Trial of a Time Lord: Part 4." This episode is the fourth part of a larger story arc featuring the Sixth Doctor (played by Colin Baker) on trial for his life by the Time Lords. The Doctor is accused of meddling in time and breaking the laws of the universe, and the trial serves as a framing device for the events of the season.

In "The Trial of a Time Lord: Part 4," the Doctor continues to defend himself against the charges brought against him. The Valeyard, the prosecutor in the trial who is revealed to be a dark manifestation of the Doctor's own future, presents evidence that the Doctor has interfered in the affairs of the planet Thoros Beta. The Doctor and his companion Mel (played by Bonnie Langford) are summoned to the planet by the mining company Intra-Venus, who are having problems with their drilling operations. The company's director, Mr. Popplewick, believes that the planet's precious ores are being hidden by the primitive tribe of the planet's inhabitants, the Mentors.

When the Doctor and Mel arrive on Thoros Beta, they discover that the Mentors are a peaceful, highly intelligent race who have been forced into hiding by the mining company's destructive activities. The Doctor and Mel befriend the Mentors and learn that they have a special connection to the planet's ecosystem, which is being disrupted by Intra-Venus' drilling. The Doctor tries to negotiate a peaceful resolution between the company and the Mentors, but his efforts are complicated by the arrival of a group of armed mercenaries who have been hired by Intra-Venus to forcibly extract the planet's resources.

As the situation on Thoros Beta escalates, the Doctor becomes determined to uncover the true motivations of the mining company and to protect the Mentors and their planet. Meanwhile, in the courtroom, the trial continues to unfold. The Doctor's erratic behavior and unorthodox methods are contrasted with the Valeyard's cold, calculated approach, and it becomes clear that his fate rests in the hands of the Time Lords.

"The Trial of a Time Lord: Part 4" is a gripping episode that delves deeper into the complex story arc of the Doctor's trial. It features a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as environmentalism, corporate greed, and the responsibilities of power. With stunning sets, impressive special effects, and strong performances from the cast, it is a must-see for all fans of Classic Doctor Who.