The Horns of Nimon

OUT OF PRINT

Starring Tom Baker
4 Episodes
1979
99 minutes (color)
Single Tape

Part of "The End of the Universe" Collection

 

 

Production Notes
Doctor Who
Tom Baker

Romana
Lalla Ward

Voice of K9
David Brierley
Written by
Anthony Read

Directed by
Kenny McBain

Produced by
Graham Williams
Original Airdate
Dec 22, 1979 - Jan 12, 1980

US Video Release Date
October 2003

Warner Home Video
#E1861





Cover Blurb
 

The peaceful planet Aneth was once at war with the mighty Skonnon empire, and now Skonnon spaceships demanding tribute have returned to Anethan skies.  As the final consignment is being taken to Skonnos, an accident forces the ship off-course.

Meanwhile, the Doctor has decided that the TARDIS is in need of an overhaul.  After materializing the TARDIS in deep space, he dismantles most of the ship’s key circuitry.  The incapacitated TARDIS and the Skonnon ship are moving toward a gravity field that could destroy them both.

Back on the Skonnos home planet, the mysterious Nimon has promised new glory to the Skonnon empire on receipt of the tribute from Aneth.  Yet none of the Skonnans have sought to examine the Nimon’s plan for their glorious future.

 

 

 



Additional Notes
  • Although not intended to be so, this story was the last one transmitted for the 17th season of Doctor Who.  The final story was to have been the Douglas Adams 6 parter "Shada."  Sadly, due to a strike at the BBC that story was only partially filmed.  As a result "The Horns of Nimon" finished off the season instead.
  • This is the final story for producer Graham Williams, who took over for Phillip Hinchcliffe 3 years earlier.  The new producer, John Nathan-Turner would take the opportunity to revamp the series in many ways.  "The Horns of Nimon" represents the end of an era for Doctor Who.
  • One departure of note is that of the actor voicing K-9.  David Brierley took over the role for the 17th season only.  John Leeson (the original voice of K-9) was persuaded to return for season 18 by incoming producer John Nathan-Turner.
  • If Soldeed looks familiar, then that's because he is played by veteran actor Graham Crowden (better known as Tom Ballard in the comedy series "Waiting for God").
  • Graham Crowden had at one time been considered for the part of the Doctor.
  • This story is probably remembered best because of Graham Crowden's extremely over the top performance.
  • The VHS release of this story is the last one of the Tom Baker era.  With this release all stories featuring the 4th Doctor are available on VHS (most in complete episodic format).  This is also part of the last batch of Doctor Who VHS titles released in North America.