Of all the locations in time and space, it seems that our own Planet Earth is often the focus on Doctor Who. Perhaps this is because of the Doctor’s affinity for the planet that he was, at one point, exiled upon, but for all of the places throughout the universe, Earth is a focal point.
Likewise, this planet seems to be a magnet for invasion by various creatures. Perhaps it is because of that love the Doctor has for Earth, and his enemies are looking to strike not only against him, but against those he protects. As such, quite a few of the adventures on Doctor Who have taken place on our home planet.
Yet, these terrestrial adventures fly in the face of what the Doctor promises. He promises adventures far beyond what can be experienced on Earth, and the ability to travel to areas and worlds that surpass our wildest imaginations. It is that potential to see new planets and meet new species that helps make Doctor Who such an entertaining show to watch.
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That is not to say that every episode needs to take place on some distant planet or in some exotic location. Episodes involving Earth’s past, present, or future, are still interesting when done in moderation. And that seems to be the issue – these episodes, especially those taking place in modern times, seem to make up the vast majority of what the newer seasons to Doctor Who has become. This, more than any other issues with writing, the relationship dynamics, or an inability to portray certain types of characters, may be why some feel as though Doctor Who is not the same program it has been in the past.
It appears as though that is going to change, at least to a degree, in Series Nine. We know there will be a couple of episodes set in the past, as the Doctor and Clara will be exploring areas of history that they have yet to truly delve into on the show. It has been said that this season will have a much different feel than in recent seasons, which will hopefully involve a return to that exploration throughout time and space.
The Doctor has the ability to open worlds of adventure to his companions, bringing them to places that cannot be imagined. It is time for Doctor Who to wander away from Planet Earth, and get back to exploring time and space once again.