Doctor Who: Kinda

Doctor Who: Kinda is a memorable serial in the 19th season of the British television series Doctor Who. First aired by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in 1982, the four-episode arc is particularly noted for its intricate handling of spiritual, psychological, and sociological themes within the typical framework of a science fiction adventure.

The storyline revolves around the Doctor, a mysterious and ageless Time Lord who travels through time and space in his shape-shifting craft, the TARDIS, which is designed to resemble a traditional London Police Box on the outside. In the 19th season, the TARDIS is manned by the Doctor's fifth incarnation, portrayed by the charismatic Peter Davison. Accompanying him are his regular companions: Adric, a mathematical genius from the universe of E-Space, played by Matthew Waterhouse; Nyssa, a noblewoman from the doomed planet of Traken, enacted by Sarah Sutton; and Tegan Jovanka, an Australian air stewardess from 20th century Earth, played by Janet Fielding.

In Kinda, the TARDIS lands on the planet Deva Loka, a peaceful and verdant world that has been selected by humanity as a potential site for settlement. The human expeditionary team is already under stress and misjudges the seemingly simple, primitive society of the native Kinda, a tribe of telepathic beings. The evidence of the harmony between the Kinda and the environment leads the Doctor to realise that Deva Loka is not for humans' taking, but their understanding swiftly unravels in a chaos of fear and distrust.

This narrative notably explores the contrast and conflict between two contrasting societies - one technologically advanced and exploitative, the other primitive but spiritually rich and balanced. The series delves into the complexities of these societies and highlights the philosophical question of the respect one civilization should hold for the other.

At a broader texture, 'Kinda' delves into esoteric and existential zones, sowing the seeds of nightmares into the unconscious mind of Tegan Jovanka. The villainous entity takes the form of her own hidden fears, leading to scenes of significant psychological depth uncommon for mainstream science fiction of the 1980s. This aspect of the series serves to intensify the dramatic value of Kinda and makes for a compelling watch.

The director Peter Grimwade shows a knack for conjuring an atmosphere of genuine unease. With the forest setting, the undulating vegetation of Deva Loka becomes a character in itself, magnifying the sense of alienation and vulnerability among the human expedition team while emphasising the Kinda tribe's at-home ease amidst the serene and omnipresent forest.

Performed during the show's long tenure, Doctor Who: Kinda is another powerful chapter in the ongoing narrative of the Doctor's multiverse-spanning chronicles. Its unique blend of the psychological and the metaphysical separates it from many of the show's other story arcs, making it into a highlight of the Fifth Doctor's tenure.

Through these episodes, the Doctor shows the depth of his character and the many layers of complexity that make him such an intriguing chanticleer of the universe. The series explores elements like self-doubt, survival, and trust, making it a brilliant testament to the show's ability to seamlessly merge serious thematic content with high-concept science-fiction adventure.

Matthew Waterhouse, Sarah Sutton, and Janet Fielding deliver commendable performances. Each character goes through a unique arc that leaves them changed by the experiences they undergo, testament of classic Doctor Who's ability to evolve its characters dramatically.

Doctor Who: Kinda is a fascinating exploration of darker psychological themes within a science fiction context, marking it as a standout among the series' many entries. Its intelligent storytelling and gripping character development make it a must-watch for any fan of the iconic show, wrapping substantial themes and complex human emotions in thrilling, edge-of-the-seat adventure. If you appreciate Doctor Who, love Peter Davison's era, or have a particular interest in narratives that delve into spirituality, mythology, and the human psyche's darker recesses, the Doctor Who: Kinda storyline comes highly recommended.