Review of the Complete Story:
On the face of it, as a DR WHO serial INFERNO sounds a bit odd: a lengthy story in which the Doctor spends much of the running time trapped in an alternate reality doesn't sound too hot. And yet, thanks to quality writing throughout, this turns out to be a rather splendid effort that brings to life the sci-fi staple of alternate realities in a realistic and entertaining way.
The story sees an Earthbound Doctor and his companion Liz Shaw working at a power station which is drilling into the centre of the Earth. Unfortunately, the drilling releases some kind of primordial goo that turns those who touch it into snarling killer werewolves. During the course of the story, the Doctor ends up in an alternate reality where he discovers fatalistic consequences for the Earth itself.
There's plenty of fun to be had here, and the elements are stacked in the story's favour. The nuclear power station setting is an evocative one, and the presence of the Brigadier and his men is as welcome as ever. Jon Pertwee is on top energetic form and we even get a chance to see an 'evil' Brigadier and Liz Shaw, which for novelty value is unique. The 'end of the world' countdown scenario is packed with tension. The addition of the cheesy werewolf villains I'm less sure about it, but at least it ups the pace of the narrative and adds to lots of those fun cliffhanger endings for each of the seven episodes. All in all a sterling effort.