I tried watching in the 1980s but was annoyed at the frequent and humorless resort to Deus ex machina when the plot frequently dead-ended.
Perhaps I was spoiled by Monty Python’s humorous use of this technique.
@NWBison
I can't imagine anyone having that problem when Douglas Adams was one of the writers. #4thDoctor
@ClaraListensprechen4
Wow! I loved the entire Hitchhiker’s series.
My attempt at Dr. Who was sometime around 1982-85. I believe I watched at least parts of 2 series. All I can remember now is the Doctor and friend were well and truly trapped, and he pulled something out of thin air to escape. More than once. Had I detected humor in it I would have enjoyed it, but that’s not what I remember.
Some of the dilemmas seemed to be not very well built, but I can’t recall any details.
1/2
@NWBison
The thing about Douglas Adams specifically is that he was a dry satirist and was most likely responsible for poking some sort of fun at dilemma sets.
As it happens, I didn't watch Doctor Who until I discovered Adams was one of the writers--my first introduction to HHGTTG was via BBC World Service on shortwave radio. I didn't start out being a TV watcher.
@NWBison
There's an old, old saying that arose during the advent of television that still applies when one encounters excellent writing:
"Radio--because the pictures are better".
One of Douglas' many talents was that he could evoke mental pictures of the stories he told. He remains one of the best radio script writers, IMHO.
@NWBison
I should add that Douglas' skills as a writer rather spoiled me on Davies. Douglas was filet mignon and Davies a peanutbutter sandwich.
@ClaraListensprechen4
I caught BBC HHGTTG on FM radio in Spokane around 1980. I believe I had read the first book at the time and the rest afterward. Thoroughly enjoyed the radio production, almost as much as the books. I also enjoyed the BBC TV production.
I won’t mention the movie, except that my grandson loves it! What can I say, humans are complex.
BTW my brother and I are also the only Star Wars franchise non-fans in my extended family, but there are aspects I can appreciate.