Doctor Who season 12 episode 4 Recap and FAQ
Episode Summary
Tesla, inspired by Niagara Falls, demonstrates his vision of a world wireless system but faces skepticism, particularly about his claims of receiving signals from Mars. At his lab, a worker's death leads to an investigation, revealing a thief. Tesla and his assistant Dorothy encounter strange beings and The Doctor, who helps them uncover an alien threat from the Skithra, seeking Tesla's help with their technology. Despite Thomas Edison's rivalry and disbelief, Tesla's innovative tower at Wardenclyffe plays a pivotal role in repelling the Skithra attack, showcasing his unappreciated genius and enduring legacy.
Full Episode S12E04 Recap
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Nikola Tesla in the episode?
Nikola Tesla is portrayed as an innovative inventor, working on a world wireless system and struggling with skepticism and financial difficulties.
What is the Niagara Generator?
The Niagara Generator is Tesla's creation, using the power of Niagara Falls to generate electricity and inspire his visions for future inventions.
Who are the Skithra?
The Skithra are the main antagonists, an alien species using stolen technology and seeking Tesla's help to repair their ship.
What is the Orb of Thassor?
The Orb of Thassor is an alien object found by Tesla, originally meant for spreading information, but repurposed by the Skithra for their needs.
What is Tesla's relationship with Thomas Edison in the episode?
Tesla and Edison are depicted as rivals, with Edison skeptical of Tesla's work and accused of spying on him.
Why do the Skithra target Tesla?
The Skithra target Tesla because of his intelligence and ability to repair their stolen technology.
What is the significance of Wardenclyffe Tower in the episode?
Wardenclyffe Tower is Tesla's ambitious project for wireless energy transmission, which plays a key role in defending against the Skithra attack.
How does the episode portray Tesla's legacy?
The episode portrays Tesla's legacy as significant yet underappreciated in his time, with his visions eventually influencing future technology.
What role does The Doctor play in the episode?
The Doctor aids Tesla and his assistant, Dorothy, in understanding and confronting the Skithra threat, and appreciates Tesla's contributions to science.
How is Thomas Edison depicted in the episode?
Thomas Edison is depicted as a successful, pragmatic inventor, contrasting with Tesla's visionary but financially troubled approach.
What is the resolution of the conflict with the Skithra?
The conflict is resolved by using Tesla's tower to send a powerful electrical charge, repelling the Skithra attack.
Does Tesla receive recognition for his work in the episode?
Despite his contributions, Tesla does not receive the recognition or financial success he deserves during the episode.
What is the main theme of the episode?
The main theme revolves around the contrast between visionary innovation (Tesla) and practical invention (Edison), and the unrecognized genius of Tesla.
Are there any historical inaccuracies in the episode?
The episode takes creative liberties for storytelling, particularly regarding the interactions between Tesla, Edison, and the fictional Skithra.
What is hinted at the end of the episode?
The end of the episode hints at a new adventure involving a Judoon warning transmission.
