Verdict:Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is a confirmed HIT based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.6/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure genre.
Answer: Yes, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Science Fiction movies.
It features a runtime of 100 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1976, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora enters the Science Fiction genre with a narrative focused on An alien intelligence hitches a ride onboard the TARDIS to 15th century Italy, where a deranged astrologer attempts to harness its power. Under the direction of Rodney Bennett, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Tom Baker. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora resonates with current cultural themes in the Science Fiction space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora centers on a unique premise within the Science Fiction landscape. An alien intelligence hitches a ride onboard the TARDIS to 15th century Italy, where a deranged astrologer attempts to harness its power. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1976 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora (1976): with an audience rating of 6.6/10, the reception has been generally positive. It is a must-watch for fans of Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.6/10, and global collection metrics, Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora has received mixed reviews with a 6.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure movies, but read reviews first.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora has received mixed reviews with a 6.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure movies, but read reviews first.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is a Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure movie that follows: An alien intelligence hitches a ride onboard the TARDIS to 15th century Italy, where a deranged astrologer attempts to harness its power....
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is classified as Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
Doctor Who: The Masque of Mandragora is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
An alien intelligence hitches a ride onboard the TARDIS to 15th century Italy, where a deranged astrologer attempts to harness its power.
Once again, the steering of the TARDIS proves a bit unreliable as the Mandragora Helix lures it to Earth and to the realm of "Duke Giuliano" (Gareth Armstrong) who has only just recently inherited his title and thereby earned the enmity of "Count Federico" (Jon Laurimore). Now we know that when out time travellers arrive, that is always a precursor to a mystery and this time, the "Doctor" (Tom Baker) and "Sarah Jane" (Elisabeth Sladen) find themselves embroiled in the mysticism of the menacing "Brethren of Demnos". When "Sarah Jane" falls prey to this cult of black-clad people under the increasingly malevolent influence of "Mandragora" and his lackey "Hieronymous", the "Doctor" must try to rescue her from his evil clutches before she does for him! This four part series allows a reliable supporting cast - including Tim Piggott-Smith - to dress up as characters from the 15th century Romagna and has a solid story that, though not especially original, continues to entertain whilst incorporating a little Leonardo da Vinci into some new world thinking on both the religious and scientific fronts. The visual effects are quite effective from time to time and the dense forestry scenario provides well for plenty of bows, arrows and superstition!
