Review of both parts:
I don't think this story is particularly popular among fans and I can understand why as it is rather strange and in some ways less convincing than it should be with various things seeming not to make sense. However, I personally feel it has a very enjoyable dark, magical feel and the acting, production values and the monster all are really good.
The Malus is an effective, menacing evil entity and its appearance is really well achieved. The plot of it influencing events in a village turning Civil War re-enactments to become real in order to gain psychic energy is kind of silly but somehow it does not cross the line for me and remains possible for me to thoroughly enjoy and suspend any disbelief. The story is entertaining with costumes, locations and music which add quality. The acting and characters are mostly really good with Glyn Houston, Polly James, Denis Lill etc all good standard guest stars. The dialogue is often strong and interesting.
Peter Davison is excellent and Mark Strickson is good as Turlough. There is a nicely sinister element involving Tegan that feels rather like The Wicker Man as they want to make her the May Queen. It is a rich and fascinating story, if abit flawed. I like it.
My ratings: Part 1 - 8/10, Part 2 - 8.5/10. Overall - 8.25/10.