Aw, I like The Rescue, but then I like almost all Hartnell (I can't stand The Celestial Toymaker and I sort of tolerate The Chase). You are right that it isn't particularly substantial, but I like the cute sixties-ness of it all, summed up by That Rocket. I like the atmosphere too - black and white Who seemed to have an eerie atmosphere that was lost in colour. It probably helps I like the early TARDIS crews, because the focus, as you say, is very much on them here.

I don't think the first Doctor is socially awkward either. At times, he seems very adept at schmoozing authority figures and getting his own way.