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{{Infobox Story
{{Infobox Story SMW
|image           =The Zygon Inversion doctor and osgood.jpg
|image                 = The Zygon Inversion doctor and osgood.jpg
|series         = [[Doctor Who television stories|''Doctor Who'' television stories]]
|series               = [[Doctor Who television stories|''Doctor Who'' television stories]]
|season number   = Series 9 (Doctor Who)
|season number         = Series 9 (Doctor Who 2005)
|series episode number = 8
|series episode number = 8
|story number   = 258b
|story number         = 258b
|doctor         = Twelfth Doctor
|novelisation         = The Zygon Invasion (novelisation)
|companions      = [[Clara Oswald|Clara]]
|scripturl            = https://www.bbc.co.uk/writersroom/documents/doctor-who-9-episode-8-inversion-of-the-zygons-shooting-script-010515.pdf
|featuring       = Petronella Osgood|Osgood
|doctor                = Twelfth Doctor
|featuring2     = Kate Stewart
|featuring             = Petronella Osgood
|enemy           = [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]], [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]]
|featuring2           = Kate Stewart
|setting         = [[London]], [[21st century]]
|featuring3            = Clara Oswald
|writer         = [[Peter Harness]], [[Steven Moffat]]
|enemy                 = [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]]
|director       = [[Daniel Nettheim]]
|setting               = [[London]], [[21st century]]
|producer       = [[Peter Bennett]]
|writer               = Peter Harness, Steven Moffat
|broadcast date = [[7 November (releases)|7 November]] [[2015 (releases)|2015]]
|director             = [[Daniel Nettheim]]
|network         = [[BBC One]]
|producer             = [[Peter Bennett]]
|format         = 1x50 minute episode
|broadcast date       = 7 November 2015
|prev           = The Zygon Invasion (TV story)
|network               = BBC One
|next           = Sleep No More (TV story)
|format               = 1x50 minute episode
|made prev       = The Zygon Invasion (TV story)
|prev                 = The Zygon Invasion (TV story)
|made next       = Face the Raven (TV story)
|next                 = Sleep No More (TV story)
|trailer         = The Zygon Inversion Trailer - Series 9 Episode 8 - Doctor Who - BBC
|made prev             = The Zygon Invasion (TV story)
|trailer2       =  
|made next             = Face the Raven (TV story)
|clip           = Good Clara vs Bad Clara - The Zygon Inversion Preview - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
|trailer               = The Zygon Inversion Trailer - Series 9 Episode 8 - Doctor Who - BBC
|clip2           = Zygon Transformation - The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who - BBC
|trailer2             =  
|clip3           = The Doctor's Speech - The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who - BBC
|clip                 = Good Clara vs Bad Clara - The Zygon Inversion Preview - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
|bts             = Introduction to The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
|clip2                 = Zygon Transformation - The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who - BBC
|bts2           = Steven Moffat's teaser to The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
|clip3                 = The Doctor's Speech - The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who - BBC
|bts3           =Human or Zygon - Doctor Who Series 9 (2015) - BBC  
|bts                   = Introduction to The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
}}
|bts2                 = Steven Moffat's teaser to The Zygon Inversion - Doctor Who Series 9 Episode 8 (2015) - BBC
'''''{{StoryTitle}}''''' was the eighth episode of the [[series 9 (Doctor Who)|ninth series]] of ''[[Doctor Who]]'' produced by [[BBC Wales]].
|bts3                 = Human or Zygon - Doctor Who Series 9 (2015) - BBC  
}}{{you may|The Zygon Inversion (in-universe)|n1=the episode of Doctor Who that exists within the DWU}}
'''''The Zygon Inversion''''' was the eighth episode of [[Series 9 (Doctor Who 2005)|series 9]] of ''[[Doctor Who]]''.


This episode saw the [[Twelfth Doctor]] describe the immense pain he felt while fighting in the [[Last Great Time War|Time War]] in an emotional and angry speech for the first time since [[Eleventh Doctor|his predecessor]] discovered that the [[War Doctor]] had not destroyed [[Gallifrey]] in ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]''. It also revealed that there are two [[Osgood Box]]es, and their design is based on that of [[the Moment]]; this symbolises how [[the Doctor]] nearly destroyed his entire race with a box in ''The Day of the Doctor'', just as [[Kate Stewart|Kate]] and [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]] were about to destroy theirs.
This episode dealt with the concept of [[war]], and the consequences of it. As the Doctor points out, no matter how many lives are lost or what destruction ensues, it always boils down to both sides sitting down for negotiation. The episode also saw the [[Twelfth Doctor]] describe the immense pain he felt while fighting in the [[Last Great Time War|Time War]] in an emotional and angry speech for the first time since [[Eleventh Doctor|his predecessor]] discovered that the [[War Doctor]] had not destroyed [[Gallifrey]] in ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'', demonstrating and showing that, while the Doctor had been absolved of the weight of destroying Gallifrey and the Time Lords after discovering they had survived, his actions as the War Doctor during the majority of the Time War had left the Doctor with severe PTSD and an immense amount of guilt.


It did not elaborate if the human [[Petronella Osgood|Osgood]] or [[Zygon]] double was still alive, instead having Bonnie fill the vacancy in the form of a replacement double for the one of the two who had been killed by {{Gomez}} in ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]''. Osgood explains that she can be either version; Zygons don't need the person that they copy if their memories are unneeded. In a behind the scenes extra, [[Ingrid Oliver]], who played Osgood, has chosen which of the original Osgood duo is left; she keeps which one she picked a secret.
It did not elaborate if the human [[Petronella Osgood|Osgood]] or [[Zygon]] double was still alive, instead having Bonnie fill the vacancy in the form of a replacement double for the one of the two who had been killed by [[Missy]] in ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]''. Osgood explains that she can be either version; Zygons don't need the person that they copy if their memories are unneeded. In a behind the scenes extra, [[Ingrid Oliver]], who played Osgood, has chosen which of the original Osgood duo is left, but she kept which one she picked a secret.
 
It also saw a new way of Zygon-transformation for the first time, showing the immense pain of a lengthy forced transformation from human-form into Zygon-form.
 
This episode also deals with the concept of [[war]], and the consequences of it. As the Doctor points out, no matter how many lives are lost or what destruction ensues, it always boils down to both sides sitting down for negotiation.


== Synopsis ==
== Synopsis ==
With the splinter group of [[Zygon]]s now ahead of [[Twelfth Doctor|the Doctor]], there is only one thing standing in their way of obliterating the [[Human|human race]] and taking the [[Earth]] for themselves: a moral dilemma!
With the splinter group of [[Zygon]]s now ahead of [[Twelfth Doctor|the Doctor]], there is only one thing standing in their way of obliterating the [[Human|human race]] and taking the [[Earth]] for themselves: a moral dilemma!


Is [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]] willing to compromise the peace already in place, just for the sake of Zygons not needing to hide, even if it means making enemies not only of humanity, but of her own race?
Is [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]] willing to compromise the peace already in place, just for the sake of Zygons not needing to hide, even if it means making enemies not only of humanity but of her own race?


== Plot ==
== Plot ==
[[Clara Oswald|Clara]] awakens in her apartment, deciding to get ready for the day; however, when she tries to brush her teeth, she finds black gunk coming out of the toothpaste tube. Tossing it aside, Clara soon hears [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]]'s voice taunting the Doctor, finding her living room television filled with static. She quickly checks a magazine, finding it filled with gibberish, except for the words she hears Bonnie speaking; she's dreaming. Running through her apartment, Clara finds walls blocking her door and windows. In the real world, Clara spasms as if trying to wake up.
[[Clara Oswald|Clara]] awakens in her apartment, deciding to get ready for the day; she grabs a white tube that only has black letters spelling "This is toothpaste". However, when she attempts to use it, black gunk comes out of it, making Clara drop the tube and toothbrush. Clara soon hears [[Bonnie (The Zygon Invasion)|Bonnie]]'s voice taunting the Doctor, finding her living room television filled with static. She quickly checks a magazine, finding it filled with gibberish, except for the words she hears Bonnie speaking; she's dreaming. Running through her apartment, Clara finds walls blocking her door and windows. In the real world, Clara spasms as if trying to wake up.


Grabbing a remote, Clara manages to have her television show her what Bonnie is looking at; Bonnie has [[Boat One]] in the cross-hairs of a bazooka. Realising [[Twelfth Doctor|the Doctor]] is in danger, Clara knocks her television over. As a result, Bonnie's arms fly to her left the moment she fires the rocket, changing its trajectory. It flies just past Boat One, with the Doctor and Osgood noting that she missed them.
Grabbing a remote, Clara manages to tune her dream to Bonnie's consciousness, allowing what the Zygon is looking at to appear on the television screen. Bonnie has [[Boat One]] in the cross-hairs of a bazooka. Realising [[Twelfth Doctor|the Doctor]] is in danger, Clara knocks her television over. As a result, Bonnie's arms fly to her left the moment she fires the rocket, changing its trajectory. It flies just past Boat One, with the Doctor and Osgood noting that she missed them.


Bonnie passes this off as a spasm, reloading her bazooka. Seeing that Bonnie is targeting the Doctor again, Clara tries to toss the television aside again, but finds it stuck. Frantically thinking, Clara tries using her link with Bonnie to force her to hold off on firing another shot. Finding herself losing, Clara bites her finger, hoping to stop Bonnie; however, the Zygon gets her shot off and blows up Boat One successfully this time. Bonnie smiles at the smouldering remains of the plane falling through the sky.
Bonnie passes this off as a spasm, reloading her bazooka. Seeing the television back up, with Bonnie is targeting the Doctor again, Clara tries to toss the television aside again but finds it stuck. Frantically thinking, Clara tries using her link with Bonnie to force her to hold off on firing another shot. Finding herself losing, Clara bites her finger, hoping to stop Bonnie; however, the Zygon gets her shot off and blows up Boat One successfully this time. Bonnie smiles at the smouldering remains of the plane falling through the sky.


Later, members of [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]] have murdered more humans in [[London]], and covered the area with their symbol as a message. Returning to their human forms, most lounge around the area while one in the form of sanitation engineer sweeps up the remains of their victims. A man, [[Etoine]], is running in fear with his shopping bags; he trips, losing his shopping. Fearful of what's behind him, he leaves the bags behind and runs into the nearby apartment complex. Moments later, Bonnie approaches calmly, with a smile on her face.
Later, members of [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]] have murdered more humans in [[London]], and covered the area with their symbol as a message. Returning to their human forms, most lounge around the area while one in the form of sanitation engineer sweeps up the remains of their victims. A man, [[Etoine]], is running in fear with his shopping bags; he trips, losing his shopping. Fearful of what's behind him, he leaves the bags behind and runs into the nearby apartment complex. Moments later, Bonnie approaches calmly, with a smile on her face.


Etoine gets to his home and locks the door; hearing a knocking, he looks out to see Bonnie. He runs further inside, as Bonnie forces the door open; she corners him in his living room. It turns out that Etoine is a Zygon. Bonnie tells him that the humans will never accept them for who they really are, and that he will be the first to make them see. Despite his pleas to leave him alone, Bonnie zaps his head, prompting Etoine to flee. She follows with a dark smile on her face.
Etoine gets to his home and locks the door; hearing a knocking, he looks out to see Bonnie. He runs further inside, as Bonnie forces the door open; she corners him in his living room. It turns out that Etoine is a Zygon. Bonnie tells him that the humans will never accept them for who they really are and that he will be the first to make them see. Despite his pleas to leave him alone, Bonnie zaps his head, prompting Etoine to flee. She follows with a dark smile on her face. Outside, Etoine asks his fellow Zygons to help him maintain his disguise, but they ignore him. Unable to keep his human form, Etoine completely reverts back to Zygon form; hoping to avoid causing a panic, he runs into the nearest building.


Outside, Etoine asks his fellow Zygons to help him maintain his disguise, but they ignore him because they work for Bonnie. Unable to keep his human form, Etoine completely reverts back to Zygon form; hoping to avoid causing a panic, he runs into the nearest building.
[[File:Bonnie films Etoine.jpg|thumb|200x200px|Bonnie films Etoine.]]
[[File:Bonnie films Etoine.jpg|thumb|220x220px|Bonnie films Etoine]]
Unknown to Etoine, Bonnie was merely using him as a pawn; she recorded his transformation on Clara's phone. She posts it on the internet to spread panic and paranoia among the humans, hoping to force the rest of the Zygons to join the splinter group. With this task done, Bonnie informs [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]] that she is heading to the UNIT HQ to retrieve the [[Osgood Box]] to start the war against humanity.
Unknown to Etoine, Bonnie was merely using him as a pawn; she recorded his transformation. She posts it on the internet to spread panic and paranoia among the humans, hoping to force the rest of the Zygons to join the splinter group. With this task done, Bonnie informs [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences ]]that she is heading to the UNIT HQ to retrieve the [[Osgood Box]] to ignite a war.


At the same time, Clara reviews Bonnie's memory of seeing Boat One explode. She pauses it and looks closer at the scene. Two dots are seen falling away the moment the plane exploded; she smiles, realising that the Doctor parachuted away from the plane right as it blew up.
At the same time, Clara reviews Bonnie's memory of seeing Boat One explode on the television in her dream. She pauses it and looks closer at the scene. Two dots are seen falling away the moment the plane exploded; she smiles, realising that the Doctor parachuted away from the plane right as it blew up.


On a beach, Osgood frees herself from her chute and notices her glasses are broken. The Doctor asks her if she has any question, to which she asks about the Union Jack on his chute; he responds that it's camoufluge for being in Brittan. He offers Osgood his sonic sunglasses in the meantime, telling her not to look at his user history; she finds the idea of sonic eye-wear silly. She then catches him talking nonsense to distract her, one of his best known traits. Osgood then tells him that Bonnie made the mistake of giving him a chance; if she wanted to takeover Earth, she would kill him outright with a bullet between the eyes for each regeneration and not let him talk. The Doctor notes how oddly prepared Osgood is for that scenario; she tells him it's because she's such a big fan.
On a beach, Osgood frees herself from her chute and notices her glasses are broken. The Doctor asks her if she has any question, to which she asks about the [[Union Jack]] on his chute; he responds that it's camouflage to blend in while he's in Britain. He offers Osgood his sonic sunglasses in the meantime, telling her not to look at his user history; she finds the idea of sonic eye-wear silly. The Doctor tells her he once invented an [[Invisibility watch|invisible watch]] - "spot the design flaw." Osgood tells him that he's talking nonsense to distract her, one of his best-known traits. Osgood then tells him that Bonnie made the mistake of giving him a chance; if she wanted to take over Earth, she would kill him outright with a bullet between the eyes twelve [[Regeneration cycle|times]] and not let him talk. The Doctor notes how oddly prepared Osgood is for that scenario; she tells him it's because she's such a big fan.


As the Doctor and Osgood trek on, she notes that it's rather odd that Bonnie didn't blow them up with her big bazooka. However, the Doctor retorts "this is us blown up by a big bazooka". Osgood explains that if Bonnie had Clara's memories, she would know better than to give him a chance as that will come back to haunt her. Realising the Doctor has gone silent because she's mentioned Clara, Osgood asks how he's feeling; the Doctor says he's still in his "[[hope]] phase". When Osgood asks him how that is, he tells her it's Hell and to change the subject.
As the Doctor and Osgood trek on, she notes that it's rather odd that Bonnie didn't blow them up with her big bazooka. However, the Doctor retorts "this is us blown up by a big bazooka". Osgood explains that if Bonnie had Clara's memories, she would know better than to give him a chance as that will come back to haunt her. Realising the Doctor has gone silent because she's mentioned Clara, Osgood asks how he's feeling; the Doctor says he's still in his "[[hope]] phase". When Osgood asks him how that is, he tells her it's Hell and to change the subject.
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Elsewhere, Bonnie is walking through the streets. Unknown to her, Clara uses their link to manipulate her right hand; Clara is using her phone to text. The Doctor gets the text, which says "I'm awake.' Wondering if it means a political awakening, he becomes confused as to why the Zygon is sending him propaganda if it thinks it blew him up. However, Osgood tells him that it came from Clara, telling the Doctor that she's fighting back. She asks how his hope phase is, to which the Doctor says is worse than ever. Smiling, Osgood tells him that they have a game now.
Elsewhere, Bonnie is walking through the streets. Unknown to her, Clara uses their link to manipulate her right hand; Clara is using her phone to text. The Doctor gets the text, which says "I'm awake.' Wondering if it means a political awakening, he becomes confused as to why the Zygon is sending him propaganda if it thinks it blew him up. However, Osgood tells him that it came from Clara, telling the Doctor that she's fighting back. She asks how his hope phase is, to which the Doctor says is worse than ever. Smiling, Osgood tells him that they have a game now.


Bonnie enters the UNIT base and opens a safe behind the portrait of the Doctor's [[First Doctor|original incarnation]]. She finds a laptop inside and turns it on. A message from the two Osgoods plays, explaining that if they were captured and interrogated, they gave up the location of this laptop. However, the Osgood Box is not there; they firmly explain that it's the truth and further looking would be a waste of time. They smile, asking the watcher if they've figured out why it's called an Osgood Box. Seething with anger, Bonnie snarls and tosses the laptop to the ground, stomping on the worthless device until it's in small pieces.
Bonnie enters the UNIT base and opens a safe behind the portrait of the Doctor's [[First Doctor|original incarnation]]. She briefly notices her reflection in the mirror is wrong, displaying Clara in her [[pyjamas]] from the dream, but when she goes back to check her reflection is normal. She finds a laptop inside and turns it on. A message from the two Osgoods plays, explaining that if they were captured and interrogated, they gave up the location of this laptop. However, the Osgood Box is not there; they firmly explain that it's the truth and further looking would be a waste of time. They smile, asking the watcher if they've figured out why it's called an Osgood Box. Seething with anger, Bonnie snarls and tosses the laptop to the ground, stomping on the worthless device until it's in small pieces.


Back on the beach, the Doctor and Osgood see a police car. Racing up to it, the Doctor passes himself off as "Dr John Disco", telling the officers that his plane blew up, but there's nothing to worry about. However, the officers don't appear that surprised by what he's telling them. Worrying that they may be Zygons from the splinter group [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]], the Doctor and Osgood begin walking away. However, another pair of officers begin approaching from where they came from.
Back on the beach, the Doctor and Osgood see a [[police car]]. Racing up to it, the Doctor passes himself off as "Dr John Disco", telling the [[police officer|officers]] that his plane blew up, but there's nothing to worry about. However, the officers don't appear that surprised by what he's telling them. Worrying that they may be Zygons from the splinter group [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]], the Doctor and Osgood begin walking away. However, another pair of officers begin approaching from where they came from. Seems like the Doctor was right about the officers being Zygons; humans would be excited and endlessly questioning them.


Osgood video calls Clara's phone, surprising Bonnie that they're still alive. Taking the phone, the Doctor asks what the plan is, only for Bonnie to say she doesn't have one; he tells "you don't invade a planet without a plan; that's why they're called planets, to remind you to plan it." Bonnie asks him where the Osgood box is, winking due to Clara trying to signal the Doctor. Thinking the Zygon is flirting with him, he states "I'm old enough to be [[Jesus Christ|your messiah]]".
Osgood video calls Clara's phone, surprising Bonnie that they're still alive. Taking the phone, the Doctor asks what the plan is, only for Bonnie to say she doesn't have one; he tells "you don't invade a planet without a plan; that's why they're called planets, to remind you to plan it." Bonnie asks him where the Osgood box is, winking due to Clara trying to signal the Doctor. Thinking the Zygon is flirting with him, he states "I'm old enough to be [[Jesus Christ|your messiah]]". However, Bonnie insists that she isn't winking; realising it's Clara, the Doctor tells Osgood to use the [[sonic sunglasses]] to break into a nearby van. As Clara wouldn't know [[morse code]], the Doctor learns from her winks, which stand for "yes", that her pod is in London; he then tells Clara not to let the Zygon know what's in her mind. Boarding the van, he is told by Osgood that obviously Bonnie heard that; he smiles, knowing that - "The mind of Clara Oswald; she'll never find her way out."


However, Bonnie insists that she isn't winking; realising it's Clara, the Doctor tells Osgood to use the [[sonic sunglasses]] to break into a nearby van. As Clara wouldn't know [[morse code]], the Doctor learns from her winks (which stand for "yes") that her pod is in London; he then tells Clara not to let the Zygon know what's in her mind. Boarding the van, he is told by Osgood that obviously Bonnie heard that; he smiles, knowing that - "The mind of Clara Oswald; she'll never find her way out."
At the Zygon nest, Bonnie approaches the pod holding Clara and telepathically talks to her; Bonnie appears on the TV screen in Clara's dream. Clara uses the link to force Bonnie back to Zygon form briefly. However, upon saying she's a great liar, Clara is shocked when Bonnie tells her they share a pulse and will be monitoring it to make sure she's telling the truth; one lie and Bonnie will kill her. Bonnie interrogates her, learning the [[Osgood Box]] is at the [[Black Archive]] under the [[Tower of London]] and that Clara does have access. Bonnie is then surprised to learn Clara can't ''give'' her the access, because she already has it; she has Clara's bodyprint, so she automatically has access. However, Clara taunts Bonnie, saying though she's given this information, the Zygon will still need her. "[[Kate Stewart|Kate]]" arrives, explaining the Doctor is on his way; Bonnie orders that he be copied, if possible, but disposed of.


At the Zygon nest, Bonnie approaches the pod holding Clara and telepathically talks to her; Bonnie appears on the TV screen in Clara's dream. Clara uses the link to force Bonnie back to Zygon form briefly. However, upon saying she's a great liar, Clara is shocked by the news that Bonnie shares her pulse and will be monitoring it to make sure she's telling the truth. Bonnie interrogates her, learning that the [[Osgood Box]] is at the [[Black Archive]] under the [[Tower of London]], and that Clara does has access. Bonnie is then surprised to learn Clara can't ''give'' her the access, because she already has it; she has Clara's boydprint, so she automatically has access. However, Clara taunts Bonnie, saying that even though she's given this information, the Zygon will still need her. "[[Kate Stewart|Kate]]" arrives, explaining that the Doctor is on his way; Bonnie orders that he be copied, if possible, but disposed.
[[File:FleetEstateCentre.jpg|left|thumb|200x200px|Etoine's hiding place.]]
[[File:FleetEstateCentre.jpg|left|thumb|200x200px|Etoine's hiding place]]
On their way back to London, Osgood finds the video Bonnie posted on the Internet. Recognizing the location, the Doctor and Osgood head to south London shopping centre the [[Fleet Estate Centre]]. Exiting the van, the Doctor declares that London is a cradle of culture - "what a dump." Osgood counters the Doctor's comment by noting that he's spent a lot of time here for not liking the place. The Doctor points out that he also spends a lot of time almost getting killed; that doesn't mean he has to like the experience.
Seeing the video Bonnie posted on the Internet, the Doctor and Osgood head to find the Zygon she attacked in the south London shopping centre the [[Fleet Estate Centre]]. Exiting the van, the Doctor declares that London is a cradle of culture - "what a dump." Osgood counters the Doctor's comment by noting that he's spent a lot of time here for not liking the place. The Doctor points out that he also spends a lot of time almost getting killed; that doesn't mean he has to like the experience.


Entering the Centre, they find several piles of dead people. The Doctor asks Osgood for her first name, but she asks for his; going with "Basil", the Doctor learns her full name is [[Petronella Osgood]]. Not liking it, he tells her they should stick to what they had. They see Etonie and run after him. Cornered, Etoine explains he was just defending himself. Having trouble keeping his human form due to the zap Bonnie gave him, he says he didn't want to be a part of their war. They try offering help; however, he thinks they may be more of Bonnie's stooges. Not wanting to live under the rule of [[Truth or Consequences]], Etoine kills himself out of fear. Kate arrives with two guards, telling the Doctor and Osgood that she knows where the nest is; it's also where Clara's pod is. The Doctor is elated by the news, telling Kate to lead the way.
Entering the Centre, they find several piles of dead people. The Doctor asks Osgood for her first name, but she asks for his name; going with "Basil", the Doctor learns her full name is [[Petronella Osgood]]. Not liking it, he tells her they should stick to what they had. They see Etonie hiding near by, and give chase when he runs at the sight of them. Cornered, Etoine explains he was just defending himself; he didn't want to kill those humans. Having trouble keeping his human form due to the zap Bonnie gave him, he says he didn't want to be a part of their war. They try offering help; however, he thinks they may be more of Bonnie's stooges. Not wanting to live under the rule of [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]], Etoine kills himself out of fear. Kate arrives with two guards, telling the Doctor and Osgood that she knows where the nest is; it's also where Clara's pod is. The Doctor is elated by the news, telling Kate to lead the way.


At the Black Archive, Bonnie skips to the storage room. Smiling, she tells Clara it's so much fun being her, as she just got waged through for simply looking like Clara Oswald. Behind her, two disguised Zygons are wheeling Clara's pod after Bonnie; they likely passed it off as material for storage there.
At the Black Archive, Bonnie skips to the storage room. Smiling, she tells Clara it is so much fun being her, as she just got waved through for simply looking like Clara Oswald. Behind her, two disguised Zygons are wheeling Clara's pod after Bonnie. However, the moment she enters the room, her smile fades at the sight of the [[Osgood Box]].


At the Zygon nest, Kate attempts to show the Doctor where Clara's pod is, only to find it missing. However, the Doctor then realises that he just walked into a trap; the guards turn back into Zygon form. Bonnie calls to gloat, but soon finds out why the device is called the "Osgood" Box - there's two of them. Bonnie has Clara awakened, but learns she doesn't know which of the boxes is the right one; Clara points out that Bonnie should have already known this because their minds are linked.[[File:The Zygon Inversion doctor and osgood.jpg|thumb|220x220px|The Doctor and Osgood, surprised by Kate]]With Clara threatened, the Doctor is forced to tell Bonnie that the red one will revert the Zygons to normal, while the blue one kills them. However, much to Bonnie increasing anger, there are two buttons in both boxes, and the each say Truth and Consequences. "Operation Double, two Osgoods; what did you expect?" the Doctor laughs. He refuses to tell which button does which, making Bonnie order his execution. However, Kate shoots the Zygons instead. A surprised Doctor asks who she is, to which Kate says "I'm me".
At the Zygon nest, Kate attempts to show the Doctor where Clara's pod is, only to find it missing. However, the Doctor then realises that he just walked into a trap; the guards turn back into Zygon form. Bonnie calls the Zygons, explaining that she found out why it's called an Osgood Box - there's two of them. "Operation Double, two Osgoods; what did you expect?" the Doctor laughs. Bonnie has Clara awakened, but learns she doesn't know which of the boxes is the right one; Clara points out that Bonnie should have already known this because their minds are linked. When Bonnie threatens to kill Clara to force his cooperation, the Doctor explains the blue one will revert the Zygons to normal, while the red one kills them. However, much to Bonnie increasing anger, there are two buttons in both boxes, and both say Truth and Consequences. He refuses to tell which button does which, making Bonnie order his execution.


When [[C. Norlander|the Zygon]] attacked her back in [[New Mexico]], Kate emptied her gun into it and took its place to get close to Bonnie. Kate apologizes to the Doctor, knowing he isn't a fan of killing, but would approve of it if done in self-defense. She then smashes the communicator, asking who Osgood is; Osgood states she is herself. Kate then wonders if that means she's human or Zygon; however, Osgood firmly tells her that she is Osgood and no-one else. The Doctor tells them they need to get to the Black Archive.  
[[File:The Zygon Inversion doctor and osgood.jpg|thumb|200x200px|The Doctor and Osgood, surprised by Kate.]]
However, Kate shoots the Zygons dead instead. A surprised Doctor asks who she is, to which Kate says "I'm me". When [[C. Norlander|the Zygon]] attacked her back in [[New Mexico]], Kate emptied her gun into it and took its place to get close to Bonnie. Kate apologises to the Doctor, knowing he isn't a fan of killing, but would approve of it if done in self-defence. She then smashes the communicator, asking who Osgood is; Osgood states she is herself. Kate then wonders if that means she's human or Zygon; however, Osgood firmly tells her that she is Osgood and no-one else. The Doctor tells them they don't have time for this; they need to get to the Black Archive.


At the Black Archive, Bonnie is left to wonder which box to use. Clara tells her that she can't win; however, Bonnie voices the fact that she doesn't care. The Doctor, Osgood and Kate arrive, with the Doctor asking to be let to take the boxes away; without them to cause any more senseless slaughter, they can move on to forgiving and forgetting about [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]]' attempt to break the ceasefire. However, Bonnie is defensive, believing that she won't be forgiven for all the deaths she caused.
At the Black Archive, Bonnie is pondering her next move. Clara tells her that she can't win; however, Bonnie voices the fact that she doesn't care. The Doctor, Osgood and Kate arrive, with the Doctor asking to be let to take the boxes away; without them to cause any more senseless slaughter, they can move on to forgiving and forgetting about [[Truth or Consequences (group)|Truth or Consequences]]' attempt to break the ceasefire. However, Bonnie is defensive, believing that she won't be forgiven for all the deaths she caused.


Kate goes over to the red box, ready to use it to defend the human race, while Bonnie goes to the blue one, ready to liberate the Zygons. The Doctor tells them Bonnie's box will either cause the Zygons to revert to their true forms for an hour or cancels their ability to change form, thus making them human for good; Kate's box will either release "[[Z-67|imbecile's gas]]" (a gas poisonous to Zygons created by [[Harry Sullivan]]) into the atmosphere or detonate the [[nuclear warhead]] beneath the Black Archive, destroying London.  
Kate goes over to the red box, ready to use it to defend the human race, while Bonnie goes to the blue one, ready to liberate the Zygons. The Doctor tells them Bonnie's box will either cause the Zygons to revert to their true forms for an hour or cancels their ability to change form, thus making them human for good; Kate's box will either release "[[Z-67|imbecile's gas]]" (a gas poisonous to Zygons created by [[Harry Sullivan]]) into the atmosphere or detonate the [[nuclear warhead]] beneath the Black Archive, destroying London.
 
"There are safeguards beyond safeguards. I did this on a very important day for me. This ceasefire ''will'' stand." the Doctor declares to both Kate and Bonnie.


''"There are safeguards beyond safeguards. I did this on a very important day for me. This ceasefire '''WILL''' stand."'' the Doctor declares to both Kate and Bonnie.
[[File:Zygon guards (The Zygon Invasion).jpg|left|thumb|184x184px|Clara, held hostage]]
[[File:Zygon guards (The Zygon Invasion).jpg|left|thumb|184x184px|Clara, held hostage]]
The Doctor asks Bonnie what it actually is that she wants, to which she answers: war. He then asks her to paint a picture of what the future will be like; will there be music, jobs, etc? As she can't give an answer, the Doctor scolds her, telling Bonnie that she's like [[Dictator|every other tantruming child]]; she doesn't actually know what she wants. He further asks what will Bonnie do once everything is right and just, with all "the bad guys" gone, what will protect her "glorious revolution" from the next, because there will still be [[rebel]]s in any species. When Bonnie says that [[Truth or Consequences (group)|they]] will continue to win, the Doctor says that they might, but NOBODY wins for long.
The Doctor asks Bonnie what it actually is that she wants, to which she answers: war. He then asks her to paint a picture of what the future will be like; will there be music, jobs, etc? As she can't give an answer, the Doctor scolds her, telling Bonnie that she's like [[Dictator|every other tantruming child]]; she doesn't actually know what she wants. He further asks what will Bonnie do once everything is right and just, with all "the bad guys" gone, what will protect her "glorious revolution" from the next, because there will still be [[rebel]]s in any species. When Bonnie says that [[Truth or Consequences (group)|they]] will continue to win, the Doctor says that they might, but NOBODY wins for long.


With both Kate and Bonnie willing to press their buttons on the gamble of a 50-50 chance, the Doctor can't resist making fun of the situation like a game show announcer; he then snaps at them, yelling that isn't a game, but a scale model of every single war in the universe's history. The Doctor continues, saying no matter how right you feel at the beginning, you don't know who's going to die, whose families are going to be torn apart, whose lives are ruined forever. This situation right now in the Black Archive is what it every single war always boils down to: ''"Sit down and talk!"''  
With both Kate and Bonnie willing to press their buttons on the gamble of a 50-50 chance, the Doctor can't resist making fun of the situation like a game show announcer; he then snaps at them, yelling that isn't a game, but a scale model of every single war in the universe's history. The Doctor continues, saying no matter how right you feel at the beginning, you don't know who's going to die, whose families are going to be torn apart, whose lives are ruined forever. This situation right now in the Black Archive is what it every single war always boils down to; what both sides should have done at the very beginning: ''"Sit down and talk!"''
 
Bonnie accuses the Doctor of setting up the entire problem; however, he retorts that it's HER fault because she caused this rebellion. They then get into an argument about what's fair; the Doctor tells her that unfairness is a part of life. However, Bonnie still refuses to stand down, claiming that she will be punished for her revolution. The Doctor chides her, comparing her to a child thinking that they're unforgivable. He then tells her something that she didn't foresee; he [[forgive]]s her, after all the horrible things that the splinter group has done. He goes on to explain that the only way to break the senseless cycle of cruelty and hatred is having the ability to forgive others for their mistakes.


Bonnie accuses the Doctor of setting up the entire problem; however, he retorts that it's HER fault because she caused this rebellion. They then get into an argument about what's fair; the Doctor tells her that unfairness it's a part of life. However, Bonnie still refuses to stand down, claiming that she will be punished for her revolution. The Doctor chides her, comparing her to a child thinking that they're unforgivable. He then tells her something that she didn't foresee; HE [[forgive]]s her, after all the horrible things that the splinter group has done. He goes on to explain that the only way to break the senseless cycle of cruelty and hatred is having the ability to forgive others for their mistakes.
When Bonnie says the Doctor could never understand her situation, the Doctor is incredulous, he tells her that this little squabble isn't a war; he fought in a bigger war than she will ever know. Growing angrier and traumatised as he remembers, the Doctor tells her that he did more horrible things that she can imagine and when he closes his eyes, he can still hear the countless screaming of the victims. Clara closes her eyes in response, having seen the Time War herself and knowing of the true horror the Doctor's seen. He tells Bonnie that what you do with this pain is to hold it tight until it burns your hands and you say: ''"No-one else will ever have to live like this. No-one else will ever have to feel this pain."''


When Bonnie says the Doctor could never understand her situation, the Doctor is incredulous, he tells her that this little squabble isn't a war; he fought in a bigger war than she will ever know. Growing more angry and traumatized as he remembers, the Doctor tells her that he did more horrible things that she can imagine and when he closes his eyes, he can still hear the countless screaming of the victims. Clara closes her eyes in response, having seen the Time War herself and knowing of the true horror the Doctor's seen. He tells Bonnie that what you do with this pain is to hold it tight until it burns your hands, and say: ''"No-one else will ever have to live like this. No-one else will ever have to feel this pain."''
[[File:TwelveWarMemories.jpg|thumb|220x220px|The Doctor sees that he's won Bonnie over]]
[[File:TwelveWarMemories.jpg|thumb|220x220px|The Doctor sees that he's won Bonnie over]]
The Doctor smiles, knowing he's persuaded Bonnie; when asked how he knows, the Doctor tells her that she has the disadvantage of having Clara's face and the Doctor knows when he's won her over. Bonnie then asks him if the boxes are empty; he confirms this, telling her that she only figured this out by starting to think like him - "it's hell, isn't it?" However, Kate is less than amused; they know the boxes are empty now, so this can't work twice. Telling Kate that she's said that 15 times, the Doctor wipes her memory with the device in the ceiling; Bonnie's guards also had the memories wiped. In short, Bonnie was not persuaded 15 times, so the Doctor kept erasing everyone memories to get a good result.
Kate, moved by the Doctor's agony, closes the box, which the Doctor quietly thanks her in relief. The Doctor turns to Bonnie and smiles, knowing he's persuaded her; when asked how he knows, the Doctor tells her that she has the disadvantage of having Clara's face and the Doctor knows when he's won her over. Bonnie then asks him if the boxes are empty; he confirms this, telling her that she only figured this out by starting to think like him - "it's hell, isn't it?" However, Kate is less than amused; they know the boxes are empty now, so this can't work twice. Telling Kate that she's said that 15 times, the Doctor wiped her memory with the device in the ceiling; Bonnie's guards also had the memories wiped. In short, Bonnie was not persuaded 15 times, so the Doctor kept erasing everyone memories to get a good result.


Closing her box, Bonnie asks why her memory was spared; Osgood tells Bonnie that it's because she part of their team now. Bonnie asks how the Doctor knew she would side with him. He tells her it's the same thing that happened to him; he let Clara Oswald get into his head. The Doctor explains that he once planned to use [[Moment|a similar box]] to bring an end to a terrible war, because he thought it was the only way. However, thanks to Clara, he was able to come up with a better solution. Bonnie looks at Clara with a smile. The Doctor smiles at Bonnie, telling her that once Clara gets in your head, "she never leaves."
Closing her box, Bonnie asks why her memory was spared; Osgood tells Bonnie that it's because she's part of their team now. Bonnie asks how the Doctor knew she would side with him. He tells her it's the same thing that happened to him; he let Clara Oswald get into his head. The Doctor explains that he once planned to use [[Moment|a similar box]] to bring an end to a terrible war because he thought it was the only way. However, thanks to Clara, he was able to come up with a better solution. Bonnie looks at Clara with a smile. The Doctor smiles at Bonnie, telling her that once Clara gets in your head, "she never leaves."


Bonnie returns to her nest, telling her comrades the revolution is over and that they're safe. She then abandons Clara's form, returning to her true Zygon self. Outside the nest, the Doctor asks Osgood to travel with him; however, she turns him down, saying that she needs to be around to make the ''[[Nightmare Scenario]]'' work out like this again. Per the Doctor's request, Clara hugs Osgood on his behalf. However, the Doctor is left bewildered that Osgood never thought of what the TARDIS stood for; he tells her it stands for "Totally And Radically Driving In Space". Clara boards the TARDIS, waiting for the Doctor to take her on another adventure.
Bonnie returns to her nest, telling her comrades the revolution is over and that they're safe. She then abandons Clara's form, returning to her true Zygon self. Outside the nest, the Doctor asks Osgood to travel with him; however, she turns him down, saying that she needs to be around to make the ''[[Nightmare Scenario]]'' work out like this again. Per the Doctor's request, Clara hugs Osgood on his behalf. However, the Doctor is left bewildered that Osgood never thought of what the TARDIS stood for; he tells her it stands for "Totally And Radically Driving In Space". Clara boards the TARDIS, waiting for the Doctor to take her on another adventure.


The Doctor tells Osgood that he needs to know which she is: human or Zygon? Osgood smiles, telling him that she will answer that one day. To the Doctor's shock, another Osgood walks up, telling him that the day will be when the answer doesn't matter. The two of them explain that it wouldn't be okay to use Clara's face when there's a vacancy for an Osgood. Both of them say that it doesn't matter which is Osgood and which is Bonnie, only that Osgood lives. "You're a credit to your species, [[Petronella Osgood]]." the Doctor tells them. However, the Osgoods correct him, stating they are a credit to both species. Smiling, he turns to the TARDIS, but turns back; the Doctor states he's a fan of their work.
The Doctor tells Osgood that he needs to know which she is: human or Zygon? Osgood smiles, telling him that she will answer that one day. To the Doctor's shock, another Osgood walks up, telling him that the day will be when the answer doesn't matter. The two of them explain that it wouldn't be okay to use Clara's face when there's a vacancy for an Osgood. Both of them say that it doesn't matter which is Osgood and which is Bonnie, only that Osgood lives. "You're a credit to your species, [[Petronella Osgood]]." the Doctor tells them. However, the Osgoods correct him, stating they are a credit to both species. Smiling, he turns to the TARDIS, but turns back; the Doctor states he's a fan of their work.
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=== Uncredited cast ===
=== Uncredited cast ===
* Voice of the [[Zygon]]s - [[Nicholas Briggs]]<ref>[[DWMSE 42]]</ref>
* Voice of the [[Zygon]]s - [[Nicholas Briggs]]<ref>[[DWMSE 42]]</ref>
* [[Police officer (The Zygon Inversion)|Police officer]] - [[Ben Nash]]<ref>https://mobile.twitter.com/GirlyLetters/status/620995585194242048</ref>
* [[Police officer 1 (The Zygon Inversion)|Police Officer 1]] - [[Ben Nash]]<ref>https://mobile.twitter.com/GirlyLetters/status/620995585194242048</ref>
* Police officer - [[Jon Davey]]<ref>http://www.jondavey.com/acting.php</ref>
* [[Police officer 2 (The Zygon Inversion)|Police Officer 2]] - [[Jon Davey]]<ref>http://www.jondavey.com/acting.php</ref>


== Crew ==
== Crew ==
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|2ndAD=James DeHaviland
|2ndAD=James DeHaviland
|3rdAD=Danielle Richards
|3rdAD=Danielle Richards
|AD=Chris Thomas
|AD=Chris Thomas (assistant director)
|AD2=Gareth Jones
|AD2=Gareth Jones (assistant director)
|Runner=
|Runner=
|Runner2=
|Runner2=
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|Electrician3=Gawain Nash
|Electrician3=Gawain Nash
|Electrician4=Rob Fernandes
|Electrician4=Rob Fernandes
|Electrician5=Andrew Williams
|Electrician5=Andrew Williams (electrician)
|StuntCoOrdinator=Crispin Layfield
|StuntCoOrdinator=Crispin Layfield
|StuntCoOrdinator2=Dani Biernat
|StuntCoOrdinator2=Dani Biernat
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|Carpenter6=George Rees
|Carpenter6=George Rees
|Carpenter7=Dan Berrow
|Carpenter7=Dan Berrow
|Carpenter8=Keith Richards
|Carpenter8=Keith Richards (carpenter)
|Carpenter9=Campbell Fraser
|Carpenter9=Campbell Fraser
|ConstructionDriver=Jonathan Tylke
|ConstructionDriver=Jonathan Tylke
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}}
}}


== References ==
== Worldbuilding ==
* The [[Fleet Estate Centre]] is visited.
* The block of flats that Etoine lives in is called [[Meelfe House]].
* [[Spooner Minicabs]] is seen.
* [[Spooner Minicabs]] is seen.
* [[Piacentini's barber shop]] is seen.
* [[Piacentini's barber shop]] is seen.
* A [[BBC News 24|BBC News]] report is seen.
* A [[BBC News 24|BBC News]] report is seen.
=== Locations ===
* The [[Fleet Estate Centre]] is visited.
* The block of flats that Etoine lives in is called [[Meelfe House]].


=== The Doctor ===
=== The Doctor ===
* The Doctor jokes to Osgood that his [[Aliases of the Doctor|real name]] is "Basil".
* The Doctor jokes to Osgood that his [[Aliases of the Doctor|real name]] is "Basil".
* The Doctor jokes that as he is over 2000 years old, he is old enough to be Bonnie's [[Jesus Christ|Messiah]].
* The Doctor jokes that, as he is over 2000 years old, he is old enough to be Bonnie's [[Jesus Christ|Messiah]].
* The Doctor jokes around with Bonnie, using puns, calling himself "Doctor Pun-tastic".
* The Doctor jokes around with Bonnie, using puns, calling himself "Doctor Pun-tastic".
* The Doctor escapes the plane in a parachute with a [[Union Flag]] on it. Similarly, [[James Bond]] used a parachute with a Union Flag on it to sky-dive in the movie ''The Spy Who Loved Me''.
* The Doctor escapes the plane in a parachute with a [[Union Flag]] on it.
* The Doctor once created an [[The Doctor's invisible watch|invisible watch]], which had an obvious terrible design flaw.
* The Doctor once created an [[The Doctor's invisible watch|invisible watch]], which had an obvious design flaw.
* The Doctor keeps a [[The Doctor's browser history|browser history]] in his sonic sunglasses, and advises Osgood not to look at it.
* The Doctor keeps a [[The Doctor's browser history|browser history]] in his sonic sunglasses and advises Osgood not to look at it.
* Osgood says that if she wanted to kill the Doctor, she would do so quickly by shooting him in the head, twelve times if necessary, referring to his [[regeneration cycle]].
* Osgood says that if she wanted to kill the Doctor, she would do so quickly by shooting him in the head, twelve times if necessary, referring to his [[regeneration cycle]].
* The Doctor apparently has question marks on his underwear.


=== Clara ===
=== Clara ===
* Clara has apparently unfettered access to the [[Black Archive]] and is one of the only individuals with this.
* Clara has apparently unfettered access to the [[Black Archive]] and is one of the only individuals with this.
* Clara is aware of the Osgood Box and, it is implied, is aware of there having been two Osgoods at one time.  
* Clara is aware of the Osgood Box and, it is implied, is aware of there having been two Osgoods at one time.
* The newspaper in Clara's dream that she checks to ensure she's dreaming reads gibberish, indicating that to her it holds no significance.
* The newspaper in Clara's dream that she checks to ensure she's dreaming reads gibberish, indicating that to her it holds no significance.
* Clara exhibits sufficient willpower to control Bonnie's actions (causing her to change her aim with the RPG, text the Doctor and also signal the Doctor by winking) and even cause the Zygon to lose human form briefly.
* Clara exhibits sufficient willpower to control Bonnie's actions, and even cause the Zygon to lose human form briefly.


=== Osgood ===
=== Osgood ===
* Osgood's first name is revealed to be Petronella.
* Osgood's first name is revealed to be Petronella.
* Osgood claims that she can be thought of as both human and Zygon, acting like a '[[The Hybrid|hybrid]]'.


=== Zygons ===
=== Zygons ===
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* Bonnie is compared to a child having a tantrum by the Doctor.
* Bonnie is compared to a child having a tantrum by the Doctor.
* Bonnie is nicknamed "Zygella" by the Doctor.
* Bonnie is nicknamed "Zygella" by the Doctor.
* Ultimately takes the place of the deceased Osgood.


=== Conflict ===
=== Conflict ===
* The Doctor likens Bonnie's proposed war on humanity to a game compared to the scale of the [[Last Great Time War|Time War]].
* The Doctor likens Bonnie's proposed war on humanity to a game compared to the scale of the [[Last Great Time War|Time War]].


=== Cultural references ===
=== Cultural references ===
Line 523: Line 521:


== Story notes ==
== Story notes ==
*Bonnie and Clara can be told apart by their hair. Clara's is kept down, while Bonnie keeps hers up.
 
* The same day as the previous episode aired, a plane was bombed in a way reminiscent of the cliffhanger.<ref>[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metrojet_Flight_9268 Metrojet Bombing]</ref> Harness was worried that this might cause the second part of the story to be delayed, so asked [[TARDIS Eruditorum]] author [[Elizabeth Sandifer]] to do an occult ritual to keep things in the show's favour, just in case.<ref>https://twitter.com/ElSandifer/status/1259555617863335937</ref>
* Bonnie and Clara can be told apart by their hair. Clara's is kept down, while Bonnie keeps hers up.


=== Ratings ===
=== Ratings ===
* [[BBC One]] Overnight: 4.13 million
* [[BBC One]] Overnight: 4.13 million
* [[BBC America]] Overnight: ''to be added''
* [[BBC America]] Overnight: ''to be added''
* Final UK ratings: 6.03 million
* Final UK ratings: 6.03 million<ref>[http://guide.doctorwhonews.net/info.php?detail=ratings&type=date Ratings DW]</ref>


=== Filming location ===
=== Filming location ===
Line 538: Line 538:
{{discontinuity}}
{{discontinuity}}
* When the Doctor, Clara, and Osgood arrive at the TARDIS, the Doctor is a few feet away from it. In the next shot, he is standing right next to it.
* When the Doctor, Clara, and Osgood arrive at the TARDIS, the Doctor is a few feet away from it. In the next shot, he is standing right next to it.
* When the pod lid is taken off you can see Clara's hair is messed up but when the Doctor is talking to Bonnie and Kate her hair is bushed and neat.
* When the pod lid is taken off you can see Clara's hair is messed up but when the Doctor is talking to Bonnie and Kate her hair is brushed and neat.


== Continuity ==
== Continuity ==
* The painting of the [[First Doctor]] in the [[Unit Safe House]] opens to reveal a safe. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* The painting of the [[First Doctor]] in the [[Unit Safe House]] opens to reveal a safe. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* Osgood's comment that killing the Doctor would require her to shoot him twelve times is a reference to how a [[Time Lord]] can usually regenerate only twelve times. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Deadly Assassin]]'', ''[[The Time of the Doctor]]'')
* In her dream, Clara hears Bonnie's last words for the Doctor before firing the missile launcher, as well as the missile being fired. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* In her dream, Clara hears Bonnie's last words for the Doctor before firing the missile launcher, as well as the missile being fired. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* A government worker is sweeping some electrical wire-human-leftovers. Some leftovers are also seen in the Fleet Estate Centre. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* [[Kate Stewart]] explains that she survived her encounter with a [[Zygon]] by firing "five rounds rapid," a phrase used by [[Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart|her father]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Dæmons (TV story)|The Dæmons]]'')
* [[Kate Stewart]] explains that she survived her encounter with a [[Zygon]] by firing "five rounds rapid," a phrase used by [[Alistair Gordon Lethbridge-Stewart|her father]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Dæmons (TV story)|The Dæmons]]'')
* The Doctor uses his [[iPhone]] again. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'') He and Bonnie at one point communicate using Facetime. ([[TV]]: ''[[Before the Flood (TV story)|Before the Flood]]'')
* The Doctor uses his [[iPhone]] again. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'') He and Bonnie at one point communicate using Facetime. ([[TV]]: ''[[Before the Flood (TV story)|Before the Flood]]'')
* [[Boat One]] is blown up again. ([[TV]]: ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]'')
* [[Boat One]] is blown up again. ([[TV]]: ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]'')
* The Doctor mentions [[Morse code]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Under the Lake (TV story)|Under the Lake]]'')
* The Doctor says he used the plane to "ponce about". ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* The Doctor uses his [[psychic paper]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[The End of the World (TV story)|The End of the World]]'' et al.)
* The Doctor nicknames himself "John Disco", a mix of "Doctor Disco" ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'') and "John Smith". ([[TV]]: ''[[The Wheel in Space]]'')
* Bonnie watches the video filmed by the Osgoods. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* Bonnie watches the video filmed by the Osgoods. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'')
* The naval surgeon who invented the anti-Zygon gas [[Z-67]] is named [[Harry Sullivan|Sullivan]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Terror of the Zygons (TV story)|Terror of the Zygons]], [[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'') The Doctor calls him an imbecile, just as he once did in his [[Fourth Doctor|fourth incarnation]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Revenge of the Cybermen (TV story)|Revenge of the Cybermen]]'')
* The naval surgeon who invented the anti-Zygon gas [[Z-67]] is named [[Harry Sullivan|Sullivan]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Terror of the Zygons (TV story)|Terror of the Zygons]], [[The Zygon Invasion (TV story)|The Zygon Invasion]]'') The Doctor calls him an imbecile, just as he once did in his [[Fourth Doctor|fourth incarnation]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Revenge of the Cybermen (TV story)|Revenge of the Cybermen]]'')
* Osgood's glasses are broken. ([[TV]]: ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]'')
* Clara urges Bonnie to kill her by saying "go on, then", when Bonnie threatens her. She previously did the same with the [[Half-Face Man]], a trick she, in turn, learned from [[Courtney Woods]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Deep Breath (TV story)|Deep Breath]]'')
* Clara urges Bonnie to kill her by saying "go on, then", when Bonnie threatens her. She previously did the same with the [[Half-Face Man]], a trick she in turn learned from [[Courtney Woods]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[Deep Breath (TV story)|Deep Breath]]'')
* Clara says she's a great liar. ([[TV]]: ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]'')
* The Doctor tells Clara to let him be the '''judge''' of time, similar to how the Tenth Doctor referred to himself as the [[Time Lord|Lord of Time]]. (TV: [[The Girl in the Fireplace (TV story)|''The Girl in the Fireplace'' ]])
* The [[Black Archive]] is revisited and the memory-eraser is reactivated. The beginning of the peace-treaty is also mentioned. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'')
* Clara says she's a great liar. ([[TV]]: ''[[Death in Heaven (TV story)|Death in Heaven]]'', et al.)
* The Doctor says he has spent a lot of time getting doomed to Extermination, but that doesn't mean he likes it. 
* The Doctor's [[sonic sunglasses]] are used. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Magician's Apprentice (TV story)|The Magician's Apprentice]]'' et al.)
* A new-design [[Cyberman]] head is seen in the Black Archive. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Age of Steel (TV story)|The Age of Steel]]'' et al.)
* The blackboard with previous companions is seen. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'')
* The Doctor mentions how the TARDIS doesn't work properly. ([[TV]]: ''[[An Unearthly Child (TV story)|An Unearthly Child]]'', et al.)
* The [[Black Archive]] is revisited and the memory-eraser is reactivated. The beginning of the peace-treaty is also mentioned. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'') The archive has been sealed and only the Osgoods, the Doctor and Clara Oswald are known to have access to it.
* The battle helmet of a [[Mire]] is in the [[Black Archive]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Girl Who Died (TV story)|The Girl Who Died]]'')
* The battle helmet of a [[Mire]] is in the [[Black Archive]]. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Girl Who Died (TV story)|The Girl Who Died]]'')
* The Doctor recalls the intense pain of his experiences in the [[Last Great Time War]]. Furthermore, the Osgood Boxes are directly based off [[the Moment]] to reflect the way his [[War Doctor|wartime self]] struggled not to use its destructive potential. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'')
* The Doctor recalls the intense pain of his experiences in the [[Last Great Time War]]. Furthermore, the Osgood Boxes are directly based off [[the Moment]] to reflect the way his [[War Doctor|war incarnation]] struggled not to use its destructive potential. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]'')
* Osgood wears a facsimile of the [[Seventh Doctor]]'s outfit, with a duffel coat. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Curse of Fenric (TV story)|The Curse of Fenric]]'')
* The Doctor says that he can still hear the screams of those who suffered when he closes his eyes. [[Kahler-Jex]] was also affected by his actions in such a way. ([[TV]]: ''[[A Town Called Mercy (TV story)|A Town Called Mercy]]'')
* Clara performs a "dream check" to gauge the state of her reality when she wakes up. ([[TV]]: ''[[Last Christmas (TV story)|Last Christmas]]'')
* Clara performs a "dream check" to gauge the state of her reality when she wakes up. ([[TV]]: ''[[Last Christmas (TV story)|Last Christmas]]'')
* The Doctor claims that one of the buttons in the blue Osgood Box would cancel the Zygons' ability to change form, making them human forever. An actual Zygon ability to take a permanent human form was revealed in [[AUDIO]]: ''[[The Zygon Who Fell to Earth (audio story)|The Zygon Who Fell to Earth]]''.
* Clara again finds herself fighting back against someone who has taken over her mind. ([[COMIC]]: ''[[The Swords of Kali (comic story)|The Swords of Kali]]'')
* The Doctor mentions an invisible watch he once made. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Caretaker (TV story)|The Caretaker]]'')
* The Doctor mentions an invisible watch he once made. ([[TV]]: ''[[The Caretaker (TV story)|The Caretaker]]'')
* The Doctor says "Gotcha" to Bonnie when she blinked Clara's location and when he knew he had convinced Bonnie to stand down. A second Osgood surprises the Doctor with a "Gotcha" as well.  The [[Eleventh Doctor]] and [[Amy Pond]] also said "Gotcha" to each other ([[TV]]: ''[[The Beast Below (TV story)|The Beast Below]]'', ''[[The Big Bang (TV story)|The Big Bang]]'')
* Osgood says she "never really met Clara" but remembers her as being strong. She did meet Clara prior to this adventure, however  ([[TV]]: ''[[The Day of the Doctor (TV story)|The Day of the Doctor]]''). This might be a clue that the surviving Osgood was the Zygon.


== Home video releases ==
== Home video releases ==
=== DVD releases ===
===DVD & Blu-ray releases===
''to be added''
*''The Zygon Inversion'' was released as part of the Series 9, Part Two DVD and Blu-ray boxsets in region 1/A on [[26 January (releases)|26 January]] [[2016 (releases)|2016]], in region 2/B on [[4 January (releases)|4 January]] 2016 and in region 4/B on [[13 January (releases)|13 January]] 2016,
*It was later released as part of the Complete Ninth Series DVD and Blu-ray boxsets in region 1/A on [[5 April (releases)|5 April]] 2016, in region 2/B on [[7 March (releases)|7 March]] 2016 and in region 4/B on [[9 March (releases)|9 March]] 2016.
<gallery position="center" captionalign="center" hideaddbutton="true">
File:Complete 9th Series UK Cover.jpg|The Complete Series 9
File:Series 9 Part 2 UK DVD Cover.jpg|Series 9 Part 2 DVD Cover
</gallery>


=== Blu-ray releases ===
=== Digital releases ===
''to be added''


* In the United Kingdom, this story is available on [[BBC iPlayer]].
== External links ==
== External links ==
* Transcript of ''[http://www.chakoteya.net/DoctorWho/35-8.html The Zygon Inversion]'' at [http://www.chakoteya.net Chrissie's Transcripts Site]
* Transcript of ''[http://www.chakoteya.net/DoctorWho/35-8.html The Zygon Inversion]'' at [http://www.chakoteya.net Chrissie's Transcripts Site]
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Latest revision as of 01:04, 22 October 2024

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The Zygon Inversion was the eighth episode of series 9 of Doctor Who.

This episode dealt with the concept of war, and the consequences of it. As the Doctor points out, no matter how many lives are lost or what destruction ensues, it always boils down to both sides sitting down for negotiation. The episode also saw the Twelfth Doctor describe the immense pain he felt while fighting in the Time War in an emotional and angry speech for the first time since his predecessor discovered that the War Doctor had not destroyed Gallifrey in The Day of the Doctor, demonstrating and showing that, while the Doctor had been absolved of the weight of destroying Gallifrey and the Time Lords after discovering they had survived, his actions as the War Doctor during the majority of the Time War had left the Doctor with severe PTSD and an immense amount of guilt.

It did not elaborate if the human Osgood or Zygon double was still alive, instead having Bonnie fill the vacancy in the form of a replacement double for the one of the two who had been killed by Missy in Death in Heaven. Osgood explains that she can be either version; Zygons don't need the person that they copy if their memories are unneeded. In a behind the scenes extra, Ingrid Oliver, who played Osgood, has chosen which of the original Osgood duo is left, but she kept which one she picked a secret.

Synopsis[[edit] | [edit source]]

With the splinter group of Zygons now ahead of the Doctor, there is only one thing standing in their way of obliterating the human race and taking the Earth for themselves: a moral dilemma!

Is Bonnie willing to compromise the peace already in place, just for the sake of Zygons not needing to hide, even if it means making enemies not only of humanity but of her own race?

Plot[[edit] | [edit source]]

Clara awakens in her apartment, deciding to get ready for the day; she grabs a white tube that only has black letters spelling "This is toothpaste". However, when she attempts to use it, black gunk comes out of it, making Clara drop the tube and toothbrush. Clara soon hears Bonnie's voice taunting the Doctor, finding her living room television filled with static. She quickly checks a magazine, finding it filled with gibberish, except for the words she hears Bonnie speaking; she's dreaming. Running through her apartment, Clara finds walls blocking her door and windows. In the real world, Clara spasms as if trying to wake up.

Grabbing a remote, Clara manages to tune her dream to Bonnie's consciousness, allowing what the Zygon is looking at to appear on the television screen. Bonnie has Boat One in the cross-hairs of a bazooka. Realising the Doctor is in danger, Clara knocks her television over. As a result, Bonnie's arms fly to her left the moment she fires the rocket, changing its trajectory. It flies just past Boat One, with the Doctor and Osgood noting that she missed them.

Bonnie passes this off as a spasm, reloading her bazooka. Seeing the television back up, with Bonnie is targeting the Doctor again, Clara tries to toss the television aside again but finds it stuck. Frantically thinking, Clara tries using her link with Bonnie to force her to hold off on firing another shot. Finding herself losing, Clara bites her finger, hoping to stop Bonnie; however, the Zygon gets her shot off and blows up Boat One successfully this time. Bonnie smiles at the smouldering remains of the plane falling through the sky.

Later, members of Truth or Consequences have murdered more humans in London, and covered the area with their symbol as a message. Returning to their human forms, most lounge around the area while one in the form of sanitation engineer sweeps up the remains of their victims. A man, Etoine, is running in fear with his shopping bags; he trips, losing his shopping. Fearful of what's behind him, he leaves the bags behind and runs into the nearby apartment complex. Moments later, Bonnie approaches calmly, with a smile on her face.

Etoine gets to his home and locks the door; hearing a knocking, he looks out to see Bonnie. He runs further inside, as Bonnie forces the door open; she corners him in his living room. It turns out that Etoine is a Zygon. Bonnie tells him that the humans will never accept them for who they really are and that he will be the first to make them see. Despite his pleas to leave him alone, Bonnie zaps his head, prompting Etoine to flee. She follows with a dark smile on her face. Outside, Etoine asks his fellow Zygons to help him maintain his disguise, but they ignore him. Unable to keep his human form, Etoine completely reverts back to Zygon form; hoping to avoid causing a panic, he runs into the nearest building.

Bonnie films Etoine.

Unknown to Etoine, Bonnie was merely using him as a pawn; she recorded his transformation on Clara's phone. She posts it on the internet to spread panic and paranoia among the humans, hoping to force the rest of the Zygons to join the splinter group. With this task done, Bonnie informs Truth or Consequences that she is heading to the UNIT HQ to retrieve the Osgood Box to start the war against humanity.

At the same time, Clara reviews Bonnie's memory of seeing Boat One explode on the television in her dream. She pauses it and looks closer at the scene. Two dots are seen falling away the moment the plane exploded; she smiles, realising that the Doctor parachuted away from the plane right as it blew up.

On a beach, Osgood frees herself from her chute and notices her glasses are broken. The Doctor asks her if she has any question, to which she asks about the Union Jack on his chute; he responds that it's camouflage to blend in while he's in Britain. He offers Osgood his sonic sunglasses in the meantime, telling her not to look at his user history; she finds the idea of sonic eye-wear silly. The Doctor tells her he once invented an invisible watch - "spot the design flaw." Osgood tells him that he's talking nonsense to distract her, one of his best-known traits. Osgood then tells him that Bonnie made the mistake of giving him a chance; if she wanted to take over Earth, she would kill him outright with a bullet between the eyes twelve times and not let him talk. The Doctor notes how oddly prepared Osgood is for that scenario; she tells him it's because she's such a big fan.

As the Doctor and Osgood trek on, she notes that it's rather odd that Bonnie didn't blow them up with her big bazooka. However, the Doctor retorts "this is us blown up by a big bazooka". Osgood explains that if Bonnie had Clara's memories, she would know better than to give him a chance as that will come back to haunt her. Realising the Doctor has gone silent because she's mentioned Clara, Osgood asks how he's feeling; the Doctor says he's still in his "hope phase". When Osgood asks him how that is, he tells her it's Hell and to change the subject.

Elsewhere, Bonnie is walking through the streets. Unknown to her, Clara uses their link to manipulate her right hand; Clara is using her phone to text. The Doctor gets the text, which says "I'm awake.' Wondering if it means a political awakening, he becomes confused as to why the Zygon is sending him propaganda if it thinks it blew him up. However, Osgood tells him that it came from Clara, telling the Doctor that she's fighting back. She asks how his hope phase is, to which the Doctor says is worse than ever. Smiling, Osgood tells him that they have a game now.

Bonnie enters the UNIT base and opens a safe behind the portrait of the Doctor's original incarnation. She briefly notices her reflection in the mirror is wrong, displaying Clara in her pyjamas from the dream, but when she goes back to check her reflection is normal. She finds a laptop inside and turns it on. A message from the two Osgoods plays, explaining that if they were captured and interrogated, they gave up the location of this laptop. However, the Osgood Box is not there; they firmly explain that it's the truth and further looking would be a waste of time. They smile, asking the watcher if they've figured out why it's called an Osgood Box. Seething with anger, Bonnie snarls and tosses the laptop to the ground, stomping on the worthless device until it's in small pieces.

Back on the beach, the Doctor and Osgood see a police car. Racing up to it, the Doctor passes himself off as "Dr John Disco", telling the officers that his plane blew up, but there's nothing to worry about. However, the officers don't appear that surprised by what he's telling them. Worrying that they may be Zygons from the splinter group Truth or Consequences, the Doctor and Osgood begin walking away. However, another pair of officers begin approaching from where they came from. Seems like the Doctor was right about the officers being Zygons; humans would be excited and endlessly questioning them.

Osgood video calls Clara's phone, surprising Bonnie that they're still alive. Taking the phone, the Doctor asks what the plan is, only for Bonnie to say she doesn't have one; he tells "you don't invade a planet without a plan; that's why they're called planets, to remind you to plan it." Bonnie asks him where the Osgood box is, winking due to Clara trying to signal the Doctor. Thinking the Zygon is flirting with him, he states "I'm old enough to be your messiah". However, Bonnie insists that she isn't winking; realising it's Clara, the Doctor tells Osgood to use the sonic sunglasses to break into a nearby van. As Clara wouldn't know morse code, the Doctor learns from her winks, which stand for "yes", that her pod is in London; he then tells Clara not to let the Zygon know what's in her mind. Boarding the van, he is told by Osgood that obviously Bonnie heard that; he smiles, knowing that - "The mind of Clara Oswald; she'll never find her way out."

At the Zygon nest, Bonnie approaches the pod holding Clara and telepathically talks to her; Bonnie appears on the TV screen in Clara's dream. Clara uses the link to force Bonnie back to Zygon form briefly. However, upon saying she's a great liar, Clara is shocked when Bonnie tells her they share a pulse and will be monitoring it to make sure she's telling the truth; one lie and Bonnie will kill her. Bonnie interrogates her, learning the Osgood Box is at the Black Archive under the Tower of London and that Clara does have access. Bonnie is then surprised to learn Clara can't give her the access, because she already has it; she has Clara's bodyprint, so she automatically has access. However, Clara taunts Bonnie, saying though she's given this information, the Zygon will still need her. "Kate" arrives, explaining the Doctor is on his way; Bonnie orders that he be copied, if possible, but disposed of.

Etoine's hiding place.

On their way back to London, Osgood finds the video Bonnie posted on the Internet. Recognizing the location, the Doctor and Osgood head to south London shopping centre the Fleet Estate Centre. Exiting the van, the Doctor declares that London is a cradle of culture - "what a dump." Osgood counters the Doctor's comment by noting that he's spent a lot of time here for not liking the place. The Doctor points out that he also spends a lot of time almost getting killed; that doesn't mean he has to like the experience.

Entering the Centre, they find several piles of dead people. The Doctor asks Osgood for her first name, but she asks for his name; going with "Basil", the Doctor learns her full name is Petronella Osgood. Not liking it, he tells her they should stick to what they had. They see Etonie hiding near by, and give chase when he runs at the sight of them. Cornered, Etoine explains he was just defending himself; he didn't want to kill those humans. Having trouble keeping his human form due to the zap Bonnie gave him, he says he didn't want to be a part of their war. They try offering help; however, he thinks they may be more of Bonnie's stooges. Not wanting to live under the rule of Truth or Consequences, Etoine kills himself out of fear. Kate arrives with two guards, telling the Doctor and Osgood that she knows where the nest is; it's also where Clara's pod is. The Doctor is elated by the news, telling Kate to lead the way.

At the Black Archive, Bonnie skips to the storage room. Smiling, she tells Clara it is so much fun being her, as she just got waved through for simply looking like Clara Oswald. Behind her, two disguised Zygons are wheeling Clara's pod after Bonnie. However, the moment she enters the room, her smile fades at the sight of the Osgood Box.

At the Zygon nest, Kate attempts to show the Doctor where Clara's pod is, only to find it missing. However, the Doctor then realises that he just walked into a trap; the guards turn back into Zygon form. Bonnie calls the Zygons, explaining that she found out why it's called an Osgood Box - there's two of them. "Operation Double, two Osgoods; what did you expect?" the Doctor laughs. Bonnie has Clara awakened, but learns she doesn't know which of the boxes is the right one; Clara points out that Bonnie should have already known this because their minds are linked. When Bonnie threatens to kill Clara to force his cooperation, the Doctor explains the blue one will revert the Zygons to normal, while the red one kills them. However, much to Bonnie increasing anger, there are two buttons in both boxes, and both say Truth and Consequences. He refuses to tell which button does which, making Bonnie order his execution.

The Doctor and Osgood, surprised by Kate.

However, Kate shoots the Zygons dead instead. A surprised Doctor asks who she is, to which Kate says "I'm me". When the Zygon attacked her back in New Mexico, Kate emptied her gun into it and took its place to get close to Bonnie. Kate apologises to the Doctor, knowing he isn't a fan of killing, but would approve of it if done in self-defence. She then smashes the communicator, asking who Osgood is; Osgood states she is herself. Kate then wonders if that means she's human or Zygon; however, Osgood firmly tells her that she is Osgood and no-one else. The Doctor tells them they don't have time for this; they need to get to the Black Archive.

At the Black Archive, Bonnie is pondering her next move. Clara tells her that she can't win; however, Bonnie voices the fact that she doesn't care. The Doctor, Osgood and Kate arrive, with the Doctor asking to be let to take the boxes away; without them to cause any more senseless slaughter, they can move on to forgiving and forgetting about Truth or Consequences' attempt to break the ceasefire. However, Bonnie is defensive, believing that she won't be forgiven for all the deaths she caused.

Kate goes over to the red box, ready to use it to defend the human race, while Bonnie goes to the blue one, ready to liberate the Zygons. The Doctor tells them Bonnie's box will either cause the Zygons to revert to their true forms for an hour or cancels their ability to change form, thus making them human for good; Kate's box will either release "imbecile's gas" (a gas poisonous to Zygons created by Harry Sullivan) into the atmosphere or detonate the nuclear warhead beneath the Black Archive, destroying London.

"There are safeguards beyond safeguards. I did this on a very important day for me. This ceasefire will stand." the Doctor declares to both Kate and Bonnie.

Clara, held hostage

The Doctor asks Bonnie what it actually is that she wants, to which she answers: war. He then asks her to paint a picture of what the future will be like; will there be music, jobs, etc? As she can't give an answer, the Doctor scolds her, telling Bonnie that she's like every other tantruming child; she doesn't actually know what she wants. He further asks what will Bonnie do once everything is right and just, with all "the bad guys" gone, what will protect her "glorious revolution" from the next, because there will still be rebels in any species. When Bonnie says that they will continue to win, the Doctor says that they might, but NOBODY wins for long.

With both Kate and Bonnie willing to press their buttons on the gamble of a 50-50 chance, the Doctor can't resist making fun of the situation like a game show announcer; he then snaps at them, yelling that isn't a game, but a scale model of every single war in the universe's history. The Doctor continues, saying no matter how right you feel at the beginning, you don't know who's going to die, whose families are going to be torn apart, whose lives are ruined forever. This situation right now in the Black Archive is what it every single war always boils down to; what both sides should have done at the very beginning: "Sit down and talk!"

Bonnie accuses the Doctor of setting up the entire problem; however, he retorts that it's HER fault because she caused this rebellion. They then get into an argument about what's fair; the Doctor tells her that unfairness is a part of life. However, Bonnie still refuses to stand down, claiming that she will be punished for her revolution. The Doctor chides her, comparing her to a child thinking that they're unforgivable. He then tells her something that she didn't foresee; he forgives her, after all the horrible things that the splinter group has done. He goes on to explain that the only way to break the senseless cycle of cruelty and hatred is having the ability to forgive others for their mistakes.

When Bonnie says the Doctor could never understand her situation, the Doctor is incredulous, he tells her that this little squabble isn't a war; he fought in a bigger war than she will ever know. Growing angrier and traumatised as he remembers, the Doctor tells her that he did more horrible things that she can imagine and when he closes his eyes, he can still hear the countless screaming of the victims. Clara closes her eyes in response, having seen the Time War herself and knowing of the true horror the Doctor's seen. He tells Bonnie that what you do with this pain is to hold it tight until it burns your hands and you say: "No-one else will ever have to live like this. No-one else will ever have to feel this pain."

The Doctor sees that he's won Bonnie over

Kate, moved by the Doctor's agony, closes the box, which the Doctor quietly thanks her in relief. The Doctor turns to Bonnie and smiles, knowing he's persuaded her; when asked how he knows, the Doctor tells her that she has the disadvantage of having Clara's face and the Doctor knows when he's won her over. Bonnie then asks him if the boxes are empty; he confirms this, telling her that she only figured this out by starting to think like him - "it's hell, isn't it?" However, Kate is less than amused; they know the boxes are empty now, so this can't work twice. Telling Kate that she's said that 15 times, the Doctor wiped her memory with the device in the ceiling; Bonnie's guards also had the memories wiped. In short, Bonnie was not persuaded 15 times, so the Doctor kept erasing everyone memories to get a good result.

Closing her box, Bonnie asks why her memory was spared; Osgood tells Bonnie that it's because she's part of their team now. Bonnie asks how the Doctor knew she would side with him. He tells her it's the same thing that happened to him; he let Clara Oswald get into his head. The Doctor explains that he once planned to use a similar box to bring an end to a terrible war because he thought it was the only way. However, thanks to Clara, he was able to come up with a better solution. Bonnie looks at Clara with a smile. The Doctor smiles at Bonnie, telling her that once Clara gets in your head, "she never leaves."

Bonnie returns to her nest, telling her comrades the revolution is over and that they're safe. She then abandons Clara's form, returning to her true Zygon self. Outside the nest, the Doctor asks Osgood to travel with him; however, she turns him down, saying that she needs to be around to make the Nightmare Scenario work out like this again. Per the Doctor's request, Clara hugs Osgood on his behalf. However, the Doctor is left bewildered that Osgood never thought of what the TARDIS stood for; he tells her it stands for "Totally And Radically Driving In Space". Clara boards the TARDIS, waiting for the Doctor to take her on another adventure.

The Doctor tells Osgood that he needs to know which she is: human or Zygon? Osgood smiles, telling him that she will answer that one day. To the Doctor's shock, another Osgood walks up, telling him that the day will be when the answer doesn't matter. The two of them explain that it wouldn't be okay to use Clara's face when there's a vacancy for an Osgood. Both of them say that it doesn't matter which is Osgood and which is Bonnie, only that Osgood lives. "You're a credit to your species, Petronella Osgood." the Doctor tells them. However, the Osgoods correct him, stating they are a credit to both species. Smiling, he turns to the TARDIS, but turns back; the Doctor states he's a fan of their work.

Back in the TARDIS, Clara asks the Doctor if he thought she was dead for a while. Solemnly, the Doctor states "Longest month of my life". Clara laughs, saying it could have only been for a few minutes. Pulling a lever, the Doctor tells Clara to let him be the judge of time.

After the TARDIS departs, both Osgoods decide to get ice cream before heading back to work.

Cast[[edit] | [edit source]]

Uncredited cast[[edit] | [edit source]]

Crew[[edit] | [edit source]]

General production staff

Script department

Camera and lighting department

Art department

Costume department

Make-up and prosthetics

Movement

Casting

General post-production staff

Special and visual effects

Sound



Not every person who worked on this adventure was credited. The absence of a credit for a position doesn't necessarily mean the job wasn't required. The information above is based solely on observations of the actual end credits of the episodes as broadcast, and does not relay information from IMDB or other sources.


Worldbuilding[[edit] | [edit source]]

Locations[[edit] | [edit source]]

The Doctor[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • The Doctor jokes to Osgood that his real name is "Basil".
  • The Doctor jokes that, as he is over 2000 years old, he is old enough to be Bonnie's Messiah.
  • The Doctor jokes around with Bonnie, using puns, calling himself "Doctor Pun-tastic".
  • The Doctor escapes the plane in a parachute with a Union Flag on it.
  • The Doctor once created an invisible watch, which had an obvious design flaw.
  • The Doctor keeps a browser history in his sonic sunglasses and advises Osgood not to look at it.
  • Osgood says that if she wanted to kill the Doctor, she would do so quickly by shooting him in the head, twelve times if necessary, referring to his regeneration cycle.

Clara[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • Clara has apparently unfettered access to the Black Archive and is one of the only individuals with this.
  • Clara is aware of the Osgood Box and, it is implied, is aware of there having been two Osgoods at one time.
  • The newspaper in Clara's dream that she checks to ensure she's dreaming reads gibberish, indicating that to her it holds no significance.
  • Clara exhibits sufficient willpower to control Bonnie's actions, and even cause the Zygon to lose human form briefly.

Osgood[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • Osgood's first name is revealed to be Petronella.

Zygons[[edit] | [edit source]]

Bonnie[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • Bonnie is compared to a child having a tantrum by the Doctor.
  • Bonnie is nicknamed "Zygella" by the Doctor.

Conflict[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • The Doctor likens Bonnie's proposed war on humanity to a game compared to the scale of the Time War.

Cultural references[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • The Doctor affects an American accent and briefly impersonates a stereotypical game show host.
  • The concept of a box containing a secret that was revealed after the contestant chooses which button to push was an aspect of the real-life Truth or Consequences TV game show.

Story notes[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • The same day as the previous episode aired, a plane was bombed in a way reminiscent of the cliffhanger.[6] Harness was worried that this might cause the second part of the story to be delayed, so asked TARDIS Eruditorum author Elizabeth Sandifer to do an occult ritual to keep things in the show's favour, just in case.[7]
  • Bonnie and Clara can be told apart by their hair. Clara's is kept down, while Bonnie keeps hers up.

Ratings[[edit] | [edit source]]

Filming location[[edit] | [edit source]]

Maelfa Shopping Centre, Llanedeyrn, Cardiff

to be added

Production errors[[edit] | [edit source]]

If you'd like to talk about narrative problems with this story — like plot holes and things that seem to contradict other stories — please go to this episode's discontinuity discussion.
  • When the Doctor, Clara, and Osgood arrive at the TARDIS, the Doctor is a few feet away from it. In the next shot, he is standing right next to it.
  • When the pod lid is taken off you can see Clara's hair is messed up but when the Doctor is talking to Bonnie and Kate her hair is brushed and neat.

Continuity[[edit] | [edit source]]

Home video releases[[edit] | [edit source]]

DVD & Blu-ray releases[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • The Zygon Inversion was released as part of the Series 9, Part Two DVD and Blu-ray boxsets in region 1/A on 26 January 2016, in region 2/B on 4 January 2016 and in region 4/B on 13 January 2016,
  • It was later released as part of the Complete Ninth Series DVD and Blu-ray boxsets in region 1/A on 5 April 2016, in region 2/B on 7 March 2016 and in region 4/B on 9 March 2016.

Digital releases[[edit] | [edit source]]

  • In the United Kingdom, this story is available on BBC iPlayer.

External links[[edit] | [edit source]]

Footnotes[[edit] | [edit source]]

  1. Coleman also plays Bonnie while she impersonates Clara.
  2. Oliver plays both the human and the Zygon original members of Operation Double in the recorded video messages. In addition, she plays Bonnie after she becomes a new member of Operation Double.
  3. DWMSE 42
  4. https://mobile.twitter.com/GirlyLetters/status/620995585194242048
  5. http://www.jondavey.com/acting.php
  6. Metrojet Bombing
  7. https://twitter.com/ElSandifer/status/1259555617863335937
  8. Ratings DW