Doctor Who Season 9 Episode 12 Review Hell Bent

So, we’ve reached the grand finale. The last hurrah of Peter Capaldi’s second go-round as the Doctor, and what a trip it’s been! Episode 12 of Season 9, titled “Hell Bent,” dropped us right back into the heart of things after that brutal cliffhanger in “Heaven Sent.” If you’re anything like me, you probably spent the inter-episode wait replaying Clara’s supposed demise in your head, wondering how on Earth (or Gallifrey, rather) our favorite Time Lord was going to pull himself out of that cosmic funk.

And pull himself out he did, didn’t he? “Hell Bent” is, in a word, extra. It’s a whirlwind of Gallifreyan politics, impossible reunions, and more shades of grey than a week of Scottish weather. It’s the kind of episode that makes you lean forward, maybe shout a few theories at your screen, and definitely need a good cuppa afterwards to process it all.

Let’s dive in, shall we? After the sheer emotional devastation of “Heaven Sent,” where the Doctor endured an eternity of torture and loss, he’s back. And he’s not just back, he’s relentless. He’s on a mission, fueled by grief and a stubborn refusal to accept reality. It’s a reminder of the sheer power of the Doctor’s will, something we’ve seen time and time again, from chasing down Davros to facing down the Empty Child.

The return to Gallifrey itself is a spectacle. Gone is the pristine, almost sterile image we got in “The Day of the Doctor.” This Gallifrey is… complicated. It’s a place of ancient traditions, of the High Council, and of the kind of bureaucratic maneuvering that would make even a seasoned diplomat sweat. Seeing the Doctor navigate this landscape, armed with his usual blend of intellect and sheer cheek, is pure joy.

And then, of course, there’s Clara. Oh, Clara. Her presence, or rather, her near-presence, hangs over the entire episode. The Doctor’s obsession with bringing her back is the driving force, a testament to their deep bond. It’s that classic Doctor-companion dynamic dialed up to eleven, a connection that’s become so integral to the show’s DNA. Think of how many times companions have been the Doctor’s anchor, his reason to keep going. Clara is, without a doubt, one of the most impactful.

The episode gives us a glimpse of Clara Oswald in a way we haven’t quite seen her before – or rather, have seen echoes of her. We see her in a new light, almost like a legend in her own right. It’s fascinating to see how the Doctor perceives her, how her bravery and quick thinking have left such an indelible mark. It’s a good reminder that the people we impact can become forces of nature in their own right, even when they’re not physically present.

One of the most striking elements of “Hell Bent” is the exploration of the Doctor’s own morality. He’s operating outside the usual rules, willing to bend time and space to get what he wants. Is he a hero here, or is he something… else? It’s a question that’s always lingered around the edges of the Doctor, and this episode brings it front and center. It’s like watching a character from your favorite gritty drama grapple with their conscience, but with sonic screwdrivers and alien planets involved.

This moral ambiguity isn't new for Doctor Who, of course. Remember the Fourth Doctor and his interventions? Or the Twelfth Doctor himself, wrestling with the consequences of his actions in “Face the Raven”? This show has never shied away from showing its protagonist’s darker impulses, which is part of its enduring appeal. It’s not always about clear-cut good versus evil; it’s about the struggle, the choices, and the consequences.

The introduction of Rigsy’s daughter, Chloe, is a really poignant touch. It underscores the ripple effect of the Doctor’s actions, both good and bad. It’s a reminder that even when the Doctor is focused on the grand cosmic battles, the personal stakes are always there, affecting individuals in profound ways. It’s a detail that grounds the fantastical elements of the story, making it feel more real and relatable.

And the iconic return of the TARDIS in its original, battered, police box form? Chef’s kiss. It’s a visual callback that resonates with long-time fans and a symbolic representation of the Doctor’s journey and the continuity of his adventures. It’s like finding your favorite vintage record store in a world full of streaming services – it has a certain nostalgic charm and a deep sense of history.

The episode also plays with the concept of memory and how we hold onto people. The Doctor’s insistence on remembering Clara, even against the wishes of the Time Lords, speaks to the enduring power of love and connection. It’s a theme that’s universal, whether you’re a Time Lord or just someone trying to get through a Tuesday. We all cherish memories, and sometimes, the fight to keep them alive is the most important battle we face.

The diner scene, with the Doctor and Clara sharing a final meal before their separate paths, is surprisingly emotional. It’s a quiet moment amidst the grand narrative, a chance to reflect on everything they’ve been through. It’s like that final scene in a beloved movie where the characters share a knowing glance – it says so much without needing to be explicitly stated. It reminds us that even the most extraordinary lives are made up of ordinary moments, shared with people who matter.

Gallifreyan slang, anyone? “Clara Oswald, you’re a legend!” might not be entering the Oxford English Dictionary anytime soon, but it perfectly encapsulates the Doctor’s sentiment. It’s a testament to the impact Clara has had, not just on the Doctor, but on the entire universe she’s touched. It’s a reminder that we all have the potential to be legendary in our own way, to leave our mark on the world around us.

The appearance of the guitar-playing Time Lord is another fun nod to the show’s rich history and its playful nature. It’s the kind of quirky detail that makes Doctor Who so unique, a blend of serious storytelling with moments of pure, unadulterated fun. It’s like stumbling upon a secret jam session between your favorite indie musicians – unexpected and delightful.

And let’s talk about the ending. Clara gets her own TARDIS, a confession dial that’s a miniature version of the Doctor’s, and a clear path towards her own adventures. It’s a satisfying, albeit bittersweet, conclusion for her character arc in this era. It’s a send-off that acknowledges her growth and her independence, giving her the agency she deserves. It’s the kind of ending that makes you feel good about the journey, even if there’s a pang of sadness that it’s over.

“Hell Bent” is not an episode that ties everything up neatly with a bow. It’s messy, it’s emotional, and it’s unapologetically Doctor Who. It’s the kind of finale that leaves you with questions, with feelings, and with a deep appreciation for the characters and the stories we’ve been told. It’s a reminder that life, much like a Doctor Who season finale, is rarely straightforward, but it’s always an adventure.

Think about it. How often do we find ourselves, like the Doctor, trying to hold onto something or someone that’s slipped through our fingers? How often do we wrestle with what’s right versus what we want to do? This episode, in its own alien way, speaks to those very human experiences. The desire to rewind, to fix things, to not let go. It’s a natural part of being alive.

And the idea of a confession dial… it’s a fun little piece of world-building, isn’t it? A device that literally forces you to confront your deepest regrets. In our own lives, we often have metaphorical confession dials, don't we? Moments of reflection, journaling, or even just honest conversations with friends where we have to face our past. It’s a powerful, albeit sometimes uncomfortable, part of personal growth.

The whole episode feels like a love letter to the show’s past, present, and future. It acknowledges the legacy, celebrates the current iteration, and sets the stage for what’s to come. It’s a carefully crafted balancing act, and for the most part, it succeeds brilliantly. It’s like a well-curated playlist that hits all the right nostalgic notes while still feeling fresh and exciting.

Ultimately, “Hell Bent” is an episode about choices. The Doctor’s choice to defy Gallifrey, Clara’s choice to embrace her own destiny, and even Rigsy’s choice to leave a legacy for his daughter. Every character, in their own way, is making pivotal decisions that shape their reality. It’s a powerful message, and one that we can all take to heart. We are the authors of our own stories, and our choices, big or small, matter.

So, as we wave goodbye to this particular chapter, let’s remember the sheer audacity of it all. The Doctor’s unwavering devotion, Clara’s incredible journey, and the timeless charm of the TARDIS. It’s a reminder that even in the face of immense loss and seemingly insurmountable odds, hope, and a good dose of stubbornness, can see you through. And that, my friends, is a lesson worth keeping close, no matter how many hearts you have.

In our everyday lives, we might not be battling Cybermen or outsmarting Daleks, but we all face our own “Hell Bent” moments. Times when we’re pushed to our limits, when grief feels overwhelming, or when we desperately want to change something we can’t. This episode, in its wild and wonderful way, offers a comforting reflection. It shows that even when things seem impossible, the strength of our spirit, our connections to others, and our refusal to give up can lead us to unexpected, and sometimes beautiful, resolutions. It’s a reminder that even after the hardest battles, there’s still a universe of possibilities waiting for us, just like Clara’s own TARDIS.