Doctor Who Review: The Witch’s Familiar – How 7 Characters Reveal Their Relationship Status

Missy’s ultimate goal is not destruction though she’s not above killing for the fun of it. Her actions are a means to an end. Her eye is always on the Doctor and she will do anything to bring his gaze back to her. They are like a couple living out a centuries long break up. They are trapped in that nebulous zone where failed love turns to failed hate. There’s too much history to dismiss the person – they’ve become a part of you. But you can’t be around them for very long either.

Missy is a Machiavellian role model. She echoes the Dalek’s point of view by using Clara as a tool then discarding her when no longer needed. Her attempt to manipulate the Doctor into murdering Clara is half-hearted at best. She doesn’t care about Clara one way or the other, but this is another chance to gain the Doctor’s focus. The only way she knows how to interact with him is by playing games. The Doctor’s decision to leave Missy behind may seem heartless but I think it has more to do with the Doctor’s sincere belief in her ability to save herself. She doesn’t need his protection and he knows it.