Mars attacks!

Sherlock’s Mark Gatiss reveals his inspiration for this week’s thrilling boys’ own adventure.

- Nick Cannon and Sean Marland

If you’ve ever seen the classic 1964 movie Zulu, you’ll probably remember the red-coated British regiment in battle in Southern Africa. This week, these Victorian soldiers turn up in Doctor Who – exploring Mars!

When the Doctor, Bill and Nardole arrive on the red planet, the guards are looking for precious gems. However, they soon disturb a ‘hive’ of Ice Warriors – huge reptile-like aliens – and an almighty battle begins.

This episode is the brainchild of Sherlock’s Mark Gatiss, who wrote the one-off adventure. We caught up with him to find out more…

What made you mix Victorian soldiers with Ice Warriors on Mars?