 The original idea was to have an older actress play the older Amy , but Karen Gillan volunteered to play the older version of her character with the aid of prosthetics . It was also decided that having Gillan play both characters would be more believable . Gillan developed different body @-@ language , vocal range and attitude for the new individual , whose character has changed after being left behind and in danger . To achieve this , Gillan studied with a voice coach and movement coach . Gillan also wore padding which affected her movement , and stated she spent " hours in make @-@ up " . 
