SYNOPSIS: "Science fiction drama. The Doctor mounts a rebellion against an alien invasion dating back to the very beginnings of human civilisation." (bbc.co.uk)
My, my, what a curious episode this was. 'Day Of The Moon' followed the series opener/first of a two-parter 'The Impossible Astronaut', with the Doctor (Matt Smith) et al taking on the mysterious alien species the Silence. Some minor spoilers follow so I'd recommend watching the episode before reading any further. For everyone else, it's full steam ahead.
In some respects, 'Day Of The Moon' was one of the most chilling Doctor Who episodes yet. In others, it was one of the most quizzical. Take the opening bait-and-switch for example - why were Amy (Karen Gillan), Rory (Arthur Darvill) and River (Alex Kingston) being hunted by American intelligence, led by Canton Delaware III (Mark Sheppard)? Perhaps this was explained and I missed it. It happens.
The more prominent curiousities emerged with regards to the double cliffhanger ending of the opening episode as Amy declared herself pregnant and also attempted to kill the titular "impossible astronaut". The episode tantalises by combining these strands but in somewhat of an incoherent manner. Quite clearly on purpose, I might add, before the Steven Moffat fans take me to task.
As I mentioned above however, 'Day Of The Moon' was also rather chilling. I can certainly imagine younger viewers grasping the hand of a parent during the scenes in the orphanage. Unfortunately, I felt the Silence were knocked off their perch a little too easily - the shootout was completely ridiculous and I was left wondering why the destructive powers of the Silence bizzarely went completely amiss during this episode. Yet I get the feeling that we might see more of the Silence shortly.
But not that shortly as the next episode ('The Curse Of The Black Spot') appears to be more of a filler than a continuation of a series plotline. That's a particular shame because the ending of 'The Day Of The Moon', with the visual revelation about the young girl/impossible astronaut was quite fantastic and raised all sorts of questions. Questions that I hope will be answered sooner rather than later.
Watch 'Day Of The Moon' on BBC iPlayer until 18.44, Sat 11 June '11.
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