Kill the Moon was a sometimes infuriating dichotomy between silly and sublime. The emotional upheaval resonated while the story sank beneath the weight of dodgy production choices. Still, absurdity is a useful tool and perhaps the ridiculous plot and incongruous monsters helped to keep the focus on the difficult discussion taking place. Certainly the tension maintained an air of reality even if the setting did not. One of the strengths of series eight is that the Doctor doesnt get away with much. The characters of Clara, Danny and Courtney are all strong enough to call him on his crap. No matter how unbelievable the plot the characterization is spot on. These are well-rounded, realistic individuals with strengths and flaws. They are not cardboard or caricature. We revel in their triumphs, cringe at their disappointments and empathize with their fears.