10 Best Cliffhangers Of Modern Doctor Who
1. The Pandorica Opens
The only entry on the list from the Matt Smith era, but deservingly in number one place. The episode is massive in its implications but also delivered on a small scale to make the characters the central focus. What makes the episode work so well is that Moffat makes the surprising move of making the central threat, that the TARDIS will blow up and destroy the universe, actually happen!
On top of that is the equally shocking and heartbreaking moment when Rory kills Amy, despite all his best efforts not to. This moment may have been easier to take if Amy still didn't recognise him, but her realisation that the Roman Auton before her is her boyfriend just moments before he kills her, makes the moment sting that liitle more.
At the same time the purpose of the Pandorica, a mystical 'box' believed to contain the most powerful creature in the universe, is revealed to be a prison for The Doctor, set up by a cavalcade of Who villain royalty. The moment when the Doctor realises that all his enemies have formed an alliance just to defeat him is every bit as heartbreaking as the death of Amy.
The final shot then perfects the ending, zooming out to show the destruction of planets and stars throughout the universe. Then silence. Genius!