6. Asylum Of The Daleks
This is how you open a series! Packed full of epic, other-worldly locations and nail-biting tension this episode has it all. The idea that the Daleks need the help of the Doctor is a little far-fetched, but the writing of the episode makes you conveniently forget that as it entertains you with its sharpness. The inclusion of Oswin, an offspring of Clara, is a smart and intriguing one. It allows audiences to get attached to the actress as her banter and brilliance do indeed make her the highlight of the episode. Her flirtations with Rory and the Doctor are very amusing yet cleverly Moffat makes sure that Oswin is an equal to the Doctor, not his superior. She doesn't put him down in any way and it helps the audience get behind her. The great twist of the episode is also very neatly built up, from the terrifying scene where Rory accidentally wakes up a room full of clinically insane killers ('EGGS EGGS EXTERMINATE!) to the slow transformation that Amy starts going through to become one. The fact that Oswin, the new companion, is a Dalek doesn't come out of nowhere but it still makes a huge surprise for the audience, ensuring they'll come back next week and the week after that.