1. Vincent & The Doctor
Now let me firstly explain, I can understand the contentiousness that may come from placing Vincent and The Doctor so highly. It is an emotional episode and therefore something that contains a very subjective matter. Its themes will not appeal to everyones taste but what cannot be denied is its inclusion is backed up by a wondrous mix of vibrancy and evocative character development. Written by romantic aficionado Richard Curtis, the show is laced with subtle touches that are now expected from the writer/director. It was a stroke of genius to get Curtis on board and while he may not exactly be everyones cup of tea, he undoubtedly provides quite possibly the strongest emotional fable in nu-who. This episode doesnt necessarily focus on the monster as such, instead allowing the relationship between the three be a vocal point of the episode. Its an intriguing character study delving into Van Goghs troubled psyche as well as re-establishing Amys character ever since Rory had been erased from time. The commentary on mental illness is one that is subtlety handled, never straying too into saccharine territory, instead representing a troubled affliction with a quiet dignity. While some may find the ending far too clichéd for modern tastes, I feel it added a beautifully poignant moment that was instilled from the development of Van Goghs relationship with Amy. Tony Curran really does play the role wonderfully. While some may feel annoyance that the orchestra laden ending doesnt actually save Van Gogh - he of course eventually killed himself - it does raise an interesting point regarding The Doctor. All he can do is illuminate others to the wonders of life, of hope and love and while it has countless times been enough in the past, here its a recognition that some things just have to be. Probably the best stand alone episode under the tenure of Matt Smith. Oh and Bill Nighy pops up. Immediately brilliant.