Not entirely sure I agree that Matt Smith lacks charm, or that long story arcs are essentially a bad thing, but perhaps the scope of the first two episodes is just too great for the time allowed; too many threads, short cuts and loose ends to get ones head around?
As for the third episode, I would agree that on first view it appears to be a little "fluffy". However, now that I've taken a second look I think it's an attempt, after the somewhat dark opening, to re-engage with the younger generation; Dr Who, after all, being originally conceived as children's entertainment. It has also introduced the concept of alternate realities coinciding, which may (or may not) be pertinent (Amy's on/off pregnancy?)
Personal thoughts/speculations."A lot more happened in 1969 than anyone remembers."
One may recall that in
Blink (another Steven Moffat story - starring Carey Mulligan no less) the Doctor and Martha are transported back to 1969. Coincidence or not?
Whatever happened to the
The Doctor's Daughter? (N.B. The original Doctor was first seen travelling with his granddaughter Susan, ergo one can assume he does have a family).
From the last series, the questions of why Amy knew nothing of the Daleks and the force behind the hijacking of the TARDIS, remained unanswered.
Who knocked out Canton Delaware?
How did Rory and River escape from the Silence spaceship?
Dark Star material! When man had still to set foot on the moon!
Who helped the child escape from the spacesuit?
Does the mysterious eye-patched woman ring any bells with anyone?
