That lunch scene was fantastic. I loved that they used a medium shot to show that no, a table does not make that knife invisible, and Sara acutely aware that she could be seen at any moment.  The whole "under the table stickup" thing is a bit of a gimmick usually, and they did a great job making it work here.

Pffft, your opinions are ridiculous :P

I know that episode grades aren't comparable between series; but nonetheless, seeing this week's Doctor Who being higher rated than this is jarring.

@avclub-298673367c6de609ae5970ce1e699c50:disqus , the idea is that she fits into the "plots" of their adventures too well.

@avclub-55ab1e0836b46cc575ee502254e68ea9:disqus , if you're referring to me, yeah, the idea that Clara's sudden skills are a part of the plot is something that I'm actively expecting at this point. That's why I caveated to Scrawler that her actions this episode are too much "unless [they have] specific plot…

@avclub-55ab1e0836b46cc575ee502254e68ea9:disqus , the Daleks aren't emotionless, they're driven by hate.

They released a new one for the series finale.  Although the word "prequel" seems to be slightly inappropriate for it.

Doesn't the ability to organize a group of soldiers deemed unfit for serious duty into a a squad that's willing to stand against an army of millions make the feat even more impressive?

I'm with you on all of this.

I agree.  Victorian Clara was wonderfully characterized during her brief tenure on Earth, and I still miss her as the Doctor's companion.  I'm guessing that Moffatt wanted a clearer character evolution, but he seems to be going about it in a way that will only make sense through the rearview.

Commanding troops is a skill though, it's not something that you're just "good at."   People are trained for that sort of leadership.

I'd give this episode a B, or a B-.  There just wasn't enough development, and the super-speed thing being forgotten immediately is annoying me more than it should have. Matt Smith was fantastic as Mr. Clever, and I hope that the Cybermen try to recreate him.

Long Beach?  I thought the AV Club was a Chicago game!

I AM!  I AM BEING SO SINCERE!

I bet she does a great Skeletor impression.  The best even.

Lovely analogy.

I like the cut of your brain's jib!

HE COULD BE THE NEW CHEVY.

One thing is for sure:

@avclub-1b1f9a3e639ecc53f335314fc9d8403b:disqus , shows involving Mel Gibson typically glorify him.  Community does the opposite of that to Chevy Chase.