I'd say the points of failure were the Cheetah costumes and, if memory serves, the acting often lacked a sufficient sense of aggression. It was definitely part of a trend where, I would say, the show was beginning to find its way again (albeit too little, too late) but I think the lack of budget shows in a way it doesn't with Curse of Fenric.

You could be right about the preaching. Hopefully Munro has matured as a writer as well.