en-USMon, 06 Feb 2012 15:49:30 -0800 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:49:30 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (71)]]> Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:18:26 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (37)]]> Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:39:17 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:21:45 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (33)]]> Sun, 05 Feb 2012 14:33:27 -0800
I like the surprised look on Buffy's face when she hears Giles has a "fatherly love" for her. One suspects she's never given conscious thought to the idea that Giles is her father substitute until now.

Also Buffy threatening to kill Giles if he ever touches her again, then allowing him to tend to her wound at the end.

Reply | Other Comments (43)]]> Sun, 05 Feb 2012 10:58:00 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (23)]]> Sat, 04 Feb 2012 10:17:17 -0800
On the topic of each season's "big bad", it's interesting to zoom out and look at what each season's villain means in the overall development of the show and its characters (you may have already talked about this in a review I haven't read yet).

Season 2's evil was Buffy's boyfriend, which made it extremely personal for her, Season 3 was the town mayor, Season 4 involved the federal government, and Season 5 involved a god. As we move from the deeply personal to the larger social and political structures and then to the theological, each villain pushes the characters to new heights in their strength and maturity. I especially love S 5 for juxtaposing a god with Buffy's spiritual journey into her own nature.

And then Season 6's villains turn out not to be something bigger than S 5, but rather the complete opposite - the 3 dorkiest, most immature boys. It makes perfect sense when looking at Buffy's character at that point - lost, depressed, struggling to reclaim who she is. Having suffered from severe chronic depression myself (I remember you mentioning that you hadn't), I can say S 6 really hit the nail on the head and I really, really love the writers for taking such a dark risk with it. S 6 can easily be a metaphor for a person's depression and/or quarter or mid-life crisis - a time when they really have no direction and feel they have lost their purpose and passion for life. In those times, even the littlest challenges feel like mountains, which is why those 3 dorks are such perfect villains. And then S 7, when Buffy has overcome her personal demons, she is all the stronger for having gotten through that phase and is able to take on the source of all evil by spreading her knowledge and strength to others.

It's just so beautiful to contemplate this whole arc, but it wouldn't be nearly as powerful if S 6 hadn't happened. In order to be realistic and true to human nature, the show had to take that nose dive and then come out of it.

Sorry for all the blabbering. I LOVE YOUR REVIEWS!! Thank you for this site!

Reply | Other Comments (91)]]> Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:07:51 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (50)]]> Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:39:55 -0800
I agree Mike that Buffy herself is the foundation, the building blocks in this season. I love Buffy always have, always will. She is my ultimate role model, her strength and ability to face all odds with courage. I second the agreement of her being both the sacrificial lamb and the hunter, have you also noticed that when ever she lays her life on the line; twice literally, she wears white? Prophecy girl, The Gift, When she is stabbed in Chosen she is wearing a white shirt, even in season six when she is shot by Warren she has a white top under her jacket, which may be a pale grey or perhaps white itself!

The pros out number the cons for me when it comes to the season, i appreciate that i may be in the minority when it comes to expressing my joy and love of this season, i hold it right up there, it being close to my favourite actually coming second!

Reply | Other Comments (51)]]> Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:47:18 -0800
I agree it isn't as emotional as the second or even the sixth season but its Buffy at; well lets say its good time, it is finding it is feet with the comedy after the darkness before in season 2. However i consider it to be one of the better ones for what it delivers. I stand by the above points i made in my previous comment but Buffy touches everyone and people never 100% agree all of the time. The debates and divergent opinions is what keep me glued to your site Mike, i love seeing others prominent views and thoughts on episodes and characters.

Reply | Other Comments (23)]]> Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:08:33 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (23)]]> Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:50:05 -0800
This season is full of knock out stand alone episodes, suspense and character fluency, interactivity and growth. Development for the Scoobies was dealt with in a powerful and comedic way. Resonating with Buffy, Willow, Xander, Giles and Faith was easy with the mind blowing writing and witty dialogue, the message within this season is one which focuses on identity; finding it, figuring out who you are, where you are in life and the choices you make has been a joy to watch.

Emotions run high in this season if you ask me. Not so palpably as in Season two's Innocence and Becoming pts 1 and 2 but they're still there, the emotions that Buffy and the gang go through in the seasons opener and Dead Man's Party. In Consequences, Buffy and Faith not to mention Willow go through a volley of emotions, then again in Choices, The Prom. Cordelia is someone i resonated with in Lover's walk and The Gift. The scenes in Revelations, the anger, the sorrow and the guilt that are unearthed at the intervention the group have with Buffy ware cohesive. The episode Helpless was one of the best of the season's run for emotional value.

What else can you ask for? With that great two part final and the characters introduced such as Faith and Wesley and The Mayor.

Reply | Other Comments (23)]]> Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:08:04 -0800

My heart goes out to the gang when they realise the true horror and uncaring nature of a head teacher or principal forcing such a task on you so my favourite scene is when the credits are rolling and Buffy, Xander and WIllow are performing a dramatic piece, Buffy's i don't care or want to being doing this approach was mine! I adore WIllow, running off like that!

I also like that this ep has quite a few unscripted moments added in!

Reply | Other Comments (34)]]> Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:47:53 -0800 One thing that bugs me though - is that Buffy killed Gwen Post who was HUMAN - [all right the lightning blast finished her off after Buffy threw the glass that took her arm off but wouldn't she have bled out from that anyway?] so there goes the no killing humans rule. Was it allowed because it was in combat [ie hot blood not cold blood?


Buffy is allowed to kill humans in self defense (and in defense of another) just like any human being.

Reply | Other Comments (25)]]> Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:31:29 -0800
"More than a diversion. Well, they said the tribute was big, so big that people would never let them take it. That people had to be out-of-it. And later on, when the candy wore off, they'd blame themselves."

Best quote: Giles saying to Buffy: "I'm your Watcher, now sod off!"

And let's not forget the blatant fanservice moment of a shirtless Angel doing Tai Chi, watched by a rapt Buffy. No wonder Scott Hope complained of her being "distracted".

Reply | Other Comments (34)]]> Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:37:39 -0800 Sarah, and agree it's important to make those distinctions. When I was originally writing some of these reviews (particularly through Season 5), I was still in college and knew people who were very confused about themselves and others on such issues. Due to my own lack of knowledge in this regard, I've written some stuff in some of these reviews that don't represent my current view on the matter. I have modified some specific passages in certain reviews that had stuff that could easily be construed as offensive to some individuals. For the overall picture, though, I'll be taking care of it in due time.

This is one of many reasons I'm going back through my reviews one last time and 'cleaning them up' with improved writing quality, typo-checking, and a more consistent level of quality. Over the time period I reviewed the show -- the first time I'd ever done such a thing -- I improved as a I went along. In that process I learned more about the show, more about myself, and more about others. So I think you'll find that when I'm done fixing up all these reviews (I'm going to be starting Season 2 in the next few months), a much more consistent and informed position about the show, its themes, and my personal experience as it relates to them will emerge.

Thanks for the comment!

Reply | Other Comments (43)]]> Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:52:19 -0800
Perhaps you've outgrown these views over these years...nonetheless I must point out that Tara being a lesbian and the men in Tara's family being oppressive are not necessarily connected. A straight woman can have oppressive men in her family and a lesbian can have extremely caring men in her family. Assuming there's a logical "reason" why Tara is gay kind of implies there's an element of choice, whereas we tend not to make such assumptions about heterosexuality. I'm not here to debate whether being gay is a choice or about nature vs. nurture - people have their own opinions about that based on whatever reason and the bottom line is we don't know - but I just wanted to point out subtle assumptions we tend to make about gay people that may not be true.

Reply | Other Comments (43)]]> Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:36:22 -0800
Other moments are in The Harvest when leaves School to aid Buffy in her search for Jesse, He often shows moments of bravery too. We learn a lot about Xander in Nightmares and The Pack, the obvious of course that he is scared of clowns, still digs Buffy when she's a vampire and 'dead' which is a little moment of foreshadowing if you ask me for him still feeling things for her until Anya really! After she died. Other things that are maybe not so fluent to the audience is the darkness that may exist within, when he is a hyena its obvious, not contrived but on the surface. Xander in my view subverts this nature a lot like Giles and Ripper. Think of the moment in season six when he sees Spike and Anya sleeping together he goes after Spike with the determination to kill him. In season 5 he is the one who suggests killing Ben. In season 2, he tells Buffy to kick Angelus' ass and in season three there is the moments in Dead Man's Party and Revelations when he lays in to Buffy, not pulling any punches. Xander can hold his own and notices a lot, this aspired and grow form the first season.

Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Mon, 30 Jan 2012 02:55:07 -0800
As for the zombie gate-crash, I see it as being entirely appropriate. The Scoobies *have* to put aside their disputes and issues because if they don't, they and other people will die. They're like soldiers in war. That's why Buffy's friends are angry at her - she left them carrying the can while she disappeared, maybe never to return. As a result quite a few vampires were freed to kill innocents and Xander and Willow were putting not only their lives, but their lovers in danger. Everyone *did* try to cut Buffy some slack but as we saw in Season 4 and 6 if problems aren't discussed openly, it has serious consequences for their safety. So the Scoobies repressed what they were really thinking, only for it to explode when it seemed Buffy was running away again. The zombie attack reminds them of the reason why they've become friends in the first place.

Reply | Other Comments (53)]]> Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:33:18 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (72)]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:39:42 -0800
You could argue that Buffy was something of a building block for the dramas to follow, its like SMG has been saying, Buffy gave the networks and the people something different something to aspire to. (not that i am taking a direct or indirect quote of Sarah's, i don't know her and would never do that because i haven't the right, i'm simply summarising) Taking that into account you could speculate that they did use Earshot as a blueprint, a copy and paste job!

Reply | Other Comments (27)]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:35:28 -0800 Led Zeppelin's original publishing company instead of Superhype Music Ltd. Jimmy Page studied the works of Alister Crowley and even buying his farm just outside of Loch Ness, Scotland. Page was often called The Sorcerer along with many other darker things in the day. I apologize for getting off track there,but great review as always Mike, I pretty much agree with you on every point. one question comes to mind though, they employ the same audio technique with Sookie Stackhouse's telepathic abilities in the pilot episode of True Blood. Were they using Earshot as a blueprint or maybe an homage? Coincidence much?

Reply | Other Comments (27)]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2012 13:02:20 -0800
Its, in my opinion, a well written episode, one full of emotions, from Buffy's peppy chat with Giles about trying out for the cheerleading squad to her heart to heart with her mom at the end. The chilling lines delivered by Amy and her mother were great too.

I think in a small way Mike that you're somewhat mistaken about this seasons episodes being ones that allow for no continuity in the characters emotions and fluency. For instance the principle that parents trying to live through their children, trying to make them a carbon copy as Buffy put it is present in later seasons and episodes, Season three springs to mind, Buffy's speech to her mom about her not being what Joyce wanted or pictured in Graduation day pt I. Also Joyce, it is clear from this ep is constantly endeavouring to reach out and understand Buffy's world, knowing there is a distance between them what with Buffy being the Slayer.

It isn't as cohesive and stand out-ish as other messages in latter seasons, but i think its present.
What i enjoy about this episode aside from the plot is the interactivity between Buffy, Willow and Xander. They are already tightly glued together, shown by Xander and WIllow's willingness to help out Buffy without being asked. There friendship was formed and the unbreakable foundations laid from Welcome to the Hellmouth, looking retrospectively, having watched all the seasons, its a friendship that is tested but never broken.

Season one, to me anyway, is not a season that can be forgotten, yes its content can be questionable but think about what it gives us, the foundations! I never forget this seasons episodes, i constantly revert back to them when i need a Buffy fix, i like the characters and their carefree nature, their penchant to find the fun in a dark situation is started here, it forms the characters we grow to love.
The magic and whimsical nature of season one is what makes it special.

I love this season, as i have said time and again. Its subtle and gives a basis for the characters. I agree with CoyoteBuffyFan completely.

Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2012 09:18:03 -0800
Back to this episode though.

I loved the coma scene with Buffy and Faith, a foreshadowing of the episode restless? AND Seasons to come, setting up Dawn and Glory.
The meeting in the library, when they are planning their attack on The mayor, was priceless! Cordelia and the germ theory, Oz and the idea of Humous! Giles' reaction to that announcement was comical and cool!

The awkward kissing between Wes and Cordy was to funny!
I always think back to Welcome to the Hellmouth and The Harvest when i watch this episode, the scene in that episode with Giles saying who knows what we will face next? Who'd though it would be a Big snake who was once Sunnydale's Mayor and original founder! I love the backstory to The Mayor, him being immortal or at least the notion of having sold his soul to build this town for demons and vamps to feed on was epic.

The battle scene was great, a climax befitting a great season. All the students coming together will now mean that what Giles said in the first two parter of the inaugural season that people have a habit of forgetting, being able to subvert their own brains as it were to tell themselves that demons don't exist will no longer be possible they all fought a giant snake!

Oh and synder being eaten? Classic!

Reply | Other Comments (55)]]> Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:43:15 -0800
Faith and the Mayor's scenes with Faith sharing her past with him was the most touching of the episode in my opinion. She didn't open up much, always feeling Buffy's shadow. I have often thought that this is the cause behind the affect. The reason for her penchant for violence and feeling like a god as you put it Mike, Faith has always considered her and Buffy being better, above others but she never understood Buffy's take on it being the other way round, her notion of not wanting to be the slayer and all. She never let Buffy in and Buffy never truly let Faith in.

The fight scene was the highlight of this episode no question. Season 3s version of showtime. Your mention to people complaining of Buffy descending the ladder slowly at the end was a great scene, she killed Faith, she took a life. Yes she did it for right reasons, one could argue. Conversely Buffy is finally showing a BIG difference between her and Faith, she doesn't feel like a god here. She took no enjoyment or whimsical sense of righteousness in what she has done. She fights demons and vampires and other things that do bump in the night not people, not someone she could have considered a friend. She was feeling sorrow not necessarily for Faith but the mess, the situation, what was coming. Anyone else think the same?

On a lighter note i love her outfit, i actually own red jeans because of her and this ep! Not leather i know but i feel somewhat empowered when i wear them! HAHA!

Reply | Other Comments (22)]]> Thu, 26 Jan 2012 09:35:55 -0800
Although i guess when that vamp killed the tenant....she didn't need to worry about paying ha!

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Reply | Other Comments (33)]]> Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:47:26 -0800
AHAHAHA.

Reply | Other Comments (37)]]> Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:07:35 -0800
The opening, when the gang are discussing the direction they want there lives to take is great, especially Buffy's want to leave it brings home the point that she has a calling, a destiny that has her life mapped out. As she said she knows its complicated. This is the Buffy i love, the one who wants and desires. In every season no matter her changes there has always been something she has wanted or longed for.

It has some great moments, Giles and Wesley sharing tea when Buffy and the others get on with the task at hand, Oz showing his love for Willow, Willow herself! Amazing growth followthrough here! Her strength and courage is really setting her up for her character arch.
The drawing we don't get to see but hear described is a good for the soul, Xander and Cordy sharing insults always fun to watch!

The final scenes are full of drama and some that ought not to be missed! Faith looking longingly at the knife in the cafeteria wall was a subtle way of relating to her, she has never had anything of her own before and now she has lost the gift her 'father' gave her. Also foreshadowing of graduation day part 1! SHe gets it back!

Oh and a flashback! Mr Pointy! Kendra and season 2! Also i loved the guys forming a plan all the while ignoring Wesley!

Reply | Other Comments (29)]]> Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:47:16 -0800
I enjoy this episode, as i mentioned this season is amazing for laughs, comedy, drama and intent throughout. I give the writers kudos for this season because of the outstanding stand alone eps amongst such a prominent season, with a great villain.

I love the relationship between Giles and Wesley, Burke! Ha!

The questionnaires the gang use are classic and the use of introducing byline characters is great, it allows for the viewer to guess who is the killer.

This episode sort of reminds me of the theme and setting of a first season episode only with the characters further developed?

Reply | Other Comments (27)]]> Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:10:36 -0800
Remember that Spike's priority at this point is to make Dru better - he specifically calls in the Order of Taraka to prevent Buffy from interfering. Also at this stage Buffy was just another Slayer -- he hadn't yet developed his obsession with her. Even Spike had only killed two Slayers in a century; it's clearly not something he does lightly, especially after this one put him in a wheelchair.

As for Angel wearing pants after having sex; well we just have to accept that happens in TV that children will watch. Even the fanservice-heavy Season 6 had Spike still wearing his underwear after boffing the Buffster.

Reply | Other Comments (26)]]> Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:49:28 -0800
Spike: I love you.
Buffy: (upset) No, you don't!
Spike: You think I haven't tried not to?
(Buffy punches Spike clear across the alley) Try harder!

Reply | Other Comments (75)]]> Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:41:16 -0800
But what really sells it (for me, anyway) is the moment right after. Buffy drops her tray in shock, spilling food everywhere, and the entire lunchroom bursts into applause. Embarrassing as it is to admit, I once experienced a similar high school moment myself.

Best of all, this instant "snap back to reality" moment represents one of the show's most understated strengths -- the way it portrays Buffy's inner turmoil as stark, central-themed drama, while still reminding us that all those around her continue to lead their own regular lives. (More examples of this can be found in Seasons Five and Six.)

Reply | Other Comments (27)]]> Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:20:07 -0800
I also like seeing the relationship between Faith and The Mayor. Its an introducing one, not exactly as clear cut Father daughter as Giles and Buffy but still theres something similar to, only darker?

The part about Angelus being back, i never truly believed it, i guess that was the point? That he was acting? So not really back.....a subtle shout out that he wasn't evil. The scene with Buffy and Faith was great, the fight scenes and the moment that Faith told Buffy she wasn't ready to kill her ...yet. Sets the scene for Graduation day part 1 don't you guys think?

Reply | Other Comments (43)]]> Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:08:53 -0800
Loved the scene with Buffy, Giles and Xander expressing grief over Willow being 'dead'! And then the hugs! Angel's reaction to! priceless.
Another moment that i enjoyed was Cordelia's and Vamp Willow's encounter, the listening to the boyfriend stealing and then the presence of Wesley! Great!

Oh and the Apple scene! Percy giving his teacher an Apple! HA!

I value this season highly, looking retrospectively i'm of the opinion that this season is probably the strongest for stand alone comedy value moments and episodes all be them screened in the middle of one of the cohesive and poignant big bad's of Buffyverse! The Mayor and Faith.

Truly great viewing.
its a shame we didn't get to see the results of the Buffy vs Faith Slayer test and from this point on i will miss Vamp Willow. I remember her fondly! Oh and i wonder what with Angel sort of being aware that Willow is sort of going to be gay...what his thoughts were towards Oz?

Reply | Other Comments (23)]]> Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:07:07 -0800
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Reply | Other Comments (41)]]> Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:52:17 -0800
I love the writing in this episode, faith struggling to find out who she is and where she fits in is percolating with ever scene she has, especially when she makes the choice to join the Mayor at the end. She is leaning on everyone and anyone she can to 'fit'.

I really appreciate this episode, its cohesive to the main plot. Especially the interaction of the other characters, how they handle the revelation of the deputy mayor's death and Faith's reaction to it, Willow's heartbreaking scene when she realised Xander had slept with her was something no one could not relate to. Looking retrospectively it is a great episode worthy of the score you gave it Mike.

Am i the only one to think that Wesley's reaction is quintessential of his character? Even with his move to LA and Angel? Not so much Giles but he does do the hard thing sometimes, especially with Connor? Because he believes its right?

Reply | Other Comments (25)]]> Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:25:23 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:29:18 -0800
Willow: You know, I used to love to look up at them when I was little. They're supposed to make you feel all insignificant, but ... they made me feel like ... like I was in space ... part of the stars. (points) There's ... Canis Minor ... and ... (points) and Cassiopeia.
Tara: (smiles, points) And the big pineapple.

And what form does Willow's drug trip take? Being part of/in the stars.

Reply | Other Comments (62)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:11:38 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:04:49 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 14:01:39 -0800
Worst is the head rotation thing.

Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:45:23 -0800
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Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:23:31 -0800
Isn't that quote about Zaphod?

How do I feel about Chosen? Sad. It's great that the Core Four live, but I feel like I'm the one who dies, since I no longer get to be a part of their world (except by a sort of reincarnation back to S1E1). Aside from that, I'd say that breaking the one-girl-in-all-the-world mechanism was a good thing, considering all the pain and loneliness it brought Buffy over the years, and would continue to bring future Slayers. Great way to wrap up, and I think supports the idea that all the prophecies and other expectations (watcher's council, etc.) aren't necessary.

What I don't like though is the axe (oh, so ancient-looking) and the woman in the tomb, any of that stuff that suggests that Buffy is just following a script that the PTB wrote long ago. It takes away from what Buffy and her team accomplish in defeating the First.

Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:45:44 -0800
I think that a slayer, being a little more than human and having the strength and skill to kill vampires and demons; which spring mostly from myths and fairytales....and Bram Stoker! is verging on a prophecy.

"It's one thing to think that you're the center of the universe — it's another thing entirely to have this confirmed by an ancient prophecy."
—Douglas Adams

The above is a quote from the creator of the hitch hikers guide to the galaxy and several Dr who stories. I think this sums up Buffy being a slayer, the chosen one. But this is just my take on his meaning and the meaning of season one (which is actually my second favourite season after 3)


How do you feel about the shows final? Chosen? It springs back to the Prophecy of being a slayer, the idea that the prophecy was sort of the answer....well breaking it anyway!

Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:38:59 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (26)]]> Tue, 17 Jan 2012 22:44:17 -0800 But before that we have the contrivance of Anya actually tying her necklace around Cordelia (??) just so that Giles can take it off her body and identify it (how convenient that he saw it and randomly decided to rob her of it).
Then of course once he takes it off Anya, she just stands there and doesn't even try to stop him until he crushes it. The dialogue was really cheesy throughout especially once Buffy came onto the scene, and the stuff with Angel seemed totally unnecessarily stuffed in just so the episode would feature him.
And why were Giles and his vampire fighters in the library exactly? It was awfully stupid considering any Vampire could just walk in, and they did on two occassions was it?
We also got very little sense of what society was really like and what the reaction was to the whole vampire things. A couple of cool things like garlic on the lockers and a curfew, but it would been more interesting to get a wider view about what was going on. The factory scene at the end was kind of silly, and how did those humans stand up to the vampires so well?

It just wasn't a tight episode. The writing didn't live up to the concept.

Reply | Other Comments (61)]]> Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:55:12 -0800
In any case there's nothing about being a Slayer that predicts a specific future outcome. All we know is that a shorter life is likely due to the dangers involved.

Gemma, I agree with you about Joss and the writers' decisions about Joyce not knowing until the end of S2, it's a good decision as far as the series goes. I realize that my argument about Joyce was more of an "if the Buffyverse were real" scenario, unlike my earlier point about prophecies.

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Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:32:26 -0800 As for Buffy the first season was quintessential for prophecies, the one girl in the all world speech. I liked it, it allowed us explore and gave us an influx into Buffy's life and calling. Also it allowed for a great season final.

It did die after the inaugural season of BtVS but i think the first season was the most cohesive for innocence and the whimsical and finding its feet required a prophecy.

I disagree with you on the matter of Joyce finding out Buffy being the slayer earlier than she did, i liked the outburst and i fear that subverting what happened would have damaged it, Joss didn't want Buffy's parents in the show but i'm glad we got Joyce! I enjoyed her sentimental talks with Buffy when she is actually hitting the nail on the end when she said things about how the world will end if you don't go to the Bronze! When in Buffy's reality it would! I also enjoyed the duality of her life, the hidden part of who she was.

Reply | Other Comments (48)]]> Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:22:26 -0800
The fact that the characters don't remember 'The Wish' even lets us see Buffy with the it was all a dream and as Mike the reset button used on Lost and so many other shows.

I truly love this episode but everyone is entitled to an opinion and i'm sure that you may love an episode i dislike.

Reply | Other Comments (61)]]> Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:36:36 -0800
Speaking of coming home -- don't be so hard on Joyce. Sure, she takes her anger and frustration out on Giles. But when she endures those obvious and involuntary starts whenever some one knocks on the door...no great creativity in those moments, but you still have to imagine how many times over the last three months she's done that, each time scolding herself not to be so ridiculous, yet each time not being able to help herself. You can see all those wheels simultaneously spinning in her head, spinning in circles with no place to go, and your eyes well up in sympathy that last time, just waiting for her to finally open the door and start her life again.

And what is a tea cozy, anyway?

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Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Sun, 15 Jan 2012 17:30:37 -0800
Thankfully we don't get much of that in BtVS. I never like seeing Giles or Wesley or Fred or whoever figuring out "omigosh, the prophecy is going to be fulfilled tonight!" Ugh.

S1 is the only one I can think of where a prophecy is a key aspect of the final confrontation with the season's Big Bad. I do love seeing Buffy try to grapple with that prophecy, I just think it set a bad precedent.

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Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sat, 14 Jan 2012 21:10:43 -0800
Buffy: It was always nice to see her as a changing, learning, growing person, but I loved to see her finally become the confident leader and stay pretty much fixed in that position (except for Empty Places). She grew stronger, wiser, and just all-around more bad ass, and I just loved every second of it.

First Evil/ Caleb, and all other villains: I absolutely love these villains! The First is just so awesome, menacing, and manipulative, and even when he was in "remission", I got a palpable sense of his evil. My favorite villain of the show. Caleb was also quite good, although I agree it would have been more effective if he'd been introduced earlier. Plus, despite Chosen's Turok-Han inconsistency, I though that the ubervamps made a nice addition to the season. I remember just getting that anxious thrill when the first Ubervamp arrived in the Summer's house, and I truly felt a sense of danger.

Scoobies: Everybody says that they don't get enough screen time, but I disagree. Though they were slightly more in the backdrop than in previous seasons, they still played a huge and important part. And Willow's scythe spell was just beautiful. Plus Andrew is just amazing.

Plot: There were inconsistencies, a few plot holes, but I don't really care. This season felt the most connected since season five, something that I very much appreciate. Almost every episode added something to the overall arc, and it was just fun and exciting to see it all play out.

Chosen: I love this episode. It could have been even better, but I still love it. The final battle is just breathtaking, and everything pays off in the end. The final moment is also wonderful.

Random Things I Liked: The Scythe. It was slightly a Deus Ex Machina, but I though they built it up sufficiently enough, and Buffy is just awesome with it. And then of course Vi. Can't explain, but the moment she arrived, I loved her.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sat, 14 Jan 2012 20:13:12 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (45)]]> Fri, 13 Jan 2012 23:11:46 -0800 After the gang was gone some of Glory's bumpy minions snuck back and took Ben's body for proper burial rites / an attempt at a resurrection. One of the bumpy minion shaman types had the others bring the Hammer, since it had tasted Glory's blood and hence was sanctified / might be useful in a resurrection spell.

Reply | Other Comments (79)]]> Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:47:34 -0800
I like the mirror image and the mirror opposite-ness of Buffy and Faith, notably in the graveyard scene; the mirror image is that both have the same mental, physical and sexual inherent qualities as you pointed out Mike. Conversely though the two are both different, Faith obvious falls from grace in this episode, takes a huge turn but the in the scene i am describing, Faith is down and dirty when it comes to slaying whereas Buffy is the thinker. I love this fluency and interactivity between the two.

I do enjoy this episode, the demon is a little lame and not very demony but the plot itself is something i got behind, who doesn't want a special amulet necklace? nice and shiny! :D The introduction to Wesley is cool too, baby Giles! the scene with the glasses! Priceless. Ties in with the season being about identity but i'm not a fan of Buffy pushing her friends away; willow and previously Xander but i guess this is Joss preparing for season 4?

I didn't enjoy the drowning of Buffy, unless it was her initiative to pretend she was dead and then kick ass as she did! Then i can get behind it.

Reply | Other Comments (37)]]> Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:30:43 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (67)]]> Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:41:08 -0800
Xander has also been a favourite of mine in the inner scoobies; more so than Willow but less so than Buffy and Giles. I love this episode because it speaks about identity and trying to assert one self and trying to do the most difficult think of all; fitting in.

I know that Xander doesn't have any super powers but his being pushed out by Buffy and the others is a little of bass; harsh in some respects. He saved Buffy's life in season one, he has fought along side her and stood up to Angelus, he even went under cover as a Go Fish! So poor Xander!

It has some funny scenes which is why i love it so much, the above point is my only 'issue' with it

Reply | Other Comments (39)]]> Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:01:39 -0800
Firstly, thank you for sharing your personal experience with us. I can imagine it may not be the easiest thing to talk about, but I’m glad you did because it’s really interesting to hear from someone who’s actually been in that situation, and to hear that you find Willow’s story so believable.

Personally, I do have a bit of a problem with the way this storyline is handled, although I don’t hate it as much as others seem to. I don’t have a problem with the idea of Willow becoming addicted, though. I agree that her downward spiral in this season is very believable and makes sense in the context of who she is and what she’s been through. I do find it slightly odd that the idea of getting addicted to magic is never raised in the previous seasons, where magic was often used as a metaphor for Willow’s sexuality, but I’m happy to go along with it.

What I do find harder to stomach is the way the ‘drug metaphor’ is actually handled. Rather than simply being able to draw parallels between magic and drug addiction, it often feels like Willow is actually being portrayed as a drug addict, in ways which don’t always make a lot of sense to me. The ‘rush’ she gets from magic is a fairly new concept, and it’s taken to extremes when she starts acting like she’s drunk or high as a result (e.g. the car crash). She experiences a physical ‘hangover’ after a night of magic use, and her ‘withdrawal’ is characterised by shaking, sweating and constant thirst. None of these things have ever been alluded to before as consequences of using magic, and they kind of make me feel like I’m being beaten over the head with this so-called metaphor. It really doesn’t need to be so unsubtle! And then we have the ‘magic junkies’ queued up outside Rack’s door, desperate for a ‘fix’... does ‘magic = drugs’ really need to be spelled out so obviously?

There are many others scenes, particularly the ‘intervention’ scenes, which could almost have been taken word-for-word from another TV show featuring a drug addict. But I think that some of these actually make an effective point: addiction is addiction, and ultimately leads people down the same path no matter what its subject actually is. So while I think I understand what they were trying to do here, I think they could have trusted us to get the point without being so heavy-handed, and without resorting to quite so many TV clichés.

In summary, I pretty much agree with Mike, although I’d perhaps argue that the problem is not so much in Willow’s characterization but in the portrayal of the addiction itself. Willow’s addiction to magic is a great idea for a storyline, but the execution is horrible and really not what I’d expect from BtVS as a show.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Mon, 09 Jan 2012 02:16:14 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (42)]]> Mon, 09 Jan 2012 01:20:08 -0800
I've seen plenty of disagreements on this site, and been involved in a few myself. But few, if any, of the people involved ever came out with a statement like 'look, I know you want to believe that, but you're just wrong', or accused someone else of being 'infatuated' with a character they'd barely written two sentences about.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sun, 08 Jan 2012 18:30:01 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sun, 08 Jan 2012 03:08:08 -0800 someone at least is reading what I actually said.

x factor, I think I'm done with this. You make the same point over and over, and when I actually take the time to respond and put across a different point of view you completely ignore it and just re-state your own opinion. For example, in your last comment you asked 'When has it ever been stated ... that she was interested in experimenting? I'm definitely not a Riley fan but has it ever been implied that she wasnt satisfied sexually by him?', both points which I already answered in my comment beforehand and which you totally ignored. I now feel like it's a total waste of my time to try and have a discussion with you, because you don't seem to want to discuss anything at all - you just want somewhere to vent your own views to anyone who'll listen.

I also explicitly said that I am not a big Spike fangirl (and please note, that's fangirl, so stop calling me 'bro') but you're just sticking to your own assumptions nonetheless. And I'm done with it.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 20:38:50 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (29)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 16:11:51 -0800 Ringer, Gemma. There's a thread on it in the forums, actually.

Reply | Other Comments (46)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:51:45 -0800
I enjoyed this episode in particular Joyce's pivotal role, endeavouring to find a cohesive place in Buffy's world, going with her to slay was a nice subtle touch to the theme of this episode, Joyce wanting to help? I agree with you Dan and your good self Mike regarding the somewhat contempt for the whimsical theme of a wish rather than the episode addressing the 'adult' and rest of the town's behaviour to the evil out there.

You mentioned Joyce and Buffy's exchange of her 'job' being fruitless, i thought this exchange was compelling. It can sometimes be apparent that what Buffy does make a lot of difference with all the evil, even at the end of season 7 there is still evil because evil is in everyone of us but i agree with your review, she saved the world a lot, and Amends as you said addressed her stance on fighting the good fight.

I enjoyed the fluency between Xander and Oz and the fact that Willow's mum remembers that she is dating a musician!

I loved the scene with Giles on the computer, it was a little of the essence between him and Jenny again ...sort of!
Mike, i was wondering are you or are any Buffy fans watching Ringer?

Reply | Other Comments (46)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 13:53:47 -0800 I like this episode, one of my favourites but it's really difficult to watch because of all the pain and harshness in it.
The attempted rape scene was just awful, but I have to admit that I think Buffy should have seen that coming. I mean, every time she and Spike talked during season 6 she said something but meant the opposite, confusing an already confused soulless Spike. Spike simply can't understand that this time Buffy really means NO when she says NO. This scene always makes me cry, it is simply so sad, as the rest of season 6. Everything that could have been between Buffy and Spike was destroyed during this season,culminating in the AR.
To make things worst, after the AR there is Tara's death. I've always loved Tara, always so kind and nice and understanding. And I loved her relationship with Willow, she was the only thing keeping Willow from going "dark" as we see later on.
The ending of this episode breaks my heart every single time I watch it.

Reply | Other Comments (51)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 12:10:38 -0800
Loved it!

Reply | Other Comments (40)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 11:56:50 -0800
I fully understand the issues that Willow and Anya have with each other but I dont understand why these would erupt at this point. Would Anya's insecurities not have been at their greatest when Willow became single after Oz departed? Why, now that Willow is with Tara, would Anya chose to let her issues rise to the surface? Its out of place here with regards to the overall story and as a result I almost have a 'I dont care about this right now' feeling.

I think that it is interesting to compare the way Buffy deals with Riley leaving to the way she dealt with Angel leaving. When Angel ended things we had a wonderfully heartbreaking scene where she is almost inconsolably weeping to Willow. When it ends with Riley she reacts very differently, which almost comical hysterics. I think this highlights the very different feelings she had for both men.

Reply | Other Comments (42)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 11:38:50 -0800 x factor, Alex's opinion is that it wasn't out of character because Buffy went through traumatic experiences over the years and changed. Spike is also not the same character that enters the show in Season 2 -- he's also changed. You have a different view, and there's no problem with that. Everyone's entitled to their own opinion. It's in how strong our arguments are that determines which opinion has more credibility than another. The problem here is why you have such a difficult time understanding this.

Just about everything you blame Alex for in your last comment is completely contradictory to what Alex just said. It's extremely ironic for you to tell someone else that they need to read more carefully considering your habit of ignoring what people have written.

Here's the bottom line: If you don't stop being so antagonistic with just about every single person that disagrees with your opinion, then I will be forced to take action. I've put up with your tone thus far only because I'm not in the habit of removing comments, but you have had many opportunities across several different reviews to cool things down a notch and listen to what people are telling you, and you haven't changed a bit. Start being more respectful of opposing opinions or I'll be forced to remove your comments from here on out. Consider this a warning.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 11:00:44 -0800
Buffy has always been portrayed as fairly conservative when it comes to sex. When has it ever been stated that she had to restrain herself with past lovers? Or that she was interested in experimenting? I'm definitely not a Riley fan but has it ever been implied that she wasnt satisfied sexually by him?

And then add to all this the actual extremely flawed rationale that the writers used to justify b/s was that Buffy was depressed and distant and cutoff and wanted to "feel alive" - had nothing to do with experimentation or restraining herself from past lovers. I've already explained why this rationale fails as well.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 10:35:16 -0800
"In "School Hard," Spike refers to Angel as his sire. While Spike was sired by Drusilla, Joss Whedon has commented that the term "sire" can refer to any vampire in a lineage: thus, since Angel sired Drusilla, he can also be considered Spike's sire."

I hope that cleared things up for you :)

Reply | Other Comments (69)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 10:24:12 -0800
There is an inconstancy that bugs me and ultimately spoils my enjoyment of the episode. Please correct me if I am wrong but in ‘School Hard’ 2x03 it is review that Angel sired Spike. It’s not hinted at, or suggested, it is in fact declared by Spike! ‘You were my sire man!’.

Why oh why do we have Drusilla siring Spike in the episode?

Reply | Other Comments (69)]]> Sat, 07 Jan 2012 08:18:42 -0800
And she *was* stealing.

Reply | Other Comments (42)]]> Fri, 06 Jan 2012 23:35:31 -0800 you'll turn to me. And I'll step in, because... (insert platonic "I love you" here) Because I hate to see you suffer."

Giles is making the point that he's not just worried about Buffy being weak and constantly turning to him for help, but also that *he* is the one who's weak. In that context his radical decision to remove himself entirely is understandable.

Reply | Other Comments (59)]]> Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:51:32 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Fri, 06 Jan 2012 18:27:56 -0800
#1. Fool for Love (5x07)
While watching Buffy, I hadn't ever thought about picking a favorite episode. It had simply never occurred to me. However, once I saw this episode, I knew in a heartbeat that it was my favorite and I hadn't even finished the series yet. It was the first episode I watched that kept me sucked in for every second. There was never a time where I would look at the clock and wonder how much longer it was. I was surprised when it ended and I loved it so much that I wanted to see someone reviewing it and analyzing it, which is actually how I found this website.

#2. Becoming Pt. 2 (2x22)
Yep. It's up there. This episode was the starting point for so many things involving me and Buffy. I realized Spike was my favorite character. I realized I liked Spike and Buffy together. I realized this show was freaking amazing.

#3. Hush (4x10)
I watched the series through with my dad when I saw it. He had already seen it like five times, and when we got to the disc with Hush on it he had a fit of joy and told me how the majority of the episode didn't have any dialogue and it was amazing. We saw it and I was not disappointed. The Gentlemen were creepy and the scene with the projector was priceless.

#4. The Body (5x16)
I didn't think I was going to cry when the episode started. My dad had warned me beforehand that it was tear-jerking, but I didn't believe him. I had only cried once before during Buffy and that was during Passion. I had never gotten really attached to Joyce so I didn't think it would affect me as much, but my eyes were moist throughout most of the episode and Anya's speech sent me over the edge.

#5. Lies My Parents Told Me (7x17)
Wow, it took me forever to decide on number five. It was between this, Restless, Something Blue, OWMF, and Selfless-- but ultimately I had to pick the one that focused on my favorite character, and the more I think about it, the more I realize it has to be this. I adore this episode for a few reasons-- we get the last of Spike's past, we get to see him overcome himself, we get to see Buffy race to Spike's rescue, before giving Wood and Giles some telling off that has me cheering. And it was funny-- in the early seasons I loved Giles. But this episode made me hate him without even feeling sorry about it. Buffy can do that to you.

So, those are my top five favorite episodes. I'd have to watch the show again to make anything near a top 25, but I do have some favorite moments. Some funny, some serious.

In no particular order:
1. Giles walking into a tree (Earshot)
2. Giles in his wizard robe (No Place Like Home)
3. Drunk Giles saying "Bloody Hell!" from off-screen right after Xander realizes Willow's gay (The Yoko Factor)
4. Buffy with a bazooka outside Wood's office (Him)
5. Spike beating Angel with a crowbar (Becoming Pt. 2)
6. Buffy kissing Spike for the first time (Intervention)
7. The famous Spike speech (Touched)
8. The huge simultaneous scream when the group sees a vampire (Tabula Rasa)
There's more, but those are my favorites. The end.

Reply | Other Comments (19)]]> Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:57:38 -0800
In fact i went out of my way to state that kinky sex is FINE if folks want to do it. lol. Gotta read more carefully, bro.

And no, I am not a b/a shipper. I was a B/X shipper in the beginning though that faded away. The only ship that i ship is C/A, yet I am objective enough to admit that turning Cordy into Saint Cordy of late season 3 was not the right way to get the two of them to become attracted to each other.

And I am also objective enough that despite my B/X and C/A leanings, I would have no problems with a B/A reunion if that ever happened. Especially when compared to the ridiculous, asinine, completely unrealistic relationship that was B/S in season 6.

See, I am not infatuated with Spike like you and others are. I actually really enjoy his character most of the time, and i even loved watching him and Buffy doing the liplock in Something Blue, for example. But the absurd relationship that was portrayed in season 6???? lol. No. And the way Spike was used by the writers in season 7??? Another big fat no.

For me, what's most important are the characters and their characterizations. If the writers had ever LAID THE FOUNDATION for B/S in season 6 (by showing us a Buffy that had suffered from abuse in the past, or a Buffy that was into rough sex with soulless psycopaths) then it could have worked - except that you run into the massive problem of how the writers actually set up B/S - that Buffy was depressed, distant, and cutoff after being ripped out of heaven and she needed Spike to "feel alive" - which doesnt jibe at all with what a depressed person is really like.

So no matter which way you cut it, Spike and Buffy would have never had that relationship. Joss and Noxon did a terrible job setting it up and so what results is something totally unbelievable.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Thu, 05 Jan 2012 15:47:27 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (53)]]> Thu, 05 Jan 2012 14:05:49 -0800
Firstly, your descriptions of Buffy and Spike's sexual encounters as 'bizarre' and 'out of character' are pretty darned subjective, don't you think? I've already made it clear that I don't find them 'bizarre' or 'out of character', and many people here seem to agree (and I'm sure just as many people don't). If you can't see that YOUR opinion on a matter is not the ONLY opinion then personally I don't think there is any point in me, or anyone else, having a discussion with you. Which would be a real shame, because there's usually a lot of great discussion and debate on this site.

Secondly, I find your suggestion that it's somehow abnormal for people to enjoy 'rough sex' or S&M downright naive, to be honest. It's something that plenty of people enjoy, and they don't have to have been molested or abused in order to want such a thing! I've asked you before to explain why you have such a problem with it. I'm sure Anya and Xander say something about using 'chains' during sex at some point - do you think they're twisted, abused freaks for doing so too?

Thirdly, you ask 'has Buffy EVER been shown to be interested in this? Ever?' Well, frankly, I wouldn't claim to know what she's into in bed. Before Spike, we saw Buffy in how many sex scenes? And how many of those were 'first time' sex with a new partner? How do we know what she and Riley might have been doing a year into their relationship? Just because she doesn't walk around in spiked heels carrying a whip doesn't mean that she can't enjoy a little kink behind closed doors.

Finally, to repeatedly refer to Spike simply as 'a psychopath' is to ignore a good 5 seasons' worth of careful character development! It's clear you don't like the character (and that you really like Angel), but please stop completely shutting your eyes to everything that people DO like about Spike. I think you have me pegged as a B/S shipper or a big Spike fangirl, and believe me I'm not. But with all characters and story lines on the show, I try to approach them fairly even if I'm not immediately their biggest fan. And, whether you like it or not, this one works for me.

I'll say that again. Buffy and Spike's relationship in S6 is believable FOR ME. You don't buy it? Cool. But there is no way you are going to 'factually' stop me from relating to and appreciating that relationship.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:20:33 -0800
You will never find "bizarre, completely out of character rough S/M exhibitionist sex with psychopath" in any list of symptoms that doctors will watch for when it comes to depression.

You COULD argue that a person who actually WAS into that kind of sex with psychopaths when he/she was not depressed may not completely lose interest in it when he or she falls into depression. But has Buffy EVER been shown to be interested in this? Ever?

B/S sex as a result of her depression is not believable on any level, whether medical or storyline-wise.

Reply | Other Comments (86)]]> Thu, 05 Jan 2012 09:57:04 -0800
Reply | Other Comments (40)]]> Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:48:39 -0800 I just have one complaint about this episode, i really didn't like the whole fact that Buffy wanted to kill Faith in the first place. I understand it was to cure Angel, but Buffy is the same one that always had certain bundaries in the whole fight against evil. Faith is still human, slayer or not, and I simply can't justify Buffy simply deciding that she will kill Faith.

Reply | Other Comments (22)]]>