For those that have not seen this show, BE WARE of sensitive spoilers sprinkled throughout!
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
(1997-2003)
“She's stopped everything that's ever come against her. She's laid down her life - literally - to protect the people around her. This girl has *died* two times, and she's still standing. You're scared, that's smart. You got questions, you should. But you doubt her motives, you think Buffy's all about the kill... then you take the little bus to battle. I've seen her heart - and this time not literally - and I'll tell you right now she cares more about your lives than you will ever know. You gotta trust her. She's earned it.” -Xander Harris Debuting in the spring of 1997 as the flag ship series for then-new WB television network, not much press was given to this spin-off of a mediocre 1992 movie of the same name. Defying expectations and conventions, the series would go on to earn rave reviews from the established press, give birth to a fervent fanbase and consistently rank among the critics as one of the best series of all time, revolutionizing American television in the process.
Creator/Writer Joss Whedon proposed the series as “High school as a horror movie” that started out as an homage and parody of horror films, (which it very much was) but it slowly turned this seemingly cultish, schlocky, potentially campy, monster-of-the-week series turned into a smart, funny, occasionally profound, emotional epic, allegorical exploration of the human soul. Even though she was constantly confronted with a plethora of Demons, Vampires, Witches, Werewolves and beating them with relative ease, Buffy never could quite completely triumph over her internal battles.
The truncated first season typifies the "high school as hell" concept. Picking up after the movie, with Buffy Summers, (now played by Sarah Michelle Gellar/ Kristy Swanson was in the movie) moving out of LA to Sunnydale in hopes of leaving her monster-baggage behind along with her destiny as Slayer. Her plans are dashed by Englishman Rupert Giles, (Anthony Stewart Head) her new Watcher who monitors the Hellmouth activity which is conviently located directly under the school Library. A constant deluge of monsters of all shapes, sizes and colors reminds Buffy daily of the impending doom that awaits Sunnydale and the world if she doesn’t heed her Watcher’s warnings.
Aiding her in fighting the various baddies are her two best friends and schoolmates; the smart, but mousy Willow Rosenberg (Allison Hanagan) and the sarcastic Xander Harris (Nicholas Brendon) Willow through her research and computer skills and later her powers as a good witch. Xander never gains any supernatural abilities, but does provide comic relief and adds plenty of support with his grounded perspective. The partners in supporting crime were rich snob Cordelia Chase, (Charisma Carpenter), Daniel “Oz” Osbourne, (Seth Green) Willow’s boyfriend and frontman to the local rock band, “Dingoes Ate my Baby” and Anya, (Emma Caulfield) who joins the gang in season three, was a former demon turned human who eventually falls in love and becomes finance to Xander. Rogue Slayer Faith Lahane (Eliza Dushku), shows up in season three and turns out to be the exact opposite of Buffy (bad), but eventually gaining redemption from Angel and his crew.
The three teen characters of Buffy, Willow and Xander, provide the soul of the series with its three-pronged dynamic of Buffy as the muscles; Willow the brains and Xander the heart. Each complimenting the other, without one, the others are rendered helpless.
Giles would often act as surrogate father, especially for Buffy who’s Dad, Hank was mentioned and seen twice once and the latter was just a “dream” episode. Mild-mannered by nature, Giles would rise to the occasion when needed, helping kill Glory's sidekick "Ben", comes to mind.
Joyce Summers, (Kristine Sutherland) Buffy’s mother, was around to offer her support and anchor Buffy to the real world, even though she later learns of her daughter’s job as Slayer, she was often clueless to the extent of Buffy’s duties and would often demand anyway for her “to be home by curfew.” Her exit was the series most poignant as she succumbs to an aneurism. In typical Buffy fashion, she died when she was the most happiest.
Buffy’s main love interest throughput the first three seasons was the Vampire with a soul, Angel, (David Boreanez) Their union would lead to some of the series best moments, especially their love making that results in Angel turning into his evil alter ego, Angelus (thanks to a gypsy curse, if he ever experiences one moment of happiness, he would revert back to his evil persona Angelus)
The series had a roster of impressive villains; The Master, The Mayor, Warren and his geek squad, Glory and most notably Spike (James Marsters) and Drusilla (Juliet Landau), Vampires from Angel’s past that come and wreck havoc on Sunnydale. Even though Spike is a grade A bastard at first, he eventually becomes an ally and Buffy’s lover and aid evetually heads to LA to help the “Angel” gang. Drusilla was a crazy bitch that would eventually meet her end by Angel” when she and Darla’s revenge against him goes awry.
Through the prism of fantasy, the writers took everyday struggles of teen/young adult angst and turned them into literal monsters always with an affecting life metaphor attached. Our realities were reflected back through to us providing an emotional honesty and perhaps insight that brought a fresh relevance to the age-old story of the struggle between Good and Evil. A pastiche of modern gothic, the series produced some of the best genre writing ever as the Scooby gang struggled with allegorical stories of drug addiction, steroid abuse, teen sex, stalking, acceptance, dating, relationship/spousal abuse, death, loneliness, lesbianism, crushes… We saw other elements from previous horror novels, movies, short stories and from such common literary stock as folklore; modernized and turned on its head. Whedon created a rich mythology for Sunnydale’s inhabitants and proceeded without mercy to “Bring on Da Pain.”
As much he loved to write for his characters, he loved more to send them through the emotional grinder with Buffy feeling the brunt of it as she would suffer unlike any recent character on television. Sure, she looked like the ditzy neighbor from down the street, but Buffy was stronger than any superhero you would ever read about. Her strength was not evident in her small frame, but in her fortitude, endurance and will to live. As great and heroic as Buffy was, she was not perfect and was not always likeable, which only added to the character’s emotional truth and appeal. She often didn’t understand nor want the responsibilities as a Slayer and frequently acted like a spoiled brat who just wanted to hang out with her friends.
Even though her task was often bigger than her, it never overcame her, although at times it tried. She was though a tragic character in every sense of the word. Being forced to see happiness, but never having it. Experiencing love, but never having intimacy; always putting others before herself and always watching from the sidelines. Her charactrer was the quintessential tragic character. She was totally aware of her everything she could not have, yet accepted it, however albeit with plenty of reluctance.
In one of the series many moments of a character getting “outed” for not accepting their reality, Spike offers Buffy some insightful arm chair psycho-analyzing. Buffy: It's not your fault. You're not the one doing this. Spike: I already did it. It's already done. You wanna know what I've done to girls Dawn's age? This is me Buffy. You've got to kill me before I get out. Buffy: We can keep you locked up. Keep you here and we'll figure out... Spike: Have you ever really asked yourself why you can't do it? Off me? After everything I've done to you, to people around you. It's not love. We both know that. Buffy: You fought by my side. You've saved lives. You've helped... Spike: Don't do that. Don't rationalize this into some noble act. We both know the truth of it. You like men who hurt you. Buffy: No. Spike: You need the pain we cause you. You need the hate. You need it to do your job, to be the slayer. Buffy: No. I don't hate like that. Not you, or myself. Not anymore. Amongst all the demon slaying and Vampire killing, we get some awesome, heartfelt character moments that would never be attempted in a lesser series.Whedon tread controversial waters with Willow's lesbian relationship with fellow Witch, Tara (Amber Benson), Salivating material for the geeks, yes, but their relationship never felt forced or headline-grabbing and when they did finally kiss it felt natural.... and it was kinda hot too!
The most appealing element of the series was its smart ass dialogue that would keep you laughing until Whedon would throw a curve ball and undercut it with some powerful drama. The reverse was known to happen too; deep serious drama would often be undercut with a witty, off-the-wall observation.
More than the sum of its part, Buffy never cheated dramatically by taking the easy way out, the resolution was always true to the character’s reality at the time. Not ever running from a challenge, Whedon’s mad genius coalesced into the series boldest move by pulling off the gimmicks of all gimmicks- a musical episode. Broadcast during the November sweeps of season six, 2001, “Once More with Feeling” was a creative triumph and would earn the series raves from various sources; its Emmy consideration however was “accidentally” omitted preventing it from being nominated, but it did earn a gold record for the catchy soundtrack album.
Ending its run in 2003 after seven seasons, Buffy saved the world one last time, but managed to send Sunnydale to hell. Even though the hell mouth was “closed” we knew her fight would continue on. Characters lived, died and suffered and they would sometimes lose, but when they emerged triumphant, you would be scrapping your chin off the floor or wiping a tear away shocked that a low budget television show could go into such complex territory and provide a an even bigger conundrum
as to why this show has a 35 y/o male still in its awe. Because its good that good!
Buffy the Vampire Slayer was, still is a superheroine for our times: a perfect role model for female empowerment and an iconoclast for these oh so mediocre times. Not only that, but she is funny as hell. Because of her, television would never be the same again, which is why it’s the best show ever. Subject to change as I see fit, but for now these are the series best episodes. Spoilers throughout, so watch your ass!
1. “Once More with Feeling”. (Season Six)- Sticking to the truthfulness of the series, the actors who are not known for their singing, SMG, try it and all acquit themselves wonderfully, well except Alyson Hanigan-PU. Surprises abound as some unexpected characters sing their hearts out, Willow’s girlfriend, Tara, (Amber Benson) sings the best song and has a wonderful voice and James Marsters as Spike won’t win points for his rusty pipes does have a rockin good time with his angst-filled ballad, “Rest in Peace.” Anthony Stewart Head as Giles showcases his voice again in the closing moments with “Where Do We Go From Here?” Along with the insanely catchy tunes, we get great acting and a surprise that moves the plot along when Buffy reveals that her friends can never know that she was ripped out of heaven, (thanks to Willow’s magic spell from the season opener) a place were she was experiencing true happiness apparently as she mentions seeing her mother. Some heavy stuff stacked along side the series most exuberant hour.
Bunnies! 2. “Becoming Part 1/II”. (Season Two Finale) embracing its comic book sensibilities like a horny lover, these two episodes show an emotional and storytelling courageousness rarely seen on network television before or since. While trying to juggle her school drama Buffy must confront Angel and make a fateful decision. Non-stop from start to finish, the episode will leave you drained and emotionally raw thanks to great performances and wonderful music from Christophe Beck. If Buffy’s heartbreaking decision doesn’t bring tears to your eyes, give life up. A milestone for the series as its unpredictable nature took hold. If you aren’t already a fan, this one will do it. 3. “Amends” . (Season 3) Tormented by visions from his past, (Jenny Calendar making a ghostly cameo) an evil known as “The Bringers” pushes Angel to the brink as he wants to end his life. He climbs the hill overlooking Sunnydale and waits for the sun to rise. Overwhelmed by guilt, he tells Buffy, "It's not the demon in me that needs killing, it's the man." And then he asks her, "Am I a righteous man? Am I a thing worth saving?" In response he gets his answer in a Christmas miracle as the sun is blocked out by a first-ever snow storm covering the town allowing Angel and Buffy to stroll through the streets on Christmas morning. A surprising amount of faith shines through with religious allegory and platitudes regarding redemption and what it means to be human; surprisingly so since writer Joss Whedon is an admitted agnostic. SMG and David Boreanez are outstanding as they reach emotional highs (and lows) uncommon in series television. 4. “Villains”. (Season Six) After Warren’s murder attempt on Buffy kills Tara instead, Willow summons the black magic to fuel her revenge. A pretty bleak episode that has the death of a major character, Tara, who in perfect step with the Buffyverse credo- dies at a moment when she is the most happiest. It’s a wonderful showcase for the acting talents of Allyson Hanigan and Nick Brenden as they give incredible depth and pathos to their characters. Although taken for granted as just the comic relief, Xander’s speech to convince Willow not to destroy is the character’s finest moment. Plus it has a guy getting skinned alive, how cool is that? 5. “School Hard”. (Season Two)- As Buffy and her mom go to Parent/teacher night at the school; Sunnydale is ensconced in havoc by Spike (James Marsters) and Drucilla (Juliette Landau) Nothing terribly groundbreaking here, except it’s the first appearance of Spike and Drucilla and both actors chew the scenery with poetic lunacy. Great fun all around 6. “Hush”. (Season Four) – An instant fan favorite and it is indeed an impressive feat. A group of demons called the Gentlemen come to Sunnydale and steal everyone's voices, then set out to steal their hearts as well (to eat not the other thing)... For twenty-seven minutes the episode is done in silence, except with minimal music cues, resulting in an Emmy nod for writer Whedon. Excellent from all angles, the actors really work for their pay as they have to communicate the story without the usual great dialogue. . 7. “Passion”. (Season Two)- Angelus continues his obsessive torment of Buffy by visiting her during the night and leaving presents in her bed. Meanwhile, Jenny Calendar tries to make amends for deceiving Buffy and Giles by attempting to translate the Gypsy curse to restore Angel's human soul, with dire consequences as Angelus kills Calendar sending Giles into a fit of revenge. This is the first of many turning points in the series that refused to be just your standard weekly genre show. Many repercussions would be felt from the landmines laid in this episode that would carry over into the mind-blowing season finale and into season three. 8. “The Body”. (Season Five Finale)- Whedon’s mantra of “Bring on Da Pain” is in full swing here as he writes Buffy’s journey better than no one as she comes home to discover her mother unresponsive on the floor. Having undergone a CAT scan in the episode “Shadow”, we learn that Joyce’s death is caused from an aneurism. Filmed with no music and minimal screen credits and sound effects, Whedon weaves the power out of the barest essentials, the silent moments are the most deafening. One of the most realistic treatments of death on television or any medium brings out some excellent character moments, especially Anya who is hurt and confused by human mortality and the rituals that follow. Whedon continues exploring, dissecting and reinterpreting the Superhero motif by emphasizing Buffy’s isolation, a theme touched on several times throughout Season Five. With her family being slowly taken from her, she’s forced closer to her reluctant destiny. Heartbreaking from beginning to end, Whedon shows his flair for simple, pointed drama and a nice twist of irony by not killing off Joyce in some over-the-top exit by a Hellmouth baddie, but through a stupid, random force known as Life, which adds to Buffy’s confusion as she is imbued with a power to save the world, but can not use it to save those closest to her. Hmmm, where have we heard that before? This episode features Sarah Michelle Gellar’s finest acting moment as she breaks the viewer’s heart with her reaction being one of the most impressive displays of utter devastation and sorrow. This loss will affect her deeply for the rest of the series as she becomes reckless, reluctant and fiercely protective of her little sister Dawn (Michelle Trachtenberg) who joined the series in season five. There are not enough adjectives, superlatives and interjections to attach to this episode. Totally heartbreaking and every other cliché you can think of- insert here- as Buffy’s world for the first time is shattered. You thought killing Angel was hard, watch this episode and try not to cry. I dare ya! The best unexpected moment is from an unlikely source; Anya’s confused rant over Joyce’s death sums things up perfectly. Anya (crying): "But I don't understand! I don't understand how this all happens. How we go through this. I mean, I knew her, and then she's, there's just a body, and I don't understand why she just can't get back in it and not be dead anymore! It's stupid! It's mortal and stupid! And, and Xander's crying and not talking, and, and I was having fruit punch, and I thought, well Joyce will never have any more fruit punch, ever, and she'll never have eggs, or yawn or brush her hair, not ever, and no one will explain to me why. (She puts her hand over her face, crying.)" 9. The Gift. (Season Five) Buffy must square off against a true god when Glory prepares to use Dawn, who was discovered to be the all powerful and much coveted “Key”, to break down the walls between the dimensions and unleash Hell on Earth. An air of doom and destruction is felt throughout as the Scooby gang’s fears become palpable. Originally intended as the series finale, Whedon changed his mind when the series jumped over to now- defunct UPN, kicking off the series 100th and final episode on the WB. An air of doom was felt for the characters and the series as well since it was uncertain if Buffy would get a new home or ride off into syndication. Whedon and his crew would not go as quietly as the Scooby gang would sacrifice its leader, Buffy as she leaps to her death to save her “sister” Dawn, now known as “The Key”, closing a portal preventing an Earthly apocalypse. Even though Dawn is not her “real” sister, their connection, both spiritually and emotionally is strong as Buffy feels closer to no one else. Once again some great performances by all the lead actors pay close attention to the gang’s reaction when Buffy makes her leap of sacrifice. 10. Welcome to the Hellmouth. (Season One) The very first episode wastes no time in setting the premise and establishing the characters smart-ass banter as Buffy moves from LA to Sunnydale in hopes of leaving her “Slayer” days behind her. Once in her new town, she meets Librainan and future Mentor Rupert Giles and her two best friends, Willow Rosenberg and Xander Harris as her appealing sidekicks who together must stop the Master’s evil plans. Social nemesis Cordelia Chase (Charisma Carpenter) is seen, but comes off almost nasty in her rich-bitch mode. The High School as Hell design is used from the giddyup as Buffy must be dragged kicking and screaming into her role as Slayer.Whip-smart, witty dialogue crackles like a roaring fire throughout as the dynamics are established and the story moves at a nice, quick pace. One of the best premiere episodes of any series in recent years, did what every show should do, leave you wanting more.