Buffy the Vampire Slayer has cemented itself into being one of TV's best shows ever. Creator Joss Whedon's (The Avengers, "Firefly," "Dollhouse") vision came to life in a 1992 movie starring Kristy Swanson as Buffy. The movie was a flop at the time of its release but has since become a cult hit. Four years later, "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" aired on the WB starring Sarah Michelle Gellar as the title character. This incredible show has stood the test of time. Its innovative story lines, cgi effect and boldness has made Buffy a timeless piece of TV.
1. Buffy.
Sarah Michelle Gellar played the title role to perfection. Although she was only nominated for one Golden Globe (a travesty), her acting alongside Joss Whedon's writing, made Buffy iconic.
Buffy was the driver of the Struggle Bus.
She kicked butt in homecoming (without the tiara).
Bad-assery 101.
2. The monsters.
These are "The Gentlemen" also known as NOPE. Joss Whedon's groundbreaking episode in season 4 "Hush" introduced the creepiest monsters you'll ever see. They didn't speak and that added more to their terrifying demeanor.
Der Kindestod (the name means "child death") *shudders* What made him scarier? Only sick kids could see him.
3.There was ALWAYS an apocalypse.
Giles was always the bearer of bad news...
Priorities.
4. The small moments.
Andrew was a much needed comedy relief during season 7. He used to be a part of "The Trio," the villainous group that terrorized Sunnydale... not really. They tried to be evil but it never worked out.
Yes Willow, you are.
5. Anya.
Anya was a vengeance demon that turned human, she loved money and had an unlikely fear of bunnies.
6. The heart-breaking moments.
Joss always said that if Buffy wasn't suffering, the show wouldn't be good. This meant constant heartbreak for viewers; J.R.R Tolkien took lessons from Whedon. Basically, everyone you loved died.
Angel and Buffy were one of the first vampire/human love stories. They broke everyone's hearts and we cried mainly because everyone was rooting for them but realistically, the chances of your first relationship being your only relationship forever, are slim.
7. Spike (William the Bloody).
Spike started out as a ruthless vampire whose mission was to kill Buffy. Before his evil ways, Spike was a young poet from England. He always carried his heart on his sleeve and was loyal to those he considered friends. James Marsters gave Spike an English accent paired with Doc Marten's, a $2,000 coat and platinum blonde hair to perfectly embody this versatile vampire. Funny, evil, sarcastic, ruthless, loving and sweet, Spike's character development was amazing to watch.
Billy Idol stole Spike's look, not the other way around.
8. Spike and Buffy.
(aka Spuffy, aka heartbreak)
Spike and Buffy's relationship was rooted in hate but Spike's feelings for Buffy changed during season 5. Spike's love for Buffy drove him to get a soul and become a champion, ultimately giving his life to save her and her friends. *sobs*
9. It was groundbreaking.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer was one of the first shows to have a whole episode without dialogue. In season 4 "Hush" digs deep into our fears and also shows that even when we can speak, sometimes silence is needed.
In season 5, Joss Whedon gave the world the first musical episode on TV, "Once More With Feeling." The premise was that a demon named Sweet was summoned to Sunnydale and he made everyone burst into song and dance. This episode was an inspiration to many musical TV shows, including "Glee."
Buffy also paved the way and developed an accurate lesbian relationship between two main characters (Willow and Tara). These two were adorable and for 4 seasons; they were one of the solid couples on the show.
Buffy is an amazing show that people can connect to. The humor paired with the real sadness that we all go through in real life really makes for a relatable show. The acting and writing are award winning and even though Buffy's award tally is small, the show makes up for it in heart. If you are looking for a show to pass the summer until classes start, this is the right show to watch.
