The Prom • S03E20 • TPN's Buffy Guide
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- Опубликовано: 7 сен 2024
- Buffy deals with the end of more than just the school year and I get grumpily sentimental.
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Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Myth, Metaphor & Morality
Mark Field
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The Passion of the Nerd
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Passion of the Nerd reviews The Prom From Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Season 3, Episode 20. Directed by David Solomon. Written by Marti Noxon. Starring Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy Summers. Nicholas Brendon as Xander Harris. Alyson Hannigan as Willow Rosenberg. Charisma Carpenter as Cordeila Chase. David Boreanaz as Angel. Seth Green as Oz. And Anthony Stewart Head as Rupert Giles. Guest Starring Emma Caulfield as Anya. And Alexis Denisof as Wesley Wyndam-Pryce.
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"We don't talk about it much, but it's no secret that Sunnydale High isn't really like other high schools. A lot of weird stuff happens here."
"Zombies!"
"Hyena people!"
"Snyder!"
I adore the fact that the kids consider Snyder one of the weird things.
LISTEN! "Buffy Summers: Class Protector." This part ALWAYS gets me teary eyed before all she wanted was to be the "normal girl" and we she finally accepts the Slayer role and decides to partially forgo Prom and comes the find how they award her for being WHO SHE IS!! YO.....you can't tell me that ain't heartwarming tear jerkyness...
You would think that Angel wouldn't have his bed in the direct path of a thing that can kill him.
Same reason he lives in LA and drives a convertible. Death wish.
And to look cool.
+tsstevens Typical LA. "Hey, I look cool going up in flames."
RobynHarris
What about a license plate that reads, "Irony"
I love how the replies to this are mostly references to the Angel season 2 episode "Guise Will Be Guise."
Love the prom scene. And Giles' reaction is so perfect: "I had no idea that children en masse could be gracious."
Buffy: "Every now and then people surprise you."
Giles: "Every now and then."
Buffy turns around. Angel is there. Cue Wild Horses by The Sundays. FEELS.
Definite feels
This episode makes me throw myself into whatever furniture with extreme emotion. 😭
Yes!!!
I'm pretty sure that Angel isn't saying 'I don't want my life to be with you' like Buffy thinks he is, he's saying 'I don't want YOUR life to be with me'
Ok but Angel showing up to give her one moment of being "normal" and the version of "Wild Horses" that plays while they dance? I die. Every time.
i was blubbering as soon as jonathan said "is buffy summers here?".
gets me every time.
:)
The spoiler flashes are what I live for.They are so expertly chosen and inserted.Exciting if you know the future,and probably dismissed if you don't.
Counterpoint: Those flashes bug me slightly, because I always thought episodic reviews should be done wholly from the POV of a first-watch: thus a reviewer who's seen the series should try to ignore knowledge of its future. My reasoning is that TV is written for the viewer in the moment, who knows only the story up to that point. Also, TV writing is hectic, hardly allowing grand schemes full of seeds planted for later harvest; not even a great creator like Whedon knows quite where the show will go (plus, every year risks cancellation). S3's arc changed midway as they saw Dushku's spark and wrote her a larger part, for example. Aside from a few deliberate hints to his S5 goals (little sis, 730) in GD and again in Restless, actual foreshadowing is rare, yet fans love to watch old seasons and find supposed pointers to the future. Most of them are just things the writers later chose to revisit.
I love POTN's probing and elegant work -- truly wonderful -- but this is my one quibble with many reviewers, going way back to the first full reruns in 2003.
It is very - almost impossibly - hard to review a series that has already wrapped without delving into future episodes. POTN does so in a way that is minimally invasive, but - as OP said - reminds long-time fans of what's to come, while giving newbies a teaser for more in-depth conversation later.
Still, though, if you are watching the series for the first time, I would strongly recommend finishing it before watching more POTN videos. The discussion will make much more sense. (though based on how you've written your comment, I assume you've at least seen up to season 5)
Oops, I wasn't clear -- my issue isn't with spoilers; it's that mentions of future events should not be relevant to evaluating an episode in its sequential place. I think what rankles me the most (and again, it's not really POTN, but fans in general) is that "wink-wink" hints simply reflect many fans' desire to push through the H.S. years because they just *love* discussing S5-6-7. That, to me, devalues the strengths of the early seasons (and hugely overrates the writing in much of the late era).
Andrew's brother was a good giggle, but I'll never forget the way he edited the "spoiler flash" when Wesley was introduced in 'Bad Girls' - that one hit me right in the feels!
My ambition has always been to make these fun for long term fans (who I think are 99 percent of my subscribers) without ruining things for new watchers (I...THINK I've only screwed that up on a couple of occasions - those videos now have warnings.) I hope that my "flash forwards" don't de-prioritize the high school years as most of them are just "fun throw-ins." Andrew here for instance. The other thing I use them for is when I'm making an argument that has a counterpoint later in the series. As in here when Buffy made the choice to kill Angel and save the world, a choice that is (seemingly) reversed in the Gift. Those flash forwards work as a sort of, "Yes, this conversation WILL evolve later on...but for now." But they're never really meant to indicate, "THE LATER SEASONS ARE SO MUCH BETTER." Purely a tool. I love the high school years.
I suppose the one exception to that was the Wesley flash forward. There...I just couldn't help myself. There isn't a good argument except that Wesley is such an inane character on Buffy, I thought it might be fun to lend his entrance some gravitas worthy of the character he actually is.
The reality is probably that the perfect guide is only the one suited for the type of person watching. If a new watcher, it's probably best to read along with someone watching for the first time (A.V. Club.) Retrospective essays probably work best for long time watchers. Mark Field's book does a terrific job of not including future references, though even he will highlight a particular point by saying, "I can't say more on this for spoilers but it will come up again." Splitting the difference may end up being a negative, but it's the format I've gone with.
One of my favorite scenes from this episode is when Buffy is talking to Willow about her break-up with Angel and she starts crying. I wondered for many years why that particular scene always gave me serious goosebumps and found out later that SMG was actually crying in that scene. The crew had to close the set for 25 minutes to allow her to recover. I'm not the biggest Bangel fan in the world *cough* team Spuffy *cough* but I love the fact that SMG was so invested in the Bangel relationship, because it gave us amazing scenes like this full of raw emotion and real chemistry.
totally agree with you
I know it’s not really the point of the comment but I can’t get on Team Spuffy. I rewatched season 6 recently and their relationship struck me as bad when I watched the series at 14. Watching S6 at 21, every second scene is a massive red flag for toxic relationships.
@@quinnsinclair7028 I get your point. And in every other show I'd see that as a big problem, too. But in this show that is completely about the human experience, it is part of the story, red flags and all. Being so desperate to feel something that you ignore all the toxicity. The relationship being unhealthy is an important point of the story being told, and Buffy herself knows it's not good. It's not like Twilight or 50 shades of crap where abusive behaviour is honestly portrayed as romantic or excused in other ways.
Panbaneesha No the show doesn’t excuse it but to a large degree the fandom does.
@@quinnsinclair7028 Sadly, I have to agree on that. I guess it shows how little knowledge about abuse and manipulation is really present in the mind of most people.
The scene where Buffy is comforted by Willow never ceases to break me tbh. It's such a relief to see her happy again at the prom itself.
I cant believe he skip that scene :-/
The party episode in this case had to happen before the storm. Until this point the show has maintained the impression that whenever something weird or supernatural happens the people of Sunnydale either explain it away 'rationally' or else repress it entirely. Consequently Buffy has always done a thankless job. At the prom though the town confesses that, while they don't normally talk about it and don't understand it, they actually have noticed the things that go on and finally give Buffy the acknowledgment she deserves. This needs to happen now in order for Buffy to enlist their help to defeat the mayor later, because now she knows she can convince them that this thing is going to happen, whereas she wouldn't have before. And from a viewer perspective the whole school turning up to fight wouldn't have made sense without this scene first.
Oh I agree about the party. Just an observation I found interesting.
Prom can make me get teary every time. But mostly because the actual event of the prom is just wall to wall Giles being a glowing proud father. He seems scornful of every other high school thing (cheerleading, prom dresses), but once we get to the prom Giles is just so proud of his metaphor daughter.
who else got the Andrew joke
"Who are you?" -- Tony Stark
Wait, Andrew had a brother?
+tsstevens Wait, Andrew's brother had a brother?
RobynHarris
Ben...no wait...
+RobynHarris Are we beginning to suspect that there's some sort of connection between Andrew and Tucker...?
The class protector scene is the 1st Buffy scene to make me tear up. In a way that's what a lot of us in high school want. Recognition, and one moment from high school to remember that was more than just homework and angsty-hell. Buffy is probably one of the most relatable TV characters for a teenager gearing their way up to adulthood. I'm so glad I found her and the Scooby Gang at this point in my life. I also love your guide and I love the ending to this video, with graduation to come!
The first one? What are you made of, steel? The finales of seasons 1 and 2 got me sobbing like a baby. And a couple of moments that already happened this season made me tear up a little too.
Amends? Becoming???
@@lorenagagamonster Even ep. "Anne" is enough for me.... Buff sitting resigned on the bed, motionless.
I think buffy getting the class protector.award is probably my favorite.scene in the show. It does two things, one it answers that question in the back of everyone's minds who watch if that people were unaware or not about what buffy did for them and if they realised there were monsters around.
2 . It's probably the only time in the show where buffy is actually thanked by the community for the struggles and sacrifices she makes for everyone.
Thanks again, I'm glad you talked about Angel's flawed way of breaking up with Buffy. I've never been a fan of certain characters making decisions for Buffy based on what THEY think is best for her. Unfortunately it's a pattern that gets repeated as the show continues.
Definitely feel that this breakup is flawed, but i cut the writers slack as clearly they needed to hurry up and end the relationship so he can move on to his show. And i don't see Buffy being the person to actually pull the plug on this relationship, she tried in the past and it didn't last very long. It is much like Cordelia and Xander, they needed a way to finish that relationship quickly as well.
And i actually don't mind when others try and make decisions for her, it is a common thing people do, as they think they know best when it might not be the case.
@illusionzmanib3549 I don't see it another way , like you said Buffy would have never broken up with him. Sure if Angel REALLY wanted to, he would have fought for her but in real life people, especially men when it comes to matter of the heart they usually think with their head.
Isn't he Andrew's brother, i just spat my drink everywhere!!!
Same!!!
You know, it's kinda sad that Xander and Cordy never saw each other again after she left Sunnydale. A reunion could have been really nice.
They should have had a two-part episode where the entire cast of 'Buffy' and the entire cast of 'Angel' joined forces to fight some threat. Like the Avengers but in Sunnydale!
@@guyr3618 We almost had that when the Gift was in early stages of development; the script was called Centenary, IIRC.
At best, there's a chance she, Angel and Wes (w/ Gunn either attended as back up muscle or remained in LA with Lorne and Fred) might have popped over to Sunnydale for a private funeral for Buffy before Angel set off to Tibet for the whole Summer
@@SuperWolsey We could have had it all! :(
"Forgiveness isn't about going back, it's about how we move forward." I love how these videos make me reconsider how I see concepts that I've always seen as simple.
Anya is a lot of fun, cool to see her as a recurring character. Joyce talking to angel was a great and relatable.
And yeah that one moment was the highlight moment
I about died with the line about Andrew. That was amazing.
Who?
Wasn't he the guy who attacked the prom?
'Run, Juliet! Run!' LOL
Don't think you gave Angel enough credit for making the first of two great sacrifices he's going to make concerning Buffy. Here, giving her up the first time. And then, 10 episodes from now in episode 8 of his own show...he must give her up a second time. He loves this woman more then anything in existence, she gives him the true happiness he craves...and he lets her go because it's not right for her for him to keep her.
He isn't deciding what's best for him here. He's still deciding what's best for her. This is totally a noble sacrifice martyr thing.
Go back to Joyce for a minute. "I know you care about my daughter. I just hope you care /enough/." He's proving here he does. And will again in 10 episodes.
To me, the thing that annoys me is, he decided FOR her. In a relationship you are supposed to be partners, choices as to the future of the relationship are supposed to be talked about together. He just basically said it' over for your good, end of discussion which is patronizing. Had he talked to her about it, they both would have agreed that it was the best course of action and it would not have been insulting. Buffy herself in this episode agrees that Angel is right and that it's for the best (the scene when she is talking to Willow)
Yes. He will do that again in I will remember you. It's one of angel's flaws as a boyfriend
+KingOfShredsandPatches yet another reason to fix the damn curse. the man can't actually move on. What's in his future except Angelus return or somebody being a second rate cheap imitation of buffy? the curse must be fixed.
+KingOfShredsandPatches
I agree but take "Angel Relationship Hope" away from her in season 3 is to take all the hope away from 18 year old women which is not fair when your BF is over 200 years old. Angel needed to mature up and move forward because he loves her. Buffy is 18 years old and can't do that yet because she is 18 years old. I know that seems odd but it respects her age and allows her to be a young person.
+Anna@Bella real hope is looking up curse fixes. they never show anyone trying
Somewhere in-between _Ammends_ and this episode, Buffy has convinced herself that she and Angel can make it work. That is what Angel is talking about in the sewers when he is talking about "rational" thinking.
I love the _Class Protector_ award.
I always shed some manly water from my eyes at the "Class Protector" scene.
I feel like the breakup scene is similar to what you said about the Angel season 3 finale; It was made in service of the plot, and not the characters. They needed Angel to leave for LA, and they needed to do it quickly, regardless of how uncharacteristic it was for the characters to do it.
If we apply 7th Doctor machinations law, between his return, Joyce, and that dream, it was The Powers That Be nudging things along to get him where they want him: Los Angeles and to be the champion they chose
I still feel like it's realistic though? Don't people in real life break up cause of external issues that exhaust the relationship?
Love this review but watching Alley Box.'s RUclips review of The Prom has given me a whole new appreciation for the breakup scene and how beautifully it was shot. It might seem inconsistent with the rest of the season but relationships are like that sometimes when couples ping pong back and forth over who is breaking up with whom. It also seemed like Buffy was doubling down on their relationship after what the Mayor said, perhaps in a desperate act of denial. Mainly Alley pointed out that no matter how strong Buffy is she's still very young and Angle is a vampire who is centuries older. They can never be equals like it or not.
I could spend whole days listening to you speaking of a thing that meant so much to me from the moment I first saw it, way back in the day. And I quite literally spend some of my free days this way actually, because you speak of my heart here. Not only to me but also what I say when talking about it. But I think you’re wrong about Angel here. When Buffy says, “I want my live to be with you” and him answering “I don’t.” I always felt like he meant “I don’t want you, to want to be with me (because I’m bad for you, the way I am now and the kind of relationship we can’t have but want)”
And I felt more secure in my assumption when I saw End of Days and Chosen. Whenever I think about cookie dough I also think about this specific scene from the Prom. I admit I’m a Bangel girl of the first minute, it does not mean I don’t see flaws in the whole thing, but I think that this two scenes have a connection that goes beyond just having the same participants.
I love the scene at the prom showing that even though the duality of Buffy's life exists, she still has moments that you can treasure when the two halves become whole.
The Prom is supposedly SMG's favourite episode or most underrated I once read, in a buffy best episodes of the series.
I just love this episode. One of my most favorite from the whole show. So many things and topics and scenes and everything is there, in this tiny master-piece. But more than anything - this episode sums for me, why Buffy is such a hero. It is not (just) about her skills, it is her inner power, what she do when she is down and how much she cares. There is even pretty obvious comparison - "villain" there doesn´t get what he want, he feel like he can´t be happy. So he decides nobody is supposed to be happy, then. Buffy doesn´t get what she wants either. She feels like she can´t be happy. And her reaction? She will do everything she can to make sure, other people will have theirs happines. And she got hers also, eventually. But that´s not the point. I just think "The Prom" is one of those episode that really show a lot about Buffy´s true heroism. And not always did she get a toy suprise for it. :)
OMG that ending scene when Buffy gets the "Class Protector" award always makes me cry. PTN about your confusion with Buffy being flip floppy as far as doing the right thing...and then being all "I don't care I'm in love". We can all explain that by the simple conclusion that she is a TEENAGE GIRL LOL. Having been one myself I know all about the problems of being logical and then throwing logic out of the window. But I agree with you about Angel. He did frustrate me this episode. I know that he "HAD???" to do it. And i know this was an excuse to give him his own show. But I don't understand Angel fully. He acted as if he was the "Logical Adult" and she was the "foolish child". But He/himself has been very childish as far as his feelings for buffy. The stalking, the pouting, the investigating her potential boyfriends and dates. And even in future seasons of his show.......*SPOILERS*......
When He was courting Cordelia he acted childish as well. What kind of life could he have given Cordy? Did you just forget about your curse sir? Or were you hoping it went away like the flu?
+KingOfShredsandPatches I tried to ship it...but I love their platonic love for each other....like family. And the relationship they tried to have or were going to really sort of spoiled it for me. Now thats not to say I didnt have feels for their flirting and courtship. And lets not even bring up season 5's "You're Welcome". I will cry right now thinking about that episode lol.
The little moment that always gets me in this episode is just before the scene with Joyce where Angel finds the notebook where Buffy has scrawled their names together in a very "teenager-y" way. It's almost like that's the precise moment where he realizes he has to end the relationship for the greater good.
I know having a party before an apocalypse seems odd but, I think that prom needed to have come before the apocalypse for this reason: One of Buffy's main issues (as you mentioned many times before) is that her slaying leaves her feeling left out of high school life. I don't think she would have recruited the rest of her classmates to fight the mayor without the validation she got from her peers at the prom.
The Prom makes it possible to rope the rest of the senior class into the fight with the Mayor. They are all aware enough to wear weapons under their graduation gowns.
I was going to comment the same thing! This scene sets the stage for the finale, when everyone aside from Buffy and the Scoobies joins the fight for once. I feel like had it not been in this order, both scenes might have lost some of their emotional impact. Giving her the award at the moment worked because as viewers we're meant to believe that her classmates don't know what she does and just think she's the weird girl in the weird town. But by giving her the award BEFORE graduation, it's obviously an acknowledgement of all she does to keep them safe, letting us know that they do know, they do see her. And now that we have that acknowledgement, they can join the fight, in some ways, they're helping to shoulder the burden. I love the two scenes from the finale when all the students take off their gowns to reveal they're armed and ready, and when two groups of students essentially trap the group of vampires and charge them down the stairs. It's the students who just rewarded Buffy saying, "We want to help you now." If the order was flipped, I don't think it would have worked as well.
I was in high school when this episode came out. I couldn't get past him dumping her right before prom. I mean, WTH?! Why? He couldn't wait til the day after? And then the scene with Buffy crying in willow's lap saying "I can't breathe Will. I feel like I can't breathe." I tear up, even now, when I watch it.
Actually, he wanted to do it later, but Buffy saw something was bothering him and insisted he bring it up.
I legit cried honest tears at the class protector scene. It was so sweet and actually something buffy deserved yet never knew she wanted. But also... how can you have a guide on this episode and NOT include the bangel dance?? Duuuuude.
I know everyone loves the class protector scene or the angel dance scene, but my favourite moment is the look of pride on Giles face when buffy comes to the prom.
During my rewatch (I have lost count of how many times), I watch these guides before I view the episodes so I can see the little nuances that I have missed. I plan on watching this episode while cutting onions. It seems like every single time I watch this episode I am cutting those DAMN onions.
The short discussion between Giles and Buffy at the prom really sum up everything I love about this episode. Buffy has tried to hide the terrors of Sunnydale from the rest of the school. But as much as neither of them want to see it, the kids at the school see the world around them and they know as much as they deny it that Buffy protects them.I love that scene so so much.
The class protector scene is so beautiful
These episode guides are like poetry. I teared up at this one. I think Buffy in general is about how alienating life can be or feel. But, then, realizing or finding out that a person isn't as alone in the world as they think they are. This prom moment is beautiful and this guide is fantastic. Well done. :)
I definitely agree with you that I like the parts of "The Prom" more than the whole. As somebody who's never actually been to her high school prom, even I felt the wrongness of Angel "breaking up" with Buffy before the prom. I felt that loss of agency because, yes, Buffy was the one who broke things off and then Angel whined his way back and took the power into his hands. I hate that he talked about how Buffy should have a normal life with some human guy because it's the one thing Buffy can never really have.
And yes, I see what you did there with Tucker.
The "Class Protector" scene is one of my favorite moments from Buffy, too. I was voted School Spirit in high school. It's always nice to be recognized.
By the time I got to the end of Buffy Season 3 the first time I watched the show as a whole, I figured Buffy and Angel would be for the long game. That somehow, they would get together in the end. And I was okay with that. I didn't ship it, but Buffy's happiness came first. Of course, things changed. But that ship hasn't arrived yet.
Thanks for including my Footloose suggestion. The Prom is definitely the calm before the storm. And oh what a perfect storm the next couple episodes are gonna be!
I'm happy you pointed out the musical genius that is Christophe Beck--- His music makes those kind of scenes so insanely powerful! Like you said.... only two notes... but they resonate so strongly.
LIVE FOR THESE GUIDES LIVE LIVE LIVE Can't wait til you get to Angel!!!
Great job with spotting the echo of Andrew's "We're not (good) friends" and the point that "we as adults notice those in our community".
I think the prom is perfectly positioned in the season. The movies depict what we wish and hope, but Buffy is a depiction of what we fear, of how emotions seem when you are transitioning to adulthood. In real life there is never a happy ending, you have joyous moments squashed between long weeks of routine and moments of intense stress and chaos.
As soon as you introduced Tucker I was repeating the mantra "Tucker's brother" over and over again like a Pavlovian reflex until I burst out laughing when you showed Andrew. Glad to see you couldn't resist.
I completely agree that I find Angel being the one who makes the choice to walk away completely undoes a lot of Buffy's choices in last season and in this one. It gives the impression that he, the adult, had been putting up with her instead of that they'd had a partnership they'd been trying and perhaps failing to build but one which was a communal effort with a lot of choice from Buffy. It suggests that without his intervention they'd have kept in no-man's land territory and she's just pinning, unaware of the problems. It ends up disrespecting a lot of their relationship.
In s1 and 2, Angel isn't really in this patriarchal role with Buffy. Instead he's often the one asking for them to slow down or worrying if it's a good idea but who then allows himself to be convinced by Buffy. Buffy, as protagonist, is left to make the hard choices around sacrifice. But then Angel the show comes along. Suddenly, they have to justify the 'plot armour' that keeps their two shows apart. I think they could have written an arc about Angel finding his own power this season and this propelling him into his solo show where he feels able to set limits and not be convinced by Buffy. They could have had Buffy coming to a conclusion from all the hard choices she's had to make. They could have had something mutual. But instead, suddenly Angel acquires a patriarchal side where he makes all of these decisions about their relationship and does so in a consistent fashion for the remaining seasons. Really annoyed me.
Aaaand you've got me grossly crying again. I love Johnathon's acknowledgement in 'The Prom' though, it's such a sweet moment that really tugs at the heartstrings. I can't put it any better than you, but I just wanted to add to your support of the episode.
I love the subtle clip of the Angel Investigations card you put in there in reference to Angel leaving - I saw the photoset of it on Tumblr for your Angel guide (I am so pumped for that!).
Also "isn't he Andrew's brother?" - that was brilliant! The little comic comments you add in these videos are so great.
Looking forward to the next guide video as usual!
I never thought about why I thought this episode was a bit clunky. Maybe at first I thought it was the monster of the week - the boy with the hellhounds. But that never sat right. It was kind of a necessary sorbet, so to speak, before we were plunged feels first into graduation. Somehow, I'd always skimmed over the, what to call it, the recap of the Buffy and Angel relationship. And just when we think that the high point is Buffy gets to go to prom and have a little slice of happiness, well, as you said that made all of the meh and inconsistencies fade away.
Oh, and of course, Anya.
I cannot count how many times these critiques got me through work days. Thanks so much:). Hope you're doing well and getting through the struggles/choices in your life.
I feel the same way about your Buffy uploads as you do when Anya steps into frame in this episode. Giddy.
I'm honored.
a big reason i loved this episode so much (the prom its self) was simply due to something Buffy said in season 1... that she'd never be thanked or recognized for anything she does.... and in Prom... she's thanked :)
You were spot on at the fact that the Bangel contradiction didn't feel natural.. nonetheless this is a really enjoyable episode and Buffy finally receives recognition. Damn can't wait for the finale guide :D
*was about to go to sleep*
*sees the Prom episode is uploaded*
This is the only video series on youtube that I actively seek out new videos for. Best part is soon we'll have Angel reviews too.
for me all their pain is resumed to one phrase: 'i can't breathe'.Maybe that's why it takes them so much to finally separate for good.I think they both know that their relationship can never last but try to make it work because their deep love for each other.In Becoming the choice was easier-Angel or the world,but afterwards lines became blurry and it took them a while.That sometimes happens in life.And also Buffy is 17 here
Great work. Love the ending. I agree with the breakup scene. It is bothersome. But like you said I have a hard time dwelling on it after that scene at the prom that makes me smile and cry simultaneously.
I teared up just watching this video 💔 I love when she gets the award SO MUCH
You can choose your actions, you can't choose your feelings.
When this originally aired I was still thinking the B/A relationship was going to work itself out (there were still no commercials for Angel and I still didn't know much about how the internet worked so I also didn't know he was leaving for his own show at the time either) and this episode was my realization on the end of their relationship moment.
I cried at the class protector scene, but as I watch it now I wonder where the pigs blood was (it was filmed way to similar to the famous Carrie scene).
I like the fact that you mention that they were fully clothed because this is the only scene Buffy and Angel have in a bed without sex. Buffy and Spike had more and were a lot more emotional for me. Spuffy over Bangel moment.
I understand that Buffy wants everyone to have fun before the ascension, but two things to note are: 1) This isn't an apocalypse. 2) They have already had more than one apocalypse so if it was...yawn joke and... 3) They should still worry and that is a lesson that they never learned re Lies My Parents Told Me in season 7.
I disagree with you on the breakup scene for one reason. In season Two's Bad Eggs, a graveyard scene has Buffy saying she never thinks about the future and on the rare time she does it's with him. Angel coming back from hell re-gave her the hope and that is what caused the undoing of the lesson and with the Spike episode she was still hanging onto hope as long as he was around which is why Angel knew he had to leave town. Not to mention Angel finding the AngelnBuffy4ever lettering she drew. That isn't a rational way of thinking. Joyce pulled the trigger for Angel and he finished the job on Buffy. It needed to be done and it is one of Joyce's better moments because neither of them were willing to until Joyce told Angel to and she went to Angel knowing Buffy wouldn't.
When I watched this the 1st time I cried. Now I'm dry through the whole scene. I think it isn't just because I am a Spuffy fan more but also the fact that I am a fan of what Angel makes of himself without Buffy looking over his shoulder.
Xander didn't deserve a thanks for BUYING forgiveness. (Neither did Angel in a later episode of Angel, but said Angel episode had Angel try the other way also, whereas Xander never does try that way and never does move forward as it is put) It should've just gone unacknowledged. Hells Bells proved Xander doesn't learn his lesson and move forward. Bowing to the pressure of a stranger and leaving Anya at the alter as opposed to talking things out after the musical when is when he verbally knows he has these issues.
Sadly Jonathon in season 4 shows he didn't care about who got the class protector award because his spell about "making friends" had him win the award. It made any "aww" moment out the window.
Saying this episode is oddly placed because it is before the storm I found odd, because I thought it had to happen in order for Buffy to get the student body to help battle The Mayor. Perfectly placed and more like the Ewoks trusting that Luke and Han Solo aren't a threat because their God (C-3PO) has "told" them so type of moment.
You hit the nail on the head about her getting recognition. I love this episode because it shows that Sunnydale actually acknowledges that things are going on, and that the hero gets the credit they deserve. Sheer plain awesome. The trophy at the end just makes this one of my fav episodes of the show.
i can't not cry at the class protector scene. it's one of my favorite scenes in the series.
another great review!
I would have loved for the episode to end with Giles and Buffy talking about her award, rather than Angel opening that wound again.
My conure, Skittles, was watching this with me on my latest rewatch. He was definitely invested, because at one point a hellhound jump-scared into the foreground, whereupon Skittles shrieked in terror, ran up my arm, and tried to hide behind my head. So I guess in his eyes, I'M the class protector. 😄😄😄
Only started watching these guides recently. Currently rewatching Angel myself (up to mid-season 3 at that really gripping Wesley arc) and am very looking forward to your insights now that we're coming up to when the two shows run parallel. Billy was such a scary episode metaphorically! (male misogyny)
Great video as always. I can't wait to watch your guides on the epic later episodes like Hush, The Gift, Once More, etc
Nice review once again. You pick out some good observations about the Buffy-Angel stuff in this episode. And actually I agree. I guess part of your critiqe is as a result of them bringing Angel back in what is packed season already. I think it was worth bringing him back just for Amends and I do think they give him and Buffy a good ending, but the melodrama in this episode though well done I thought was a bit much. But there never thought about your point before about the placing of it and think its a good spot. Like you I adore the ending of the episode and even enjoyed the MOTW. Strong episode overall.
Didn't realize how badly I needed one of your videos until I saw it in my feed. GAh! I love these!
Happy to help.
And this is the good stuff man, pure season three kick, we're talking Mia Wallace mainlining here.
So exited for the next one!
(Your season 5 guide can come fast enough)
Season 5 was such a special season.I fell like Buffy hit her stride then.She was an experienced Slayer,and for the first time I saw her as a woman,rather than a girl.Seeing her come into that part of her life gives her a whole new kind of power.Giles even starts to feel less like a guide and more like a partner in that season .
Personally the only high school season I like is season 3, pretty sure is because I started to see how the characters grew (note: they did not develop did not change but actually grew)
I find all the seasons from 5-7 my favorites because of that (I know unpopular opinion).
+AndreAsunte man i hate s5
I, too love season five. I loved Glory as the villain, Spike realizing he had feelings for Buffy, and I especially loved the relationship between Buffy and Dawn. I know many thought Dawn was a brat, but she was 14 when she was introduced. She was supposed to be a brat.
Opinion that I share.
Man that moment at the end of the episode. Just gives me tears of joy seeing Buffy so happy to belong for once. Also last moment of sweetness with Angel before he leaves. Can't wait to see what you have to say about Graduation Day. So much to explore I think.
Tucker's motivation is probably one of the best things I have ever seen
This was the first episode I ever watched. Sick of everyone talking about this "Buffy" series I thought I'd give it a go and this was the latest episode, I watched it enthralled and cried my eyes out at the end and I had no idea of any of the backstroke is or characters. I went out the next day about bought the season 1 and 2 (VHS) box sets and binged them and have never looked back.
I often wonder if I was lucky to have caught this particular episode, would I have fallen in love so quickly and easily had it been another one? It doesn't matter now, I cried then and still cry now as Jonathan presents the award
I'm enjoying these SO MUCH. Your editing and clip choices are always so en pointe (especially the "spoiler" flashes - Andrew's brother!), and your analysis always adds another dimension to a scene that I hadn't thought about before.
Recently just did a Buffy re-watch of my own, and really can't wait for you to get into the later seasons - all of my favorite moments are still yet to come, and I am so curious about what you'll see that I didn't.
you want something that blows your mind? the actor that plays tucker wells here is the singing voice of aladdin (the original ty) and in real life is married to sarah thompson who played eve on angel during its 5th season XD
Thanks for the great post - sharp and poignant in equal measures, as always. This episode is one of my all-time favorites, generally because I feel like it really crystallizes the subtitle of the series' high school years, as stated by Joss Whedon: "School is Hell." If such things had been possible in real life, during my high school years, I could probably name two or three kids who would've summoned Hell-beasts to take out prom-goers, or something like that. Also, up until this episode, we viewers are kind of left with the impression that the actions of The Slayer are always done in secret, under the radar and under-appreciated. In fact, the writers often go to great lengths to show us how alone Buffy feels all the time. (Cut to: Buffy, in silhouette, holding a can of soup in the episode, "Anne.") The presentation of the "Class Protector" award was a bright ray of sunshine and refreshing, cool breeze in the otherwise dark, gloomy landscape of Season 3.
so good. great review, I've loved this episode because of the prom scene and when Buffy get her award.
C'mon, man, how can you have just ignored that dance scene in this video?! I've noticed you haven't levied too much attention to the songs played in the show, but this one has got to be the -- at very least, nearly (I really like "Goodbye to You") -- the one with with the most thematic beauty;
(As they embrace):
"Faith has been broken, tears must be cried,
Let's do some living after we die"
This hits me every time. Wish my prom had been like this.
Yeah like Fatboy Slim and Kool and The Gang were great parts of this episode! 👍
Great review as always.
Prom is up there as one of the feel good episodes of the series and from now until the final moments of Season 3, when a completely new era ushers in on Buffy heading into Season 4. Its all dark and gloomy between now and the final moments of Season 3.
Prom is one of the top five. There are three moments I puddle out. So good. Thanks for the videos.
Love your videos!!!! Can't wait to hear your opinions about Buffy and Spike's relationship!
AGAIN LOOOVE your videos
!
This is Beautiful.
Your video is awesome, (again) and the content is awesome, (again). This series kind-of brings the fandom together like the show did originally, but on another level. Thank you for doing this, you are very appreciated!!
Also, this hilarious, keep up the good work!
Omg i woke up and saw this in my notifications! It really brightened my lazy morning up :)
During the scene in which Buffy gets the class protector award weren't all the producers/staff standing by offscreen? (Joss Whedon, David Greenwalt (who'll eventually depart to do the Angel spin-off; would remain consulting producer), Marti Noxon, David Fury, David Solomon (who directed this episode), Gareth Davies, story editors Douglas Petrie, Jane Espenson, Dan Vebber (who will eventually go on to do Futurama), Fran Rubel Kazi, Gail Berman etc...) Regis Kimble (who directed the "Earshot" episode) was in the editorial department.
Just my opinion, but I don't think the Bangel stuff is a misfire here. There's a substantial difference between choosing one's actions (which both Buffy and Angel have demonstrated both a willingness and ability to do by this point and choosing one's feelings (which is harder, if not impossible. and why the keep getting drawn back together even though both of them know such a situation is likely to end badly for them both). Eventually, all that's left is for one or both of them to make the choice Angel makes here, to completely remove themselves from physical proximity to the other. Personally, I like the idea that Buffy isn't the one who ultimately makes that call as she is still a teenager at this point in the series and teenagers don't always have the capacity to think maturely when it comes to relationships.
T,he prom is the recruitment call, for what happens in graduation. It is the finality, it is what Buffy truly wants, which is to belong. Here she realises that she is not fighting a never ending fight, but that every fight she wins has a finality, being the saving of lives. Sunnydale high has the lowest mortality rate ever,she has won and people will follow her. She is graduating from being a slayer to being the slayer, Leaving behind any unresolved issues about her future. She excepts her calling.
Mark Fudge Indeed. In Star Wars equivalents, this is the party with the Ewoks before the attack, the one where they almost become the party dinner, until C3PO convinces the Ewoks otherwise.
That moment at the prom is so unexpected and so perfect. lt makes me gasp and tear up. l feel the same during much of the last episodes of the series.
Buffy finally gets her reward.
Another heavenly update.
Is no one gonna mention how this episode or Buffy follows all 90s Prom troaps of having a Fatboy Slim song playing, also you got to love Joss Whedon’s fantastic references to us British folk! 👍
Awesome review -as always!! I DO understand what you mean about an inherent lack of continuity with Buffy between Lovers Walk & The Prom but to me it's mostly about the lesson and the *story* : I act *therefore* I think. if Buffy discusses 'choice' and then 'goes back' or yearns for Angel, I see that as part of the story - to which I'm first attracted.
She's 18; she's young, she wants to have a 'perfect high school experience. She knows Angel can't really be with her but she's desperately trying to live the dream. At the end of this episode when Angel says "Just for tonight" Buffy changes her response from "I know" to "I understand." In other words, she's graduated.
Can't wait for "Graduation Day" guide probably my second favorite season finale from buffy
How weird. I don't remember noticing that rather glaring continuity error. Maybe I did subconsciously? But by that episode, I think I was growing a bit apathetic to the Bangel story line. Perhaps not enough meat to carry it through a whole season.
Can't wait for Angel Guide
Wow! Buying Cordy clothes to ease the way for forgiveness? Maybe we should write that one down for future reference.
This is great man, can't wait for you to do season 4 that's my favorite.
Nailed it sir!! Another great video, and I got a little buzz as soon as I saw it in my subscription updates XD Look forward to you closing off the 3rd season (mostly so I can then move on to season 4 :P) Again, great work :).
ya, in season 6, even Spike knows who Tucker is for no explained reason. Anyway, this is very much a turning point for how the citzens of Sunnydale are shown in terms of knowing the supernautural exist
I think the problem with Buffy and Angel's relationship is that the more time they spend together, the more Buffy loses her individuality until she can't separate herself from Angel. Their relationship is too enmeshed because it revolves around them both being heroes. It's like they are the same person with the same reason for existing. Buffy doesn't think she can give up Angel because it would mean giving up a piece of herself. (And now I understand why Angel got his own show. LOL)
This point was heartbreaking but angel did the right thing. These two can't be around each other without feeling tempted and buffy deserved a better life than what angel can give her. I think we'd all love to believe that these two would eventually come together in the end. There's the element of mystery. At least she got to be with him once, have her prom with him, got widely acknowledged for all of her great work with the class protector award, got her diploma, led her army of graduates against the mayor and group of vampires, and went to college.
What I never understood is if Angel did the right thing with buffy then why put he and Cordy together in his own show? She was human a one point so it just seems weird.