Dude. I never realized the MASSIVE scale of the character arc of Angel until watching this review again. From: "You never were a fighter, Angel. Don't start trying now." To: "Well, personally, I kinda want to slay the dragon. Let's go to work." Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a new box of Kleenex for weeping.
I think however far fetched it may be for most teenagers, refusing sex is not out of line with Oz's character. He is a guy who pretty much always knows what he wants, and he likes things to be clear and he likes knowing for sure. Just in general, he is in no rush. He talks slowly, has this amazingly calm demeanor all the time no matter what crazy thing is going on, and he never even says a word without thinking. He is not a ''reacting to things'' kind of person. He is all control and zero impulse. Which is why the wild wolf part of himself is the only thing that manages to frustrate him. He didn't even react to catching Xander and Willow making out, and he handled everything that came after that in a very mature way. He never seemed to chase whatever other people his age cared about. He didn't care about school, he didn't care about hot girls, he does music, but doesn't even take that seriously. He never cared about the hot cheerleaders, but had an instant crush on Willow in an eskimo costume. I think we can say that he is a very unusual teenage boy. He cares about doing things for the right reasons. When Willow attempted the first milestone in their relationship and wanted to kiss him, he refused because he suspected she wanted it for the wrong reasons. Now again, she attempts another milestone which also seems like a forced fix for her current relationship problems, he refuses again. He didn't wanna be the guy Willow kissed because she was heartbroken over Xander, and he doesn't wanna be the guy Willow slept with because she feels guilty about what she did with Xander. This is exactly the kind of thing that got him 100% of the Willow. With every unbelievably thoughtful and noble act he displayed, he got rid of a part of the Xander weakness Willow carried, and made himself the only one for her. He may be a cold blooded jelly doughnut, but his game is impeccable.
16:19 "You never were a fighter, Angel, don't start trying now" I fucking love this moment; his darkest insecurities taunting him with this line. For me, it perfectly encapsulates the place a lot of people struggling with mental illness or other trauma find themselves in. We weren't born warriors, we worked to become them because something in us wanted to live.
+Katroo Still felt like 5 minutes, gotta envy those that will find his video series in its complete form in later years and can watch it all as one big movie :D
An Angel centric review would be nothing without an existential explanation... well done. I love this episode as it is really the turning point for the Angel character and really the starting point for the events that lead to my favorite show ever being set. ATS rules all.
Bringing up Sisyphus and the rock in regard to Angel is a stroke of genius and is something i hadn't thought about before. the myth certainly has a good deal of the 'Angel: the series' philosophy to it, namely the show's unofficial tagline: "if nothing we do matters then all that matters is what we do." In an attempt not to spoil anyone i will keep this vague: the ending of ATS perfectly encapsulates the idea that it isn't, to take from Sisyphus, about getting the rock over the hill, but about never giving up on pushing it. There's no big win. i think the Angel of 'Amends' has only just begun to learn about life's absurdity, but the character in his series, and the series as a whole, is one that embraces the idea.
I love how attentive to detail you are! Piecing together Xander's home life from little context clues here and there was really interesting. I think your theory about passions and the types of vampires people become makes a lot of sense and is the best explanation I've heard for why Angelus is such pure evil. Great review, once again! I always do a little happy dance when I see an episode in my subscriptions, and was extra happy when I saw how long this one was.
+Emmy Palmer THEYRE SO DISTRACTING!!! They look like the bangs I gave myself when I was 7! Must have been an impulse cut because they are definitely swept aside from now on to hide them... which was a good choice
"Can I date him?" Your reviews are a gift to this world. Also everything you say about compassion and Xander. Thank you! I actually don't like Xander that much, but I like this way to analyze his character. And you explained Camus' thoughts so beautifully! Endless kudos! (Also, looking foward to more thoughts on Angel/Liam/Angelus and why this guy is the white fly - or not - of vampires)
Oz is very nearly flawless, yes, but he's like the tragic hero who has that one flaw that ruins everything. His is a tendency to hide his problems and try to solve them alone. When he first becomes a werewolf, instead of asking for help from the Scoobies, he tries to chain himself up in his living room. In S4, when he knows he's losing the battle against his wolf instincts, he pretends everything's fine and tries to solve it by himself, until it's far too late.
+Cat Prowess Can't say too much about Faith without spoiling just yet. But a retrospective examination will be due whenever it isn't a spoiler anymore. Also...this review got super long as it was.
"If nothing we do matters, then all that matters is what we do." Excellent analysis as always. The length wasn't even noticeable -- you had more than enough compelling things to say that it all felt essential. Thanks for consistently giving me even more appreciation for my all-time favourite show.
I think that what make us human is our empaty towards another person. When we forget or ignore other's people feelings is when we act unhuman.Angel feeling guilty is a indication to me that "he is a thing worthy of saving".
To the point of putting a funny spin on your depression, that shit is good as gold. Another TH-camr named Natalie Wynn released a video she called "The Darkness" about black humor and in it she said "The person who laughs at the world burning only does so with the privilege of not being on fire. The Darkness is finding a way to laugh about being on fire." In any case, great video as always sir.
I'm doing a rewatch with my wife who has never seen the series. Unfortunately for me, in this episode I spent way too much time trying to figure out how Angeles grew a mustache. I recently learned they made James Marsters bleach his hair so frequently he had burns from it because vampires can't have roots as their hair doesn't grow. The pain that the actor went through and the fact that he was told that he might lose all his hair as a result of what he ended up doing, contrasted with this sudden, random mustache, just sent my brain into a loop I couldn't break out of. It was still a very good episode. I'm just living with this rewatch with the added lense of information about Joss Wheden I didn't have last time I took a look at this story.
Wow.. James Marsters went through a lot to make Spike work in this show. I just read that he really burned his hand a couple episodes ago trying to do the stunt when he was passed out with the sun coming out.. and he didn’t tell anyone until years later. James is The Goat!
Half past 2 in the morning here in England about to go to bed and this episode appears, I'm gonna be super tired tomorrow I blame you for this PotN you and your awesome episode guides.
Really great review and I love the philosophy look on Angels story here. That´t why he´s my all time favourite character. "Amends" is the best christmas episode a show had ever done. The storyline of Angel beeing haunted by his past victims is the Buffyverse version of "A christmas carol" to me (... maybe it´s just me).The scene between Giles and Angel is just great. When Giles opened the door Angel doesn´t have to say anything. Just his facial expression shows everything he´s looking for: answers - and forgiveness. It´s also a great foreshadow that **** spoiler alert **** The First tells Angel "Sooner or later you will drink her..."
I have to admit, Oz is one of the only characters I would voluntarily go on a date with in the Buffyverse. Yeah, he's kind of flawless until Season 4 but he doesn't feel like a Gary Stu. Great seeing another video btw. I love your comments on the "human nature" of vampires.
Ummm, for the record, those "long" 17 minutes flew by SO fast. Kudos! Also: "Well, you know, we're alone... And we're both... mature... younger people... And, and so... w-we could... I-I'm ready to... w-with you... *we could do that thing*." Willow, honey, I love ya, but if you can't say it, you probably shouldn't do it. Also how funny is it that the first words of that Barry White song are "I've heard people say that too much of anything is not good for you, baby"?
Great review as always. You really thought this one out. I think this was one of the first episodes that dealt with the possibility a higher power in the "Buffyverse" world, but the first time I watched it, I didn't think much about it. This episode also showed the audience that Angel is more man than demon when he confronts Buffy. It also does a great job of showing that Angel's past as Angelus really does haunt him. In my opinion, this was one of the most emotional "Bangel" episodes in the series and the first episode that made me cry. The last TV couple that made me cry were Amy and Rory in "Doctor Who." Perfect acting by SMG and David on the hilltop scene.
this is a pivotal episode, because it a)sets up the First, and b) is kind of a backdoor pilot for Angel the series .I always thought the Powers that Be were the Buffyverse's deity/ies? I also thought the Powers were behind the snow storm that saved Angel's life
Someone may have noted this already, I haven't had time to go through all the comments, and you may have intended to draw attention to this through your editing but when Buffy goes after Angel, there is a rock at the bottom of the hill which she runs past upwards towards Angel. Furthermore, Angel is stood at the top of the hill, next to a rock. I can't say if this is intended or not as it may just be part of the area they were filming in but since it's in the final episode it is noteworthy considering your review. One way this could be read is that Buffy has already climbed the hill with her rock in season 2, ending in her fight with Angelus (reaching the top), and Angel being re-ensouled and then Buffy having to kill him (the rock falling back down). However, after this, Buffy started to climb the hill again (here, quite literally) after returning to Sunnydale and slaying (a metaphor, as you've discussed, for adulthood and maturity). Angel, however, has only just got to the top of the hill with his rock and it's about to tumble down (with the First trying to get him to feed and his sexual desire for Buffy increasing) and this is the moment where he must choose to, like Sisyphus, go back down the hill and start to climb again or to abandon the rock, the journey, the struggle and die.
Oz's line about Willow forgetting her lines can also be foreshadowing to 'Restless' which I can't wait for you to cover, it's one of the most meta episodes of the entire series. Unfortunately it's a season and a half away
Another beautifully constructed review. My only issue with it is your issue with Oz and his turning Willow's amorous request down. Oz was still a teenager and though we know he's had sex before, I believe he was still hurting from her betrayal and wasn't ready for that step himself, but instead of admitting that, he just put it on her. To us and Willow it's supposed to seem selfless, that he's putting her over himself, when it was really self-preservation on Oz's side. What this now does is give Oz a new layer of complexity and neurosis to off-set the perfect human being characterization you're speaking of. To me Oz was as emotionally deep as anyone else on the show and repeatedly gave Seth Green a supreme actor's showcase to play those notes so subtly yet authentically. Other than that issue, this review was perfection.
My god I got so goosebumpy and teary at the end...partially cause the score Magic Snow from Amends really gets to me, and also because that, mixed with the quote was just perfection. Amazing video, as always!!
This is the episode that I started with to properly rewatch the series. Oh, boy was that a good choice. Once again, I'm still stunned by how different I view the metaphors, elements in the story and the overall message throughout as an adult. When I watched as a teenager, I seem to recall taking in a few pieces of symbolism, but not absorbing the rest. And coming back to the show especially after watching your excellent reviews just heighten how much better everything about Buffy the Vampire Slayer truly is.
+Angel garcia Just follow me on Twitter. I try and pipe up on when I'm making things and when they're going to be ready. I've been way too flighty this season. If you don't have a twitter account just bookmark the page. I'll keep people in the loop as I work. twitter.com/Iannitram
+Passion of the Nerd followed though I do hardly go on Twitter, your guides are so insightful and as aspiring teleplay writer drives me really think about what I want to produce for people
Just love these videos. These are so much more than reviews or guides. There sometimes moments I wonder if I enjoy your reviews even more than the show itself.
Its because of these episode guides that I have watched the show so many times. I keep on wanting to go and find something so I can contribute to the conversation, and I don't know which I like more ether, I sometime binge more on the guides then I do on the episodes themselves.
Exceptional work on this review... Your commentary is a great example of why Buffy has received so much critical attention, why sooooo much has been written about this show, in comparison with its rather small viewership (originally) and its relegation to "cult tv" status. When such depth is found in an ostensibly cheesy or digressive episode, we're reminded just how special is the Whedonverse - and particularly Buffy, its extraordinary fountainhead.
it stands outs in the context of television episodes that take place on Christmas because in most shows, the main focus of that story solves their internal issues by the end. here, Angel's internal issues are more powerful than ever but he is now willing to stand up and face those issues.
These videos have inspired me to take up Philosophy as part of my education. I've always had a fascination with character studies. These guides have shown me things I've missed and a new insight I never had before. Honestly haven't been this excited to take up something new
MY GOD MAN. You just keep topping yourself. Best guide thus far. I didn't even realize that it was 17 minutes long. That's how good it was. Can't wait for more insights.
If u only knew how close ive come to ending this painful and ridiculous life, only to revisit this video, and the idea u put forth of the myth of Sisyphus and why that Rock has to be picked up once again. I can never tell you how much it means to me
Thanks for helping me grow. I'm not used to thinking about subtext and several of the many layers and depths you explore in my favourite TV show here. This stimulating learning curve, while sometimes a big challenge, is a delight to go on.
I know these videos are years and years old at this point but I've been watching every review after every episode during the rewatch I'm doing right now and it is heightening my experience with this series *so much* like I already loved it endlessly and it's so important to me but these reviews and reading the comments are bringing up things I never realized, never thought about, never contextualized even after multiple watches of the whole series.
I want to thank you Passion of the Nerd. I have utterly crumbled and cried twice now due to your video reviews of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the, admittedly appreciated, tender care you take with the series and your analysis of it. BTVS has been my #1 favorite show and series since I was 16yrs old and has been a constant source of joy in my life.... until 2014 in which events lead me to fall into a deep depression compounded but the fact that it was essentially my first time dealing with being depressed in general in my entire life. I questioned everything about myself and grow even hate myself only slowly recovering near the end of 2015. Your words in this video touched me so deeply and have made me believe in myself, believe in living a fulfilling life and my favorite show again. I'm not sure if I can truly get across how very serious I mean what I say here or that I can ever truly thank you for what I feel you've done for me but I just would like to say again: Thank You So Very Much. I can not wait for your next video. :) -Zechs_
+AJ Cotman Thank you for sharing. I have been in the same position you describe and it was the show that came into my life at the right time and propped me up. Comments like yours are the whole point of this channel - trying to revel the deeper meanings of the show in a way that allows people to see themselves, however ham handedly I sometimes do it. When you're going through hell, keep going. Cheers.
This episode guide was potentially your best. I'm absolutely mindblown! I completely see now how this is all set up for Angel's spin-off, and the idea that good forces sent him back is something I'd never considered. Thank you! Been itching for you to upload this as I am for each of your videos.
I've been enjoying the blog for months but this episode and the episode over Becoming made me notice things in the show that I had never thought of even after dozens of viewings. This show has helped me through the roughest times of my life, but before I discovered your channel I wasn't enjoying the show as much as I used to because I had just watched it too much. Your guide has helped me rediscover the show, see it through a different perspective, and made it feel fresh and new again. Thank you so much for doing this guide. I really hope you do one over ANGEL, as that is my favorite show. I never thought I would still be discovering new aspects to the show 19 years later, and I owe that in part to you.
Whenever a see a new ep of this I get ridiculously happy! Buffy is my all time favourite show and I just love hearing your opinions on it. I tend to watch Buffy quite shallowly and I think that's because I started to watch it when I was so young, so I love hearing about layers I missed.
I loved the length and content of this review, as always. Really enjoy these and I'm glad you do them. Now that I've finally finished Buffy in its entirety this is a great complement and helps me enjoy the universe in a new way. This episode is particular I love. I think this was the episode where I truly realized I was in love with this show. I really got hooked back around "Innocence", but I think "Amends" is what made me realize it. The long final scene, with the melodramatic speeches between Angel and Buffy really spoke to me. The snow kicks in, and it's all just so beautiful. Then, I also realized just how melodramatic and cheesy it all was. I also realized I didn't care. I loved it all the same.
Your videos are phenomenal. I just want to start by saying that. I'm so grateful that you share your passion for the Buffyverse (or is that Whedonverse?) with us. I love hearing your opinions, your analysis..is..ses, and am consistently impressed by the depth you go into and the quality as a whole. They're basically an art form to me okay? Enough cheese -- sike, there can never be enough cheese. Right... I love this episode. Warts (Robia LaMorte touching Boreanaz, the snow [mainly because of that awful phone commercial they made which thankfully didn't air in the UK], Oz's all-encompassing goodness, the winter clothes and log fires) and all. The way you pieced together all of those snippets of Xander's life at home has solidified my compassion for him once again. When his mom couldn't tell who he was from his voice, I don't remember that from my gazillion rewatches since the age of 10 and it broke my heart just now. Of course holding him accountable for his many instances of problematic behaviour and awful attitude, I feel he's actually very underrated as a character and loathed a little too much. I can also relate to him a lot in terms of the humour / depression / shitty homelife links, and it's even sadder to see Nicholas Brendon going through what he's going through and recently hearing about his childhood. Back to the episode. I definitely believe it was the PTB that brought Angel back, not The First. The First just tried to exploit that as with a later occurrence we'll eventually get to. Hm. I also believe Angel is responsible for his actions as Angelus only in the way that he's responsible for losing his soul, I feel that that's where it ends. I don't mean Angel should be given a free pass, that people should forget or be completely trusting of him, but there's no way he could stop Angelus from doing what he did in the moment, so he's only culpable as far as I'm concerned pre- losing his soul. At least post-season 2 of Buffy. Then again he didn't know about the moment of pure happiness thing, did he? And Angel does far more questionable things later on in his own series WITH a soul, so that does kind of poop on everything I just said. Back to square one again. Ah well. I love that you consider Amends as being Angel the series: episode 0, because I always have, too. It's pure setup for the spin-off. I just kind of wish he'd left sooner because I hate to see him and Buffy fade out for another 12 episodes. Torture. I LOVE Buffy's speech to Angel, I still remind myself of those lines when I'm in my darkest moments and they help. Also makes me think of Epiphany of Angel season 2. I also love Christophe Beck's score for this episode tremendously. My comment needs to end now. P.S. 17 minutes is nothing. I could watch / listen to you for hours on end.
This review was AMAZING and super worth the wait, thank you so so much for all of the time and effort that you put in to these!!! I really like the progression of the discussion about the soul cannon- your idea in this one just makes so much sense to me... Liam and William ( though versions of the same name!) were such different people to begin with, there is no way that it can't effect the vampYres that they become! I also really appreciated the Zander home-life flashbacks- it's hard to think back to when I hadn't seen Restless or Hell's Bells when we didn't know much about the Harris'- and I enjoyed that Cordelia knew a bit of private information about Xander that Willow didn't even know, it adds some nice depth to their relationship- even if she is using it in a combative way post Lovers' Walk. I guess I have to dust off my Myth of Sisyphus- everything is more fun when you can connect it back to the Buffster!
This was an amazing review. I love how you weave real life questions into your reviews and highlight where JW has done the same. Watching your reviews is like watching the episode again with new and more perceptive eyes. In other words, you rock.
I just found your channel about a week ago and I really, really enjoy your recaps. I've been a Buffy fan since it aired and have watched the episodes many many times, so your recaps are great and fun to hear someone else's opinions.
I've never made the connection with the quote "It is our desires that make us human" and the way a human affects the vampire they would become. It's an amazing connection, and I think it explains the difference between Angelus, Spike, and Dru better than anything else I've ever read. Thank you for this!
Maybe one of my favourite reviews so far! And I could watch these for even long durations than this episode's. The longer the better, from my perspective.
I am glad you liked this one. It is one of my favs. I have always thought it was the Powers that Be that sent the snow. Just finished Angel and am looking forward to getting your take on that show :)
Jeeee dude! I love the philosophy you put into this episode's analysis. I loved Buffy when I was a teenage but I don't have the time to marathon the show all over again even though I’d love to. This videos have awakened such a lovely nostalgic in me and make me get in touch with my fantasy again. I can wait to watch your analysis on “Normal again” (S06 E17) and “Buffy vs. Dracula” (S05 E01).
Again,this was powerful and beautiful. You managed to make me even more emotional than the episode itself. I didn't think I could appreciate Buffy more, but you proved it was possible. Thank you.
Great in-depth review. Thanks also for mentioning one of my all time gripes with the show, as much ads I like Oz, he's not written as a 17-18 year old which he is, he's more written as a mid 20's guy who has his shit together and although this isn't a character floor, it is a little out of place as all of the other's including the lead are all dealing with the issues that we all face growing up, where it seems he already has.
+Jimmy Dark I don't think even a guy in his mid 20s would act as mature as Oz. Maybe they make him that way as a contrast to Xander whom they make so strongly like a teenage boy.
+Melody Clark I find it interesting in that we can rally at Buffy, Xander, even...ugh, Kennedy because of how they act, and I think we at times forget that, to begin at least, they are not old enough to drink. Now look at Oz, he really has it together and comes across as a really mature, wise adult. That's not a knock on his character but even the greatest of the greatest...look at most any titan of fiction and they have their limits. Oz doesn't really have any personality wise...except for his final appearance.
What another amazing guide! Don't know if anyone noticed, and also don't know if this is an accident by the writers/wardrobe team. But notice how Giles seems to be wearing a very similar shirt in the scene where Angel comes to his house to the one that he was wearing when Angel tortured him. Have a little look back, would be very interesting if this was done on purpose!
Man you can make me enjoy even the episodes of Buffy I have never liked. I'm currently watching the series once again, and your videos before or after each episode, and on each video you made I am blown away by your thoughts, and your intelligence. I cannot stress enough how much I am amazed by your Buffy Guide. Thank you. Also, I'm not sure you can make me like the character of Angel, who I do find useful, necessary even, but unbearable. But damn, you have done such a fantastic job on this Buffy guide that I may give Angel the series a go. Kudos for that!!!
Have I told you how awesome you are lately?? Well...you are awesome!!! And your episode guides are the greatest TV analyses on TH-cam! I can't thank you enough for re-igniting my love for this show and giving me a forum to discuss Buffy with my fellow Scoobies :) You are a legend man.
Man I don't comment on these videos often but just wanted to say that I look forward to these every week. I love your take on the series particularly Xander's character as it is often so different to mine, however this episode I think highlights why I disagreed with you up until now. Xander's flaws and jealousy to me just add to why I love the character, his greatest strength is also his greatest flaw, he's impulsive. He didn't think before he spoke when he told Buffy "Give him hell" at the end of season 2 and that blind passion is what gives him the courage to go in blindly fighting for what is right despite his lack of special ability. To me the fact that Xander starts off at this rather immature but ultimately loveable point is what makes his maturing as the season progresses and his insightful speeches towards the end of the series (His speech to Buffy about Riley, his speech to willow at the end of season 6 and his speech to dawn in potential come to mind) so potent. Don't know if you'll ever read this but thanks for all you do, it's the highlight of my week.
+Patrick Manning I agree, I simply adore Xander and his flaws, they're what draw me to him and not Oz - as the video shows, Oz is pretty much perfect and that's not interesting IMO
and his speech to Anya after he talks to Buffy about Riley. there's actually a few times he's proven to be insightful around Anya. then his speech to the potentials.
A very unique and complex episode which sets so many different elements up moving forward, and as such I found your review fitting. Nice take on the Xander character. I think he often gets a bad rap too, his flaws make him more rich, and his moments of bravery and humanity far outweigh the bad moments. I agree that this is the first step of Angel coming into his own and being prepared for his own show. In fact, its a turning point for the character in this season I think. I tend to think that the Snow was actually fate striking as that links to the magic of the episode. I like that they leave the reason for Angel's return open to the viewer to work out.
Okay, I admit I'd been avoiding this guide because Amends is not an episode I like... even a little bit. But your review of it was incredible and helps me think of it a little differently. Thanks.
I totally agree that this episode is the genesis for Angel the series. A lot of the themes and character motivations carry over into the spinoff. It also links back to the earlier analysis around "forgiving yourself." For me, this is where it starts, where Angel starts to forgive himself and take on the challenge of "fighting the good fight" as well as taking a lesson from Buffy about making the difficult choices (which becomes the bread and butter of his series). Amongst that are more superficial elements such as the semi-introduction of The-Powers-That-Be and Angel's notion that he was "saved for a reason." A great take on a great episode.
Wow. Amazing review. In anticipation of this review I dug out my degree copies of Camus and Sartre. I'm glad I didn't watch this last night when you posted at 2.30 PM English time, this existentialism would have been way beyond me then. As it is, I need more tea to digest this incredible review. You are fantastic, Ian!
It's weird, Buffy's speech to Angel on the cliff isn't a HAPPY one but it still makes me feel a melancholic sort of fuzziness and warmth. It's really powerful to hear a speech about still choosing to live when it's hard, even to the point of feeling impossible. I'm sure that's what a lot of people need to hear, rather than a rose-colored version of a similar sentiment.
I love this episode so much! It is probably #5 on my favorites list... but this is The First of The First (my favorite villain, the idea that it can take the form of any of the people who have passed in my life to haunting me in the dark, sharing the secrets only "we" know... that idea is downright frightening! and perfect as Evil Incarnate, better than It from It and UnLocke/SM/Samuel/Essaue from Lost. and how powerful words are... and I love how it has a catch: it can't hurt you physical, but boy can it do a number on your psyche) I see the snow at the end as part of the randomness of the universe, sometimes chaos is beautiful and ends up somehow? working toward your benefit.
my favorite one yet, very poignant and lovely look at the deeper layers of such a complex character. I love Amends as well and loved hearing your take on it. Can't wait for more of the later seasons when the subtext just gets meatier and meatier! Will you be reviewing Angel eps as well, or sticking to Buffy?
I love that you keep making these, I don't care how long it takes for you to put them out; I'll be tuning in to every episode analysis you do for this and Angel because I live for this kind of in-depth analysis, particularly of this show as it's probably my number one favourite of all time (so far, at least). I can't wait to hear what you've got to say about certain episodes in the far and not-too-distant future. Thank you
So much wonderful stuff in this video. I absolutely love how you reveal such complexity in a TV show which people are inclined to dismiss as not real art. Oz has to be a practicing Buddhist although he never tries to push his beliefs on anybody else and so is pretty much the only example of how religion can give an individual peace and moral guidance on a show that is full of supernatural forces. Buffy uses crosses and holy water to fight vampires and even goes to some definition of heaven but it's never clear what she actually believes.
This reviews are truly awesome! I just started watching buffy again after all these years and your reviews give more of an interesting insight into the episodes. I basically have more of an appreciation for the art that is this show! In a weird way you kind of give meaning to my own life as I understand more of how life is! I am still young only 21 and am going through a lot in my life at times more then I can take, yet you give me hope in myself! Look forward to more reviews! Thanks passion of the nerd!
Dude. I never realized the MASSIVE scale of the character arc of Angel until watching this review again.
From: "You never were a fighter, Angel. Don't start trying now."
To: "Well, personally, I kinda want to slay the dragon. Let's go to work."
Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a new box of Kleenex for weeping.
"I wear the cheese. It does not wear me."
+SashaRicky Hunh!
Mr. Cheese Man strikes again!
Shoutout to the Season 7 Big Bad's first appearance
Greysentinel365 I completely forgot that it appeared in season 3, until I rewatched it
I knew that businessman looked suspicious!
It appeared before, on season 3!!!
Season 7 is such garbage it even tarnished this great ep in retrospect
"sigh can i date him" omg you are a gem also i understand
I think however far fetched it may be for most teenagers, refusing sex is not out of line with Oz's character. He is a guy who pretty much always knows what he wants, and he likes things to be clear and he likes knowing for sure. Just in general, he is in no rush. He talks slowly, has this amazingly calm demeanor all the time no matter what crazy thing is going on, and he never even says a word without thinking. He is not a ''reacting to things'' kind of person. He is all control and zero impulse. Which is why the wild wolf part of himself is the only thing that manages to frustrate him. He didn't even react to catching Xander and Willow making out, and he handled everything that came after that in a very mature way. He never seemed to chase whatever other people his age cared about. He didn't care about school, he didn't care about hot girls, he does music, but doesn't even take that seriously. He never cared about the hot cheerleaders, but had an instant crush on Willow in an eskimo costume. I think we can say that he is a very unusual teenage boy.
He cares about doing things for the right reasons. When Willow attempted the first milestone in their relationship and wanted to kiss him, he refused because he suspected she wanted it for the wrong reasons. Now again, she attempts another milestone which also seems like a forced fix for her current relationship problems, he refuses again. He didn't wanna be the guy Willow kissed because she was heartbroken over Xander, and he doesn't wanna be the guy Willow slept with because she feels guilty about what she did with Xander. This is exactly the kind of thing that got him 100% of the Willow. With every unbelievably thoughtful and noble act he displayed, he got rid of a part of the Xander weakness Willow carried, and made himself the only one for her. He may be a cold blooded jelly doughnut, but his game is impeccable.
+imakefoodhappen It isn't at all out of line with his character and it was definitely the right decision. As were ALL the others.
+Passion of the Nerd Let's just call this constant correct decision making Oz's superpower.
cheeseclark As long as we acknowledge it in some way I'm cool with it. Good Decision Man works for me.
+Passion of the Nerd And the spoily spoil, spoil spoil is coming later. Everyone has their kryptonite/antimattery thing eh.
cheeseclark True. But even THEN it was because Seth Green was leaving. I wonder how things would have gone otherwise.
16:19 "You never were a fighter, Angel, don't start trying now" I fucking love this moment; his darkest insecurities taunting him with this line. For me, it perfectly encapsulates the place a lot of people struggling with mental illness or other trauma find themselves in. We weren't born warriors, we worked to become them because something in us wanted to live.
Bloody hell! 18 minutes!? You spoil me!
+MauLerTH-cam I didn't even notice how long this was until I read your comment! Time flies as they say :)
+Katroo Still felt like 5 minutes, gotta envy those that will find his video series in its complete form in later years and can watch it all as one big movie :D
I hadn't thought of that but now you mention it so do I! Who doesn't love a good binge watch :D
+Katroo I recently binged Buffy and Angel will probably go through them again after he explains all the stuff I miss, Thank you nerd :*(
What's your favourite season?
An Angel centric review would be nothing without an existential explanation... well done. I love this episode as it is really the turning point for the Angel character and really the starting point for the events that lead to my favorite show ever being set. ATS rules all.
Hell yeah!
Bringing up Sisyphus and the rock in regard to Angel is a stroke of genius and is something i hadn't thought about before. the myth certainly has a good deal of the 'Angel: the series' philosophy to it, namely the show's unofficial tagline: "if nothing we do matters then all that matters is what we do."
In an attempt not to spoil anyone i will keep this vague: the ending of ATS perfectly encapsulates the idea that it isn't, to take from Sisyphus, about getting the rock over the hill, but about never giving up on pushing it. There's no big win. i think the Angel of 'Amends' has only just begun to learn about life's absurdity, but the character in his series, and the series as a whole, is one that embraces the idea.
I love how attentive to detail you are! Piecing together Xander's home life from little context clues here and there was really interesting. I think your theory about passions and the types of vampires people become makes a lot of sense and is the best explanation I've heard for why Angelus is such pure evil. Great review, once again! I always do a little happy dance when I see an episode in my subscriptions, and was extra happy when I saw how long this one was.
Liam spent his life believing he was and would be nothing. So Angelus was determined not to be nothing
But, you didn't talk about the bangs.
+Emmy Palmer THEYRE SO DISTRACTING!!! They look like the bangs I gave myself when I was 7! Must have been an impulse cut because they are definitely swept aside from now on to hide them... which was a good choice
She probably couldn't help that her bangs were short. Besides she looked cute
+Cat Prowess the bangs need addressing
+Emmy Palmer I actually didn't even notice them. :-)
+Passion of the Nerd WHAT WHAT WHAT?! (Say that in the voice of Kyles mom on South Park lol)
"What about Giles?"
"No, I'm sure he's fine."
Haaaahaha
Xander's elusive home life and its implications is definitely on my list of things I wish canon would've explored more, especially after Restless
"Can I date him?" Your reviews are a gift to this world. Also everything you say about compassion and Xander. Thank you! I actually don't like Xander that much, but I like this way to analyze his character. And you explained Camus' thoughts so beautifully! Endless kudos! (Also, looking foward to more thoughts on Angel/Liam/Angelus and why this guy is the white fly - or not - of vampires)
Oz is very nearly flawless, yes, but he's like the tragic hero who has that one flaw that ruins everything. His is a tendency to hide his problems and try to solve them alone. When he first becomes a werewolf, instead of asking for help from the Scoobies, he tries to chain himself up in his living room. In S4, when he knows he's losing the battle against his wolf instincts, he pretends everything's fine and tries to solve it by himself, until it's far too late.
It's easy to appear nearly flawless when one's flaws are being too withdrawn and too deliberate.
I wish you spoke about Faith in this episode... as she was claiming she had a "cool party" to go to.. only to show up at Buffy's house
+Cat Prowess Can't say too much about Faith without spoiling just yet. But a retrospective examination will be due whenever it isn't a spoiler anymore. Also...this review got super long as it was.
"If nothing we do matters, then all that matters is what we do."
Excellent analysis as always. The length wasn't even noticeable -- you had more than enough compelling things to say that it all felt essential. Thanks for consistently giving me even more appreciation for my all-time favourite show.
+thebrydude - That line literally informs/guides my whole existence.... Angel is so awesome
I think that what make us human is our empaty towards another person. When we forget or ignore other's people feelings is when we act unhuman.Angel feeling guilty is a indication to me that "he is a thing worthy of saving".
Just wanted to say that I’m dealing with depression right now and this helped me.
To the point of putting a funny spin on your depression, that shit is good as gold. Another TH-camr named Natalie Wynn released a video she called "The Darkness" about black humor and in it she said "The person who laughs at the world burning only does so with the privilege of not being on fire. The Darkness is finding a way to laugh about being on fire."
In any case, great video as always sir.
When I'm feeling completely lost I rewatch this episode, and then come back to this review. More than anything, it makes me want to keep living.
I'm doing a rewatch with my wife who has never seen the series. Unfortunately for me, in this episode I spent way too much time trying to figure out how Angeles grew a mustache. I recently learned they made James Marsters bleach his hair so frequently he had burns from it because vampires can't have roots as their hair doesn't grow. The pain that the actor went through and the fact that he was told that he might lose all his hair as a result of what he ended up doing, contrasted with this sudden, random mustache, just sent my brain into a loop I couldn't break out of.
It was still a very good episode. I'm just living with this rewatch with the added lense of information about Joss Wheden I didn't have last time I took a look at this story.
Wow.. James Marsters went through a lot to make Spike work in this show. I just read that he really burned his hand a couple episodes ago trying to do the stunt when he was passed out with the sun coming out.. and he didn’t tell anyone until years later. James is The Goat!
Half past 2 in the morning here in England about to go to bed and this episode appears, I'm gonna be super tired tomorrow I blame you for this PotN you and your awesome episode guides.
+OverlordKaine1989 I'll accept responsibility for that.
+Passion of the Nerd Well I've just finished watching and may i say bravo sir on another fantastic episode please keep them coming.
Really great review and I love the philosophy look on Angels story here. That´t why he´s my all time favourite character. "Amends" is the best christmas episode a show had ever done. The storyline of Angel beeing haunted by his past victims is the Buffyverse version of "A christmas carol" to me (... maybe it´s just me).The scene between Giles and Angel is just great. When Giles opened the door Angel doesn´t have to say anything. Just his facial expression shows everything he´s looking for: answers - and forgiveness. It´s also a great foreshadow that **** spoiler alert **** The First tells Angel "Sooner or later you will drink her..."
I feel like this episode created the Angel series
I have to admit, Oz is one of the only characters I would voluntarily go on a date with in the Buffyverse. Yeah, he's kind of flawless until Season 4 but he doesn't feel like a Gary Stu. Great seeing another video btw. I love your comments on the "human nature" of vampires.
Ummm, for the record, those "long" 17 minutes flew by SO fast. Kudos!
Also:
"Well, you know, we're alone... And we're both... mature... younger people... And, and so... w-we could... I-I'm ready to... w-with you... *we could do that thing*."
Willow, honey, I love ya, but if you can't say it, you probably shouldn't do it.
Also how funny is it that the first words of that Barry White song are "I've heard people say that too much of anything is not good for you, baby"?
+Guy R
"If you're doin' it, I think you should be able to say it."
Buffy's "strong is fighting" speech is my favorite scene of the entire show. The emotion and conviction she delivers it with get me every time
Your subtle talking-about-stuff-that-technically-you-can't-talk-about-yet always amuses me.
Great review as always. You really thought this one out. I think this was one of the first episodes that dealt with the possibility a higher power in the "Buffyverse" world, but the first time I watched it, I didn't think much about it.
This episode also showed the audience that Angel is more man than demon when he confronts Buffy. It also does a great job of showing that Angel's past as Angelus really does haunt him.
In my opinion, this was one of the most emotional "Bangel" episodes in the series and the first episode that made me cry. The last TV couple that made me cry were Amy and Rory in "Doctor Who." Perfect acting by SMG and David on the hilltop scene.
you. are. amazing.
Thanks! This video means a lot to me.
this is a pivotal episode, because it a)sets up the First, and b) is kind of a backdoor pilot for Angel the series .I always thought the Powers that Be were the Buffyverse's deity/ies? I also thought the Powers were behind the snow storm that saved Angel's life
Someone may have noted this already, I haven't had time to go through all the comments, and you may have intended to draw attention to this through your editing but when Buffy goes after Angel, there is a rock at the bottom of the hill which she runs past upwards towards Angel. Furthermore, Angel is stood at the top of the hill, next to a rock. I can't say if this is intended or not as it may just be part of the area they were filming in but since it's in the final episode it is noteworthy considering your review. One way this could be read is that Buffy has already climbed the hill with her rock in season 2, ending in her fight with Angelus (reaching the top), and Angel being re-ensouled and then Buffy having to kill him (the rock falling back down). However, after this, Buffy started to climb the hill again (here, quite literally) after returning to Sunnydale and slaying (a metaphor, as you've discussed, for adulthood and maturity). Angel, however, has only just got to the top of the hill with his rock and it's about to tumble down (with the First trying to get him to feed and his sexual desire for Buffy increasing) and this is the moment where he must choose to, like Sisyphus, go back down the hill and start to climb again or to abandon the rock, the journey, the struggle and die.
Oz's line about Willow forgetting her lines can also be foreshadowing to 'Restless' which I can't wait for you to cover, it's one of the most meta episodes of the entire series. Unfortunately it's a season and a half away
Another beautifully constructed review. My only issue with it is your issue with Oz and his turning Willow's amorous request down. Oz was still a teenager and though we know he's had sex before, I believe he was still hurting from her betrayal and wasn't ready for that step himself, but instead of admitting that, he just put it on her. To us and Willow it's supposed to seem selfless, that he's putting her over himself, when it was really self-preservation on Oz's side. What this now does is give Oz a new layer of complexity and neurosis to off-set the perfect human being characterization you're speaking of. To me Oz was as emotionally deep as anyone else on the show and repeatedly gave Seth Green a supreme actor's showcase to play those notes so subtly yet authentically. Other than that issue, this review was perfection.
My god I got so goosebumpy and teary at the end...partially cause the score Magic Snow from Amends really gets to me, and also because that, mixed with the quote was just perfection. Amazing video, as always!!
Every episode should be this long
This is the episode that I started with to properly rewatch the series. Oh, boy was that a good choice. Once again, I'm still stunned by how different I view the metaphors, elements in the story and the overall message throughout as an adult. When I watched as a teenager, I seem to recall taking in a few pieces of symbolism, but not absorbing the rest.
And coming back to the show especially after watching your excellent reviews just heighten how much better everything about Buffy the Vampire Slayer truly is.
Checking everyday for this
Same!!!!
+Angel garcia Same
+Angel garcia Yep, then following Ian's Twitter feed as he painstakingly pieced it together. No, I'm not obsessive at all.
+Angel garcia Just follow me on Twitter. I try and pipe up on when I'm making things and when they're going to be ready. I've been way too flighty this season. If you don't have a twitter account just bookmark the page. I'll keep people in the loop as I work.
twitter.com/Iannitram
+Passion of the Nerd followed though I do hardly go on Twitter, your guides are so insightful and as aspiring teleplay writer drives me really think about what I want to produce for people
Just love these videos. These are so much more than reviews or guides. There sometimes moments I wonder if I enjoy your reviews even more than the show itself.
+Daniel Keenan I consider his reviews a supplement that make the show even richer and better.
Its because of these episode guides that I have watched the show so many times. I keep on wanting to go and find something so I can contribute to the conversation, and I don't know which I like more ether, I sometime binge more on the guides then I do on the episodes themselves.
I'm not sure what your TH-cam analytics says, but a lot of commenters seem perfectly happy with a 17 minute episode :-)
+Shilpa Nicodemus Perfectly happy... uh oh.
+shishiodun Geez, it's not like we're souled vampires. :P
You know what I had a really bad day at work today so coming home to a 17 minute buffy review kinda makes the day not so bad. Thank you.
Exceptional work on this review... Your commentary is a great example of why Buffy has received so much critical attention, why sooooo much has been written about this show, in comparison with its rather small viewership (originally) and its relegation to "cult tv" status. When such depth is found in an ostensibly cheesy or digressive episode, we're reminded just how special is the Whedonverse - and particularly Buffy, its extraordinary fountainhead.
it stands outs in the context of television episodes that take place on Christmas because in most shows, the main focus of that story solves their internal issues by the end. here, Angel's internal issues are more powerful than ever but he is now willing to stand up and face those issues.
These videos have inspired me to take up Philosophy as part of my education. I've always had a fascination with character studies. These guides have shown me things I've missed and a new insight I never had before. Honestly haven't been this excited to take up something new
MY GOD MAN. You just keep topping yourself. Best guide thus far. I didn't even realize that it was 17 minutes long. That's how good it was. Can't wait for more insights.
wow okay i learned allot in this review i feel like im taking course thats helping my proccess my own life..... thank you.
My pleasure. That is what the show was for me.
i love the show but wow do i not possess such eloquent well read insights! so excited for more
Yeah I'm tearing up. Trying to make you're own meaning despite the chaos...
God damn, that's the second time your review has made me teary and I'm not even embarrassed.
I've been looking forward to this review because I knew you'd have a lot to say. I love philosophy, and you get the philosophy of this show so well.
Amends is one of my favorite Whedon episodes ever.
If u only knew how close ive come to ending this painful and ridiculous life, only to revisit this video, and the idea u put forth of the myth of Sisyphus and why that Rock has to be picked up once again.
I can never tell you how much it means to me
Thanks for helping me grow. I'm not used to thinking about subtext and several of the many layers and depths you explore in my favourite TV show here. This stimulating learning curve, while sometimes a big challenge, is a delight to go on.
I know these videos are years and years old at this point but I've been watching every review after every episode during the rewatch I'm doing right now and it is heightening my experience with this series *so much* like I already loved it endlessly and it's so important to me but these reviews and reading the comments are bringing up things I never realized, never thought about, never contextualized even after multiple watches of the whole series.
I want to thank you Passion of the Nerd. I have utterly crumbled and cried twice now due to your video reviews of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and the, admittedly appreciated, tender care you take with the series and your analysis of it. BTVS has been my #1 favorite show and series since I was 16yrs old and has been a constant source of joy in my life.... until 2014 in which events lead me to fall into a deep depression compounded but the fact that it was essentially my first time dealing with being depressed in general in my entire life. I questioned everything about myself and grow even hate myself only slowly recovering near the end of 2015. Your words in this video touched me so deeply and have made me believe in myself, believe in living a fulfilling life and my favorite show again. I'm not sure if I can truly get across how very serious I mean what I say here or that I can ever truly thank you for what I feel you've done for me but I just would like to say again:
Thank You So Very Much.
I can not wait for your next video. :)
-Zechs_
+AJ Cotman Thank you for sharing. I have been in the same position you describe and it was the show that came into my life at the right time and propped me up. Comments like yours are the whole point of this channel - trying to revel the deeper meanings of the show in a way that allows people to see themselves, however ham handedly I sometimes do it. When you're going through hell, keep going. Cheers.
I would watch a two-hour long video :) Amazing and thank you for your dedication! The vids always make my day
This episode guide was potentially your best. I'm absolutely mindblown! I completely see now how this is all set up for Angel's spin-off, and the idea that good forces sent him back is something I'd never considered. Thank you! Been itching for you to upload this as I am for each of your videos.
I've been enjoying the blog for months but this episode and the episode over Becoming made me notice things in the show that I had never thought of even after dozens of viewings. This show has helped me through the roughest times of my life, but before I discovered your channel I wasn't enjoying the show as much as I used to because I had just watched it too much. Your guide has helped me rediscover the show, see it through a different perspective, and made it feel fresh and new again. Thank you so much for doing this guide. I really hope you do one over ANGEL, as that is my favorite show. I never thought I would still be discovering new aspects to the show 19 years later, and I owe that in part to you.
Whenever a see a new ep of this I get ridiculously happy!
Buffy is my all time favourite show and I just love hearing your opinions on it. I tend to watch Buffy quite shallowly and I think that's because I started to watch it when I was so young, so I love hearing about layers I missed.
I loved the length and content of this review, as always. Really enjoy these and I'm glad you do them. Now that I've finally finished Buffy in its entirety this is a great complement and helps me enjoy the universe in a new way.
This episode is particular I love. I think this was the episode where I truly realized I was in love with this show. I really got hooked back around "Innocence", but I think "Amends" is what made me realize it. The long final scene, with the melodramatic speeches between Angel and Buffy really spoke to me. The snow kicks in, and it's all just so beautiful. Then, I also realized just how melodramatic and cheesy it all was. I also realized I didn't care. I loved it all the same.
Your videos are phenomenal. I just want to start by saying that. I'm so grateful that you share your passion for the Buffyverse (or is that Whedonverse?) with us. I love hearing your opinions, your analysis..is..ses, and am consistently impressed by the depth you go into and the quality as a whole. They're basically an art form to me okay? Enough cheese -- sike, there can never be enough cheese. Right... I love this episode. Warts (Robia LaMorte touching Boreanaz, the snow [mainly because of that awful phone commercial they made which thankfully didn't air in the UK], Oz's all-encompassing goodness, the winter clothes and log fires) and all. The way you pieced together all of those snippets of Xander's life at home has solidified my compassion for him once again. When his mom couldn't tell who he was from his voice, I don't remember that from my gazillion rewatches since the age of 10 and it broke my heart just now. Of course holding him accountable for his many instances of problematic behaviour and awful attitude, I feel he's actually very underrated as a character and loathed a little too much. I can also relate to him a lot in terms of the humour / depression / shitty homelife links, and it's even sadder to see Nicholas Brendon going through what he's going through and recently hearing about his childhood. Back to the episode. I definitely believe it was the PTB that brought Angel back, not The First. The First just tried to exploit that as with a later occurrence we'll eventually get to. Hm. I also believe Angel is responsible for his actions as Angelus only in the way that he's responsible for losing his soul, I feel that that's where it ends. I don't mean Angel should be given a free pass, that people should forget or be completely trusting of him, but there's no way he could stop Angelus from doing what he did in the moment, so he's only culpable as far as I'm concerned pre- losing his soul. At least post-season 2 of Buffy. Then again he didn't know about the moment of pure happiness thing, did he? And Angel does far more questionable things later on in his own series WITH a soul, so that does kind of poop on everything I just said. Back to square one again. Ah well. I love that you consider Amends as being Angel the series: episode 0, because I always have, too. It's pure setup for the spin-off. I just kind of wish he'd left sooner because I hate to see him and Buffy fade out for another 12 episodes. Torture. I LOVE Buffy's speech to Angel, I still remind myself of those lines when I'm in my darkest moments and they help. Also makes me think of Epiphany of Angel season 2. I also love Christophe Beck's score for this episode tremendously. My comment needs to end now. P.S. 17 minutes is nothing. I could watch / listen to you for hours on end.
Best review, you added so much depth to an episode that has always been a good watch but never been a must watch. You have now helped change that.
This review was AMAZING and super worth the wait, thank you so so much for all of the time and effort that you put in to these!!! I really like the progression of the discussion about the soul cannon- your idea in this one just makes so much sense to me... Liam and William ( though versions of the same name!) were such different people to begin with, there is no way that it can't effect the vampYres that they become!
I also really appreciated the Zander home-life flashbacks- it's hard to think back to when I hadn't seen Restless or Hell's Bells when we didn't know much about the Harris'- and I enjoyed that Cordelia knew a bit of private information about Xander that Willow didn't even know, it adds some nice depth to their relationship- even if she is using it in a combative way post Lovers' Walk.
I guess I have to dust off my Myth of Sisyphus- everything is more fun when you can connect it back to the Buffster!
I still love this so much, and I still keep coming back to watch it. Love you, brother.
Love you too Jack.
This was an amazing review. I love how you weave real life questions into your reviews and highlight where JW has done the same. Watching your reviews is like watching the episode again with new and more perceptive eyes. In other words, you rock.
My gods this episode hit me when I was in my own depths of depression. Specifically the lines "am I a thing worth saving? Am I a righteous man?"
I just found your channel about a week ago and I really, really enjoy your recaps. I've been a Buffy fan since it aired and have watched the episodes many many times, so your recaps are great and fun to hear someone else's opinions.
Bravo! That's why I love the Buffyverse - it allows an in-depth analysis, masquerading as a T.V show. Oh, and "manly sniffles"
I've never made the connection with the quote "It is our desires that make us human" and the way a human affects the vampire they would become. It's an amazing connection, and I think it explains the difference between Angelus, Spike, and Dru better than anything else I've ever read. Thank you for this!
Maybe one of my favourite reviews so far! And I could watch these for even long durations than this episode's. The longer the better, from my perspective.
I am glad you liked this one. It is one of my favs. I have always thought it was the Powers that Be that sent the snow. Just finished Angel and am looking forward to getting your take on that show :)
Jeeee dude! I love the philosophy you put into this episode's analysis.
I loved Buffy when I was a teenage but I don't have the time to marathon the show all over again even though I’d love to. This videos have awakened such a lovely nostalgic in me and make me get in touch with my fantasy again.
I can wait to watch your analysis on “Normal again” (S06 E17) and “Buffy vs. Dracula” (S05 E01).
These are all so fucking philosophical and thoughtful, I love your videos.
Again,this was powerful and beautiful. You managed to make me even more emotional than the episode itself. I didn't think I could appreciate Buffy more, but you proved it was possible. Thank you.
found these videos about 2 weeks ago and have been devouring them. Not sure what I'll do when I have to wait for them! Outstanding
I was waiting all weekend, so happy it's up!
Great in-depth review. Thanks also for mentioning one of my all time gripes with the show, as much ads I like Oz, he's not written as a 17-18 year old which he is, he's more written as a mid 20's guy who has his shit together and although this isn't a character floor, it is a little out of place as all of the other's including the lead are all dealing with the issues that we all face growing up, where it seems he already has.
+Jimmy Dark
I don't think even a guy in his mid 20s would act as mature as Oz. Maybe they make him that way as a contrast to Xander whom they make so strongly like a teenage boy.
+Melody Clark I find it interesting in that we can rally at Buffy, Xander, even...ugh, Kennedy because of how they act, and I think we at times forget that, to begin at least, they are not old enough to drink. Now look at Oz, he really has it together and comes across as a really mature, wise adult. That's not a knock on his character but even the greatest of the greatest...look at most any titan of fiction and they have their limits. Oz doesn't really have any personality wise...except for his final appearance.
+Melody Clark That's a really good point.
Amazing job! One of my favorite episodes of this season.
What another amazing guide! Don't know if anyone noticed, and also don't know if this is an accident by the writers/wardrobe team. But notice how Giles seems to be wearing a very similar shirt in the scene where Angel comes to his house to the one that he was wearing when Angel tortured him. Have a little look back, would be very interesting if this was done on purpose!
+KatieBTVS I didn't notice that until you pointed it out. Great catch.
Man you can make me enjoy even the episodes of Buffy I have never liked.
I'm currently watching the series once again, and your videos before or after each episode, and on each video you made I am blown away by your thoughts, and your intelligence. I cannot stress enough how much I am amazed by your Buffy Guide. Thank you.
Also, I'm not sure you can make me like the character of Angel, who I do find useful, necessary even, but unbearable. But damn, you have done such a fantastic job on this Buffy guide that I may give Angel the series a go. Kudos for that!!!
Have I told you how awesome you are lately?? Well...you are awesome!!! And your episode guides are the greatest TV analyses on TH-cam! I can't thank you enough for re-igniting my love for this show and giving me a forum to discuss Buffy with my fellow Scoobies :) You are a legend man.
+Beauty Effulgent Thanks!
Man I don't comment on these videos often but just wanted to say that I look forward to these every week. I love your take on the series particularly Xander's character as it is often so different to mine, however this episode I think highlights why I disagreed with you up until now. Xander's flaws and jealousy to me just add to why I love the character, his greatest strength is also his greatest flaw, he's impulsive. He didn't think before he spoke when he told Buffy "Give him hell" at the end of season 2 and that blind passion is what gives him the courage to go in blindly fighting for what is right despite his lack of special ability. To me the fact that Xander starts off at this rather immature but ultimately loveable point is what makes his maturing as the season progresses and his insightful speeches towards the end of the series (His speech to Buffy about Riley, his speech to willow at the end of season 6 and his speech to dawn in potential come to mind) so potent. Don't know if you'll ever read this but thanks for all you do, it's the highlight of my week.
+Patrick Manning I agree, I simply adore Xander and his flaws, they're what draw me to him and not Oz - as the video shows, Oz is pretty much perfect and that's not interesting IMO
and his speech to Anya after he talks to Buffy about Riley. there's actually a few times he's proven to be insightful around Anya. then his speech to the potentials.
A very unique and complex episode which sets so many different elements up moving forward, and as such I found your review fitting. Nice take on the Xander character. I think he often gets a bad rap too, his flaws make him more rich, and his moments of bravery and humanity far outweigh the bad moments. I agree that this is the first step of Angel coming into his own and being prepared for his own show. In fact, its a turning point for the character in this season I think. I tend to think that the Snow was actually fate striking as that links to the magic of the episode. I like that they leave the reason for Angel's return open to the viewer to work out.
Okay, I admit I'd been avoiding this guide because Amends is not an episode I like... even a little bit. But your review of it was incredible and helps me think of it a little differently. Thanks.
I'm watching the series simultaneously with your videos. Your perspectives are so insightful and add so much more to the Buffy experience! THANK YOU
Aw! This commentary had me grinning like a fool at the gym. I love how they started building this series so well even at the early seasons
Please never stop making these!
I love how you capture it I've been watching Buffy since I was young but you are showing me there is more to it
Only 17 and a half minutes? For one of your videos i'd happily sit for hours listening to your insights and thoughts! :P
You certainly have a spectacular way with words. I LOVE both shows and I. could. listen to you talk about them forever..don't stop.❤
I totally agree that this episode is the genesis for Angel the series. A lot of the themes and character motivations carry over into the spinoff. It also links back to the earlier analysis around "forgiving yourself." For me, this is where it starts, where Angel starts to forgive himself and take on the challenge of "fighting the good fight" as well as taking a lesson from Buffy about making the difficult choices (which becomes the bread and butter of his series). Amongst that are more superficial elements such as the semi-introduction of The-Powers-That-Be and Angel's notion that he was "saved for a reason."
A great take on a great episode.
Wow. Amazing review. In anticipation of this review I dug out my degree copies of Camus and Sartre. I'm glad I didn't watch this last night when you posted at 2.30 PM English time, this existentialism would have been way beyond me then. As it is, I need more tea to digest this incredible review. You are fantastic, Ian!
+Hermes Gypsy D'oh, 2.30 AM - Jeez Moar Tea needed.
It's weird, Buffy's speech to Angel on the cliff isn't a HAPPY one but it still makes me feel a melancholic sort of fuzziness and warmth. It's really powerful to hear a speech about still choosing to live when it's hard, even to the point of feeling impossible. I'm sure that's what a lot of people need to hear, rather than a rose-colored version of a similar sentiment.
I love this episode so much! It is probably #5 on my favorites list... but this is The First of The First (my favorite villain, the idea that it can take the form of any of the people who have passed in my life to haunting me in the dark, sharing the secrets only "we" know... that idea is downright frightening! and perfect as Evil Incarnate, better than It from It and UnLocke/SM/Samuel/Essaue from Lost. and how powerful words are... and I love how it has a catch: it can't hurt you physical, but boy can it do a number on your psyche)
I see the snow at the end as part of the randomness of the universe, sometimes chaos is beautiful and ends up somehow? working toward your benefit.
my favorite one yet, very poignant and lovely look at the deeper layers of such a complex character. I love Amends as well and loved hearing your take on it. Can't wait for more of the later seasons when the subtext just gets meatier and meatier! Will you be reviewing Angel eps as well, or sticking to Buffy?
Dude, I'm so glad I subscribed to this channel
I love that you keep making these, I don't care how long it takes for you to put them out; I'll be tuning in to every episode analysis you do for this and Angel because I live for this kind of in-depth analysis, particularly of this show as it's probably my number one favourite of all time (so far, at least). I can't wait to hear what you've got to say about certain episodes in the far and not-too-distant future. Thank you
+Lex Thanks for the kind word.
+Passion of the Nerd It's well deserved. Looking forward to the next video!
Yes! You nailed it. The difference between Angel with a soul and Spike without a soul. The residue!
This is one of my favorite Buffy episodes and your review made me love it EVEN MORE. Thank you!!!
So much wonderful stuff in this video. I absolutely love how you reveal such complexity in a TV show which people are inclined to dismiss as not real art. Oz has to be a practicing Buddhist although he never tries to push his beliefs on anybody else and so is pretty much the only example of how religion can give an individual peace and moral guidance on a show that is full of supernatural forces. Buffy uses crosses and holy water to fight vampires and even goes to some definition of heaven but it's never clear what she actually believes.
This reviews are truly awesome! I just started watching buffy again after all these years and your reviews give more of an interesting insight into the episodes. I basically have more of an appreciation for the art that is this show! In a weird way you kind of give meaning to my own life as I understand more of how life is! I am still young only 21 and am going through a lot in my life at times more then I can take, yet you give me hope in myself! Look forward to more reviews! Thanks passion of the nerd!
+Marblemaze Wiz Thank you for the kind word and share. I'm glad these videos speak to some people at that level.