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Buffy the Vampire Slayer || 2x03 || Full Reaction (Patreon)

Published:
2020-06-03 16:27:10
Imported:
2026-06
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Content

link: https://ws.onehub.com/files/t1bc8cyo

mooooving along :)

and like I say in the video, I wasn't feeling the best so my vibe might be off, but I just didn't really like the flow of the episode?? it was interesting, just felt off to me :/ 

and I think a lot of people might like this episode, so just keep that in mind haha

edited might be up later today or tomorrow

Files

Previews only

Comments

Diana

I've been so waiting for you to meet Spike and Drusilla, I'm sorry you felt off. I'm so watching this during my lunch break

Alley Box
>>38036387

yeahh! I've heard his name a couple times so v cool to see him. see u on ur lunch break :D

Nicola

Your reaction to Spike's entrance is brilliant 😂

Dave Ford

You weren't so impressed with this one? This is going to provoke - interest. Can't wait to watch the next 45 mins. If you're wondering, btw, about James Master's bizarre accent at times a) he's not British and b) he's clearly having trouble with his vampire false teeth.

DB

Oh no, sorry you're not feeling well :( I'll have a watch asap because SPIKE! DRU! AAAHHH! Oops, my excitement took over. Will need to contain it to keep myself from accidentally spoiling things.

Dave Ford
>>38036759

well, I say 'next 45 mins', when I clearly mean 'in 12 days time'. One Hub really doesn't like the Atlantic :-)

Alley Box
>>38036759

yeah, I think the flow was just different than normal? and yeah haha, he sounded like he was having some struggles... and oh gosh, I will try a mega link again

Dave Ford
>>38036759

Don't worry about it now - by the time you've uploaded it there, onehub will be okay. I just don't tihnk one hub can cope with the rush when you post these. Maybe consider Google Drive?

Chris Gardner

Woo Spike. And Dru of course, who is a few sandwiches short of a picnic haha.

Lindsey Metcalfe

*cackles madly at your commentary after* I cannot WAIT for you to get deeper into the season

zerofk

Interesting... I've often wondered how much of the fan base's positive reaction to this episode is because of what comes next. I do think it has some nice moments though. And no more annoying one!

KT

The guy Snyder was talking to at the end appears to be a cop, at least that's what I always assumed. Also I like how Cordelia complains about having to deal with all of Buffy's shenanigans but like... she chooses to? She doesn't have to whittle stakes? Gotta love her.

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38039404

Yeah I think her feelings about this ep will have changed by the time she does the season review

SpikesEcho

Goodbye Annoying One! You will not be missed lol........I love the imagery in this ep: the red streak of blood on Spike's left cheek corresponding to the red streak of paint on Buffy's in the next scene, showing their connection/foil for each other. And then the contents of Buffy's purse showing the 3 lives she juggles: yo-yo (childhood), tampon (adulthood) and stake (duty/calling). Good stuff 👍👍

KT

Spike was my first TV crush and now I have a whole thing with bleach blond men.

Alley Box
>>38039404

yup my exact thoughts! my friend has said she liked this episode and while watching i was super confused bc i couldnt really see it? but my opinions change a lot over time so i will see during my s2 review :)

Alley Box
>>38039508

omggg the things u guys see.. that is so cool the type of symbolism this show has haha

Ryan

Spike is my spirit animal

Kirby
>>38039404

I don't know. I think this episode stands on its own. The introduction of Spike and Dru is like a shot of adrenaline into the series. The annoying one and his vamps are kinda boring. Spike literally crashes into Sunnydale. I love the end scene when he takes out the annoying one. Makes me laugh every time I watch this episode.

ToySouljah

This is an interesting episode other than being the introduction of Spike and Dru, this episode provided quite a bit of world-building, specifically when it came to vampires (the term sire is mentioned for the first time) and we also see that Synder and that cop are aware of the true going ons in Sunnydale. While I agree with you that the flow and pacing of this episode is a bit off, I still enjoyed it because of the things I mentioned above. Anyway, I'm sorry you weren't feeling well. I hope you feel better soon.

Lindsey Metcalfe

Also more random facts - James Marsters, who plays Spike, came to this show after a few years straight of doing plays in the London theater scene and kept accidentally actually hitting the other actors because he was so used to "stage" fight scenes, in which you sometimes actually make impact (even if not forcefully), rather than "on camera" fight scenes, in which it's all close-but-no-cigar movie magic.

KT
>>38039404

The tone and pacing changes a lot episode to episode, especially in the earliest seasons. It never really occurred to me how different this ep feels.

Kirby
>>38039508

I always thought the tampon represented her blossoming sexuality, and the stake represented adulthood and responsibility.

Bixgirl1

I actually agree with you about this ep. It's a less popular opinion, I think, and the episode has definite positives (Spike's introduction, for one thing), but for me it's really uneven. Upon first seeing it, I felt (and still feel) like it was really obvious that the show was fumbling with how to establish a new villain dynamic after how deeply they committed to the whole Anointed One thing. So different strokes, I guess. Btw, your reaction to Colin's death made me crack up. Had you not realized he was a vampire? If not, it's not really your fault: in season one, Joss originally planned to introduce him in full vamp-face at the end of NKABOTFD, but (anyone who remembers the specifics, feel free to correct me if I've got it wrong) the WB was still pretty new, and network censors deemed it too disturbing/graphic or something. And like a third of the fans on the boards were totally bewildered. Lololol Great reaction, very much looking forward to your next! 😊

DB

Have some more fun facts: you've seen James Marsters (Spike) on SPN. Him and Charisma (Cordy) played a crazy married couple of witches (don't remember which season that was, sorry!). Also Juliet Landau (Dru) is daughter of Hollywood royalty - Martin Landau (bff of James Dean, multiple Oscars nominee, all around legend). I don't remember if the kid was killed off because he was growing up too fast or because Joss realised it'd be a hard sell to have a child killed on tv but either way no one was sad to see him gone lol

SpikesEcho
>>38039508

Could be. I didn't see her sexuality as a theme in this ep necessarily....and when she tells Cordelia that she''s juggling 3 lives, I didn't take her meaning one was her sexuality, but that all get's wrapped up into "adulthood" in my book anyway

Jeffrey

More trivia: the Annoying One actor grew up too much between seasons, and since vampires never age, he had to go.

Jessie

You might feel off but that’s didn’t come though in your reaction!

KT
>>38039963

And like, he is SUCH a stage actor. Such drama, such a physical presence.

Jessie

William the Bloody, wow he must have done something evil to get that nickname 😯

DB
>>38040201

I think a lot of Buffy fans tuned in for that episode. I know I did lol (for the longest time it was the only SPN episode I've seen - GG made me very uninterested in Jared so for the longest time I avoided his show like a plague!)

Alley Box
>>38040194

haha i did know that (was unsure but i assumed it) i just thought spike might be using the sunlight as “torture.” i didnt know it fully killed them that quickly.. now i understand Angel’s bunker lol

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38040201

I honestly didn't know it was a thing until about season 5 because I didn't have cable and netflix wasn't quite a streaming thing yet, so all I had was occasional random pics on tumblr and I was like 'eh, maybe someday I'll watch'

Jessie

I’ve been watching Supernatural, now I’m on season 3 and so far I’ve seen, from the BTVS universe, Darla and Harmony, and 2 others characters not yet introduced! I just started last week, I was wondering about you, how do you control yourself from binging BTVS?

Alley Box
>>38040767

oh dangggg! gettin thru it fast! and i dont really binge watch a lot of shows (used to when i was younger) (and mainly ones with only one season) shows like these, i like to take my time

Sean
>>38040488

The backstory on that nickname is great. I believe it's explored in Angel, rather than Buffy.

DB
>>38039963

I've seen him tour with Ghost of the Robot a couple of times and my gods, it as so much fun! He's been lovely in the conventions as well. I'm extremely biased tho because Spike is one of my faves.

TheyCallMeJeff

This is an episode that tends to be loved by fans. It reveals a lot of interesting things and people including Spike and Drusilla, the connection between Spike and Angel, Snyder actually knowing about what is really going on, and the death of the Annoying One.. The episode title School Hard is taken from the movie Die Hard since the episode has similar elements to that movie. If I were to grade it, I would give the episode a B+

Sean

At the end, Snyder was talking to the head of police and, ja, they're covering it up.

DB
>>38040201

As an impatient European I was obtaining all of my early 2000s entertainment through erm... less legal channels lol

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38039963

Ghost of the Robot is one of my favorite punk bands ever. And not just because of him. I still have a cd player just so I can keep listening to them. Unless they've finally gone on spotify, it's been a while since I've looked.

Dave Ford
>>38039404

Well, there's obviously the complete swerve that's evident in the last scene - but otherwise - Spike is different, which is new - though I'm not as sold on JMs performance - perhaps mostly because he really hasn't got the hang of talking through those prosthetic fangs yet.

Allan Cornett

One of my favorite scenes in the entire series is when Spike and Dru look like they are going to kiss but instead they both turn and look at the camera.

DB
>>38039963

Same! Mad Brilliant is one of the only CDs I still keep at my place instead of storage box.

Jessie
>>38040194

I’ve been watching supernatural and in that show, sunlight only irritates their skin, so maybe that why ? Also we have yet to see a Vampire die from sunlight on BTVS, I think

Liz Siron

I have always enjoyed this episode more for the intro of Spike and Dru, the world building (sire, Snyder and the cop being in the know about vamps) and the character moments more than the plot and pacing of the episode. Spike to me was instantly more interesting than any other vamp they’ve had show up. The sense of humor, the apparent devotion to Dru, the charisma he exudes. I was hooked from the get go. I actually had the chance to meet James Marsters at a con a while back and I am not fully convinced he’s not an actual vampire. Like,vampire thrall is a thing in lore and he’s got it man. One look into his eyes and I was in a stupor the rest of the day, so was my friend who was with me. It’s insane. He wasn’t even the person I was most excited meeting at that con, but after he was all I could think about.

Alley Box
>>38040988

okay, i wasnt sure bc i dont think he was in uniform or anything, but dangggg snyder whatchu up to my guy? 👀

DB

So re Snyder - honestly I just assume everyone in Sunnydale knows the place is weird (to put it mildly). They're just super in denial because can you imagine how low must be the real estate prices there? lol

Diana
>>38036387

Ok back from lunch, yes the episode is a fan favorite, but likely only because it introduces fan favorites, Spike and Drusilla. (I had such a crush on Drusilla back then). As for the school shooter vibes, remember, this aired almost 2 years before Columbine

Alley Box
>>38041635

okay yeah, i shouldve looked at the content of the episode a little more. my brain likes to go technical so the flow was the first thing i noticed. and omg haha, thats so cool, he really got into character 👀

Ryan
>>38041635

Same, I met him at a con years ago, he was the best part of the day. If he ever forms a cult, I’ll join and happily give him all my worldly possessions.

Alley Box
>>38041734

ahhh u know what ur right. idk why i didnt think of that but u cant live there and not see something weird at least once due to it attracting all these creatures. idk if snyder is from there, but totally believable for him to have a suspicion that weird stuff is going down. and im sure the police have to embellish certain crimes that are clearly sketch

Liz Siron
>>38041635

Right?? I would join that cult too. He seems like such a genuinely decent guy and his panels are the best. I remember at the start of his panel he challenged people to ask him anything and try to embarrass him. I don’t know if he still does that but it was so much fun. The photo op pic I have with him is one of my prized possessions.

Alley Box
>>38036387

okay, yeah i figured it might bc of that introduction and oh my goddd, columbine really ruined the image of trenchcoats everywhere

Diana
>>38040488

Oh I'm sure our girl here will want to watch that too,

Kitty

Aw sorry you didn't like the episode as much as you'd hoped. I love this one and love the intro to Spike. Yes, Angel playing with Xander's life is an interesting maneuver; maybe he thought he would be totally in control if things went poorly. I believe it really is a reflection of the feelings Xander and Angel have towards each other (disdain, not necessarily hatred). Really hope you feel better, too!

DB
>>38041635

Can I join that cult too? He's just so insanely charismatic. The first con I met him iirc he was quitting smoking so he was constantly with a lollipop. My brain had trouble processing that image lol Huh, this whole comment section made me realise that all these years later I am still a Spike girl through and through...

Koz

My regular highlight is how excited you are to see Angel, Giles and Giles/Jenny. You’re just so giddy. 😃👌🏻

Diana
>>38036387

It really did they were legit cool before, having been a teenager before it's hard for me to not think of them as cool.

Shashank

It’s just fun seeing the show from a fresh perspective and this was a great reaction again. I’m here to watch your honest reaction of Buffy, not react the way anyone else might expect :) Its always super interesting to see what clicks and doesn’t for each person. Spike and Drusilla scenes were more theater then film imo. I love theater so I really enjoyed it. They have Spike in his “Vamp” face too much this episode, but otherwise I thought it was a great introduction to him and Drusilla. I’m always giddy when Spike kills the anointed one, he felt even more useless this season.

DB

I'm so sorry, apparently I have a lot to say about this episode. Last comment I swear but Joyce Summers is such a kickass character here. I love her threatening Spike, I love how she trusts Buffy despite earlier issues they had and I love what she tells her on the way home. My second favourite tv mum ever (Kitty Forman being #1). It's so rare and so refreshing, especially in youth oriented media, to have a parent who is understanding and who does come through, but within the frames of an actual figure of authority. So many shows have either absent parents or friends like parents or dysfunctional parents. It's not often that you see a mother figure that can be loving, supportive but also (shocker in tv land) actually actively trying parenting.

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38043712

I think we're all going to have a lot more to say as she works through the season, and the series as a whole. As more stuff gets revealed, the less we have to hold ourselves back because of spoilers.

Liz Siron

Something I hadn’t really thought about but just occurred to me is just how much they managed to establish about Spike in a single episode. He has a connection to Angel: “You think you can fool me?! You were my sire man, my Yoda”. He is absolutely a threat: he has come up against 2 slayers in the past and killed them both. Unlike any vampire we have met (except Angel) he cares about someone: his immediate shift from cocky vamp to doting partner when Dru arrives, giving her his coat when she says she cold. He bucks authority and is impatient: attacking Buffy before the Night of St. Vigeous, he kills the Annoying One. He’s also smart: he lured Buffy out to fight that vamp outside of the Bronze (presumably to watch her fight), he also ran when he realized he was beaten by Buffy and Joyce instead of being a typical vamp who would still fight and get dusted. It all adds up to an interesting and complex character and I think that’s why I was so into him from the start. That’s really a lot established in one episode without it feeling like they were too hard to make him interesting.

Alley Box
>>38043712

yeah absolutely!! i loooove the family stuff in this show. most shows become like riverdale where all these teenagers act like adults that have no parents. i really love their relationship

Liz Siron
>>38041635

Join us lol. Especially since you’ve given me the mental image of him sucking on lollipops. I’m still a Spike girl too. He’s just such a fascinating character. And the eye candy aspect doesn’t hurt 😉

Liz Siron
>>38036387

I feel you on that Dru crush. My bisexual ass was immediately attracted to both Spike and Dru. I got to meet Juliet Landau on the set of a web series I helped fund (Muzzled the Musical). She is just as gorgeous now as she was then and was really kind in person.

Bryce Carlson

For the record, this series is actually the origin of the term "Big Bad" (used by Buffy) which has since become a staple in televised drama. This series was also the first time that a television series was used to market music by featuring the musicians during an episode. This is a trend which The CW continued to emulate.

Rock and Roll Joe

Alley, "What are you doing, he's just a child!" Me, "Children need to play in the sun." Also I love how when Spike comes in the one vampire is claiming to have been at the crucifixion, and Spike makes him look like the liar he is. The Woodstock bit and getting high from drinking the blood of someone who is high was also a nice touch. Dru is batshite crazy, but the actress who plays her is really awesome and goes out of her way to interact with her fans

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38045253

side note, one of my favorite things is that the entire fandom just collectively ignores the fact that her name is actually Drusilla and we all insistently just call her Dru. I honestly can't remember the last time I heard a BTVS fan actually call her by her full name until just above in a couple of the comments lol

Dave Ford

So - a couple of things you might have missed - but notice when you edit your reaction - see what Xander finds in Buffy's purse while he's looking for a stake? Clearly that wouldn't have been in the script as the network would have nixed it for sure back then - it would have just been put in when they filmed it . The line that Spike comes out with later, from the Jack and the Beanstalk childrens story (not sure if that's known in the US) "Fee, fi, fo, fum. I smell the blood of a nice, ripe...girl." would have been in the script though - but wouldn't then have had it's double meaning. And the other thing - Angel isn't just Spike's 'mentor' - he's his _sire_.

Rock and Roll Joe
>>38045253

It's easier to type on a phone, also that is what Spike calls her most often. Alley, if you get the chance look up Juliette Landrieu, she has an active Facebook group she is actually in and loves to talk to her fans.

Dave Ford

Your comments about Angel using Xander in his ruse with Spike was interesting - I'm fairly sure all they've said so far is that Angel has some sort of 'curse' (S01 ep, 'Angel') which is why he's not feeding on humans - but it's worth considering why is Angel different to other vampires. You might have thought that was simply that vampires weren't previously sociable, or perhaps incapable of empathy or love But the Master was certainly affectionate toward Darla. But what we see here with Dru and Spike is actual tenderness and what appears to be human-like love. That's definitely new. Makes you have to wonder about, say, the ethics of torturing vamps like Buffy did in S02E01. Would it be ethical to do that to Angel too? Or spike?

Ryan
>>38041635

I just want to hang out with Spike so much. Get drunk and listen to some records, the best night ever.

Mark Zima
>>38045253

*Landau, not Landrieu. Her father is Martin Landau. Among his many roles, he was a good guy main character on the original "Mission Impossible" TV series, and a bad guy in the Alfred Hitchcock classic film "North By Northwest."

Shashank
>>38043190

What I mean by theater is that some of the time Spike is talking, he’s talking out loud to himself we and the other characters just get to overhear it. Like in the end when he talking to the Anointed one: “I was rash, and if I had to do it all over again... (breaks out in laughter) Who am I kidding? (stands up) I would do it exactly the same, only I'd do this” When he breaks into laughter he basically starts talking to himself [Soliloquy], the other characters and us are just the audience overhearing not being addressed. This is even more true with Drusilla, who only really talked to herself and Spike the whole episode.

DB
>>38043712

For real! On one hand I'm all "You go girl experiencing this verse for the first time should be savoured !". On the other I'm like "can't you just marathon all of it already because there's soooo much to talk about "

DB
>>38044440

He's also modern/culture savvy: with his Yoda comment, Woodstock and tv watching. That's a lot to establish in just 1 character. That's more than we know about Angel's personality tbh (tho he was written as mysterious and brooding on purpose so that's probably not a fair comparison)

Valkyrie

God I'm worried about the spoilers you are gonna see for this one and I haven't even seen your reaction yet. People tend to lose their basic thought components when it comes to Spike. I mean I've cosplayed him so, yeah I get it he's a "cool punk bad boy" but still be careful with the comments dudes. People tend to project their love for a character that has only had one episode to the extreme and allude to shit that hasn't happened yet, I just think that is spoiler territory as well.

Lonelyjesse

I'm in the minority here but this episode is one of my least favorite of the season, I just don't get the hype. However, I have to say that Drusilla is my favorite vampire ever. She's so great! I couldn't care less for Spike but Drusilla is the best

Saint Mercy

I love lots of things about this episode: 1. Spike and Dru's introduction. They are so charismatic and enigmatic. 2. Jenny & Giles = OTP 3. Joyce > Every other TV mom 4. Synder's shadiness 5. Spike killing The Anointed One is such a nonchalant devil may care way But the whole parent teacher night seems like just a vehicle to advance the plot and it could have been so much more

Sean
>>38047747

For me, the hype is getting the story for season 2 started. The first two episodes and basically throwaways, holdovers from season 1; the story starts here with the Big Bad showing up for the first time.

Dave Ford
>>38039508

I just thought the tampon indicated Whedon's desire to sneak a double-meaning to the Jack and the Beanstalk line Spike has past the network.

Dave Ford
>>38040488

I was thinking about something a lot more fundamental than that, actually. But that too.

zerofk
>>38047747

Favourite vampire, that's a tough one, but Drusilla is definitely in the top three. Actually make that top two... Nope, you're right, she's the best.

Bisibia

I like this episode a lot, but I don't think it hits the greatness that many others think. It's probably my favorite of the show up to this point, but still far from what the show is capable of. I think most people are just happy to see a baddie like Spike, who is charismatic and witty, rather than someone campy like the Master, his flunkies, the preacher vamp, or the Annointed one. To me, his presence in general is a breath of fresh air. Up to now, the villains have been pretty cookie-cutter imo. I've never noticed the flow before... so I'll look for it this time.

Shandler

I think you pick up on something really interesting regarding the pacing. I’ve read that the initial script for this wasn’t up to standard, so Joss and another writer, Marti Noxon, basically had to re-write lots of it without being credited. It may be that it’s suffering from “too many chefs” syndrome. That said, loads to love in this episode. Spike and Dru, farewell to The Anointed One, Sunnydale conspiracy and Joyce being an absolute baller.

Patrick Armbruster
>>38045084

Not actually, about the music thing. 90210 did that before, for sure. (For example, "The Corrs" in 1996.)

David Ingracia III

yay! new video! best time of the week. also a great episode.

Patrick Armbruster
>>38048662

I think that's just it: That breath of fresh air. Every time I watch the whole series again, I'm just grinning from ear to ear when I see the high school sign, and my brain goes "Spike!" right before he runs over the sign with the car. The fact that the episode also introduces us to Dru is icing on the cake. And putting the "annoying" one in a birdcage and grilling him in sunlight's the cherry on top. It may not be the episode that gets to your heartstrings the most, but it certainly has that certain comic book charm I like Whedon so much for.

ModernArtery .

I actually agree somewhat about this episode's pacing. I think it was maybe an intentional decision to sort of split the episode in half, with the first part being mostly "oh no parent teacher night is coming up", and the second part being all the danger and action stuff. There are a lot of references to Buffy having to live "two different lives", and maybe this episode was trying to highlight that contrast and show what happens when those two lives collide. There's been incidents at Sunnydale High before, but a full-on vampire attack at the school, with lots of witnesses, is definitely new territory. And we get a little tease at the end about that, as Snyder hints at not telling the press "the truth" about what happened. It's a fun but not perfect episode. I'm glad to see the end of the Anointed One. And, regarding that, and your sort of doubts about the whole "St Vigious" thing, I think the episode was also trying to show the contrast between the old season 1 villains, and the new blood of Spike and Drusilla. The Anointed One and his servants were all more of less worshippers of the Master, you can hear them chanting in one scene, they plan their attacks based on ancient historical events, etc. They're very traditional. Spike even says before killing the Anointed One that "from now we're going to have a little less ritual and a little more fun". Now that I think about it, there's even that little line in the library where Giles calls Spike "unorthodox", and Buffy says "maybe he's reform". Maybe I'm reading too much into it but that could be hinting at the idea of Spike not embracing the "vampire cult" mindset of the Master, Anointed One, and others. So between the two opposites of Buffy's school and slayer life, and the two opposites of "old school" and "new school" bad guys, there's definitely a lot of moving parts here. I think that might be the source of some of the uneven pacing that you pointed out. Anyway, as always, the next episode can't come soon enough!

Rockworm

Spike's arrival is like the scariest christmas present but also the best thing we could ever hope for. For everyone who was all "The Master was meh" or had enough of the annoying one this just raises the bar. Spike is such an interesting villain just from the moment he shows up. Crashing directly into the Sunnydale sign to his iconic Billy Idol Punk Rock look to the accent. To how he's having fun doing what he's doing. Oh and how he goes from "kill mode" to lovey dovey with Drusilla in a 2 seconds. Mmmm And speaking of Drusilla. I find her so fascinating. Every scene with her is just so deliciously confusing. Oh and the actress who plays Drusilla, Juliet Landau follows me on twitter. *Spike voice* I don't like to brag..... Oh who am I kidding I LOVE TO BRAG

Tessa Grissom

Meeting James Marsters at a convention is one of my favorite memories, he was so nice! Fun fact, he also narrates a series of audiobooks called The Dresden Files (amazing book series!) He wasnt available to do book 11 so Audible hired a different narrator. It was so unpopular they had to rerecord it with James Marsters like 2 years later and release it for free.

Ed Badalucca

I dunno what everyone else is talking about, but this is a *great* episode! Truly, you've arrived in Season 2 - the clean-up work regarding Season 1's dangling plotlines are now completely tied off and tucked away - on with the new! Spike and Dru arriving on the scene is supposed to be a statement about where the show is going - epic romance, quirky characters, a little less ritual and a lot more fun. We get the juxtaposition of the new Vamps with the stodgy old "Mastergang", we get Sheila juxtaposed with Buffy - an actual wild child and trouble student compared to Buffy's "I would be a better student if I didnt have the weight of the world on my shoulders" plight. We see that there may be more to Snyder than meets the eye - and we get an awful pun on the movie "Die Hard" with the title, and an actual scene with Buffy in the ductwork. There's so much gold to be mined from this one, it's a shame that a little poor pacing puts this on a lot of peoples Sh*tlist. Keep up the awesome reactions, Alley! They continue to delight and amuse - you slay me every time!

Lindsey Metcalfe

lol at how this whole comment section has just revealed that all of us are massive James & Juliet fankids

Rockworm
>>38050636

Yeah I'm actually confused. Until now I assumed everyone loved this one.

Alley Box
>>38048788

oh yes absolutely. ive watched many movies that suffered from that, so it makes sense!

Shashank
>>38050284

Those audiobooks are great. It’s like having Spike reading me bedtime paranormal fantasy stories,the fact the books are also good is just an added bonus.

Alley Box
>>38050636

haha yeah, i think it might be bc i dont see the connections that yall see yet. im sure once i do my s2 wrap up i will touch on this episode again, and give an update (my opinions change a lot when i watch show) and thank you!! haha, glad u enjoy em :)

Rock and Roll Joe

Let's not forget Joyce hitting Spike with that axe

Annie R. James

I honestly have to wonder if the majority of this comment section are talking about the same episode as the one you just watched. Not only is the pacing in this one beyond brilliant, but it's also the first example of what makes the show from here on out so great; that exact same type of pacing. Secondly, this story's pacing is so brilliant precisely because it doesn't juggle too much, because it's only telling two stories in the span of 42 minutes; Buffy's and Spike's. Other episodes that we consider good juggle way more stories than that, so I doubt that's the issue. It's fine not to like an episode (and this is not aimed at Alley or really anyone in particular) but to try so hard to come up with reasons that you wind up ignoring reality, just seems strange. The pacing is not at all unique or different from future episodes, though it's definitely different from past ones. But, I'm not gonna just sit here and say shit about other people's thoughts all night, so instead I'll talk about why I love it and why it's my favorite episode of the entire season. 1) The parallels - someone has already pointed out to you about the Buffy and Spike parallels, the blood and the paint on the same cheek, the dropping of their weapons, so on. I also like how the episode keeps cutting from one of them, to the other one, it's a very fascinating choice by the editor. 2) Everyone is here - not a single character goes unused, everybody has a role to play; Buffy is obviously a main character and the main person the storyline is about and we're introduced to Spike and Drusilla. But we also have everyone else - from Xander and Angel's interactions, to Willow and Cordelia hiding together, to Giles and Jenny being their adorable selves, even Joyce, Snyder, and the Annoying One have their roles to play. Usually an episode will be forced to sideline one or two characters because of this being an ensemble piece. 3) The metaphors - the three items found in Buffy's purse are definitely the best and most obvious ones, but there are smaller ones littered throughout this thing. 4) The homage - as a gigantic Die Hard fan, I adore the homage it plays to this film, from the lone building setting to Buffy crawling around in the 'vents' to Spike playing his best Hans Gruber with his minions to the punning, everything is just so awesome. 5) Second Pilot - Here's what's technically the number one reason this episode is so freaking good; because it serves perfectly as a second pilot - most shows have these, that moment when the show seems to finally have found its feet, when the writers finally figure out just what the hell kind of story they're really trying to tell. And if you want to get a person to watch the show and maybe they opted out after the pilot cause it was too cheesy or whatever, I always say 'show them this'. It works brilliantly as an introduction to what BtVS truly is. But, yeah, those are just my two cents :)

The Movie Guru
>>38050284

The narrator in book 11 was Jim Butcher himself I think, until James was freed up to redo it. My favorite series of books!!! I can't wait for Peace Talks and Battle Ground this year!

The Movie Guru

Everyone knows that Angel has a soul, and is therefore a "good" vampire, but just because you have a soul doesn't mean that you are a saint. He's just like us, only "fangy-er". With that being said, here is some more fodder for your "head cannon", I've already said that I think that Angel made up the B.S. about having "No Breath" when he probably just didn't know CPR. So when he holds Xander out to Spike all I can imagine is Angel's thought process being something like, "She's never danced like that with me, and with THIS DUDE!?! He's so annoying, I'll make sure that Spike doesn't kill him but, F@#! this guy." P.S. Love Spike and Dru, this is a definite nostalgia goggles episode that gets better with age. Keep up the great work Alley, I can't wait for more.

David Neal

I think part of why this episode was so hyped for you is for most of season 1, you were talking about wanting to see more with other students, and teachers and such, and this episode is quite a bit of what you said you wanted. But I also think that it is also partially that this is a good episode for a re-watcher, more so than it is for a first watch. I think the twist at the end, with Snyder apparently being part of a cover-up also excited many fans more than it appeared to do with you. Also, many watchers and reactors celebrated the end of the Annoying One quite a bit in this episode.

Alley Box
>>38052743

yeah honestly, the difference in my view of it might be due to me not fully understanding the context and what the build up is building towards. while in the moment, its hard to understand the little connections immediately and then think of how itll be in the future but i am like 95% sure my view on this ep will change for the positive as i get thru this season

Liz Siron
>>38044440

That’s a great point! Yes, Spike keeps up with the current world culture! I knew there was something else unusual about him in this episode I forgot to mention!

Beauty Effulgent
>>38039508

I think you make a good point. Also it wasn't until my last rewatch that I realize Spike's "Fee Fi Fo Fum I smell the blood of nice ripe girl' is talking about him smelling her period! : O How did they sneak that line past the censors???

Rachael
>>38039508

While he's holding his phallic-shaped weapon a certain way and says that weapons make him all manly while caressing himself. Blechhhhh.

Tessa Grissom
>>38050284

Nah it was John Glover, poor guy. I would've been more interested had it been Jim Butcher. He narrated one of Brief Cases though I think. I've already got them preorder and spent the last week listening to Cold Days and Skin Game while driving

Liz Siron
>>38050670

Very true lol. It’s not a secret that they are well loved actors who play well loved characters. Now that they’ve been introduced we can finally gush about that love. The hard part is making sure we keep it contained to only what’s in this episode.

Lindsey Metcalfe
>>38050670

I've always found it particularly interesting that we as fans feel so much more connected to them than most of the main actors in the series. Like, we know about all of them, and have been giving little trivia all along, but nowhere near the level of gushing that's happening now.

Liz Siron
>>38050670

Very true. I adore the main cast, but Spike and Dru just hit different. For me personally, it might be because I have had personal positive interactions with James and Juliet (and a couple of other yet to be met folks) so those people have extra positive places in my heart. But then I also adored Spike and Dru (and hardcore crushed on both characters) long before I met the actors so 🤷🏼‍♀️

Rachael
>>38053576

I agree about Angel and Xander. Neither likes the other, and they both envy each other. People with souls can be awful (the hyena keeper, Snyder). A vampire with a soul has extra work to do because they have an evil demon trying to control them. Angel shrugging off Xander's peskiness made me laugh, even though it's a bit of masculine flexing.

Vicky N

This episode is not at all hyped, but it’s easier to get its brilliance on retrospect. If only for the introduction of Spike which is perfectly executed by the script and the performance. With a few scenes we establish everything you need to know about his character, his motivation. He is a menacing presence but he is also irreverent and goofy. Also there’s a distinct change in tone with all the sexual allusions and innuendos in all his interactions with Buffy. You said that one of the things you like the most is seeing the family dynamics between Buffy and Joyce being explored. It’s funny because it was never Joss Whedon intention to have any parental figures in the show. Up until now we’ve never seen Willow, Xander or Cordelia parents and at first Buffy’s mother wasn’t supposed to have such a big role. It was supposed to be centered on the high school is hell metaphor. Whedon changed his mind, in part because of the chemistry between both actresses.

Richard Lucas
>>38039508

I didn’t get it til just now and I knew about the tampon. Sometimes you just don’t see something until it’s pointed out. I read once about a joke on the old Jack Benny Tv show in the 50s. Very censored times. He’s at a office of several doctors. I don’t remember the two setup doctors’ names but it was something like 1) Dr. Pupil - Eye Doctor, 2) Dr Sounder - Ear Doctor, and the third door he walks past just says Dr. Balzac. The audience roared, but it had gone over the sensor’s head because one of the people on the show’s staff’s last name was Balzac, so the censor just didn’t notice it at all.

UTU49
>>38052743

"Second Pilot" Totally agree. Check out my comment if you want to see my related thoughts.

Steve Quast

I love this episode. It's the one that got me hooked on the series. Spike and Drusilla's intro at the time just seemed epic. Spike is definitely a very interesting and charismatic villain, and Dru...well she's definitely something else. Most people have the same initial reaction to her, haha.

UTU49

Thoughts on 2x3 School Hard. 1. “Is there something wrong with her?” There are several things wrong with Drusilla. 2. The Anointed One has taken his ointment and buggered off. 3. “School Hard” (2x3) is really where the series begins for me… for a number of reasons. a) In Season 1 there is still some “Valley girl” to Buffy’s personality. b) 2x1 is dealing with the aftermath of season 1. c) 2x2 is a mediocre episode. d) 2x3 introduces the wacky, demented, and lovable Spike and Drusilla. e) 2x3 depicts Buffy as an ordinary girl who is sensible and empathetic. I like the way she protects Sheila even though she has nothing to gain by it. To me, Buffy is like your favorite cousin or your favorite coworker – she’s just an all-around decent person. 4. Sorry you’re not feeling well. This episode is a fan favorite, but don’t worry about it. There are about 35 more fan favorites to come. 5. U da bes!

Ed Badalucca
>>38050636

I continue to be amused by everyone saying "Wait till you get to Season 2!" and now that we're there, it's, "Well, okay wait a little longer". This is it. This is the show. Take the good, take the bad, As long as you're entertained!

Steve Quast
>>38040767

Season 3 of Supernatural is a good one. Seasons 4 and 5 are two of my favorites though.

Pam Nail

I love this episode, but like the others have said, it's easier to appreciate it once you've seen more of the show. The introduction of Spike is a welcome breath of fresh air and gives us an exciting new villain. I love how he is just not here for all the ceremony and hierarchy of the Master's old entourage and dispatches with the Anointed One without much fuss. So glad to be done with the Anointed One, whose purpose and abilities I don't think the writers ever thought through. I also love the tease that Snyder knows more about what's really happening than he lets on. I have to wonder what Angel's eventual plan with Spike was. What was he going to do if Spike had actually bitten Xander? It seems like they would have been in the exact same situation, only a few moments later.

FernWithy

I actually agree that the episode, as such, isn't particularly well-paced, and the threat was a little... weird? But the intro of Spike and Dru overthrowing the Annoying One? Such a breath of fresh air.

Richard Lucas
>>38043190

But she did have valuable info to share, like the Annointed One didn’t trust Spike.

Samiah

I love Spike and Dru. They make for good tv. But don’t feel bad about not feeling the episode. I agree that Joyce didn’t seem concerned. Accepted the bare minimum for an explanation and Angel acted so out of character it’s almost not believable. The season does get better and you will likely feel better about what happened in this episode by the end of it. I won’t say anything else because I don’t want to spoil it. Again, people just love Dru and Spike. I kind of wish people didn’t analyze it so much for you. You’re just seeing it for the first time and have no context and are adjusting to this series and the Uber fans have been watching this for years and have studied every angle and then kind of throw it at you like you’re supposed to notice these things lol don’t let it get to you. Please keep doing what you’re doing! I hope you’re ok! Sorry this week has been hard for you. It’s been a tough week for the country too. Mental health is important. Take breaks if you need it! Thank you again for doing what you’re doing. 😊

Victoria Jordan

This episode with the introduction of Spike was what got me really into this show when I started. Spike is such a dynamic character from the jump and the overall quality of the show only improves from this episode on (early seasons). I will always have some level of affinity for "school hard" just makes my heart happy. All my fluffy feelings aside I still get your point about the pacing being a bit odd and I hope you feel better soon. :)

Tom Tattershall

Alley, you seemed to be enjoying the episode as usual all thru the video and I had no idea you felt the episode was a little off until your afterthoughts at the end. Oh, well. My health or mood can change my feelings about something while watching and this episode did get some expectation hype which could lead to feeling a bit let down if you're not extra impressed with it. For an example, The Princess Bride is praised so much that I actually feel a little depressed that I think it is only OK and I can't see the same fantastic movie others seem to see when they watch it.

Alley Box
>>38066262

thank you!! yeah i understand how most fans want people they watch to notice things that they do (im guilty of doing the same with things i love) so i try my best haha 😅 and im doing a little better now! thank you :)

Alley Box
>>38066734

yeah honestly, once i get to know Spike some more, im sure ill adore this episode. (im the same way with the episode that Castiel, my fav character, was introduced in supernatural haha) i will update my feelings on it for my s2 wrap up video later on and thank you!! ive been doing better :)

Nicholas J Hoover
>>38048135

agreed. I actually experienced cognitive dissonance with the parent teacher thing and how Joyce is oblivious to the fact of vampires and Buffy seeming to fight them. but u don't know parents sometimes do that kind of thing.. overlook smoking or pot it whatever because 'reasons'.

ropecrewman36
>>38066262

Well said. We are here to support you. Just keep doing what you're doing and don't let our potential responses get in the way of your enjoyment.

Rachael

I always laugh when Snyder starts shutting off the lights *while there are still parents and children there.* Like, who does that, and surely it's a safety violation? The reason I laugh is because I find it relatable to doing little things to politely get people to leave your home, like cleaning up or yawning and stretching. When I worked in restaurants, a common tactic was to turn off the AC or raise the heat and turn *up* the lights. But who shuts off the lights completely? Snyder does, that's who. And perhaps that's because his only goal was to talk to Joyce, so mission accomplished and lights off. Such a schmuck.

Dentarthurdent
>>38047747

Good that you have mentioned in these comments who the Big Bad is after 3 episodes. Imagine if Alley had to find out for herself by watching the show!

Dentarthurdent
>>38052743

I feel like for ever reactor I've watched, the vast majority of fans have only had good stuff to say about this episode. Now suddenly Alley says she didn't like the pacing, and hundreds of people are here nodding sagely about how awful the pacing is. Lol.

Phoenix Dawn

I love that self-aware "the annoying one". I have not met anyone who was not tired of the kid like from the second episode he was in lol.

cil

this episode is a fan favorite, mostly because it introduces a character that people in the fandom love. but your definitely entitled to your opinion and i can totally see where you're coming from. there are some moments in the episode where the pacing is a bit off, but overall it's a good episode and a solid introduction to a great character.

Andres David Valencia
>>38040488

you are right I got caught because it seems that every other reacter knows of it, but better keep it quiet ... sorry :(

Valkyrie
>>38040488

Alley doesn't have mods and replies to a lot of comments please delete your comments guys.

FleurdeLivre

This episode has a special place in my heart just because it introduces Spike and Drusilla. They're definitely fan favorite characters and any time I rewatch the show, I look at School Hard as the point where Buffy truly becomes the show I love. I can see what you mean about pacing, though. I enjoy watching you watch the show, it's kinda like watching it for the first time all over again. I don't know how you just watch one episode at a time, though!

Ged Kelly

If you hadn't told us that you were feeling off, I wouldn't have known. You're a trouper. I hope you're feeling much better by now. LOTS of comments on the episode here (them damn Buffy fans do go on XD) so I won't add another - just wanted to say how I appreciate these reactions, a little bit of light and fun in dark times. Also, Personal Question Time: is your family Italian? I have never seen anyone talk with their hands as much as you do, it's fantastic!

Alley Box
>>38095135

thank you!! im glad ur enjoying them :D and yesss my family is VERY italian. my mom is also very hard of hearing so talking with my hands is how i express myself a lot haha. i never really noticed until i started making videos and people commented on it, but yeah, i really move em a lot haha

Idran
>>38039404

I know they changed up the prosthetics at some point early in the series to make it easier to speak with them; maybe this was before then?

ropecrewman36

Your comment about Spike says it all "He's so goofy, but also so scary at the same time." I forgot how legitimately scary both Spike and Drusilla were and the actors are amazing.

Alley Box
>>38095135

Unfortunately, no. I was planning on taking classes but my college only allows communication majors to take them 🙄 my mom has a cochlear implant now and reads lips very well, so she is able to communicate normally :)

Lindsay Kinney
>>38050284

YAS!!! I got the first book on Audible just for James. Now I've listened to the series 3 times through. Love the series for it's characters, world building, and mystery. James does a phenomenal job with the narration, gives the characters so much life and .... character. Lol. Look forward to Peace Talks

Lindsay Kinney

Alley: "Not really feeling this episode." *Cringes* "Oh no, is this a fan favorite!?" Lol, yea it is. As you probably noticed, fans are nuts for Spike and Dru. Hope you feel better soon, we love you! (Even if you don't agree with all our opinions). Funny thing is you've responded more positively to some episodes that aren't very popular. They're not your favorite, but you take them in stride. And here's a beloved episode that introduces iconic characters in the series and kicks of the season arc and it leaves you a little meh. Wasn't expecting that twist. Looking forward to more reactions, I adore your videos. First time I ever became a patron

Jessie
>>38095135

This fall I’ll be a senior, getting my BA in ASL interpreting ! That’s why I asked!

Nikolai5

No more "a child" meme after this :(

Brandon Scott

Absolutely LOVED seeing someone see Spike and Drucila for the first time! I'm watching you try to figure out what his role would be in this season and, I gotta tell ya', you are in for ONE WILD RIDE! Sooo much is going to happen this season and I can't wait to go on this journey with you! Just please, PLEASE, be super careful and spoilers! NO SPOILERS! Whoever's modding for you, just make sure you guys are being extra careful.... I don't think I need to tell you about all the twists and turns that are happening in this season (possibly more so than any other season in the series run). Anyway, loved the video, as always. See ya next time.

Brandon Scott
>>38066262

I also agree with Samiah. You are doing an amazing job and I almost feel like if you were to let the "uber fans" as she put it, get into your head and started trying to really analyze every "t" and "uioi" that it would honestly take away from the experience for me, as a long time fan, watching someone coming into this with no context and just enjoying it for the wonderful storytelling that it is. So, yeah. I say just keep doing what you're doing, keep doing you. Let people say what they want and just keep being awesome.

TaraFromTerra

I was so excited for you to finally meet Spike! I'm also glad the child is gone. He's annoying.

L R

Love how Spike called him " The annoying one " just before killing him . He did this for the fans which gives him extra points as far as I'm concerned.

darren k mccardle

Is there any chance S2 will get relinked so others can download it?