We go right back to the true beginning as we review Buffy the Vampire Slayer’s short debut season…
Synopsis: Ordinary 16 year old Buffy Summer moves to quiet Californian town Sunnydale and attends her boring new high school. At least, that’s what it seems. Actually, Buffy is the Slayer – the chosen one whose calling is to save the world from vampires, demons and the forces of darkness. And Sunnydale just happens to have an ancient evil living underneath it. Waiting to rise to the surface…
Episode breakdown:
1. Welcome to the Hellmouth
Strong pilot that effectively and effortlessly introduces the mythos, the tone and the lead characters. The expectation-subverting opening scene just sums up the whole show. 8.5/10
2. The Harvest
More classic Buffyisms are established, like vamps attacking the Bronze, the first averted apocalypse and the first time the Scooby gang properly bonds: “the earth is doomed.” 8/10
3. Witch
Amy is introduced as the Scoobies deal with a witch who is eliminating the cheerleading competition. It’s also the first ‘supernatural thing that’s a metaphor for teen life’ plot. 7.5/10
4. Teacher’s Pet
Xander gets his first taste of being a demon magnet as the new substitute teacher takes an unhealthy interest in him. Very goofy, but enjoyable Xander-centric one. 7/10
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Fandom Factory 
Totally agree that the light -heartedness is best in season 1. Great introduction in the main cast and the essence of Buffy. Seasons here after however have even better story arcs and give eve more insight in the character creating real depth, even for the villains.
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Glad you agree. Exactly – S1 sets it all up very well but subsequent seasons just up the ante and delve deeper.
What’s your favourite season, by the way?
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