Buffy the Vampire slayer came out in 1997, and although it was really popular way back in the 90's, a lot of the catchphrases from the show are still used today. However, this cult-classic rarely receives the praise it deserves in today's culture. The show is full of fun quips and ridiculous sarcasm and yet rarely gets any of the recognition it deserves. So, here are 14 reasons why Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a way better show than people give it credit for:
The Sarcasm is always on point
Buffy is the queen of sass. She never takes anything too seriously and makes the show as fun as it is. The vampires know not to mess with her because she'll stake them with a smirk. Her smirk is badass and makes her such an interesting character.
It dealt with real issues like bullying and Eating disorders
Especially in the first few seasons when Buffy was still in High School, a lot of her adventures centered around issues that so many teens deal with. The show used the magical backdrop as a way to make teenagers feel less isolated and really address problems that were a lot of times swept under the rug. Buffy dealt with a lot of insecurities and rape culture was also addressed numerous times throughout the series. Buffy and her Scooby Gang took every issue seriously and accepted everyone for who they were. It was a great example for viewers and made the show have a heartwarming tone.
The Scooby Gang was the most unlikely of friends
Buffy was a cheerleader who was kicked out of her school for catching it on fire, Willow was a technology nerd who rarely spoke to anyone and was as awkward as it gets, and Xander was a typical pubescent boy who loved...girls. On top of that, the gang expands to include a teacher, a popular girl, a witch, a werewolf, Buffy's sister, etc. The group is all inclusive and even accepts Willow's girlfriend as Willow comes to terms with her sexuality. The gang is the epitome of what a strong friend group should be and included every type of person. They accept one another for who they are and it is really beautiful to see.
It has a spinoff that wasn't totally cringe-worthy
Okay so maybe it was a little cringe-worthy, but at the end of the day we didn't care. Buffy's love interest Angel received his own special spin-off when the writers decided the two just were not meant to be (Curse you Joss Whedon). Although Angel did not come back to the Buffy universe a couple of times it just wasn't the same. But, Angel's own tv show was really cute and kept viewers satisfied with their Angel-fix (even if they couldn't have Buffy and Angel together at least they could see that Angel was happy).
It was based on a horrible movie and still kicked ass
The movie came out in 1992 and totally tanked. In fact, overall the movie only made $16 Million worldwide which just barely covered the budget of the movie. The movie was kind of weird and fed into every stereotype of a blonde ever. However, Joss Whedon saw the potential in the movie and created the fabulous TV show that defied all expectations.
The vampire makeup was so ridiculous it was addicting
It made us laugh but it also made us smile. Spike's scrunchy face as all we needed for a good stress-reliever.
Willow is the cutest of the cute
She was probably the best side-kick ever simply because of her hesitant voice and her fiery hair. Plus she was kind of insanely powerful... so that was a cool transformation to watch.
The Nostalgia for the 90's is very much alive in every episode
Although many of us were in diapers when the show came out, it is still funny to see pagers and pay phones as common place. Also, Willow in overalls wins our hearts every time.
The writing was actually really good
Each plot line was well developed and rarely did we feel like a character was underdeveloped.
Buffy was definitely hair goals
I mean come on: the girl survives the apocalypse (numerous times) and always comes out perfectly manicured with a blowout. Why am I not that lucky?
The show didn't take itself too seriously
Buffy had such a funny take on the world it always made us smile.
Tara and Willow are the cutest couple ever
We fell in love with the lovers. They were so cute and always made us believe that there is someone out there who will make us a better version of ourselves. *sigh*
The one liners dude
I mean seriously? They're endless. It is wonderful.
The show made us smile even when we didn't want to
Between all the slayings and sticky situations the gang always ends up out for one another and becoming stronger friends. They are lovely characters inside and out and make the world a much more special place.
So, whether the Buffy-verse it new or old to your nostalgic hearts the show will forever be known as one of the best TV shows of all time, or at least I hope so.