Help please

[futuregirl06]

Hey guys, im researching Buffy fans for my Media assignment.. im in 2nd year of uni! was wondering if you could please fill out this questionnaire for me! would be a massive help! Thanks- Carrie x



1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?


3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?

5. Which is your favourite season and why?

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)

7. What do you think makes you a fan?

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.

9. How many conventions have you attended?

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?

 

[Edmund Blackadder]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?

I watch the show for numerous reasons. The first is that I'm a fan of genre shows. I love the more fantastical element of genre and Buffy allowed me to have this. The writing was good enough for me to continue watching. I also loved the characters as they were very human and understandable. In the extraordinary situations they were placed you got a sense that they dealt with them how you would. There was alot of humour too. It wasn't simply a run of the mill genre show that focused on the dark, there was alot of fun in there. Being a geek, I also loved how a) the Geeks were the heroes b) that I could spot pop-culture references. It surprises me still that I can watch an episode and spot one I didn't see before.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?

Yes, in as much that I believe all the key characters are very positive role models for anyone. Buffy dealt with situations in a way that, sometimes you'd question if it was the right thing to do but you would eventually understand that it was right for her.
A person doesn't have to be a saint to be a role model, on the contrary, a good role model is someone who makes mistakes but understands them when they've been made and learns from them and I think that most, if not all, the main characters had that ability.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.

My favourite character is a tough one.
I love Tara. I think she had a vulnerability that we could all associate with. She was a small town girl with such a burden on her that she often questioned herself. She, with the help of a loving family(the Scoobies not blood), learns to understand her own power and potential and becomes a strong, confident woman with so much to give. This in turn gave her the ability to be the confidante, the carer and the lover of people with similar or differing personal issues.


4. How often do you watch Buffy?

I used to watch Buffy daily. I have to admit of recent I've not had much time to spend on the show but i'm still watching an episode a week - though now its not in chronological order, instead episodes that take my fancy.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?

I think season 4 might be my favourite. I am torn here because 3 is really good too.
I find it hard to say really because I don't think any season was anything less than excellent. Season 4, however, has the new dynamic, a situation we will all have/are going to deal with. The leaving of home and the comforts that has.
Season 4 was the groups first dealings with the wider world, growing up and growing apart. Doing new things with new people and trying to find yourself a place in a new world.
It takes a great deal of strength to do this properly while remaining who you are and we see the gang struggle with this and you can truly identify with them.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?

Any good TV show has to have the humanity factor allowing you to empathise with the 'good buys'. Buffy has that and what makes it remarkable is that even the 'bad guys' do that. You don't watch Buffy and automatically think 'he's bad, I have nothing in common with him' you are given a story that shows why he is who he is and thats where you relate. I'm not for one moment suggesting that you can justify a person doing 'bad things' because of how their life has been, but you can relate to the troubles they deal with and decisions they've made.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?

The thing that makes me a fan is the fact I love the show, I watch it and I have an opinion on it.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?

This is difficult. I guess it could be argued my attitude is somewhat the way it is because of the show. The 'Never give up, fight for what you believe in' kinda attitude.

9. How many conventions have you attended?

I've only ever been to one convention. It's not really my thing. I don't think I need to meet the stars of the show to make my experience of it any better.
I have also been to non convention signings and met a wonderful woman, Amber Benson, who was delightful.
10. Why do you attend them?

See above

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel,

See above

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?

I started watching it during the season 3 run which would have been 1999.
I was working at Blockbusters at the time and we got the first season boxset in and it looked interesting. I watched the season 3 episode that was on that night(The Wish) and fell in love. I then bought the first two seasons and watched them all before the next episode. I then watched every episode as it aired in the UK.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?

I watched, post The Wish, every episode when it had a UK premiere until the very end.
I was saddened when it ended, but I didn't protest. It came to a natural conclusion with some of the people behind it(stars/creators/writers) wanting to leave. If there ever was a spin off, i'd be there watching, but as much as I love the show, there is more to life and i'm not so desperate to want to watch a show that people are forced to be involved in and without them it wasn't the same show anymore.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?

Yes. Initially I watched it because it was a spin-off. As I watched it, it grew apart from that. It became it's own entity. It had a life of its own, a different tone and sense of being. The shows may inhabit the same Earth but they are from different worlds.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?

Similarities are that they have some characters that have the same name.
As I stated above, the shows are completely different. Situations are handled differently, but still in that human way. You can relate to them still but now it's on a much older, mature, level that you wouldn't understand while you are in high school.


Thanks

 

[Lyri]

all right, my answers might not be as eloquent as Al's up there, but i'll get it a shot.



1. Why do you watch Buffy?
i watch BTVS because of what it represents. it shows that the under dogs can be the heroes, and that geeks aren't nessecarily bad (speaking as a geek myself) it showed me that women can be stong and confident. at the time this first aired, 10 years ago now, i didn't have a role model on TV that i could look up to, until Buffy came along. i watched the show to feel better about myself as well as enjoying the characters and the situations they found themselves in. and like Al said, the heroes of the show were a computer nerd, a Sci-Fi geek and the girl who looked that the first victim in a horror movie...!

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
yes, without a doubt. but the reason she was a role model is because she was real, she was honest. she did things she thought were best and did them for her own reasons, rather than because she knew it was expected of her. she showed the fans, teenage girls especially, that it was ok to make mistakes. you dealt and you moved on.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
wow, if you had asked me this question a year ago, the answer would have come without pause. but over the last year or so, as i've watched the series again, with fresh eyes, my favorite character has changed. i usually cheer for the guys who never get much sympathy, the ones everyone just ignores. right now, my favorite character is Xander. i've grown to really respect him, what he did within the Scoobies. he was, at the end, the only 'normal' character within the core group, and yet that never stopped him stepping up to the plate when it was needed. his love for his friends never faultered, no matter what they did, he was always there with/for them.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
at the minute, Sci-Fi channel are showing BTVS on weekdays, so i've been watching them everyday. but i start a new job next week, so i won't be able to do that anymore.let's just go with at least two eps a week.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season 6. i know, people hate it for the darkness, but that's exacrly why i loved it. S6 showed everyone that these people aren't saints, they're normal, semi-human people who make mistakes like the rest of us. everyone went through something fairly dark in that season, and they made it out the other end more or less intact, proving that it's possible to overcome.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
the way that the show was written, i think it's possible for people to sympathise with certain aspects of it, of course i do. but it's the way the show was written that makes this possible. everything is given a reason. everyone found something within each character that they related to, and it gave people the strength to work through their own problems.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
every one is going to answer this question differently, but what makes me a fan, i think, is my love for the characters, individually, rather than the overall show. my olove for the show has enouraged me to come to places like this, where i can discuss my love for the characters with other who feel the same way i do, and even those who don't. i've met some amazing people because of my love for this show, and i wouldn't have been able to do that if i didn't think i was a real fan.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
mmm, i don't think i've taken any sort of fashion sense from the show, 'cause i have my own style, but i've definitely picked up a lot of my attitude from the characters, Xander's sarcastic comments mostly. i often find myself coming out with lines from the show, proving how much it's engrained on my mind! lol

9. How many conventions have you attended?
so far i've been to three Jossverse Conventions, one Angel, one Serenity, and one that included all three shows.

10. Why do you attend them?
the first one i attended because i loved the show so much, i wanted to find out how my favorite characters felt about them. all right, all right, it was because i wanted to meet Christian Kane, happy? lol, but the last two have been more about the atmosphere these Conventions produce. the actors who attend really love coming, it's not just a way to make money for them...well, it's not for Jonathan Woodward, any way! lol

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
i really have no idea. Con tickets for me cost between £75 and £85, my sister, who goes with me, around £35. travelling to Lonond/Blackpool from my home cane be expensive with flights and things, but i usually only attend one Con a year, and spend the rest of the time saving for the next one.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
walking down the hallway in school, one of my friends, for some insane reason, was reading the TV Guide and she was lauging at the name of a new show that was starting that night 'Buffy, the Vampire Slayer' she thought it sounded stuoid and corny, and i wanted to know what it was all about, so i tuned in that night and fell in love...with Xander Harris! lol, for the first few eps i watched the show purely for my Xander fix every week. it wasn't until 'Nightmares' that i realized i was getting hooked on the storyline and the characters and the writing, and i've been a fan every since...ten years!

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
yep, i watched every ep, as it aired, until the end, but no, i didn't protest. it wasn't like the show was cut-off mid season. it came to a natural end. people want to move on and they're right to do that. of course i miss it, but i don't expect actors and writers to bend to fan's wishes and make a come back.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
at first i watched because Cordy was in it. i missed her in Sunnydale, and i watched to know what she was getting up to in this other city. for the first season, the show was very much living in the BTVS shadow. but then it began to grown, and find it's on place with in the Fan's hearts, they became two completely different shows, that just happened to have some people in common.


15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
like i said, at first Angel was pretty much living in BTVS's shadow. everyone was waiting for Buffy to pop up, or another character, and we got that,with Buffy, Oz, Wesley, Spike and Faith. but then, as the season progressed, we saw that, actually, apart from having a few friends in common, these two shows were very different. Angel was lot darker than BTVS, aimed at a more mature audience, rather than BTVS being aimed at an audience that grew up with these people. Angel was a new show, and needed to find it's own place in the world, and it needed new fans, rather than the ones who jumped ship from BTVS, even though i admit i'm guilty of that. but i know there are fans out there who watch Angel, but never tuned into BTVS much.
i perfer BTVS, but that's because it came first. it was the first show that really gripped my attention and reeled me in, and it's hard to let go of that.

hope i didn't make too much of an idiot of myself!

 

[alohakeiki808]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc
I related to many of the characters at different times in my life. I watched because it gave a positive message to girls to be strong, and even the "losers" can be the winners on some days.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
I believe that she is because she relayed a strong woman in a more male dominant society.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
Easy question. My fav character was Spike. He's yummy...

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
I still watch BtVS about once a month when I can catch it on SciFi or on FX at 5am in the morning, but I have all of the seasons on DVD so I could watch it whenever I want to.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
I have to say Season 6 with the darkness of the writting, directing and acting.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)
Yes, some of the situations were very easy to relate to. I've got a bother who is 4 years younger than me and we were always fighting like Buffy and Dawn did.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
What makes me a fan... Dedication to the characters in their situations. Having BtVS parties for the season premires and finales. Being able to go to school the next day and talking about last night's episode. I've written fanfics on BtVS story lines, mostly between Spike and Buffy.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.
My friends and I have taking different little quips that they've done on the show and integrated them into our lives. What's funny is when we're in a crowd with people who didn't watch the show and they look at us like we're crazy.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
At the moment, I haven't been to any conventions. Each time there is one, I'm working or I'm busy with school.

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I started watching in the first season. I've always been interested in vampirism and it just caught my attention.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
I wasn't able to watch S4-S6 because my dad decided to get a satellite and they didn't have local channels. I was very disappointed.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
I did. Angel was one of the characters I connected to. Always trying to make the world better, but the world has turned it's back on him.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
They both were fighting against the same thing, however, I always prefered BtVS to Angel.[/QUOTE]

 

[sharkshark]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc

Originally, when I was about 11, most of my friends watched Charmed, Buffy, and Angel, and I wanted to see what was so great about it, so I caught an episode of Angel and fell in love. Basically, I still watch it because I'm really into good filmmaking and the show was a huge part of my life for several years so it has a nostalgic charm for me.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
Definitely. She was a strong girl, and became a strong woman. She had her weaknesses, like all humans do, but she kept fighting (in a literal and figurative sense) and just kept going no matter how painful it was or how bad things got.


3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
Superficially, it has always been Angel. Basically, I thought he was really hot when I started watching Buffy, and since I was a pre-teen, it was pretty much all that mattered. Plus he's all mysterious and brooding, a quality I still enjoy in others.
However, Xander is always the one I've really related to. He's the kind of person I almost am, the kind of person I can be if I try. He had no supernatural powers or anything (sort of like how in some situations, my friends have certain talents or experiences that I don't) but he was so loyal and hard-working, he helped out the way he could, he was just generally a good person.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Pretty much every day, if I'm not doing anything else. Sometimes I'm not really watching it, it's more of a ritual of putting a disc in and letting it play while I'm doing my homework.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season Two, I just really like the atmosphere and the emotional issues they deal with.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)
Definitely. She is just like the rest of us, she has the same problems, the only difference between her and a normal girl is she happens to slay vampires.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
I like it, I watch it all the time, I've got some of the books, some action figures, various other merchandise, you know. But being a fan just means you really like it, everything else is irrelevant.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.
Well, just as people's speaking style/patterns sometimes adapt to their friends, mine sometimes adapts to the characters, and sometimes I will quote an episode if it's relevant to a conversation.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
None.

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
When I was ten or eleven, my friends were watching it.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
I watched it all the way until the end. I didn't "protest" in any real sense of the word, but when both Buffy and Angel ended, my friends and my math teacher watched the finales at lunch in her classroom. But we also did this for various other episodes, just for fun.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
Yes. It was just awesome, plus I loved Angel as a character.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
They are actually very different in tone. I started watching Angel first and I didn't actually know it was a spin-off for a couple weeks. I like Angel better, just because of the tone, I think.

 

[DarklyDreamingDrusilla]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc

I would say that I love the storylines and the over all plot of the show. I enjoy Sci-fi television shows like Buffy and Angel because I like to get away from normal life and enter into a whole new world. But at the same time I can relate to some of the realistic issues that the characters are going through.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?

I do think that she is a role model for women in some senses. She is able to stand up and be a STRONG woman and since many times women are looked at as weaker than men it is nice to see a woman who can do everything a man can do and more. ( I think a great example of this would be in Season 6 Episode 5 Life Serial when all of the men at Xander's construction site think that it will be a pain to have a weak woman working with them but then she picks up that huge metal beam and they all realize wow this girl is strong)

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.

I would say Spike is my favorite character for the obvious shallow reasons of his looks. I also enjoy how funny and dangerous he is throughout the series and I like to watch him grow as a character through all of the things that he has gone through. In the past he was a weak poet who is a romantic, then he becomes a fearless vampire who is still rapped up in romance, finally he is so passionate about someone that he went throught many trial so that he could get a soul and make her happy. I also love that helpless romantic aspect in him which did stay with him throughout all the stages of his life.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?

I would say that I am frequently watching Buffy probably about 1 episode a day at least because it is usually what I fall asleep to.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?

I would say that my favorite season is 2 because I think that is when Buffy was at its prime the big bad was Spike and Drusilla who I always love. And it is when Willow and Oz became a couple and when Angel became bad and I love the whole story line to the season because I enjoy the flashback sequences to Angel Spike Dru and Darla. I just love that season.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)

Yes, as I said before I think that the realistic situations in Buffy are easy to relate to. I have not lost my mother thankfully but I definatly relate to sibling rivalry and being the older sister I understand how much pressure is put on you to take care of younger siblings (of course I don't have to protect my brothers and sister from demons and vampires) I hate being the oldest sometimes just as I think Buffy does because you have to take responsibility for yourself and some one else and it just does not seem right

7. What do you think makes you a fan?

I think what makes me a fan is that I try to stay in the Buffyverse even after the show has ended I have been reading the comics and I still watch the show all the time. My favorite aspect of being a fan other than just the great welcoming community is bringing other people into it. I have gotten about 3 of my friends into buffy over the past year and they have been boring my seasons on dvd and watching the whole series (it is sometimes hard to part with them but it is for a good cause) and I already had some existing friends and family who loved buffy. Both of my aunts are really into Buffy and actually I went to the Sing-a-Long with one of my aunts and her friend and then the 3 friends who already like buffy. I just enjoy the community and I love keeping alive even after the show is gone

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.

I would say that I take a sense of humor (who doesn't get some of their best banter lines straight from the show) and I guess you would say hobbies because I have become more intrested in the history of the vampire and have been looking into some of the classics such a Bram Stoker etc. I have also gotten some reading out of it collecting the comics (not only season 8 but the omnibus and some of the other various Buffy/Angel comics)

9. How many conventions have you attended?

I have not attended any conventions although if one ever came close by I would definatly go I did go to the Sing-a-long when that was in town though

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

n/a

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

I spent $12 on the ticket to the Sing-a-Long and probably $5 on gas (at the most it wasn't very far away)

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?

I started watch buffy about 4 years ago when I would catch episodes on FX every once in a while but I really became a true fan about a 1/2 of a year ago when I saw the Buffy musical because I went and saw how great the community was so I went out and bought all the seasons on DVD so I could see all the episodes b/c I hadn't really seen very many at all when I went to the Musical so I did not understand exactly what was going on. But after going I loved the show so much I wanted more so I kept buying seasons and watching them and then discussing them with friends and family then I got the comics and here I am today.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?

Well I never really watched it live so no I guess but I am protesting that it is not on TV (new episodes) any more but at least the comics are still there but it is not the same.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?

I have not seen all of Angel really only season 5 becasue it followed Buffy and I wanted to know more although I plan to go buy those seasons so I can watch all of it too because I like Angel on his own show. He was always so depressing on Buffy but on Angel he is fun and exciting same with Wesley.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?

I think that the shows are very different because of the way they are set up Buffy is more free where as Angel has the desk job kind of work. I would definatly say that I like Buffy better because I like the characters more and the over all plot of the show.

 

[ILLYRIAN]

1/
I like the subject. I've always been that way inclined as since being a young teenager I did things that were not normal, the vampire aspect was a bit unreal to me. But hell, demons, been there witnessed that. Like I say I like the subject matter.
2/
No, I don't think Buffy is a role model, some-one who fights demon's ?. The human aspects of her maybe. But the lead is about some-one who is chosen by the higher beings to fight the evil, how could some-one that way be a role model for a human ?.
3/
Willow, but that is mainly due to her interest in the occult, not her questionable religious views.
4/
As I have the DVD's when-ever I feel like it.
5/
No real favourite season. I liked them all as entertainment, some people I've known said how reasons were given for most situations but the show lacked the detail needed to make their percieved reasons believable. i.e. when Joyce died of a brain tumour, a CAT scan can be done in half an hour and it will show the presence of a tumour, for a detailed view of the tumour an MRI would be needed and a biopsy would be required for the surgeons to know what type of tumour were present. Was her tumour cancerous or not ?
6/
Only in the sense of trying to make this world easier to live in.
7/
I enjoyed the story line, I like watching the show.
8/
Quite a lot, the general concepts, the questions the show presented and the answers I have found.
9/
none.
10/
n/a
11/
n/a
12/
From the first episode. From the series previews on the tv.
13/
Yes, I like the way it ended. Many questions were answered, many were left unanswered
14/
Yes, it tried to deal with the same subject matter in a slightly more adult way.
15/
I felt that the Buffy target audience was primarily 11 to 15 where as the Angel target audience was 18 to 25. I watched both shows for the subject matter

 

[Tranquillity]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
I watch Buffy because it is a truly engaging show. It is funny and interesting and challenging and intellectually engaging all at the same time. I am always amazed that you can watch it over and over and still get something new out of it.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? And why?
Buffy is a great role model for young women because she is strong and powerful and not just in the butt-kicking way. She's a quite realistic representation of a young woman without stereotyping her as "˜a saint' or "˜a slut' or "˜a mother' (as so many female characters often are). Buffy is a well rounded character who is not perfect, who makes mistakes, who learns from them, is sexual without allowing that aspect of life to be a defining characteristic.

3.Who is your favorite character? List in as much detail why.
Spike is my favorite character on Buffy. I loved him from the moment he arrived when he was instantly positioned as the bad-ass vampire who also was a completely devoted boyfriend (oh, and I couldn't help but notice that he was *quite* attractive too). I really enjoyed Spike's journey from pure evil to Champion and loved the complex back story that was woven around him.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Usually weekly, though sometime daily (when I'm in a particular mood)

5. Which is your favorite season and why?
I'm going to have to say Seven "“ mainly because it's the season I watch in its entirety the most and I love Buffy's journey to "˜General' "“ someone ready to share her power and lead them into battle.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
yeah, a lot of the high school stuff is quite relatable but for me its just general empathy with what the characters are going through "“ I mean, sure, I've never come back from the dead after 147 days but I've experienced alienation from life, lived with a depressed person, suffered profound disappointment so, yeah, I relate.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
Regular viewing of the series, owning the DVDs, participating in forums, having a website (CHECKPOINT | Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel Exegesis), having episode interpretation as a hobby, conversion to the comic genre"¦.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
Language!

9. How many conventions have you attended?
Nil "“ they are never in my part of the country

10. Why do you attend them?
N/A

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accommodation, merchandise etc.
N/A

12. When did you start watching Buffy? And how did you come to know about it?
I started watching when it first premiered on Australian television, mainly because I thought it was strange that they had made a series out of that pretty lame movie. But, of course, the series was so much better. I watched regularly for the first three seasons though if I missed an episode It was no big deal, I became really obsessive about it from season four (not coincidently, when James Marsters joined the cast)

13. Did you watch Buffy right till the end? And when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
Right till the end and with tears in my eyes. I didn't protest because I was quite content that it was ending on its own terms at the instigation of Joss Whedon.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
I didn't watch Angel until I bought the series on DVD. The reason I didn't watch it is pretty lame "“ in Australia Buffy and Angel were both on quite late (10.30 I think) one on Tuesday and the other on Wednesday (I think) and I could never manage to stay awake for angel so I sort of lost thread of the story.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? And why?
I always thing that Buffy is about people and Angel is about ideas. Buffy is my favorite because I understand people, sometimes Angel's philosophical ideas go over my head. That being said, Angel: season five is probably my all time favorite of all the Buffyverse

good luck with your assignment!

 

[Wanabee-slayer]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
I watch Buffy simply due to the fact that I love it. The writing is witty, and multi-layered. The characters are so different from each other yet I can still relate to every single one of them. It deals with so many issues, that I'm still having to deal with today and although I know it's not real it's comforting to see that these people have all these very real problems in their lives that they have to deal with on top of all the demons, and somehow they manage to do it! It gives me hope that maybe I can deal with whatever live throws my way.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
I definitley think of Buffy as a role model for women. She strong both menatally and physically. She has all these problems with men, and her friends and her family that can sometimes overwhelm her but she always manages to pull through. I think it's important that woman are able to see that it is possible to be strong, and kind andface all these issues and to know that they're not alone!


3.Who is your favourite character?
My favourite character often changes but at the moment it is Dawn. When you look at Season 7, I like the idea that this ordinary girl is in the middle of an extraordinary situation, and although it's tough she muddles through. I think although her character can be annoying sometimes she holds the potential to become one amazing person without having to be 'special' the way that her sister and her friends are. She doesn't have any powers and while she may be jealous sometimes, she's okay with that and that's what I think is so great about her! She deals with all this incredible situations that most of the people around her need super powers for.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
I watch a Buffy episode everyday!

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
My favourite season is season 7 because you get to see how much these people have changed and adapted. I think they're characters are all going through so much and just to see them grow more as people is what I enjoy the most.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
I think many of the Buffy situations are easy to relate to. Her estrangement from her father and her feeling the need to prove herself to this man who she may not necessarily like but craves. The sibling rivalry is also something I can relate to and alot of the problems she deals with in her personal life is something I think most people can relate to.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
I think the fact that I love the show as much, possibly more than I did when it first came out is a tribute to the fact that I am a fan of the show. I think also because I can relate to it, and I can see where these people are coming from is what makes a fan but I think it's just because Buffy means so much to me on so many levels.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
I do share a lot of the character's sense of humour. A lot of the time I will quote the show or even just speak in a similar language to that of the scooby gang. I do not share their hobbies, but I do however share certain aspects of each persons personality.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
I have attended 3 conventions.

10. Why do you attend them?
I go because I enjoy talking to the stars and being able to ask them things that a lot of people may not know. I also enjoy meeting up with people, who share the same interests as I do and being able to discuss the show etc. Plus the merchandise is always cool, but not always necessary.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
Usually around $100-200

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I've been watching Buffy since it first came out when I was 6 ie. 10 years. My mum used to watch it with me and although at the beginning I was too young to undersatnd some of the things that were happening I loved it from day 1.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
I watched Buffy right through till the end staying up to watch the midnight showings of Season 7! By the time I found out it was over it was too late to do anything about it so mostly I just moped!

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
I still watch Angel alot, because I love the characters and it shares some of the same aspects as Buffy.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
I think the 2 shares are very different but they do share some of the same aspects, eg, demons etc. I prefer Buffy simply because it's easier to relate to and I think the storylines are better!

 

[Wiccaness]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
I like buffy because its an amazing show.I love the whole girl kicks but thing. It has characters and story lines that many different types of people can relate to, or just have fun watching. Buffy can be an escape when you need it. It has funny bits, others that make you cry some that make you laugh others that have you looking at them like they're crazy. And things that can happen in real life ar shown in buffy, even if its in a metaphor.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
I think she is. Because here's this young woman thats has been dealing with something since she was in high school, living on a hell, knowing that everytime she goes out doing her job, she may not return. Sure women dont go out at night with a stake and a cross hunting for vampires but She's strong, not perfect, and some one who has made mistakes. But she goes through things that real women can also go through, and she survives them, giving hope and being a role model to other woman

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
My favorite character is Willow. She's been it since i started watching the show. I think she became my favorite character because she was the one i could relate to most. With the shyness and all. An besides being able to relate to her, i just liked how she was. Later on after they started growing up she became stronger and more confident.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
I used to watch it on the weekdays, every weekday when they gave it on tv, later on i got the Dvds. And now i have marathons, or i go back and watch my favorite episodes. i watch it from the first season to the last. I've had to cut down a bit but i still watch an ep atleast once a week when i can. And when im on breaks from school thats when the marathons happen =)

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season 6 is my favorite season. It dealt with alot. It had alot of things that could happen in real life. It was a great season and one i like to always go back and watch the most, besides having a few of my favorite episodes...it seemed like the season where people could relate and the charaters were dealing with things that actually happen.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
Yes they are. You have the whole Angel thing when they first fall inlove, having to deal with him not being as nice when they sleep together, or having to deal with the death of her mom. many people can relate to that one, Also for me, was the whole responcibility for her younger sister, since i'm the oldest too,

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
I think the fact that i love to watch the show for one reason or another, the fact that i love the characters, i get excited when ever i hear or see some related to buffy outside of watching it. etc..

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
I like some of the phrases that they use, "insane troll logic" :biggrin: i like the lingo they use i find it catchy

9. How many conventions have you attended?
n/a, its a shame really since i live so close. not to close to where they go on but close enough where icold have gone, hmm maybe when i can drive on my own ill show to one, even if its the comics

10. Why do you attend them?
n/a

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
n/a

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I started watching buffy when i was around 10 0r 11. The show had already been going on, and i had mostlikely flipped through it, but it wasnt until one night when i was surfing the channels that i spotted it...I've always liked the idea of a girl kicking but, so when i landed on a channel that had a girl kicking some guys but it defenetly got my interest, so i started watching it ever since

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
From the momment i started watching buffy i watched it till the last episode,And the only protesting i did was in my room lol,

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
I really didnt watch angel ver much, id catch a few eps here and there and i deffenitly have my favorites from the ones i have watche but, i wasnt as interested in it as i was with buffy.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
i think the only similarity inbetweeen the shows is that they both fight vampires ,and other big bads,and a few of the charaters but i dont know much about it since i really havent watched angel. The difference is that buffy was all secret identity gall, except when it came to the scoobies, angel ended up charging people for helping them .I defenitly prefer buffy,

 

[Spirit_Of_Fred]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc
i watch buffy for many reasons, obviously. it is funny, which is enjoyable. it has deeper themes and meanings, which are great. there is intense character development, and it is fun to watch characters grow and change from the way you first saw them. it is enjoyable to watch the characters in general. also, it was a show bold enough to experiment with such episodes as 'once more, with feeling', 'hush', and 'the body', and it succeeded so well.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
definetely. god, its so hard not to say what anyone has already said. hm...well, buffy is very relatable, so the everyday girl can probably look at buffy and see some aspect of herself. then, they see this character who is like them is able to deal with trying emotional situations, and destory evils. this can be inspirational to that everyday girl. like i know has been said, she makes mistakes, but is able to learn from them and get back up again, which is something the girls in the audience respect and will maybe learn to emulate.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
well, in truth i have three which i cant possibly choose from, but for the sake of your assignment ill pick one, the one that no one has said yet: anya. she is a funny character, and though aspects of her storyline are questionable, one can still follow her development. i feel she had a good development; she changed a lot from the men-hating ex-demon she started out as, to the human who fell for a man, and then was scorned again. also, i love her relationship with xander. i think the humor is the big one though 🙂.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
i dont really have the schedule to follow much live tv, so mostly i watch my dvds. usually 1-3 times a week, mixed up with a little angel.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
i love season 6. there are a lot of reasons people hate it, but even some people in this thread besides me have called it their favourite. i like getting to follow the characters to a dark place and watch how they deal with it. it made me sad, and drawing an emotional reaction from the audience makes a season/series/episode good. the anya/xander relationship came to a sad end, there was willow's descent into magic addiction, and of course tara's tragic death. and even through that, there were a lot of laughs, such as in tabula rasa, and with the trio. also, there was one of the best episodes, the popular favourite, 'once more, with feeling'. not to mention dark willow, and countless other aspects of the season.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)
yeah, definetely. people lose loved ones in their lives, and people who have siblings know what the rivalry is like. anyone who has attended high school can understand its toilsome trials! the way they are presented, the way the characters react, and the way the actors play it all play a part in making the audience understand as if they were there. if they've actually been in the situation, which is common for many of the situations chosen, then they watch and can be like 'yeah, i was there. i remember feeling like that'. they feel they have a companion, of sorts, in what they are or were going through, and possibly can even use the way the character deals with it to help themselves...unless they deal with it all vengeance-like or something...best they dont do that 😉.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
i am a fan because i watch the show often and i enjoy it. i think thats pretty much all you need to be a fan of a show: a love to watch it, which you do constantly. but beyond that, i enjoy discussing it with others (why do you think im here? 🙂), writing fiction about it, playing games that relate to it, writing are about it, etc.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.
well, everyone's said it, and it applies to me too: the language 😀. also, ive adapted a small few of the mannerisms of some of the characters. ive been introduced to BB, of course. ive also probably learned a couple of things from buffy and the gang as well, in terms of lessons and themes presented in the show. plus, it enhanced my vocabulary not just with the buffy-isms, but large words i just didnt know before then.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
none, though i want to

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.
see above, re: none

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
see above, re: none

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
it was sometime after buffy and angel had both ended. i was hooked on angel, and i acutally thought buffy would be kind of lame, so i avoided tuning into something i thought was not-so-great, though it created a great show. i decided i ought to anyway, though. i think i started watching somewhere in the middle (the beginning of season 2, 3, or 4- i figured id be less confused at the beginning of a season). it was a drastic change to something so light, which possessed all those unique buffyisms that angel had less of, but after a few of episodes, i was hooked it that too. i think now i am hooked on it even more so than angel.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
well, it was over by the time i started watching it, so i couldnt watch it till the end in a live kind of way, and was too late to protest. im not sure if i would have or not, because i went in knowing it was already over.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
if you read my answer to question 12, then you know i very much do. 😀

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
well, though they are somewhat similar, in that characters are the same, the background is the same, and the mythology is the same (what vampires are like in this world), they are still very different, but most especially compared to early buffy. angel is a darker show, with more mature themes. thats why its such a stark contrast comparing it to the light, adolescent years of buffy, though buffy's season 6 moves closer to that darkness. i certainly watch buffy more, but i dont think i prefer either. angel was the one i found first, and it was awesome, and i love a lot of the characters, and again with their development, but buffy's also awesome for all of the aforementioned reasons.

(ow, hand cramp... :silly🙂

 

[futuregirl06]

Thanks so much for replying with your answers!

This assignment is alot harder than it sounds! you've been a great help!

If anyone could point me in the right direction of a buffy site that you find useful/interesting and is still running..could you please let me know?!

Thanks 😱)

Carrie x

 

[TabulaRasa]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
The storylines are mostly always great yes. But I find that I connect with the characters more so than anything. Each character seems to have a bit of me in them. Also, it's just plain enjoyable.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
I do yes. She is very strong, inside and out and she doesn't let people get her down. And she is very intelligent. People can also watch the show and see the mistakes she has made, and hopefully indirectly learn from them.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
Buffy, not only is she a total hottie but she is most like me. Strong, sensible, (most of the time) great sense of fashion (hehe) and she does what she has to do to protect the people around her.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Every chance I get. Usually I will watch a season in a few days and then take a week or two break and then get back to it.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season 7. Buffy all grown up, well everyone for that matter. It felt like a more mature show. I am 25 so it works for me. When I was 16 season 1 etc would have been perfect for me then. I connected with it more. And besides the potentials, I thought the storyline was great. And Buffy ends with a positive bang.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
I think everyone can relate to more than one thing that has happened on Buffy.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
I think loving the show to start with makes you a fan. I not only love it but I collect as much merch as I can, figures, books, games, prop replicas, dvds, comics etc. It really is a passion you could say.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
In the end I am myself. The one thing I do have that's exactly like Buffy is my piercings in my ears.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
None, too far for me. One day maybe if they are still going on when I can make it.

10. Why do you attend them?
If I could, because I would love to be a part of the madness

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
N/A

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I started in on it in season 6. I just sat down and it was on. My mom and I watched it together for a bit. And then I thought season 6 was it. I don't know why I assumed. Then a few years ago while home bored out of my brains, there it was...FX. And it was in it's seventh season. I started watching and then I couldn't stop. Now I am an addict.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
Even now when I get to the end of season 7 I still don't want it to be over. I realize there is a season 8 but it is a little different.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
Yup. I just couldn't get enough Buffy. People kept telling me how great Angel was, I caved. I wouldn't have watched it tho if Angel/Cordy/Wes wasn't in it.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
They are only similar to me in the fact that there are demons, monsters and relationships. Otherwise they are very different to me. Angel and Buffy lead different lives, have different ways of doing things. Different journeys. Even if in the end the path is the same.
I prefer Buffy. I relate more to it, and it has Sarah in it. 🙂 I love both casts, I really do, but Willow, Buffy, Anya, Spike, Giles and Xander to name a few just really have a spot in my heart. Angel's cast does also, but it's not as big.

 

[GATEGOD]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
I watch Buffy because of the amazing characters. I love watching them trying new things and when they are feeling sad or happy. It's 'cute' plus the stories are great aswell so it makes the characters importance even greater and more meaningful.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
I don't know if i'd say she was since she herself is a girl throughout most of the show but she is definitely someone who tries to do the right thing and that is a great quality to have and is usually looked up on.

3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
My favorite character would have to be Spike, then Xander, then Buffy. The reason i like Spike more then the others is because of his attitude and the remarks he makes towards the others. He is very funny to watch and whenever he's on the screen you know something cool/fun is going happening

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Atm I'm watching all 7 seasons again, I'm on season 4... I started 2 weeks ago ^_^

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
At the moment season 3 because I love the group dynamic and the great episodes they've had.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
Some things.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
The fact that I am here right now, the fact that i love the show, and the fact that I will never stop loving the show.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
I take as much as I can

9. How many conventions have you attended?
lol that would be none

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I started watching Buffy when it first started it's 1st season on t.v. It was on and off in the beginning but once i had seen all of season 1 and 2, i didn't miss a week watching it live.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
I did, no, I think I read in the paper actually (very strange i thought at the time) that they weren't going for another season , it was sad.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
Yes, anything from the buffyverse is great t.v.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?

I prefer Buffy because it was 'cuter' and had alot of good character episodes which I loved. But Angel had that as well, Buffy just came first , so I like it a small percent more.

 

[Spirit_Of_Fred]

If anyone could point me in the right direction of a buffy site that you find useful/interesting and is still running..could you please let me know?!

what kinds of sites are you looking for? ones with scripts? facts and info about the show? various opinions? in-depth analyses? there are quite a few sites i enjoy, but im not sure which you're looking for 😀.

 

[palabravampiress]

I'll help! Good luck in uni!

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc.
I'm a writer. I watch Buffy primarily because I greatly admire the dialogue and the characterization.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
Yes. I think Buffy is a role model for women. For the answer, I refer you to my Buffy Love thread.

In general, I'd say Buffy is a role model for women because she is one of the first (the first, as far as I am aware) TV characters/super heroes to be completely unfettered by gender. Unlike predecessors Wonder Woman and Xena, Buffy isn't a woman cast in a traditionally male role to prove that she's equal and to attract a female audience. Buffy is a complex, fallible individual who is so busy saving the world that she doesn't really have time to stop and think, "gee, that was really good - for a girl." Unlike most strong female figures, Buffy is not written to be "masculine" in appearance, personality, or even fighting technique. Buffy is not the female incarnation of a male super hero; she's the original draft. Buffy lives her life and does her duty in a world in which she's unique because she's a super hero, not because she's a female super hero. Feminine strength and courage and love and sexuality are presented as the ideal. The message there is powerful. The glass ceiling has been broken, girls. Every girl who can stand up will stand up." In the Buffyverse, it is taken for granted that girls can lead troops into battle, kick ass, win at hand-to-hand combat with males and monsters of every sort, pay the bills, and save the world... and no one would dare think these ladies weak because they like to paint their nails.


3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
I love Giles because I have a crush on him, so I usually say he is my favorite character just because he gives me the schoolgirl squeals. But that's not really the same as a well-thought out answer, is it?

As a writer, I always say that I have a "writer crush" on Spike. I wish I'd written that character. Spike is incredibly complex. The day I fell in love with the character of Spike was during the episode in which he followed two seemingly opposite impulses: he had sex with the Buffybot and he withstood Glory's torture. That day, I turned to my friend and said, "Wow. What an amazing character!" I was completely blown away by the fact that both actions were completely within character. I could write an essay on the many things that I find fascinating about that character, but I won't. Instead, I will say that I love Spike for his complexity. Part and parcel with that complexity are his ability to love and his hard-won heroism.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Whenever a Netflix DVD comes in.

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season Six is my favorite season. The characters face their own inner demons. They face the shades of gray between "good and bad" and "black and white." They emerge with a more mature, more accurate, and certainly messier worldview. Basically, I like season six because the characters become adults.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)
Yes! Buffy is imminently relatable! Her relationships with family, friends, and lovers remind me of my own relationships. Her struggles to fit in at high school, to adjust at college, and then to eek out an independent living for herself in the real world remind me of my own struggles to do the same. Her insecurities are very much like my insecurities. Her regrets are very much like my regrets. I am not a walking, talking Buffy twin, mind you. I relate to different qualities in all of the characters. My strangely literal manner of thought and expression and my fiscally conscious ways are very much like Anya. My bookishness and willingness to make the difficult decisions are very much like Giles. I could go on and on, but I won't. Suffice it to say that it is very rare that I cannot relate to Buffy.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
I watch the show, discuss it whenever I find a willing partner, and recommend it to just about everyone I know.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.
If I take any personality traits, hobbies, clothing styles, etc. from the characters, I do so without being consciously aware. I appreciate Buffy, but I do not try to recreate it in my real life. I do, however, try to learn lessons on dialogue, characterization, point-of-view, narrative plot, etc. from Joss Whedon, Tim Minear, Jane Epenson, and all of the other writers. I don't steal quotes, but I study these texts just as I study Jane Austen.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
None.

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.
I don't attend them. I am embarrassed, I guess, although I can't put my finger on why. Also, the expense is an issue.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
Again, this is not really applicable.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I guess I started watching about a year ago. A friend recommended the show to me.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
I rented each DVD from Netflix. As soon as I opened the mailbox, I put the DVD in the DVD player. As soon as I was finished, I returned the disc and waited very eagerly for the next disc. I didn't discover the show until it was already off the air, so it was too late to protest.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
Yes. When Buffy ended, I was sad. Even though I didn't really like the Angel character and I didn't really miss Cordy or Wes, I figured Angel was the next best thing, so I watched it. After a few episodes, I was hooked, and I watched it for the same reasons that had led me to watch Buffy.

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
The overall quality of the writing, acting, and general production values of the shows are similar. The metaphors and themes are similar. The characters and their development are similar (many of them appear on Buffy, too). The key difference, I thought, was in tone. Buffy was a feminist coming-of-age story. Angel was darker, older, and, yes, more masculine. It was about atonement. It was about living with your regrets and failures - many of which can never be put right - and, both in spite and because of that, struggling to leave the world better than you found it. If you could find a little bit of happiness along the way (but never, ever perfect happiness), then so much the better. I am just beginning to be able to relate to that.

I prefer Buffy because the characters seem less alienated and more accessible, but both shows are wonderful. I would have loved Angel even if I had never seen Buffy.





I hope this helps with your research!

 

[Joyce Summers]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
e.g. You can relate to Characters, you love the story lines etc.
For everything I suppose. The fantastic dialogue and storylines, the great characters- you can relate to each of them at one point or another and the fabulous writing allows the characters to develop believably and you're on that journey with them. It's just a gem of a show.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
Undoubtably. It's a very empowering show. Buffy isn't given the extreme superhero treatment such as costumes and obvious sidekicks- think Xena with her skimpy outfit and entourage of sidekicks. She's just a girl who happens to be a Slayer. She's not a superhero who happens to be a girl, she's a girl who happens to be a superhero and I think it's important to be able to differentiate between that. It's never made to stand out that she is a girl, it just is and in a way I feel that can apply to all women. It's a kind of strength and power in us that comes to us naturally and Buffy just reminds us to tap into it. And even though Buffy has 'sidekicks' so to speak, not one of them is any less worthy than her. Willow, through Wicca, has just as much strength and power, Cordelia had her own inner strength- which went on to greater measures in Angel- Tara was a constantly strong character if not predominant in the show, Joyce as a strong independent single Mom, Anya so obviously a strong woman and Dawn- she is able to gather an inner strength through looking to her sister as a role model- just as we the female audience can also. Also, the way that men aren't demeaned in the show either is a part of making Buffy such a strong role model as well. It's saying 'yes we have this strength and this power but unlike centuries before us just because we know we have it does not mean to abuse it' and despite the females being the stronger characters in powers etc on the show, the men are constantly viewed as no lesser than them.


3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
I would have to say Joyce is my favorite character. It's just, as I answered above, there are so many strong female characters on Buffy all represented I suppose through the metaphor of a supernatural power mostly, but Joyce's strength is entirely real and not shown through metaphor.
I grew up with a single mother and I just loved how they portrayed that dynamic perfect and the writers didn't fail Joyce in writing her and developing her character. When she first arrives in Sunnydale, she's just been through a divorce, she's had to drop her entire life and start a new one, start a new business, deal with being a single parent to Buffy and she deals with it incredibly well. And after the initial shock of finding out Buffy was the Slayer she just take a strength from it and becomes a sort of anchor of normalcy for Buffy and the other characters. And I always loved how accepting she was of Dawn after figuring out the truth- “She's not mine is she? But she does belong to us though. She still feels like my daughter”. I thought that scene was so beautiful and moving and it's things like that that I loved Joyce for. As Buffy said “she was the strong one in life”. Plus, added favoriteness for the great one liners she comes out with of course, hehe.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Pretty much all the time. It may be sad, obsessive, but there you go. I usually do watch at least one episode a day, whether on DVD or when I watch a re-run. .

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
I would have to say probably season two. I just love the story arcs and the character development in this season. It's just fabulous. After the simpleness of season one we finally have some layers to our characters. And I thought the Angel/Angelus story lines was just a work of genius (and such a great metaphor). This season was all about discovery, which I think your junior year at high school is about. So, erm yeah that's it really. I just thought it was all round greatness. Plus Spike and Drusilla were fabulously complex villains.

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
e.g, Losing her mom, sibling rivalry etc (not the kicking ass stuff! lol)
Entirely. It's just there's something about each season that the writers are able to effectively sum in 22 episodes what that year in your life is like for most people. There's so many things that I personally can relate to so I won't bother to list. But it's nice that she is able to reflect events and situations in your own life as, well for me anyway, I think you can take strength from how Buffy dealt with the situation, or any of the characters really.

7. What do you think makes you a fan?
Enjoying the show. I think that's all you can do as a fan. How you choose to enjoy it is up to the individual, I suppose.

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
e.g, A characters style of clothing, a characters sense of humour, hobbies, etc.
I have never intentionally copied a character, but I have also seen similarities between myself and oddly enough, Buffy. I have very similar character traits- for example I'm an only child with a single Mom and I do sometimes have a slight tendency to isolate others although there are other shared traits that I won't go on about right now. But I don't consciously take in traits, humor and habits it all tends to be coincidence. Such as I share Anya's fear of bunnies and Joyce's hate of Jell-o. However, I do admit that I copy the fashions and style of clothings of a character. Mostly Buffy as her colors and styles I like the most, but I also borrow a lot of inspiration from Anya. However, I think this has more to do with me being fashion obsessed than anything.

9. How many conventions have you attended?
None. They look fun and has there been a few in my area, but no I haven't been t any.

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.
I don't. Money is an issue, but they always seem fun. And so many people have said the atmosphere is wonderful, including the actors. But I think stereotyping has ruined the chance of me ever attending on as I think you are subconsciously afraid it's going to be full of obsessed freaky trekker-like fans when in reality it's just ordinary people who enjoy the show. But it's hard to shake a stereotype isn't it?

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.
N\A

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I started watching this show back in 1998? Yes, I think that was when they began airing them on a channel we actually had (we had like five, so you can see the limitation here, haha). And I loved it right there and then. However, they stopped airing them in order after a few week and I got so confused so I in the 2000s I started buying the DVDs so I could watch them in actual order. So I guess, technically I've been watching it- whoa, nine years? And I came to know about it because....it looked interesting in the TV guide, haha.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
Yes, I remember watching Chosen and already feeling nostalgic. I thought it was a nice ending though, so I didn't protest too much. Plus, I had never actually watched Angel so I had like five years of Buffyverse to catch up on which, I'll admit softened the blow. So, no I didn't protest but I will say I was thrilled beyond belief when Season 8 started this year.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
I've kinda answered this already, hehe.But yes, I started watching it after Buffy ended if only to satisfy my addiction. And while I still prefer Buffy I did fall in love with the spin-off..

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
Well, the writing and quality is just as high but while Buffy seems to deal often with metaphors I think Angel just tends to deal with the supernatural side of things. And it does lean towards to the darker more often and admittedly, it perhaps reaches out to a more mature audience. But both shows are equally different but as they tend to go in different directions, it's hard to compare them. I do prefer Buffy though, because I think there is more character development there and I can relate to the characters in Buffy, more than Angel. In some strange way, I feel more at home watching Buffy than I do Angel, if that makes sense. And erm, that's it really.

Hope that helps.

 

[futuregirl06]

what kinds of sites are you looking for? ones with scripts? facts and info about the show? various opinions? in-depth analyses? there are quite a few sites i enjoy, but im not sure which you're looking for 😀.

anything really. in what opinion do you like best? and why?

im exploring what fans want. so which do you go on regularly?

Carrie x

 

[Kean]

1. Why do you watch Buffy?
I started watching it by accident, I saw the final ep of season 2 and was hooked. At the time I didn't realise it was Buffy. I continue to watch it because its simply the best show on tv. The writing is unbelievably smart, the cast was probably the best around, I could and still can relate to the characters.It never gets old and you truly can't help but be passionate about it and it's an escape, when I want to leave reality behind for awhile I'll jump into Buffy's.

2.Do you think Buffy is a role model for women? and why?
Definitely. she is a strong women, not just physically but emotioanlly and mentally. She doesn't have the life she wanted but she fights anyway. She is by no means perfect but she is still a hero. She is not afraid to be herself, she has no problem expressing her sexuality and she cares. She may bitch and moan about her life but she wants to help and save people.


3.Who is your favourite character? list in as much detail why.
Angel. My friend pointed out to me that I am very like him, I hadn't really noticed. I think he is my favourite because he has displayed such character and will. Time and time again he has let himself down and been left down and he still gets back up. I like the message his chracter gives, no matter what you have done you are never past saving.

4. How often do you watch Buffy?
Sometimes it can be weeks but recently I have been watching a couple of eps a week

5. Which is your favourite season and why?
Season 2...I know it's not the best but it's my favourite. I love the storyline. It had so many shocking moments. Its just great to watch

6. Is Buffy and some of the situations she is put in easy to relate to?
yes definitely. Her and Dawn was very similar to my sister and I, also he struggle to fit in and jsut be happy.
7. What do you think makes you a fan?
The fact that I am here answering this survey! Because I feel passionate about the show, that I still want more!

8. How much do you take from Buffy?
I find myself quoting the show alot, so whedon-speak has become part of my speech pattern
9. How many conventions have you attended?
None they do not come to Ireland

10. Why do you attend them?
e.g, Friends, meeting the stars, atmosphere, merchandise etc.

11. How much on average do you spend on conventions inc. tickets, travel, accomadation, merchandise etc.

12. When did you start watching Buffy? and how did you come to know about it?
I was 11, I had already heard about it but I was young and ignorant and judged it by its title. More fool me. I saw the season2 finale by accident and I haven't looked back since.

13. Did you watch Buffy right til the end? and when it ended did you 'protest' and how?
Right till the very last scene, I didn't protest becuase I didn't know how! I didn't have the internet at the time so I was very much in the dark. I'm not sure I would have protested. I don't think I would have wanted to watch actors play characters they didn't want to play anymore. It seems a soulles.

14. Do/did you watch the spin-off, Angel?...why?
absolutely, I seem to see Buffy and Angel as the one show, to me you can't have one without the other

15. How similar and how different are the 2 shows and which do you prefer? and why?
I think the shows mirrored each other alot. What ever was happening in Buffy's life something similar would happen in Angels e.g. Buffy's sudden motherhood and Angel's sudden father hood. Angel is considered a dark show but I tink Buffy hits some very dark places in her later seasons. I prefer Buffy because it was more consistant, Angel had some turns that I really disliked.

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[Spirit_Of_Fred]

anything really. in what opinion do you like best? and why?

im exploring what fans want. so which do you go on regularly?

Carrie x

BuffyWorld -- "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" -- Episode Index - my number one site for quotes, info, etc. im probably on this one the most 🙂 im pretty sure a lot of other people use it too.

Much Ado About Buffy the Vampire Slayer - im not on this site terribly often, buts its great for info and "fun stuff". plus, its got all these sites that go with it based on individual episodes, characters, couples, etc.

t oversion 7 - im on this a whole lot too, but its only one of the best sites if you're a willow/tara fan. its got everything from their spells, to their quotes, to walllpapers of them

i know a lot more, but i think those are my tip-top three. i hope that helps 😀.