Season 6 As A Whole (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In Buffy Season 6, Buffy the Vampire Slayer takes a new approach to storytelling. This podcast episode looks at the season arc as a whole. Along with the season recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) how to write a group as protagonist; (2) themes and Dark Willow; (3) whether Buffy's growth rings true; (4) which Buffy Season 6 plot turns are most compelling; and more. Last Episode: Grave Next Episode: Bonus - Wolfram & Cast looks at Angel Episode Blind Date Latest Release:...
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Normal Again S6 E17 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In Normal Again (S6 E17 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy hallucinates that she’s in a psychiatric facility and her parents are still alive.  Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) why a kind, compassionate character can make a scene more chilling; (2) conveying exposition the characters already know; (3) how to add new backstory to an old timeline; (4) can your plot be strong without a clear single midpoint moment? Last Episode: Hell's Bells Next Episode: Entropy...
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Dead Things S6 E13 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In Dead Things (S6 E13 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), the trio tries to frame Buffy for murder, and Buffy’s sure she came back from the dead wrong. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) whether Spike’s and Buffy’s actions fit their characters as portrayed in earlier seasons; (2) how committing crimes shapes Jonathan, Andrew, and Warren; (3) ways Buffy’s story calls back to Faith's character arc; and (4) a murder subplot enmeshed in a main plot where Buffy strives to unders...
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The Gift S5 E22 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In The Gift (S5 E22 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Buffy faces off with Glory for the last time and Dawn’s life—and the fate of the world—hang in the balance. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) call backs that make The Gift a satisfying finale; (2) multiple series themes woven into Buffy’s struggle to save Dawn and the world; (3) exposition, conflict, and foreshadowing that fit the story and don’t slow the pace; (4) an unexpected climax that’s not between Glory and Buff...
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The Weight Of The World S5 E21 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In The Weight Of The World (S5 E21 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Willow uses magic to reach a catatonic Buffy while the gang hunts for Dawn, who’s been captured by Glory. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1)  conflict between Buffy’s friends that brings the audience up to speed; (2)  a powerful main plot entirely in Buffy’s mind; (3)  Glory and Dawn show what works best - showing or telling exposition, emotion, and character; and (4)  it’s all about guilt - Ben’s, Glory’...
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Forever S5 E17 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

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In Forever (Buffy the Vampire Slayer S5 E17), Angel returns and Dawn tries to resurrect her mother. Along with the recap, this podcast episode focuses on: (1) why Forever feels like a one-off but moves the season arc in so many ways; (2) real, genuine conflict between Tara and Willow arising from their values and foreshadowing Season 6; (3) how Buffy’s fears of being vulnerable drive Dawn to take desperate action and fuel a Buffy vs. Buffy subplot; and (4) characters who push against Dawn and...
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Real Me S5 E2 (Buffy and the Art of Story Podcast)

This time on Buffy and the Art of Story, Real Me (S5 E2 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer), where Dawn and Buffy clash and Harmony returns. This podcast episode looks at: (1) Starting in media res – in this case in the middle of Dawn's world; (2) Who is the protagonist – Dawn or Buffy? (3) Creating suspense by holding back from the audience; and (4) A little sister who's young for her age. Spoiler-free, except at the end (with plenty of warning). Last Episode: Buffy vs Dracula (S5 E1) Next...
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