Enemies • S03E17 • TPN's Buffy Guide

[@rushofblood994]

This is the second time in the season Angel is referred to as a dog/puppy. Vamp Willow asks the Master to 'play with the puppy' in The Wish. Vamp Willow and Faith seem quite similar to me. Sexually impulsive, sadomasochistic, and very homoerotic. They also have lighter halves - human Willow and Buffy, with whom they share an empathetic or even spiritual connection, as much as they may wish to deny it.

[@NotoriusBenjamin]

Alistair Drennan k

[@Haaris.Qureshi]

I like the extra realistic touch in that even both both Buffy and Angel were part of the same deceptive trick they probably planned together, Angel’s commitment to his role was so unnerving that Buffy felt the need to have some space for a bit because it triggered old traumas in her, which is a realistic move for two people to do in similar circumstances.

[@matman000000]

Waiting for Godot was required reading in my high school, so I don't think the reference is so unbelievable.

[@spidervenomkilljoy]

same here xD although it wasnt required in high school but in college.

[@davedave4779]

I don´t know about USA, but Godot is one those very basic things that young high schools pupils are supposed to know in my country and I would dare to say in basically most of the Europe. It is also one of those things that almost everybody know about, yet nobody actually watched it or read the script. :-D But tu put it simply - it is not some bizzare alternative hidden gem, it is basically common knowledge. Buffy is not dumb. I doubt she saw the play or that she know or even care about the plot, meaning and such, yet I don´t see any reason why she shouldn´t know the basic fact - there is somebody called Godot and he is not very "punctual". ;)

[@NicoAngelus]

Yeah we studied the play in high-school here in France, so I always liked that line, it seemed believable, I just assumed Buffy had heard of it through school as well.

[@JLDReactions]

Yes, it was required reading for us as well, and I loved it!

[@katroo2807]

Was looking for this comment :D

[@Cleapatra25]

As much as Faith is the "enemy" in this episode I felt really bad for her. Its like that teenage best friend we all had that kept making all the wrong decisions. I feel like she realizes at this point she is sinking faster and deeper but there is no going back. Her being upset in the end that she was "found out" came off more so like she got kicked out a group of friends and it just hurts to see that.

[@markfudge5642]

Faith is the most tragic character in all of Buffy and Angel. Its obvious she wants to be loved but won't except it from other. If you kick a dog often enough it will shy away every time you try to get close. Faith is damaged, we see her damage and even understand it. The reason we love Faith is we can all in some way empathise with her.

[@caitlincarter3051]

Agree with both your points. But don't forget her redemption with Angel later on! She accepts her responsibility for her circumstances & accepts the consequences when she could EASILY escape them.

[@mindyp51a]

@ Marc Martinez: Oh, ABSOLUTELY!!!!

[@moralityisnotsubjective5]

For me, Wes is the most tragic, but Fred had the worst death.

[@lizicadumitru9683]

Marc Martinezz I felt Wesley brought it upon himself.

[@rwwilson21]

When Buffy drops the chains and says, "Psych." is one of Buffy's hottest moments for me.

[@PassionoftheNerd]

Agree.

[@JLDReactions]

I agree. I love Buffy, but for some reason, I think Sarah Michelle Gellar would be hard to deal with. She's an aries.

[@WolfRites]

@@JLDReactions u wot

[@JMV1616]

it's very Katherine in Cruel Intentions of her

[@stevenmillett]

Why do these videos keep making me FEEL THINGS

[@quytw]

Because not feeling things is wrong

[@Sky-vj5fg]

Honestly one of my favorite things is how incredibly petty angel (and later spike) becomes when he's around Xander. like 90% of the time he's attempting to do right by everyone out of penance, but not Xander. Xander he goes out of his way to be obnoxious to. there's probably some meaning behind that, but I always just found it hilarious.

[@louishindle6620]

I don't really think there's any meaning other than mutual disdain...

[@talynstarburst2l2l2l]

He did the same thing too when we were introduced to Spike. Every time Angel pretends to be Angelus, he finds a way to make an example of Xander lol

[@TrulyMadlyShallowly]

Something I would never ever have noticed if it wasn't for this channel: what Faith-as-Buffy's-Shadow-Self is really doing here, by trying to seduce Angel, is something Buffy herself has been desiring to do ever since Angel came back. She, again, acts out Buffy's deeper and darker wants that's tugging at her always, the desire of her heart that her mind tries to subdue and chooses not to submit to. But Faith, she goes for it.

[@nickadair9502]

Love how this is the beginning of the Angel-Faith relationship that blossoms into what you explained. A support system between the two of them that you see being developed throughout Angel and the comics afterwards. Faith has a really good character arc too. You can see moments in S7 where she is just as much of a leader to the potentials as Buffy is herself. Though, you can still see shades of her wanting to be like Buffy when they kick Buffy out of her own house.

[@shishiodun]

Don't forget their scene in consequences. lol she really was the first slayer to be sponsored by a vampire as she claimed in Sanctuary

[@jaycievictory8461]

"Always" 😭😭😭 Damn you, Ian.

[@jaycievictory8461]

But kudos for building to his exit at the end of this season. Even if I'm not sure whether I agree he needs to atone for Angelus's actions or not. *falls into the soul debate spiral*

[@davedave4779]

Damn Hipsta Buffy! Saying "Always" before it was cool. :-P

[@jaycievictory8461]

+Dave D´ave She was always a trendsetter 😄

[@PassionoftheNerd]

The exit is what we're leading towards. It's probably the emotional core of this season (given the arc is a LITTLE flimsy.) I'll have a lot to say about it in the top ten list.

[@jaycievictory8461]

Passion of the Nerd Ooh exciting! Yeah, losing Angel is huge for Buffy in her character arc. One could argue it's part of her growing up/putting away the things of childhood (i.e. putting away the notion of the fairytale romance/happy-ever-after) but Angel never quite leaves her psyche. There's even that huge scene in s7 with Xander and Willow. I find it fascinating how he continues to come up in the series at key points in Buffy's journey. The moments become fewer as the series progresses - not helped by the network change - but in my opinion they are still key. I know there are some who like to dismiss the Bangel arc as pure adolescence, but I think there's a lot more complexity to it than that. Argh. I'm now forward flashing to the Buffy-Willow-weeping scene. "I can't breathe" 😭😭😭

[@YozoraHeart]

There's something so terrifying about knowing that Angelus is always bubbling just under the surface of Angel. They explore that a lot once he jumps to LA.

[@mckennawest12]

What creeps me out is when Angel is pretending to be Angelus and accusing Buffy of sending him to hell. He had his soul back the entire time he was in hell. I don't fell like Anguelus would bring that up, I think he would talk about her "ruining his plans to end the world" so I can't help but wonder if this is Angel letting out his own selfish feelings.

[@melodyclark1944]

I don't know. He did say, "She made me feel like a human being. That's not the kinda thing you just forgive." The demon Angelus is always there.

[@rowynnecrowley1689]

No, Angelus would say whatever would hurt the most. So yes, he would mention being sent to Hell, because of the pain it would cause Buffy. The fact that it was Angel saying it, and not Angelus, makes it more painful. Like he was secretly angry at Buffy for sending him to Hell (tho intellectually he knew she had to do it), and this was his opportunity to vent. It certainly should've sparked a conversation between Buffy and Angel after all was said and done. Maybe it did, and we didn't get to see it.

[@mckennawest12]

+Rowynne Crowley That was my same though! I think It would have been intresting to have seen them discuss it. We saw Buffy feeling guilty about it when we thought he was gone. I would asume seeing him would only make her feel worse; but once he's back its like it never happened

[@kinagrill]

Well there is the important part... Angelus is um... there beneath it all, cuz Demon still there even with the soul there (Otherwise Angelus'd be a Zompire if a soul took the place of the demon's place and soul then goes poof... then nothing'd be there).

[@MauLerYT]

Awh, that ending to the video, adorable.

[@someonesreviews]

You manage to make me feel sappy things about a relationship in which I honestly wasn't even that emotionally invested. I can't even imagine what you'll pull off whenever you get around to a certain scene in episode 20 of season 7.

[@sarahpereira5727]

I have to defend Buffy about the Godot reference. I do not question for one second the validity of this line. I assume they mentioned it in class (If it was or wasn't in her lit programm, a passionate teacher probably digressed about it) and Becket is not something you forget about. Students like absurdity .Funny and witty and profound (wait... a bit like Buffy isn't it?) And come on, Buffy is clever, we know that! (SAT scores) Plus, for those who say that this doesn't resemble teenager's dialogue, I disagree. I am myself a teenager, and with my friends, we often make references to what we've seen in class. Yes, it is not the case of all teenagers, but the Scoobies would (hello, hang out in library) I am so supportive of this line because I think it gives material to think about. A reference to absudity in the Buffyverse is oh so interesting. We already had Angel reading La Nausée dealing with consequences of absurdity; En attendant Godot explores and lack of meaning of life and the powerlessness of human beings. Godot would come from "God" and Vladimir and Estragon would be waiting for some king of sign of divinity, of meaning (through religion)... to link with Faith's name and what she represents for Buffy. A desire to make sense out of her condition as a Slayer, as a woman. The fact that Faith literally tries to steal her boyfriend in this episode puts an emphasis on what gives meaning to Buffy's life (love and trust, both in Angel, but also in herself... the "I am [better than you]" is fantastic.) Gosh I would have loved to see Faith kissing Buffy on the lips! It would have been the culmination of Faith's provocation. Thanks for this guide Ian, always excellent!

[@Lawnschiclettooth]

Agree; this was required reading for me in high school. Now even if it wasn’t for a class she’s in or even required reading at Sunnydale High in general, it’s only something she’d have to have heard about (Willow? Or maybe all that time spent in the library?) to make the reference

[@Mettejks]

I so love your reviews. And it is perhaps exactly the fact that Buffy is a living, breathing character for you that give them such heart. I have read/heard many reviews and episode guides over the years, but they always seem to end up in nitpicking and miss the point completely. It's so refreshing to find someone who actually loves the show and character the same way I do. Thank you!

[@PassionoftheNerd]

I still nitpick. But I always try and find my way back to the bigger picture. The show is precious to me. Thank you for the kind word.

[@BikinFilmYok]

If Buffy and ANgel isn't the greatest love story of all time, I don't know what is.

[@brookebookworm3557]

Buffy and Spike

[@guyr3618]

Cordelia and clothes.

[@caitlincarter3051]

I'm still all far Anya & bunnies.

[@Camime]

Nate and Elena

[@JLDReactions]

They really should bring back the thumbs down button.

[@caitlincarter3051]

Real or not, play acted or released, I love Angelus episodes.

[@PassionoftheNerd]

You and me both

[@ziggystardust1973]

doesn't everybody?

[@guyr3618]

I loved Angelus as a villain on 'Buffy', but I kinda had a problem with him in season 4 of AtS. Well, 3 problems: 1. That season tried to turn him into something that he just wasn't. In season 2 of Buffy, Angelus was kinda like Ramsey Snow from 'Game of Thrones' - competent, strong, and more than anything - sadistic. He was a terrifying villain because of how *cruel* he was, not because of how smart or powerful he was. In season 4 of AtS, however, the writers tried to sell him as some kind of a Hannibal Lecter-ish, Joker-ish genius, who's a master of psychology, and utterly brilliant, and incredibly skilled. And I have nothing against Hannibal Lecter or the Joker, but that's just not who Angelus was before, and it didn't fit him here. It felt off. When Cordy said that Angelus was *smarter* than Angel, it felt really fake to me, and when Wesley said he spent his entire life preparing to meet the challenge of confronting Angelus psychologically... Yeah, no, Angelus just never struck me as especially smart or complicated before. He's a sadistic bully, and not a lot more. 2. David Boreanaz's performance in season 4 felt... too confident. After years of playing Angel, he apparently felt he could do whatever he felt like as Angelus and it would work. And it didn't work. He was constantly overacting, to the point of goofiness, and it didn't work for me. 3. I probably have no right to say this, but... Boreanaz got kinda chubby in that season, and it made it hard for me to take him seriously as a villain. He just didn't look like an all-powerfull killer. And as he gained weight, David's voice seemed to get more high-pitched, which was weird and un-fitting. But I don't know, maybe I was just pissed off about the Cordy/Connor plot, and I let that color my appreciation for the Angelus arc in that season.

[@caitlincarter3051]

+Guy R - The existence of Connor ruined that whole season for me. Until I watched Angel, I didn't realize it was possible to hate a character more than I hated Dawn. Ugh.

[@guyr3618]

Caitlin is a Kitty Cat Aw, come on, don't hate on the Dawnster. She's had it rough. And she was willing to sacrifice her life to save the world! When she was *fourteen*! But yeah, season 4 Connor was... Well, let's be kind and say "ugh".

[@alexandracrane9019]

A&A share a body and memories - sure Angel would know how to play Angelus convincingly just as Angelus did/tried play Angel

[@shishiodun]

I loved Angelus playing Angel in season 4. So over the top and emo and preachy and perfect. "... I have to save the world * runs away *"

[@alexandracrane9019]

+shishiodun I forgot about it. Deleted that season from my mind. Conordy's demon baby 😣

[@shishiodun]

Not sure which is a greater disservice to Cordy's amazingness, being body jacked by a god and written out of the show for nearly two years or having one of those horrible shipper names forced on her with a character she only interacted with while he was a baby.

[@alexandracrane9019]

+shishiodun they tried to get each character in the dark place. Cordy's happened to be a notch too yucky. Sorry for that name)

[@louishindle6620]

+KingOfShredsandPatches I always put that down to the fact that Angelus hates Angel and all that he stands for. He has such joy in just being evil, having to repress that kills him (no pun intended). Angel, on the other hand, acts as Angelus for the greater good, so I guess puts more effort in. Also, the soul forces him to remember Angelus' past with Spike and the rest, so he knows how Angelus behaves and can act accordingly.

[@jolienewadegatlin2885]

I actually read 'Waiting for Gogot' my senior year of high school. So, for me, that reference makes perfect sense. Her English teacher was probably talking about it that week.

[@kimothyschma]

I think Angel *is* Angelus. The soul tampers down that evil joy and makes him broody. Because guilt. And the soul is the only thing keeping him in check. He still has all the temptations and urges of the demon and is just a paragon of self control most of the time. It's not fun for him, it's really hard. I think that Angel not just fights against the demon but seeks to help people despite it/because of it is what makes him a great hero. And I think it can be really scary when he's souled and he lets the old personality out again. I really believe in how much Buffy is bothered by it.

[@tugger]

Angel is his own entity. His brooding is not an indication of Angellus' occupancy.

[@tomc6217]

I agree with this, to an extent. There are a lot of examples of times where Angel and Angelus think the exact same thing, or would in fact deal with a problem the exact same way, though sometimes for different reasons. The Beast in season 4, for example: the first thought through both Angel and Angelus' minds was exactly the same: Fuck this guy, this is my town *Stab*. Going to an earlier point that Angelus is smarter, he uses a weapon that will actually work, but otherwise their motivation and proposed solutions are basically identical.

[@vladimiramatejova1796]

they share the same mind and body but are separate persons. Angelus says in Orpheus "this is his life not mine" and "we havent fed on a human for ages"+ other references to Angel's life referring as "him" not "me" such as " did he choose to be slower?" in Innocence he says " your boyfriend is dead". In Angel when they revoke Angelus the whole plot is about Angelus remembering different things than Angel AND thinking and acting differently than Angel. they "live" together for centuries so they could estimate what the other would probably do, but they do not know exactly. Angel can act like Angelus and vice versa but their performance is not perfect. Angel isnt unleashing Angelus as he 1) is not able to do it 2) is not willing to do it. If it really were Angelus Xander would end up with broken spine dead, not just a punch. Of course they share some personality traits as Angelus was born on Liam's template which is unmatured Angel. Liam was an adult but acted like a spoilt child wasting his life. Only when he was turned and ensouled again he matured and became his better self. he was basically alone for the first time out of his father's reach and had to take care of himself without any help of the family or servants.

[@saiyasha848]

I think faith and The Mayor also depict a mirror to Buffy and Giles. Both Buffy and Faith are strong and capable, but they are still young enough to need and want a parental guidance in their life. Buffy has her Mom, who shows her how to be human and Giles who shows her how to be a Slayer and together, they give her the tools to become the woman she is meant to be. Faith has none of that until the Mayor shows up. The mayor that teaches her that all the things she did are okay, that he doesn't judge her for them and that he just wants to help her hone her skills. He fosters her dark side in the same way Giles fosters Buffys light. That is why i always loved their interactions. Whenerver the Mayor acts real fatherly to faith, you can see the cautious happieness in her face, but also the fear. Fear that it was all a ruse again, that some one will take away the glass of milk, the warm bed and the benevolent smile and toss her back out to where it is cold and dark and lonely. She is so _desperate_ for a connection that she has practically given up on that it is heartbreaking to watch her get what she needds in all the wrong ways.

[@Christopherjazzcat]

What an age we live in where content as incredible as your videos is freely available for all to see. I've joined your Patreon in the hopes that you'll continue to make these. Thank you.

[@omygodwatthehey]

9:26 "It's a life that's been earned through courage, love, and sacrifice. We are not our dark halves and they are not us. There is no substitute for struggle." Now that's profound and I needed it typed out, because I want to remember that line!

[@lightningbugtriathol]

The ending of that gave me the feels.

[@LucyLynette]

On the Godot debate: I was familiar with the play back then (I'm Buffy's age, for reference), but my interests in both literature and theatre may make me a minority on that score. HOWEVER, all a student would need to know about it to make or understand that particular joke is "play wherein people sit around waiting for title character to show up." Even a below average student might have that degree of knowledge on the subject, particularly if the play is covered in ANY class taught in their school, as the student may know someone in such a class, even if they haven't taken it themselves. For example, if an Honors Lit or Drama class at Sunnydale High covers Godot, even Larry the football jock might get the joke, if it even once came up in conversation with someone in such a class. He might ask "What's that about?" And receive a one sentence summary akin to what I suggested above. That's all it would take for Larry to get the "too smart for high school" joke.

[@runevi]

I'm not sure that the Mayor doesn't know what it is to be in love. The sermon of "fatherly advice" he gives Buffy and Angel in the next episode while trading Willow for demons makes it frighteningly clear he's been in the exact same relationship as Angel and Buffy. Further, his dissection and ultimate critique of their relationship and hardships as well as his prognostications are so dead on, they ring so true that it leaves Buffy and Angel speechless. They are so disconcerted that someone so badly has their number (someone they take a high moral ground against no less) they aren't able to combat any of the recriminations that the Mayor puts forward. Ultimately to the point where they're dumbfounded and he says dismissively "Make the trade." Also I get the vibe of a doting overestimating parent from the Mayor in the plan with Faith, he sees what Buffy did to Angel and thinks "Anything that girl can do, heck if my daughter can't do it too!"

[@PassionoftheNerd]

I like it. And I agree, it adds some depth to his character...which was lacking as of THIS point in the show.

[@mindyp51a]

And he talked about his wife, whom he loved.

[@Xehanort10]

@@mindyp51a He says "I married my Edna Mae in aught three and was with her right until she died. Not a pretty scene. Wrinkled and senile and cursing me for my youth. It wasn't our happiest time." So evil as he was he didn't want the same thing to happen to Buffy and Angel with Buffy not being able to move on and ending up a bitter dying old woman hating Angel for being an eternally young vampire.

[@fangsabre]

"That's terrific!" Kills me, every time. The only character weve seen interact with Angeles without even the tiniest hint of fear, while also remaining positive to the point of parody. I love it

[@greenghostraptor5695]

i get that this is so late but can u please do a episode on faith and buffys chemistry? like really go into depth on their VERY complex relationship. it KILLS me that u didn't go over their shared forehead kisses in the entire season review. I may sound like just another shipper asking u to ponder their semi possible pairing but damn nobody can deny that there's some crazy chemistry and complicated feelings and emotions toward each other. if nothing else faith deep down loves buffy and wants her acceptance and hell even affection.

[@PathBeyondTheDark]

What Angel represents is probably the most interesting facet for me of both series. Here I interpreted his spot on "ruse" as further evidence of my take on the human/vampire duality in that Angel(us) is in every way a part of who he is, it just so happens that a demon dons that inner "darkness" for plot purposes. What the demon feels is what he feels or desires deep down inside so it was simple for him to act it out. It's similar to how you talk about Buffy's darker half and wishing she could let loose just as Faith has. But because of her moral compass and because of Angel's soul they do not indulge in their darker impulses. The First Evil in "Amends" references this shared persona with it's taunting and verbal torture of Angel: "You know you want it.... take her." This as well as Angel confronting Buffy in her bedroom while still fighting the noise and urge to strike suggests that the displeasure with her having made him feel for the first time since being sired is just as much within him as it is within Angel(us). Compose it with the fact that Liam in life was a womanizer and that the act Angel(us) most reveres in his tenure of cruelty was the torture of Drusilla and it fits very well the definition of a sexual sadist. As if this wasn't enough, we know that Angel's one true moment of happiness involves sexual intimacy with the object he is most passionate about. Even his own son who he loved could not bring him to the brink of perfect bliss. It isn't the sex act itself but the fulfillment of his inner most desire which is one that stems from his obsession with passion, lust, and expression of sexuality coupled with cruelty. You could go so far as to say "losing his soul" is metaphorically Angel succumbing to his darker impulse and allowing himself to be the monster that lives inside him, giving way to the emotional brutality that he ultimately puts Buffy through. This monster is very much born of his humanity, and that to me along with his weakness was what he meant when he proclaimed it's not the monster but "the man" in him, that this is the true horror, and thus why his guilt is so suffocating.

[@Anjalena]

*>>* I am SO ecstatic to hear you say that the Mayor is your favorite too! OMG he's the most awesomest! =) *>>* 3:27 - You say that this one moment was the only one that stood out for you. There were quite a few for me because I'm not as well-read as others. But the "Dada'ist pep talk" was the one that stood out for me the most. Took me years before I finally, accidentally, ran into that reference while on a Wikipedia run. *>>* And DAMNIT how is it you always present things so perfectly that it leaves me in tears? ARGH! You're just too good with words, my friend.

[@DanY-gx2dv]

Seeing Angel pretending to be Angelus (which is how I view it) was a refreshing surprise in terms of Boreanaz's acting in season 3 but I hated seeing Buffy hurt, even if she knew what was going on. I felt it too - a sudden flashback to the devastation of season 2. LOVE Buffy's "I am" in reply to Faith's "You think you're better than me". Did you know Faith was originally supposed to kiss Buffy on the lips versus the forehead? Mhm. I'm not a "Fuffy" shipper FYI. Just a random point. I'm glad they altered it. Also I agree with you about the episode's contrivance in places, but I feel it's pretty much solid overall. Call me harsh but I was so happy to see Faith played here; I lost all hope for her being redeemed in this episode. For the season, at least. "You still my girl?" "Always" and I die. Their newer musical theme in season 3 crushes me so much. As does Home, argh. Now I need to cry for an hour. I love your videos!

[@clementinehetherington6525]

For me, season 3 is actually the most emotional season, partly because I care about Faith and Faith/Buffy more than Angel and Angel/Buffy. Faith's arc breaks my heart. Also because it's just my favorite season, and also because as the last high school season (my favorite Buffy seasons) it feels like the end of an era. This season makes me feel all the feelings. I'm a dedicated Fuffy shipper, and I think that Faith also partially wanted to get Angel so she could be with someone who had been with Buffy. I mean the quote you included "just keeping her warm for you" she's jealous, and knows she can never have not just what Buffy has, but what Angel has. And this pattern continues with Riley.

[@shishiodun]

Angel and Faith is one of my favorite friendships in the entire Buffyverse... crap I'm getting that urge to watch Buffy 1-3 and AtS again. As for the Angel/Angelus question: letting him out, 100%. Almost my entire love for his character comes from my belief that Angel is just Angelus with a self hatred forcing himself to not do evil, and working very hard at it at all times. Hell even with a soul the guy didn't want to help anyone for 100 years so it isn't like he is some natural hero.

[@vladimiramatejova1796]

they are separate persons even though they share the same body and mind. look at Orpheus when Angelus says "this is his life not mine" and "did he choose to be a bit slower?" and "we haven't fed on a human for ages". he refers to Angel as "he" when it is something Angel decided but when it is something that is about both of them he says "we" - as they both feel the thirst inhabitating the same undead body. In Innocence he says "Your boyfriend is dead". The whole plot of revoking Angelus in Angel series is about Angelus and Angel remembering different things and acting and thinking differently. Angel even gets defensive when Cordy implies Angelus is smarter than him. He doesnt say "he is me" he is just offended like : am I stupid according to you? When Angel's gang is soothing him saying he is not responsible for what Angelus did he says "I know". He understands it yet he still feels guilty on some level similarly to us when lets say a friend dies and you think: Was there something I could have done to prevent it? you know there is nothing you could have done but you still think about it. To see murders from the murderer's perspective even remembering how it felt must be on a totally different level to deal with. As to him not helping anyone for years: First he needed to come to terms with himself. He was totally alone. Also lets remember last time he was in full control of his own body was some hundred years ago as Liam. At the time he was totally immature just wasting his life in pubs and under his father's watch. He felt as a totally incompetent person as this is what his father constantly told him+he had servants to take care of him. Now he suddenly was back at his body forced to take care of himself. He was on the street with no money, no one and thirsty. He could not get a job as he was a vamp. Probably no one wanted to talk to him and he was even afraid he might start killing again if he got too close. So he first had to 1) mature 2) figure out how to get by in his unique situation 3) deal with the past trauma/identity crisis. Later: He did try to help in Are you or have you ever been? and how it ended: He was lynched to the point he had to pretend he was killed. he tried to save the entire hotel of ppl and they turned against him so he just resigned again. He did help in the submarine in WWII. Yep they had to come to his home with crossbows but he didnt try to fight them or run away when he had opportunities. He knew he was doing the right thing and was probably glad someone actually recognized he is different than other vamps although he wasnt very willing at the beginning. He did save a puppy that one time 🙂 Still we didnt see all of his 100 or so years so he might have had more heroic moments in between wandering around. he first had to get to the point where he was finally able to help others. usually when you yourself are a mess and you need help yourself you cannot offer help to anyone. he gradually became the hero he was at the end of Angel series. Angel isnt able (and willing) to just let Angelus out otherwise there would be no need to revoke Angelus in Angel series. Also if he did, Xander would end up with his spine broken dead on the pavement, not just with a punch.

[@mrjdgibbs]

We read Godot in my senior year English class. Having Buffy reference that as a senior in high school made perfect sense to me.

[@kristen4524]

Ah, Buffy/Angel/Faith episodes give me goosebumps. I wish there were more! Also, I have to defend the Godot reference too. I had heard of it by late middle school, and knew what it was about despite never having the slightest interest in reading it. I totally get that it could sound like a reaching reference to some people, but it doesn't bug me at all! Buffy might not be scholarly like Willow, but she's still perfectly sharp. All you need to make a Godot punctuality joke is knowing that in the play, people wait a long time for him.

[@CitanulsPumpkin]

To be fair to Buffy's Godot line, this episode points out that even if she doesn't see or study a work she makes certain assumptions based on titles. She hears about a play called "Waiting for Godot" and guesses it's about waiting for some guy who's never gonna show up. She sees a movie title called "Le Banquet D' Amelia" and figures "Banquet? Oh, it's about food." Not once does she think It's an independent softcore porn film. She sees the theater marquee and thinks "Chocolat meets Under the Tuscan Sun." She doesn't think "A woman named Amelia laying on a giant dining table as a ring of middle aged businessmen use chop sticks to eat sushi off her naked body." Also there's a kimono in there somewhere.

[@tothorsi]

I watched Buffy a million times, I am now re-watching your reviews and my mind is blown how well written Angel as a character is. I've always loved him, mostly due to Mr. Boreanaz hunkiness but , now years later I find new appreciation in him as a well rounded, not just a simple vampire with a soul, character. God,I love Joss Whedon.

[@whisperienced]

As a non-smoker I assume the feeling I get watching a new one of your episodes is akin to going a week without smoking and then getting that reprieve. Thank you as always.

[@rowynnecrowley1689]

Not at all like cigarettes. I don't get homicidal without a TPN Buffy review. On the other hand, if you take my cigarettes, we've got a problem. It's more like candy, or some other vice you can live without but prefer not to. In other words, I agree with the point of your analogy, but not the analogy itself. To put it another way: MORE REVIEWS PLEASE!

[@alyissaaragon6943]

@@rowynnecrowley1689 yeah what smoker on earth can go a week without 🚬? Or even a day?

[@tsukigalleta]

I actually buy Angel's acting skills in this episode as (SPOILERS) Angelus proves to perform a perfect Angel in the future and Angel has proven to perform a decently believable Angelus in the past even at the peak of his depression. I can picture Angel being the one who proposed this plan to Buffy and Giles. Let's not forget Angelus sees killing as an art, so I'm sure he has needed to use his performance skills many times before to get the masterpieces he likes. And yes, Angel is after all the Liam part of him restraining the demon real desires, so it all feels like good stuff, a much more real and developed character

[@nickadair9502]

Love these reviews!!! I'm gonna start watching them with you. Can't wait for you to get to some of the later seasons of Buffy.

[@sc7480]

I'm a huge Buffy fan and I've seen the series a bunch of times but your guide is really cool, it has made me see the little details we often miss. Can't wait for the rest of the episodes! Thanks for doing this.

[@voina-2977]

I think the main idea is that the Angel himself does not know this. On this contradictory man who can not fully find the line between himself and the monster to build the Angel's dilemma. This makes him one of the deepest characters in this universe.

[@Jgotmilk555]

Dude, the end of this episode guide made me cry.

[@ricstormwolf]

glad you're back. I love these videos!

[@lenzino7383]

"Always." That part still gets me!!! :( Wonderful analysis as usual. I always looked forward and applaud your hard work. I can't wait until you get to episodes like "Graduation Day Parts 1 and 2", "Hush", "Restless", etc.

[@tlaird79]

Thank you. Been waiting for this!!

[@BeckettBaladas]

I like that you pointed out that scene where Faith turns on the light in the demons appartement, I always viewed this as the moment that made Buffy have suspicions about Faith. Oh, and I´m kinda bingeing the guide while bingeing Buffy (again xD) which made me get the "The Lesbian Subtext" sounds fund in this guide xD

[@borednow5838]

Think you nailed it. The plan is patchy and not too well thought out, and you have thought that Willow at least would have been let in on it. Also the Demon friend of Giles is misstep. But there are some strong ideas here, and its an impressive performance by ED who at this stage is really getting stuck into Faith. Some nice character moments and strong emotional beats. Great review.

[@mastterby]

The freaking lesbian subtext bell xD

[@earthandairandrain]

Enemies has its flaws, but for me it's the last strong main-arc episode in S3. (I have big problems with Choices and much of GD.) The Buffy/Faith/Angel dynamic is wonderful; it's so sad they didn't know at season's start what they had in Eliza, so a fuller arc could be planned. She gave a jolt of electricity to the cast, and Harry Groener was superb, but I don't think Whedon reached his S2 level of power this time around. Nevertheless, Buffy's "Always" marks a tender finale (nearly) of the beautiful love story at the very center of this show since the beginning.

[@liaisanxious425]

Your edits of Buffy and Angel are so good omg make me cry

[@Starlightean]

I love this episode. Mainly because of Angelus, and Faith's pov, and the confusing gentleness of the Mayor.

[@JDavis1982]

It's my day off work... Have been binge watching since season 1 reviews... Reached this episode and see there are no more... Unfathomable Sadness... But sidebar.. Keep up the great work its so entertaining and insightful!

[@loribennett6132]

I love these reviews, and I just found them. They are causing me to re-watch some episodes. I was so excited to see that this was published today. I thought I watched every review you were planning on doing...so if you are still making them, I have a request.... Checkpoint. I just re-watched it today, and would love to hear your analysis!

[@jarjared3522]

Love the use of music from Angel for the last part of the video there.

[@boo5860]

When I was 17, I was familiar enough with Godot to make that reference. All you really need is the title.

[@nocolopa28]

I've been re-watching your Buffy episode guides for a week (along with some of my favourite episodes) and I'm so happy to see you hit the 10k mark on your subscriber count. I can see that you put in a lot of hard work in each and every one of these videos and I get to experience Buffy all over again with them. You mention things I've never noticed or references I couldn't get. You remind me that this is really the best show (for me) and you help me enjoy it again. Thank you so much for everything you're doing and congrats on the 10k again! I saw your channel at 9, 999 subscribers today and I waited so I could write this to you. Anyhow. You keep on doing what you do. A lot of Buffy fans appreciate it.

[@PassionoftheNerd]

Thank you for the kind word. Glad you found the channel.

[@LadyOhEvans]

who's rewatching all these buffy guide videos again in 2020? still amazing.

[@totallynameless8861]

Is that the same soul shaman as in Angel season 4? I don't think the plan is terrible. You can agonize over 'what if's forever and get nothing done, or you can take a risk. As to not telling anyone who didn't need to know, Willow and Xander didn't need to know. A better question is why tell them at all? What I do have a problem with, is how cheap the twist was with the soul shaman. I think it would have been more interesting if Giles had to make a new deal with him that would come up later.

[@GermoDante]

The Mayor is just so fun to watch. He's pure evil stuck in the most happy go lucky package. Almost every scene the guy is in is guaranteed to be entertaining

[@vkdragonfire2123]

So pleased to see this in my motifs just now! (And I just watched this episode yesterday; perfect!) :D

[@katherineno9462]

SOOOOO EARLY!!!!! Literally just finished Buffy for the millionth time like 10 inputs before this was uploaded

[@timeslush]

Such a great review, once again!

[@cassielindeberg5702]

I wish the fans were given an explanation for why Angel never sought a spell (or something else) to reverse his curse but retain his soul. If the only reason for that is because it would remove some of the angst and drama... well that's crappy. So many of their issues would be overcome. We know it's possible because Spike did it. I'm disappointed that we're never given a reason for that.

[@realbadmews]

Your montage after he asks "are you still my girl?" WHY YOU GOTTA DO THIS TO ME I'm about to cry at work

[@rockworm503]

I think it was Angel's acting cause I can't imagine him letting Angelus free to do whatever he wanted. But he had to make it look convincing.

[@danielyeshe]

Untill I saw this (not my first viewing) I had not considered anything else.

[@Mykittypwnsyou]

just found ur channel a couple of days ago and already binge watched all the episode guides, love what u do man keep it up.

[@PassionoftheNerd]

Thank you so much! Welcome welcome.

[@violetperry1827]

Your reviews always make me feel some kinda way. This was no exception. The analysis and insights to areas I hadn't really considered much before were great, and the ending with the little Bangel montage got me in the feels. I don't even like Buffy/Angel that much. How do you do this? 😂 Quick thing I noticed, you missed a few of the 'lesbian subtext' moments. When Buffy's tied up in the mansion Faith says both "Bondage looks good on you, B," and "If you're a screamer, feel free,". In regards to the whole Buffy/Faith relationship, to me it is the greatest 'what if'. Although so much would have changed and gone differently, I think it shows what a great show BTVS really is. Every tiny action changed would have a huge implication for the rest of the series, showing just how intricate and complicated the relationships and characters really are.

[@Orionglow]

I think that the first seasons created worlds of depth (with the little that the show creators had-budget wise, lack of experience etc), there was no need to have 3rd wheel, dead end characters like Dawn, Anya, and Tara, the 3 geeks, Glory, etc. But someone like Faith...wow....intricate complicated, good yet bad, her performance in the Angel cross over episode is amazing, where she breaks down and confesses and exposes her inner self her true issues to someone-wow it really moved me, it's one of the best moments of the series, it's as if I could learn from someone like her to be better, to lift myself up, despite feeling by the rocks (at rock bottom). The whole Angel and Buffy relationship...very interesting, Giles, Willow...*sighs***It was exciting to watch Buffy the show, unfortunately after "Dawn" and Willow outta the blue becoming gay, I lost interest in the show.

[@left8277]

I love how you call 'Good Angel' Angel, and 'Bad Angel' Angelus. Completely agree, I feel they're two different people.

[@RetepAdam]

If you postulate that Angelus is always present and is simply unleashed by Angel, then it raises some interesting questions about the nature of the soul in the series. Not just the fact that the soul is simply covering up the demon rather than replacing it, but also the fact that it would mean that the soul/conscious is strong enough to constantly keep the demon in check, since we never see Angelus unleashed without the soul vanishing (or Angel being drugged, but that's another story).

[@toshomni9478]

I loved this episode and your review of it is brilliant as always. Their plan would have worked perfectly if it weren't for Wesley and the other Scoobies busting in at just the wrong moment, which wouldn't have happened but for the chance encounter with Xander. It all happened so fast that they probably didn't have time to inform everybody and maybe they didn't know for sure if The Mayor had turned somebody else besides Faith or had the school and their homes bugged. Still a masterpiece regardless.

[@StLProgressive]

I’ve never had the thought that Angel might have been unleashing Angelus, mainly because if that were true, there would’ve been bodies on the floor. I loved the twist that the wizard(?) was working for Giles instead. Never saw that coming the first time I watched this episode, waaaaay back when it aired.

[@kaileylindsey5026]

Funny how the Godot line is the one that stands out to you in a negative way, when that's one of my favorites! Different strokes I guess!

[@sketch3744]

Seriously POTN you hit me in the feels every damn time.

[@davedave4779]

Where is the most important line? "I´m telling the council!"? :-D

[@bobgray6498]

Another great video. I can't get enough of these

[@JackKramme]

I remember watching this episode for the first time and being a little disappointed that Angelus wasnt back haha, I love Angelus as a character, he's just so much fun to have on screen and Boreanaz does a great job

[@PassionoftheNerd]

It's a bit of an anti-climax. He's the shows seminal super villain.

[@JackKramme]

Anti climax indeed. I think the wizardy necromancer dude looked cool aesthetically as well. And I like how he says something to Giles like "Do not summon me again"

[@vladimiramatejova1796]

i remember seeing it back then and when they were taking angels soul away and he was pleading with faith not to do it i was like omg no! not this again i want him happy with buffy. then at the end when it was revealed it was just acting i was so relieved. then the are you still my girl? and i was so sad for him again. poor angel anything he does ends up badly 😭 what a roller coaster this episode. i loved it

[@AMoniqueOcampo]

Yeah, this was where I started shipping Faith and Angel. I feel like Angelus was always part of Angel, cursed soul or not. But yeah, the twist felt contrived and I hated Buffy saying "Psych!" That catchphrase is SO dated and I'm a 90s kid! It's funny how Buffy had "Always" way before Severus Snape did for Lily. And look how well both couples turned out!

[@connorblake7487]

The soul/unsoul dilemma could be its own special video. Especially with regards to Angel and Spike. I'm sure you'll get there in Buffy season 7 and Angel season 5. But it's such an interesting conversation. Angelus is such an extreme, sadistic evil that with a soul he's a completely different person. While Spike is a nihilistic hedonist in every form. He's racked with guilt but does very little to distance himself from unsouled Spike (taking a new name, relocating, isolating himself, looking for redemption).

[@KitsuneRokaku]

I have to agree with you on the fact that the teens on Buffy weren't written like teenagers. Joss was a master at clever dialogue and other writers on the show would try to emulate his style. Some worked, most didn't. That's why when I write some of my stories, I try to emulate his style but I always remember that these are teenagers and weren't all very articulate😁 Another great analysis, good sir.

[@toshomni9478]

Buffy had to get those super high SAT scores somehow and she must have picked something up hanging around Willow and Giles and even Xander for all those years.

[@JLDReactions]

I'm glad they weren't. If they were regular teenagers, we would've been bored. Saving the world on a weekly basis forces you to grow up.

[@KitsuneRokaku]

Joshua Leonardo Fair enough. It's also I do love the writing on the show

[@Wednesdaywoe1975]

Adults believe teens are basically Neanderthals because you get what you give.

[@Bellatrux13]

"*sigh* He is my favorite..." I LOVE YOU!XD

[@PassionoftheNerd]

I know.

[@Bellatrux13]

It's a good thing you're humble about it!))

[@PassionoftheNerd]

I was going to go with "Han Solo" about it.

[@Bellatrux13]

Sure, cause a HanSolo-comeback never backfires...))

[@mimilorene4205]

Right in the feels 😭

[@lintahs8991]

Even though I ship Spuffy above everything else in this world, the ending of this review got me crying. The Bangel montage was very well done, thank you for that! Furthermore on the Angelus/Angel debate: I think that you're right with the thought that he is rather letting Angelus out than acting as if, due to several scenes in the Angel spin-off, where it is shown that Angelus is always present in Angel's mindset.

[@Frankie_Rayder]

Enemies is my favorite episode ever

[@nz_puddlehound1617]

1st so happy to have found this show! 2nd i love it when Angel punches Xander it made me happy...there was a lot of pay back in that punch!

[@JasonLives666]

Important episode in the series. Good review. Sets the course of events for the rest of the show. A lot of foreshadowing. - Angel's eventual exit from Sunnydale - Faith's downward spiral evolving and changing I didn't have much problem with Giles, Buffy and Angel duping Faith. Too often in TV nowadays they dupe the main character or 'heroes' too often in effort to show vulnerability and I get that and Buffy has already been duped a couple times already to this point in the series. Her outsmarting Kralick with no powers and outsmarting Faith here were real high points of the season for me with Buffy. It further illustrated that she could be intelligent without the use of a book or magic in her own hands. That she could think a couple steps ahead when need be. I would slightly agree that the lengths the 3 go to expose Faith are extreme, but the end point is what works for me.

[@atikahrockslikecrazy]

You just know how to bring on the Bangel feels... which makes me dread your season 4 reviews as you bring on the Spuffy feels :( ALL THROUGHOUT THE REST OF THE SERIES. DAMN YOU JOSS WHEDON.

[@ElforTheLandstander]

Geez, just because I commented on your recent Five by Five video KZbin keeps suggesting this. There, I’ve rewatched it! Are you satisfied, algorithm? Nice review, by the way.

[@benbrennan4953]

VERY satisfied to hear the Mayor is your favorite. He is easily my favorite big bad (along with Faith) because he oozes charisma, evilness and, like functioning citizens in society, fits in the community with great ninjaness.

[@AndySunshine1291]

I mean, everyone has to read Waiting for Godot in high school. The only thing that ever sticks with people is that Godot doesn't show up. I'm good with it.

[@cassierolemuch]

I love these videos!! Please keep making them!

[@Lava91point0]

I too, subscribe to the theory that Angelus is, and always has been underneath that heroic facade. It's only the soul/conscience that makes him different to other vampires. He CHOOSES nor to kill, the line to faith "not like me, you have a choice" for example. The temptation is always there, but unlike other vamps, the consequence of having blood on his hands is the deterrent. The fact he will have to live (so to speak) with his actions. Another bit of evidence, is In the season 1 episode Angel. When he tells Buffy "I wanted to kill you so bad tonight". God, i love this show, all the things you pick up on as an Adult, and the fact it's aged so well!!!

[@vladimiramatejova1796]

the "I wanted to kill you so bad" I remember just as "I wanted to kill you tonight" without the "so bad" but I havent seen it for a while. Still i think it is a result of creators not being completely decided yet how it all works. if you remember in s01e01 Angel says he is a friend but says " I didnt say I was yours" while he has no friends at the point. I read that creators were not even decided at that point that he is a vamp and were actually considering him being an actual angel. so in 01e07 I interpret it as they were not decided yet about some technicalities OR I wanted to kill you as i didnt have many more choices. Angel was at the corner he was exposed in the worst possible way with the slayer going after him for the personal reasons, he probably didnt expect her to believe him that he did not attack her mom or that he wasnt playing with her so the fight was inevitable. he would be depressed and resigned also as he was building his relation with her and lost it suddenly so he was again alone. he would either kill or be killed. it is possible he just resigned like what the hell i am a vamp i will behave like that i will never be anything more to ppl but he would not actually do it if it came to it. he was just contemplating it. there is also the possibility he said it to provoke her to kill him as he finally lost it and wanted to die OR to test her if she would actually do it. Angel and Angelus are two persons. Angelus sais in Orpheus " this is his life not mine" also something like "we are thirsty, we havent fed on a human for ages" using the "we". also in Innocence " your boyfriend is dead". also Angel doesnt remember the beast but Angelus does ( which is weird but still). yes Angelus is always underneath but separated. Angel feels what he feels and vice versa. that is the punishment: the demon is forced to feel compassion, love, guilt. Angel feels the thirst but would not kill as he is a human at his heart

[@Idanuboy]

notification was on point. 40 seconds after the upload ;)

[@alphanatestudios9240]

I actually fell for Angel lost his soul again. It is quite funny, I should have recorded my reaction and posted it on youtube. I am watching season 5 of Buffy. Two episodes till "The Body". I will finally figure out why it is a high rated episode. Season 5 is really good. A big step up from Season 4 (Thank god it's over) (Wait did I just thank Glory?)(Does that count as spoiler?)(I have to stop making these) I am really excited for Season 6. Btw THANK GOD RILEY IS GONE!!!! Another Btw Why do I keep seeing something called Dark Willow?

[@PassionoftheNerd]

DON'T READ THE COMMENTS. And season 5 is great. Season 6 is my favorite. Yes Riley blew. Good job getting through it. Hopefully you're having more consistent fun with the show now.

[@alphanatestudios9240]

Passion of the Nerd I am definitly having more fun now. I love Spike this season. I find the characters have more development than Season 4 and Buffy seems to be smarter than that season as well I like Dawn (Even though she can be a little anoying sometimes) I actually feel sad for this Season. There have been some dramatic moments every now and then and I feel they are welcome after the comedic stuff of Season 4. Why do I feel like I might become a crying puddle on the floor soon? I feel like the season is building to something..

[@alphanatestudios9240]

Passion of the Nerd Btw is it normal to be infuriated with Angel's actions in Season 2 of Angel?

[@PassionoftheNerd]

nathaniel filion-roy Yes. But it builds to a nice insight. Wait for Epiphany.

[@alphanatestudios9240]

Passion of the Nerd An Epiphany or an episode called Epiphany?

[@kellygingrich4302]

I think that Angel letting Angelus out makes sense contained in this episode and his character thus far, but taking Angel the series into account, I think he is capable of such performances, we just hadn't seen him do anything like that yet. We see him act undercover quite a bit later on.

[@BriarPatchNyra]

*Small correction their relationship is not platonic, it is abstinent, they are romantically together in some capacity, thus the date and kiss, they just aren't having sex. (Unless I missed something, which is possible, I'm only human xD )

[@CaptainTimeStories]

Never realized that Angelus was one of my favorite characters until this episode, yeah I noticed something was off with him but never figured he was still Angel. "second best" is also an amazing line. Faith's "dog" desire and chaining up of buffy really paralleled Willow calling Angel "dog" in the wish episode.

[@lisakristin1810]

The Godot reference was one of the few references I didn't find that far fetched, because it was covered in one of my classes in school. It doesn't feel unlikely to me that Buffy could recently have had a class on this and referenced it, even thought it's unlikely that she would read it in her spare time.

[@hannemanart]

The dialogue was the best part of the show! With references like Godot, I had no idea what it was until I looked it up on my own... I learned a lot from this show because of obscure references like that!