Buffy The Vampire Slayer

A strong start for a new generation of slayers.

Welcome back, Buffy fans. I’m guessing you’re as glad to return to this universe (or perhaps far happier judging by some of your websites). Do you want the good news or the good news? We’ll start with the good - Season Eight is off to a great start. The other good news? It’s only going to get better. Those loyal to the Slayers are going to be thrilled with this "season premiere." Those new to the brand will enjoy themselves though won’t find themselves absolutely hooked (yet).

We find ourselves joining Buffy on a raid, one year after the destruction of Sunnydale, her former hometown. Our familiar cast has been spread across the world. Writer/creator Joss Whedon carefully introduces select characters in this first chapter - others will appear throughout this "season." This "One Year Later" jump has allowed Whedon to rearrange everyone. You will not find anyone in a remotely similar situation. Buffy now finds herself as a general of sorts, leading hundreds of slayers. I won’t spoil who is still with her and what they’re doing as fans of the show will love discovering that.

The only "disappointment" with this eighth season is that there really isn’t much of a hook to keep going. This is a very basic story designed to simply sketch out this new world. That’s fine, but it also means that you’re not necessarily going to be clamoring for the next book. Clearly the Buffy zombies will be, but that’s merely out of obsession and not the plot. There’s nothing specifically wrong with this story; it’s just there. Losing the actors for characters on paper is also a bit of a detriment as a strong emotional element is lost.

Artist George Jeantys does a wonderful job on the art. Characters look how they’re supposed to, emotions are well done, page construction is solid and the monsters are oh so wicked. Jeantys brings a mixture of real life practicality and zany cartoons. It helps capture the feel of the property as it has always been a mix of action/drama and pure comedy. Cover artist Jo Chen is immaculate with her work. I’d also caution that Chen and Jeantys have drastically different styles. Do not expect the art inside to be what it is on the outside, and don’t hold one against the other. Both styles have their place. I would be astonished if a painter like Chen could reliably deliver a monthly comic on the scope that Whedon and his team would demand.

So the first issue of Buffy is a strong start, but it’s just a start. Anyone expecting a villain comparable to the classic roster is wishing for too much. Anyone wanting precisely what the show offered is going to be let down too. Allow yourself to be taken in this new direction given the fact that you love these characters (or will love them if you’re new). Don’t let experiences of the past cloud your judgment. Season eight is meant to embark on a new journey. It’s not incredible yet, but if the past has taught us one thing it’s to trust Joss Whedon.