Buffy The Vampire Slayer

It’s safe to say that a good portion of my teen years were spent watching "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," wishing I was on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" or talking about "Buffy the Vampire Slayer." It’s as close as one can get to obsession without receiving a visit from the state psychiatrist.

But I had good reason to obsess — anyone who’s actually devoted time to the show knows what a perception-changing effect it has on you. And while much of that credit goes to the grey matter residing inside Joss Whedon’s noggin, a lot of the show’s success had to do with Sarah Michelle Gellar’s always dazzling performance.

So, in honor of her 33rd birthday, I’d like to present my five favorite Buffy moments. (Note the lack of quotation marks, since I’m not citing the show’s best moments, but Buffy’s — or in some cases, Sarah’s.)

"Prophecy Girl," season 1

When news of her predestined death reaches Buffy, SMG turns in one of her finest performances and cements the show’s ability to handle drama as deftly as action and comedy.

"Prom," season 3

Ask any true fan what moment made their heart sigh the loudest and undoubtedly they will cite the scene when Jonathan presents The Slayer with her Class Protector Umbrella.

"Hush," season 4

Considering how much time she spent kicking ass and crying her face off, SMG never got proper credit for her top-notch comedy skills. And while this whole scene from the wordless episode is classic (hips!), this snippet includes my favorite sight gag from all seven seasons.

"Who Are You," season 4

This episode saw Faith steal Buffy’s body — and my favorite moment involves Sarah playing Faith, playing Buffy in the mirror.

Life Serial, season 6

The time loop Warren, Andrew and Jonathan trapped Buffy in during this test of her abilities gave SMG another chance to flaunt the funny when she was tasked with finding a particularly pesky paw.