DVD review - Buffy season 7 episodes 16 and 17

Continuing my viewing/reviewing of Buffy the Vampire Slayer season 7 (final season)....

SPOILERS

B7-16: Storyteller (written by Jane Espenson, airdate 2/25/03)

Loved the cheesy opening ala Masterpiece Theatre. Loved more Anya's comment that Jonathan should just do what everyone else does to relieve the tension. The "big board" returns with an overview for the documentary. Liked how Andrew knows how to charm Dawn, Anya and Xander a little bit. Getting the last two to talk about their feelings was a nice focus - they needed some closure. It is okay that they still love each other without being together. Meanwhile, the Seal is causing chaos at the school and the gang turns to Andrew to get the lowdown. Again, his stories aren't always full of the truth - but they learn enough to find out the language on the knife and how to close it forever. Nice twist of Buffy telling Andrew a story to get him to admit his murderous deed, to feel remorse, and to close the seal.

B7-17: Lies My Parents Told Me (written by Drew Goddard, airdate 3/25/03)

Enjoyed the 1977 flashback with more of Slayer Nikki Wood. We get to see old-school Spike who loves to taunt his prey before killing them. Her words to young Robin are echoed later "the Mission is what matters". Enjoyed the flashbacks with William/Spike a lot - as we get more details regarding his more "human" side. It all fits. I felt for him after he tried to help his mother only to have her throw it all back in his face with cruelty (though it was the demon talking). Good seeing Dru once more in a period scene too. I'm disappointed in Giles in that he worked with Robin Wood to try to get Spike out of the picture. That was wrong and it has likely cost him his relationship with Buffy (for now at least). Meanwhile, Spike takes a beating until he overcomes his personal grief that allowed the song trigger to work. In the end, Spike shows again that his soul has changed him - allowing Robin a free pass this time. It doesn't look like it is over yet, but Buffy makes it clear to Robin that she needs Spike and she is on Spike's side for this. Principal better watch his back.