5x20 Spiral

Lily Night as Gronx playing opposite Ben was the highlight of the first act. I don't know if I've ever seen her in anything else, but her comic deliver was perfect, and I swear I hear Joss' writing in this scene, especially given how badly the rest of the light dialog lands. Surely there's a Ben/Gronx fic out there somewhere? :smile:

I still don't like how things played out post Season 3, but Spike has actually become a fully sympathetic character at this point. I especially like the moments with Spike and Dawn. I can understand why Michelle had a crush on him, and now why Spike is such a beloved character. Even Xander starts warming up to him, despite himself.

Scoobie dialog and Giles' behavior in the first scene was terrible writing, however. There are a couple of good guest actors, but also some really terrible acting here. Having Sarah wear pleather in the dessert just seems sadistic. I still feel like the show is running on fumes at this point, plot-wise, and Joss' divided attention exists like a massive void in each episode.

I feel like we should’ve got the battle on camper van while being chased by warriors on horseback well before this.