Here we go. Our weekly countdown of all things awesome. This week...we have a count down of the top ten best episodes of the classic television series. Buffy The Vampire Slayer. Why you may ask? Well...the truth is...Buffy is cool and SDCC is stealing all of the cool stuff this week so there is nothing really relevant to talk about. However, one can never have too much Buffy.

What makes Buff the Vampire Slayer worthy of such a countdown is simply how brilliant the show is. Although it started as a simple monster of the week show with quirky dialogue and a female protagonist, Joss Whedon's pet project slowly evolved into a poignant and thought provoking show. Well written and often hilarious, the best episodes of Buffy are those that break the form. This was a show that inspired a legion of fans and changed the face of television for years to come.

10. Normal Again
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Normal Again presents a haunting "What if" plot that in many ways could have served as a deeply disturbing series finale. The central idea focuses around the concept that the entirety of the previous 5 seasons of the series occurred within Buffy's brain while she is in a coma. While the events really did take place, Buffy does struggle with her hold on reality. The episode also presents one of the most haunting endings of the entire series.

9. Chosen
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It may seem strange to see a series finale listed so low on a list of top ten episodes, but this does not change the fact that "Chosen" is a truly gripping hour of television.

With heart breaking character deaths and a powerful, satisfying conclusion to seven years worth of television and character building, "Chosen" stands as one of the most memorable episodes of the series.

8. The Zeppo
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I love episodes of Buffy that subvert the idea of the show to focus on something atypical. This is what the Zeppo does to brilliant degree.

What makes "The Zeppo" such an ingenious episode of the series is how it takes what could have been one of the most intense and gripping episode on its head, and instead pushes the A plot into the background. Xander's quest for acceptance becomes the main focus of the episode forcing the very real and very dangerous danger to become comical in its lack of focus.

Also, Xander played by Nicholas Brendon undergoes a brilliant character arc through the course of a single episode.

7. Becoming
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I have often found that the second season of Buffy contained the most involving overarching plot. Even though it already shined through its introduction of such classic characters as Spike and Drusilla, the really drama came in the form of the evolving relationship between Angel and Buffy. When the two come to blows in this brilliant season capper, the tension is powerful and gripping. It all ends with a tragic twist that in many ways is one of the most defining moments in the Buffy canon.

6. Conversations with Dead People
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"Conversations with Dead People" again subverts the Buffy formula to provide an episode that is presented as several short stories that represent separate aspects of the show. Buffy's encounter with a vamped up former class mate represents the shows humor. Dawn's encounter with the First Evil accents the horror. Willow's discussion's with an avatar of her dead lover, Tara, shows the series' clever dialogue. And Andrew and Jonathan's quest demonstrates the suspense.

This clever approach to the story creates a unique episode, but it is elevated to greatness by just how seamlessly they all mesh. Each is equally involving in its own way, but transitions happen regularly and without incident.

5. Once More with Feeling
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Here we go, the musical episode takes spot number five. Undoubtedly one of the most popular episodes of the entire series,"Once More with Feeling" is a truly memorable hour of television.

The town of Sunnydale erupts into song and dance following a curse enacted by a stylish demon.

"Once More with Feeling" is just alot of well crafted fun. The songs are clever and catchy. There are laughs to be had throughout. In short, its one of the best examples of wit and creativity in the series.

4. Restless
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One thing I disliked about Christopher Nolan's Inception was that despite the euphoria of the script, Nolan failed to truly capture the feeling of dreaming. This is what Whedon does in "Restless" to outstanding effect.

Funny, creepy, and endlessly clever, "Restless" follows the dreams of the Scooby gang while they are stalked by the spirit of the original slayer.

Presented as several different short stories like the season seven episode "Conversations with Dead People" "Restless" follows each specific character as they confront fears and changes in their lives. However, each sequence is conducted with beautifully accurate dream logic.


3. "The Gift"
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This season five finale in many ways is as climactic and tension filled as any of the previous season cappers. However, what sets "The Gift" apart from other finales is the truly dramatic and tragic ending.

In order to save her new found sister's life and prevent an oncoming apocalypse, Buffy plunges to her death in a swirling cloud of mystical energy.

Although Buffy's death is hardly permanent, "The Gift" treats this development in the series as more than a ratings gimmick. The event is given proper dramatic weight and the reaction of Buffy's friends, Spike in particular, is suitably heartbreaking.

2. "Hush"
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"Hush", the only episode of the series to nab an Emmy win for writing, is an achievement on all fronts. Although it in many ways plays out like a standard monster of the week episode, this season four installment, written and directed by series creator Joss Whedon, stands out for its novel premise and genuinely creepy villains.

A group of fairy tale beasts known as the Gentlemen arrive in town, and using a magical device render it mute. Forced to communicate through signs and writing, Buffy and her friends are forced to fight the horrifying group of villains and return speech to the town of Sunnydale.

The Gentlemen stand as the single most disturbing and best executed villains on the series' run. The twisted mime like creatures, float delicately through the air making simple smooth hand gestures.

However, "Hush" succeeds in its long dialogue free period. Comical, artful, and horrifying, Joss Whedon carries this episodes silent period to true writing genius in turn making it the second best episode of the series.

1. "The Body"
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Following the death of someone close to her, Buffy finds herself facing issues of mortality in loss in this spectacular hour of television. "The Body" is one of those shows that will never leave you once it has been viewed.

Buffy has often been lauded as a series that skillfully uses its fantastical backdrop to handle real life issues. However, "The Body" subverts that entire mindset by making the focus of the issue a mundane but tragic issue.

The artistic lack of music and dream like sequences accent the character's feelings of grief to a point of untouched upon realism in almost any form of media. Joss Whedon's writing and directing also create wonderfully long shots and sequences that never once detract from the gravity of the situation presented.

As for acting? Sarah Michelle Gellar and Emma Caulfield steal the show. Gellar's portrayal of an emotionally numb Buffy is gripping and powerful. Caulfield's is more of a surprise as Anya's lack of experience with reality leads to heartbreaking emotional collapse.

"The Body" is not only the best episode of Buffy The Vampire Slayer, but many (myself included) consider it to be one of the best hours of television ever made.

Although not the most revealing or interesting trailer ever released, Marvel has now released the teaser for the upcoming Joss Whedon directed Avengers adpatation.

Marvel has been dominating the film news airwaves these past few days. Despite the controversy surrounding Ed Norton and the recasting of the Hulk, both Avengers and the more child friendly adaptation of the award winning comic Runaways have begun production plans.

Production Weekly announced yesterday that Runaways, along with the second Clash of the Titans film and Sam Raimi's Oz The Great And Powerful, will begin filming early next summer. Coincidentally this is the same time that Joss Whedon has scheduled the Avengers to begin production.

Bleeding Cool has also announced that Whedon has begun location hunting in Manhattan, hoping to add a down to Earth feel for the film. Apaprently, work has also begun on designing the iconic S.H.I.E.L.D. Helicarrier's that will feature prominently throughout the movie.

After the rather disastrous Hulk film original released in 2003, Marvel released a tentative reboot in 2008. Titled the Incredible Hulk afte the classic comic series, the film placed Edward Norton (Fight Club) as the title character an was critically acclaimed but only enjoyed modest financial success. Due to plans announced prior to the film's release, it was assumed that Norton would continue his role into future films, including 2012's Joss Whedon directed Avengers adaptation. However, this no longer appears to be the case.

Originally announced by HitFix and later Marvel studios, Edward Norton will not be reprising his role as Bruce Banner in the Avengers. Marvel executive Kevin Feige issued the following statement about the announcement: "Our decision is definitely not one based on monetary factors, but instead rooted in the need for an actor who embodies the creativity and collaborative spirit of our other talented cast members. The Avengers demands players who thrive working as part of an ensemble, as evidenced by Robert [Downey], Chris [Hemsworth], Chris (Evans), Sam [Jackson], Scarlett [Johansson], and all of our talented casts. We are looking to announce a name actor who fulfills these requirements, and is passionate about the iconic role in the coming weeks." It is also reported that a replacement is to be announced at this year's San Diego Comic Con.

However, this statement was not well received by Norton and his agent, Brian Swardstrom. Swardstrom offered this rebuttal: "We know a lot of fans have voiced their public disappointment with this result, but this is no excuse for Feige's mean spirited, accusatory comments. Counter to what Kevin implies here, Edward was looking forward to the opportunity to work with Joss and the other actors in the Avengers cast, many of whom are personal friends of his. Feige's statement is unprofessional, disingenuous and clearly defamatory. Mr. Norton talent, tireless work ethic and professional integrity deserve more respect, and so do Marvel's fans."

While it is uncertain where exactly the debate will go next, Marvel is beginning its search for a replacement actor. CHUD claims that Marvel has approached Gladiator and Walk the Line acotr Joaquin Phoenix to play the tormented scientist in the upcoming Avengers film.

There are few movies out there bigger then the Avengers. With a critically acclaimed director attatched, and about half a dozen blockbuster superheroes it is easy to see why the film will lilkely be a success. However, with any big upcoming blockbuster there are rumors.


Comicbookmovie.com reported today that information has surfaced regarding the casting of Hank Pym (a.k.a Yellowjacket, Ant Man, Giant Man) and his sometimes wife Janet Van Dyne better known as the Wasp. Nathan Fillion, a regular of director Joss Whedon having starred in his cult classic sci-fi series Firefly, is negotiations to play the former while Eva Longoria (Desperate Housewives) will play that latter.


However, there is still heavy speculation on whether the characters will in fact appear as their super powered alter egos, or just as scientists for the government agency S.H.I.E.L.D.

There are few actors that are as praised in the nerd community then Nathan Fillion, star of Firefly, Dr. Horrible, and Castle. Now, Fillion looks to establish an even bigger cult following. Rumors began circulating today that Fillion will be starring as the super hero Ant Man in the upcoming Avengers film, coincidentally directed by Firefly creator Joss Whedon. The validity of this statement is unknown, but it has been picked up by Playlist Nation and Marvelous News, adding some credibility to an almost too good to be true rumor.

When it comes to Marvel Comics there is rarely a series as critically praised and awarded as Runaways. The popular teen comic, which follows a group of teenagers who discover that their parents are supervillains, has been awarded with Harvey, Eisner, and even YALSA awards for excellency in writing and quality. However, when the series is created by such sci-fi masterminds as Joss Whedon and Brian K Vaughan this doesn't come as a surprise.

It is little surprise that Marvel would want to capitalize on the ever popular comic series, and today Deadline.com is reporting that the series will in fact recieve a film production. The reported director is Peter Sollett, who is most famous for his work on Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist. No release date has been announced yet.