Too often when discussing Buffy the Vampire Slayer, fans bring up the same episodes: “Hush,” “The Body,” and the musical extravaganza “Once More With Feeling,” to name a few. But beyond the fan-favorites, there is a trove of underrated episodes that showcase Joss Whedon’s storytelling prowess. These episodes may not always be in the spotlight, but they offer iconic moments across the board.
We’ve dug a little deeper through the seasons to find the more controversial and experimental episodes that stand on their own. One explores the darkness lurking within seemingly innocent teenagers, while another challenges Buffy’s limits as a Slayer. They may not contain the biggest plot propulsions, but these overlooked episodes are still worthy of a rewatch, especially before the Buffy reboot airs.
“Gingerbread” might be the least directly relevant episode of Season 3, but it’s an exceptionally enjoyable one. The story opens with panic in Sunnydale as a couple of children are found dead in a park. Out of the fear, a group called MOO (Mothers Opposed to the Occult) is born, which targets Buffy and her friends. It’s a spot-on critique of scapegoating and how fear can be used for control.
But the episode really shines in how much fun it is. Joyce naming her group “MOO” is hilarious, and while impaling the monster, we get the iconic Buffy line: “Did I get it? Did I get it?” Sure, the plot doesn’t heavily impact the season’s main arc, but it does set up future plotlines. Amy’s presence, hinted at in this episode, returns in Season 6 and affects Willow’s story. Regardless, the episode works as a standalone rewatch and a lesson about mob mentality with the characters in full form.
“Out of My Mind” often gets dismissed as filler, but it actually does a tremendous amount of work for the season and the show as a whole. In this Season 4 episode, Joyce meets Dawn for the first time and faints, which kicks off the challenges of the Summers family adjusting to a new reality. Riley loses his super strength, feeding into his growing insecurities, and sets up a tension that persists for the rest of the season.
At the same time, Spike comes to a clearer understanding of his feelings for Buffy, while Tara begins to notice the deeper implications of Willow’s increasing powers. The episode does more heavy lifting by introducing Ben, who will later become a key player in major storylines. In just one episode, multiple characters experience meaningful evolution and turning points in the plot. It’s deceptively packed and easily underrated because it isn’t flashy, but it lays the groundwork for key arcs later in the series.
“Helpless” is widely regarded as one of the saddest episodes of Buffy. It’s a tough watch that divided audiences, and many fans have admitted to skipping the episode upon rewatch. But others consider it an all-timer. On her eighteenth birthday, Buffy loses her Slayer powers due to a mystical trial known as the Cruciamentum, leaving her vulnerable to an ancient vampire. This loss forces Buffy to confront her own limitations and question her identity as the Slayer.
The tension with Giles is a big part of what makes the episode so great. He does what he thinks is right by letting Buffy face the challenge alone, only to realize how much danger she’s actually in. This conflict complicates and calls into question thier mentor-mentee relationship. The moment when Buffy is holding the holy water in her shaking hand, ready to use it against Kralik, is worth the price of admission alone. Kralik himself is terrifying, making Buffy’s triumph even more delicious. But “Helpless” ultimately reminds us that what keeps Buffy alive is her brains, instincts, and sheer force of will.
Which underrated Buffy episode would you add to the list? Drop a comment below!
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