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Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2019) #4
Buffy the Vampire Slayer #4
This is the issue no BUFFY fan can miss! In the shocking conclusion of the first story arc of the most-anticipated reVAMP of 2019, someone from the Scooby gang must make the ultimate sacrifice. And don’t miss the massive first appearance that will have everyone talking!
32 pages, ebook
First published April 3, 2019
8 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
Jordie Bellaire
1,160 books170 followersJordie Bellaire is an American comic book colorist and writter who lives in Ireland and works for DC, Marvel, Valiant, and Image comic book publishers. She has colored Pretty Deadly, The Manhattan Projects, Moon Knight, The Vision, Magneto, Nowhere Men, Hawkeye, Batman, among other titles. As a writer, her most famous works are Redlands and the reboot of Buffy The Vampire Slayer.
Bellaire is credited with starting the "Comics are for everybody" initiative to make the comic book community more inclusive and compassionate.
Bellaire is credited with starting the "Comics are for everybody" initiative to make the comic book community more inclusive and compassionate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
September 1, 2019
★★★★★ — 5 Stars!
A dark chapter in this ongoing saga ends in a cliffhanger leaving me dying for the next one.
A dark chapter in this ongoing saga ends in a cliffhanger leaving me dying for the next one.
April 19, 2019
If Xander is the new Jesse, I’m ok with that. Bold move though.
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March 28, 2024WHAAAAAAAAAAAT JUST HAPPENED
☆ Book Reviews | Bluesky | Twitter | Threads ☆
☆ Book Reviews | Bluesky | Twitter | Threads ☆
April 29, 2019
You can't leave it on a cliffhanger like that!?
April 20, 2019
It's steadily gone downhill, writing wise. To the point in which I've just about decided to give up on it.
The problem is that the writer is not telling the story directly. She skips time.
Relies too heavily on the readers pre-existing knowledge of the series and characters (much like fanfic writers do, actually), which would be fine -- if the characters were closer in their behavior to those in the series (they aren't). And the story followed the canon, it doesn't. You can't veer that far away from canon and just skip to the fun parts in your story, without any build up. It's jarring.
Don't do this people. It's lazy writing. It's bad enough that you are playing in someone else's sandbox with their toys and getting paid for it, without forgetting to build up to your major plot points in a satisfying way.
I don't care what happens to these characters. They bear little resemblance to the one's I knew. And I have not had time to invest in their relationship with each other, to care what happens. You can't push the reader into the center of the action without some character development -- even if the characters are based (and rather loosely in this case) a television series.
If it weren't for the great art, I'd have given up a while ago. The art is the best that I've seen for the Buffy comics. It's very complimentary to the actors -- they actually look better here than they did on screen. I know, go figure.
But the writing is getting worse with each issue. Some of the dialogue is cringe-inducing. Buffy actually says the words "Jeez, Louise" - eh, no.
And while the art is great for the most part, Joyce and Drusilla do not bear any resemblance to the actors who played them. Nor for that matter does Robin Wood, but that appeared to be deliberate.
Rating? Not really worth your time or the price of admission. I gave it two stars because the art is still very good. But the writing and plotting and characterization leave something to be desired.
The problem is that the writer is not telling the story directly. She skips time.
Relies too heavily on the readers pre-existing knowledge of the series and characters (much like fanfic writers do, actually), which would be fine -- if the characters were closer in their behavior to those in the series (they aren't). And the story followed the canon, it doesn't. You can't veer that far away from canon and just skip to the fun parts in your story, without any build up. It's jarring.
Don't do this people. It's lazy writing. It's bad enough that you are playing in someone else's sandbox with their toys and getting paid for it, without forgetting to build up to your major plot points in a satisfying way.
I don't care what happens to these characters. They bear little resemblance to the one's I knew. And I have not had time to invest in their relationship with each other, to care what happens. You can't push the reader into the center of the action without some character development -- even if the characters are based (and rather loosely in this case) a television series.
If it weren't for the great art, I'd have given up a while ago. The art is the best that I've seen for the Buffy comics. It's very complimentary to the actors -- they actually look better here than they did on screen. I know, go figure.
But the writing is getting worse with each issue. Some of the dialogue is cringe-inducing. Buffy actually says the words "Jeez, Louise" - eh, no.
And while the art is great for the most part, Joyce and Drusilla do not bear any resemblance to the actors who played them. Nor for that matter does Robin Wood, but that appeared to be deliberate.
Rating? Not really worth your time or the price of admission. I gave it two stars because the art is still very good. But the writing and plotting and characterization leave something to be desired.
February 25, 2022
Holy fuck this is getting good. I just think we need to protect Xander at all costs!
April 18, 2019
There's a lot going on in this one, hints about Spike's discontent with Dru, Xander coping with the changes in his life and still feeling lonely about it, Cordelia's daydream (I mean who wouldn't?) but then they hit you at the end with a familiar face doing what he does best (lurking in shadows) and I'm a little worried for what's to come.
June 12, 2019
If you like cry baby Xander then this is the comic for you. I don't care for him or the surprise vampire lurking who is ALSO cry baby when he's not in Los Angeles.
September 30, 2020
Well that took a turn!
Buffy goes out on a date, and Spike uses Buffy's phone to lure Xander into a trap. Also, that final panel shows a certain vampire with a soul is back in Buffy's life.
Buffy goes out on a date, and Spike uses Buffy's phone to lure Xander into a trap. Also, that final panel shows a certain vampire with a soul is back in Buffy's life.
April 28, 2019
Yeeeeah. I'm done. This sucks so freaking much. Ruined. Just ruined.
June 24, 2021
I'm just going to watch the show.
March 5, 2025
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: High School is Hell marks the beginning of Boom! Studios‘ 2019 reboot of the iconic television series.
As a lifelong Buffy enthusiast, I approached this reboot with genuine excitement, anticipating a modern reimagining that would explore familiar themes through a contemporary lens. Unfortunately, this initial volume left me deeply disappointed.
Misinterpretation of “Reboot”
My primary frustration stems from the perceived disconnection between the promised reboot and the actual execution. Instead of a fresh start, the comic feels more like an alternate universe, a remix of familiar elements with significant alterations to character dynamics and established lore. This feels less like a thoughtful modernization (reboot) and more like a jarring re-arrangement (variation).
Accelerated Character Development
The characters appear to have bypassed crucial developmental stages, arriving fully formed with established traits. This rapid progression diminishes the opportunity for organic character growth and emotional investment. For this reason, the narrative suffers from a lack of depth, rushing through plot points without allowing them to really develop.
Willow‘s immediate portrayal as an out, magically proficient character bypasses the nuanced exploration of her journey of self-discovery, which was a vital part of the original series. The metaphorical connection between her magical development and her sexuality is lost. The fact that her friendship with Xander is discarded is also a major negative point.
Xander’s Transformation
The decision to transform Xander into a vampire, effectively replacing Jesse, is a significant point of no return. While I acknowledge Xander’s often-contentious role in the original series, his removal disrupts the core dynamic of the Scooby Gang. It’s possible that Xander’s diminished storyline resulted from a combination of factors: the influence of woke culture, far too visible in the story, and the actor’s past controversies (he was accused of domestic violence). The unpopular choice to replace him with Robin Wood did not help at all.
Spike and Angel
The simultaneous presence of Spike and Angel vying for Buffy’s attention undermines the carefully constructed tension of the original series. This feels like fan service, and not good storytelling.
Cordelia’s Character Shift
Cordelia‘s sudden shift to kindness feels out of character. Moreover, her increased interactions with Spike raise concerns about a potential romantic subplot, which would be an unwelcome deviation from the original series.
Positive Aspects
- Buffy’s Authenticity: Buffy’s portrayal remains faithful to the original character, providing a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. This is a significant strength of the reboot.
- Drusilla’s Reimagining: Drusilla’s portrayal as a cunning and manipulative villain, rather than a purely chaotic force, is an intriguing and positive change.
- The artwork is visually appealing, with detailed illustrations. However, the inclusion of seemingly random panels that exploit the TV series’ popularity feels like a marketing ploy rather than a narrative enhancement.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: High School is Hell presents a radical departure from the established Buffyverse. While some may appreciate the bold changes, I found them to be detrimental to the essence of the original series. People who have a deep connection with the original tv show, will most likely have a hard time with the changes presented in the comic.
As a lifelong Buffy enthusiast, I approached this reboot with genuine excitement, anticipating a modern reimagining that would explore familiar themes through a contemporary lens. Unfortunately, this initial volume left me deeply disappointed.
Misinterpretation of “Reboot”
My primary frustration stems from the perceived disconnection between the promised reboot and the actual execution. Instead of a fresh start, the comic feels more like an alternate universe, a remix of familiar elements with significant alterations to character dynamics and established lore. This feels less like a thoughtful modernization (reboot) and more like a jarring re-arrangement (variation).
Accelerated Character Development
The characters appear to have bypassed crucial developmental stages, arriving fully formed with established traits. This rapid progression diminishes the opportunity for organic character growth and emotional investment. For this reason, the narrative suffers from a lack of depth, rushing through plot points without allowing them to really develop.
Willow‘s immediate portrayal as an out, magically proficient character bypasses the nuanced exploration of her journey of self-discovery, which was a vital part of the original series. The metaphorical connection between her magical development and her sexuality is lost. The fact that her friendship with Xander is discarded is also a major negative point.
Xander’s Transformation
The decision to transform Xander into a vampire, effectively replacing Jesse, is a significant point of no return. While I acknowledge Xander’s often-contentious role in the original series, his removal disrupts the core dynamic of the Scooby Gang. It’s possible that Xander’s diminished storyline resulted from a combination of factors: the influence of woke culture, far too visible in the story, and the actor’s past controversies (he was accused of domestic violence). The unpopular choice to replace him with Robin Wood did not help at all.
Spike and Angel
The simultaneous presence of Spike and Angel vying for Buffy’s attention undermines the carefully constructed tension of the original series. This feels like fan service, and not good storytelling.
Cordelia’s Character Shift
Cordelia‘s sudden shift to kindness feels out of character. Moreover, her increased interactions with Spike raise concerns about a potential romantic subplot, which would be an unwelcome deviation from the original series.
Positive Aspects
- Buffy’s Authenticity: Buffy’s portrayal remains faithful to the original character, providing a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. This is a significant strength of the reboot.
- Drusilla’s Reimagining: Drusilla’s portrayal as a cunning and manipulative villain, rather than a purely chaotic force, is an intriguing and positive change.
- The artwork is visually appealing, with detailed illustrations. However, the inclusion of seemingly random panels that exploit the TV series’ popularity feels like a marketing ploy rather than a narrative enhancement.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer: High School is Hell presents a radical departure from the established Buffyverse. While some may appreciate the bold changes, I found them to be detrimental to the essence of the original series. People who have a deep connection with the original tv show, will most likely have a hard time with the changes presented in the comic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2019
Oh man! There’s so many things I like about the changes to this story. One, Buffy’s mom having someone special in her life from the jump. Not only that, but someone who pays attention to Buffy enough to notice the bruises and broken bones she comes home with. This does set up an interesting juxtaposition to Xander’s own life. Even in the tv show, he had a distant relationship with his parents (from my research his dad dealt with alcoholism and his mother with an undefined mental health issue and both were abusive towards him).
Everyone seems to have someone and something. Buffy has slayer duties and is interested in Robin. Willow this time around has a girlfriend and you see her pulling an occult book from the shelf. Xander kind of floats through life feeling lonely and desperate for affection to the point he’d actually believe that Buffy’s lost phone (two weeks!) would just pop up and she’d bail on plans with the group to just see him. It’s sad but there has always been a deep sadness in Xander despite his penchant for humor.
Will he be turned? Will Angel step in? Talk about a face I was happy to see! What is Spike and Dru’s end game here? Still very much a fan of the writing and can’t wait for Issue #5!
Everyone seems to have someone and something. Buffy has slayer duties and is interested in Robin. Willow this time around has a girlfriend and you see her pulling an occult book from the shelf. Xander kind of floats through life feeling lonely and desperate for affection to the point he’d actually believe that Buffy’s lost phone (two weeks!) would just pop up and she’d bail on plans with the group to just see him. It’s sad but there has always been a deep sadness in Xander despite his penchant for humor.
Will he be turned? Will Angel step in? Talk about a face I was happy to see! What is Spike and Dru’s end game here? Still very much a fan of the writing and can’t wait for Issue #5!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2024
Did I mention that I AM a big fan of anything "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" as well as anything to do with its spinoff, "Angel?" Did I also mention how much I love local public libraries?
I have no doubt I did, on both counts, previously. However, let me say I love Hoopla Digital, because, it saves me money and it gives me the opportunity to spend time reading comic books, which is something I do not make enough time to do, although that has been changing, obviously.
I love this "reVAMP" of the Buffyverse's stories, and so enjoying this one. Jordie Bellaire absolutely has a new fan in me.
Also, we saw a "new" character show up in this issue. But I promise, as Dr. River Song of "Doctor Who" often said, "No spoilers!"
I have no doubt I did, on both counts, previously. However, let me say I love Hoopla Digital, because, it saves me money and it gives me the opportunity to spend time reading comic books, which is something I do not make enough time to do, although that has been changing, obviously.
I love this "reVAMP" of the Buffyverse's stories, and so enjoying this one. Jordie Bellaire absolutely has a new fan in me.
Also, we saw a "new" character show up in this issue. But I promise, as Dr. River Song of "Doctor Who" often said, "No spoilers!"
October 26, 2020
NO XANDER!!!!! He's not dead so no spoilers, but I worry about him, he's so lonely in these comics and I forgot how he was like that early in the show. His character is one that very much relied on love so those few episodes where he's not dating someone always throws me through a loop, even though he has TERRIBLE TASTE IN WOMEN. Alright, I still love it, it's weird seeing Joyce had a boyfriend but I guess if it's more current then maybe???
June 27, 2019
The gang would immediately try to track down Xander, especially since he never answered Willow's texts! Giles does not sound like Giles!!!!
I'm going to be cliché: #notmyBuffy.
These are continually getting worse. I can already predict what is going to happen with Xander and I highly question the writer's supposed admiration to the original source material.
I'm going to be cliché: #notmyBuffy.
These are continually getting worse. I can already predict what is going to happen with Xander and I highly question the writer's supposed admiration to the original source material.
June 29, 2019
Boy, this story isn't playing around.
There's plenty to talk about with this issue, such as the lovely conversation Buffy has with her mums boyfriend, THAT appearance, and how nice it is to see these characters just having a good time outside of Slayer duties. But my mind is solely focused on the bild choice Jordie Bellaire made, and what it means going forward.
I love this series.
There's plenty to talk about with this issue, such as the lovely conversation Buffy has with her mums boyfriend, THAT appearance, and how nice it is to see these characters just having a good time outside of Slayer duties. But my mind is solely focused on the bild choice Jordie Bellaire made, and what it means going forward.
I love this series.
July 15, 2019
Xander as a brooding, emo character is even more displayed now. If you've read the Buffy novels before, he was actually very emotional and kind of bland. Nicholas Brendon just gave him a lot of charm. Here, the same teenage Xander is portrayed. I appreciate this vulnerable side to him. Hopefully this will be a great arc for a beloved character.
April 18, 2019
On point
This issue flew, and I'm left feeling sad because Xander is so sad this time around. I really want him find himself. Hopefully Angel will save him, if he isn't doomed all ready.
This issue flew, and I'm left feeling sad because Xander is so sad this time around. I really want him find himself. Hopefully Angel will save him, if he isn't doomed all ready.
May 5, 2019
While I must once again admit that I'm not much of a Buffy buff, I'm really enjoying this series. The pages can feel a little chaotic sometimes, but the story is appropriately sensible and the characters are fun, and I assume true to the original series.
May 19, 2019
OMG this changes everything!! This series was already good, but I love that Jordie Bellaire dared to twist things up this much. I can't wait to see how this affects and effects the Scooby Gang dynamic and also the whole Cordy/Anya/Dawn romances.
February 2, 2024
Oooh did not expect that!!
I enjoy reading the comics, they are much shorter than the books I'm used to, and go by so fast. They are so good though. I'm not sure about the new directions but we'll see where it goes.
I enjoy reading the comics, they are much shorter than the books I'm used to, and go by so fast. They are so good though. I'm not sure about the new directions but we'll see where it goes.
April 19, 2019
This just keeps getting better and better!
April 21, 2019
Ugh, cliffhanger until June!?! That's just cruel. But will Angel save Xander or will he be turned, which is what I've been predicting since the second issue or so...
April 26, 2019
Not as bad as the previous issues but still ... not good.
May 9, 2019
FINALLY! I've been waiting for this character to show up! The ending- that escalated quickly.
May 10, 2019
The end of the first story arch is hurtful and a cliffhanger. I look forward to seeing where they go with this after I get over being upset about my boy.
May 10, 2019
Dayyymmmmnnnn...what a cliffhanger....
May 14, 2019
xander O:
May 19, 2019
Ah, Xander, honey, I'm sorry but I just don't give a f* about your whiny white boy ass. I've already written my comic shop to cancel this subscription. Sorry guys. Not for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews