Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992)
1. How does the lm incorporate the key characteristic of a dark atmosphere?
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2. Does the lm include elements of psychological horror?
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3. How does the movie blend gothic traditions with modern (1990s) teen culture?
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4. Does the lm explore themes of alienation and/or anxiety? Where/how?
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5. What is Buffy’s role in her high school before she learns about her destiny as a vampire slayer?
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6. Why do you think the writers chose to name the protagonist ‘Buffy’?
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7. Describe Merrick's role in training Buffy. How does his character introduce her to the neo-gothic world of
vampires?
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8. Who is Lothos, and how is he depicted as a neo-gothic antagonist?
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9. In what ways does the lm use humour and camp to subvert traditional gothic tropes?
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10. How does Buffy challenge or conform to traditional representations of females in gothic narratives?
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11. Discuss the transformation of Buffy’s character from a stereotypical cheerleader to a heroic gure. What
does this suggest about female agency?
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12. How does the movie use Buffy's relationships with other characters (e.g., Pike, Merrick, her friends) to
highlight her growth as a slayer and as a person?
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13. Compare Buffy to other female characters in the lm. How are they portrayed in terms of strength,
intelligence, and independence?
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14. How does Buffy's femininity become a source of both vulnerability and strength? What message does
this send about gender roles?
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15. How does Buffy's attitude towards her role as a slayer change throughout the lm?
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