FOX  HOME ENTERTAINMENT has released the third season of the hit show, "BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER."  Each season of the show continues to get better, and as of 2003, "SEASON 3" was the best season for the show.  A lot of major things happen in this season, even when compared to others.  The Mayor's evil plans for Sunnydale, as well as the world, appear to be coming to fruition. Relationships become even more complicated, and, oh yes, of course, there are may more monsters!!!

In spite of its intentional and necessary "horror" overtones, there's a lot of dramatic depth to the series, and "season 3" in particular. The writing here, is outstanding!  Each episode feels as it should be, built upon the last.  And, while those jumping into any given episode may feel a bit lost, will still become an active participant in that particular episode's dramatic tension, by its conclusion.  There are so many great episodes in this season, but "THE ZEPPO" and "CONSEQUENCES" stand out among the best of any season so far! 

Other episodes include:  Anne, Dead Man's Party, Faith Hope & Trick, Beauty & the Beasts, Homecoming, Band Candy, Revelations, Lover's Walk, The Wish, Amends, Gingerbread, Helpless,  Bad Girls, Doppelgangland, Enemies, Earshot, Choices, The Prom, and Graduation Day Parts 1 & 2.

The third season, offers a much improved image over previous ones.  Although grain is annoying at times, it's much less of a problem than in season 2.  Colors are more consistently rich as well.  Contrast is fine, although a bit disappointing.  There are many night scenes in the series, and the black/gray detail could be vastly improved.  Many of these scenes lack the definition, so impressive in other scenes.  Fleshtones appear natural throughout.

FOX has presented the season with a DOLBY 2.0 Surround mix.  While the previous seasons offered entertaining mixes, they were much less aggressive than what's presented here. Even without "5.1," this soundmix is dynamic!  Directional and surround effects are used effectively in every episode.    Dialogue is always intelligible and free from distortion. 

As with the two previous boxed sets, there are plenty of extras here!  The show's creator, Joss Whedon offers a variety of interviews for several episodes.  There are various featurettes, but our favorite is the too short "BUFFY SPEAK," in which the writers express the difficulties in keeping up with the teen-oriented jargon of today. 

There are four great commentaries provided with this season. Our favorite, "BAD GIRLS," offers writer Doug Petrie to discuss the subtext to the show. He's got a lot of personality and is engaging throughout.  Another episode, "HELPLESS," will intrigue aspiring writers, as it really delves into the mechanics of plot and structure.  For some unexplained reason, the script to "HELPLESS" isn't included here.  But, there are copies of scripts for "THE WISH,"  LOVER'S WALK," BAND CANDY" and "FAITH HOPE AND TRICK."