Buffy The Vampire Slayer: Ranking Every Season Finale From Worst To Best

Season 6 is an interesting one. Some Buffy fans love it whilst others find the darker tone an unwelcome change. Likewise, the Dark Willow storyline is not embraced by all. As over-the-top as Willow’s transformation is, however, there’s plenty of build-up throughout the season.

Grave wraps up Willow’s descent into evil, and unlike previous finales, Buffy isn’t the one who saves the day. Instead, it’s Xander who brings Willow back into the light, and their final conversation is wrought with emotion. It’s hard not to weep as the pair of them embrace at the end of the episode. Even those who dislike the Dark Willow storyline can’t deny the strength of the performances during this scene.

The rest of the episode is largely successful as well. Giles has plenty of great dialogue with Willow and it’s cool to see Dawn fighting alongside her sister. The only real issue is the subplot involving Spike. Though it’s by no means bad, it does feel like an unnecessary deviation from the main storyline. It would have been better to reserve Spike’s mission to regain his soul for the start of the next season.

Still, for the most part, Grave succeeds. Provided you don't detest the Dark Willow storyline, there are plenty of great moments here.