Buffy's mother is dead, and now Buffy must deal with the repercussions as her friends gather round to try to help.
Arguably the most powerful Buffy episode to date, The Body uses the skill of the writing and acting with no music to convey the horror of a sudden death that comes out of the blue. After lulling Buffy and the viewers into a false sense of security about Joyce's health, this episode knocks everything down around pretty much everyone as repercussions from her tumour lead to a sudden but fairly pain-free and quick death. A sudden 'natural' demise is a far better approach than a vampire attack or some such, and with the realistic reactions, it's incredibly powerful drama. There are flashbacks to happier times, Buffy reacting just like anyone would if they found their mother dead, rather than being her usual strong self, and each character gets some great moments.
Willow's reaction by not knowing what to wear and how to comfort Buffy is also beautifully natural, and the arrival of Xander and a huge hug between the pair is exactly how it should be. Willow and Tara's first onscreen kiss is underplayed and perfectly timed in relation to what's going on, and Anya's reaction to what has happened is so her and yet so incredibly touching as she learns how to deal with a new experience for her. All the cast play their scenes for all they're worth and the separate vignettes throughout are moving and all too likely. The scene in which Buffy tells Dawn what has happened with no sound is superb, as is the reaction of Michelle Trachtenberg afterwards.
The only aspect a little out of place is the vampire attack at the end, but I can see why this is important to show how they're not going to take a day off on Buffy's account. The Body really is, therefore, a flawless piece of emotional television, and should be marked down as a classic.
*****
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