Tired of being labeled as the guy who kills people
Joss Whedon, The Avengers writer and director, took to Reddit yesterday to answer questions about anything and everything.
The discussion predictably turned to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the most successful Joss Whedon project, which became a critical and cult sensation.
Reddit user dbertie posted: “I’m sure that killing off a character you’ve invested a lot of time in can be tough. Have you ever found that doing this to a particular character has had a profound emotional affect on you? Who was the toughest kill?”
To which Joss Whedon replied: “I actually find it refreshing… delightful…. vaguely arousing….”
“Actually, I’m, no offense, very tired of being labelled as “the guy who kills people”. Shakespeare (he’s this hot new writer) does it way more than me, and everyone’s all excited about how he, as it were, holds a mirror up to nature, while I’m like the Jason Voorhees of the writing community. Unfair.”
Also, probably Buffy’s Mom.
Buffy’s mom, Joyce, died in The Body, in Season 5 of Buffy. The Body is powerfully moving and is regarded by many Buffy fans as one of the best episodes of television ever. The episode aired without any score or background music.
Joss Whedon is known for killing off beloved characters. Reddit user Carpaltunnelsnake by proposed an idea for a reality show playing off of this reputation:
“Reality show idea: I Survived a Joss Whedon Series.”
It’s an audience-driven adventure where 1 of 12 characters dies each episode, determined by audience voting. Joss Whedon plays the role of game master, helping drive the story along in the most complicated, interactive role playing adventure of a lifetime.
In the game of Whedon, you win or you die.
Currently, Joss Whedon is writing and directing The Avengers, which will premier May 4.
