\'Buffy, the Vampire Slayer\'

"Buffy, the Vampire Slayer" is still one of the more imaginative and exciting television dramas. But this year's episodes have continued the slight slump in quality the show experienced last season. Although the producers have thankfully given up on the silly military vampire-fighting battalion, "The Initiative," traces of mediocrity still remain, mostly in the persona of Riley (Marc Blucas,) Buffy's boring, puppy dog-esque boyfriend).\nLast year's fantasy season finale was intriguing because it obtusely predicted big things for this year. One promise has already come true: the addition of Dawn (Michelle Trachtenberg), Buffy's younger sister. But is Dawn really Buffy's sibling? Hopefully the answer in whatever form will bring more surprises and a return to quality. And a fatal accident for Riley, if that isn't too much to ask.