Ep 6. Band Candy

In the episode "Band Candy" of Buffy the Vampire Slayer's third season, the town of Sunnydale is overrun by an unlikely threat: adults acting like teenagers. When the local candy factory distributes a new line of "Band Candy" to schools and businesses, the resulting sugar rush seems to send everyone into a frenzy of youthful behavior, and Buffy and her friends are left to figure out why.

As the chaos spreads, Buffy's mother Joyce becomes one of the victims and, unable to control herself, she joins her daughter's gang of misfit friends in their fight against the evil forces at play. Meanwhile, Principal Snyder finds himself acting like a lovesick teenager when he becomes infatuated with Joyce, much to the horror of both Buffy and his own secretary, who wishes he would act his age.

As the adults continue their descent into childlike behavior, Buffy and her friend Giles discover the true source of the strange candy: a demon who feeds on the immature behavior of humans. With the help of their band teacher, who proves himself to be more than he seems, the group sets out to defeat the demon and reverse the effects of the candy.

Throughout the episode, the characters deal with the consequences of acting impulsively and recklessly, and the dangers of indulging in youthful pleasures. Buffy in particular struggles with her own impulses as she tries to balance her responsibilities as a Slayer with her desire to act like a carefree teenager. Meanwhile, her relationship with her mother becomes strained as Joyce's transformation makes her see her own daughter in a new, more critical light.

In the end, the demon is defeated and the adults return to their normal selves, but not without consequences. Snyder and Joyce are left embarrassed by their behavior, while Buffy and Giles come to a deeper understanding of their roles as mentor and student. The episode ends with a touching scene between Buffy and her mother as they reflect on their relationship and the challenges they face ahead.

Overall, "Band Candy" is a lighthearted and fun episode that explores some deeper themes about growing up and taking responsibility for one's actions. With its mix of humor and heart, it's a standout entry in an already strong season of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.