The gradual shift towards turning the series into a romantic soap opera, perhaps in an attempt to broaden its demographic appeal to more female viewers, is halted in its tracks with this terrific episode, which re-writes the Buffy rulebook. Buffy and Angel have finally done the dirty deed, and now they're going to pay for it�

The two-part stories have traditionally tackled important events, and this is no exception. Marti Noxon's first solo script is a perfect example of good writing, and is replete with sharp dialogue and meaningful character development.

Director Michael Lange (who has also helmed episodes of The X-Files and American Gothic) handles every aspect of the production perfectly; getting perky performances from his cast, and creating contrasting moments of genuine tension and cosy intimacy.

Oz becomes a fully in-the-know member of the Scooby gang in this episode, graduating with his cool reaction to the news that vampires are real, and that a lot of them live in Sunnydale: "Actually, it explains a lot!"