Buffy without Joss Whedon?!?!?! Put an end to this travesty!

Sorry, excuse my fake outrage.

I'm a Joss Whedon fan. I've watched every episode of all his shows and I've read a good deal of his comics. But let's face it, Joss not being involved in the new Buffy movie isn't the end of the world and shouldn't be garnering so much attention.

Yes, Joss had a grand vision. Yes, it was executed with utter brilliance for seven seasons. It does not, however, mean that Joss Whedon is the end-all for all things Hollywood. Would it be optimal if Joss were involved? Sure, but that's not happening.There are perfectly capable writers, producers, and directors who could do a great job on a Buffy movie. That doesn't mean the movie will be great or even watchable, just that there are talented people everywhere, even some more--*gasp*--talented than Joss, and the end product could be something good. Until the movie is actually created and we see actual content, don't go off bashing anyone. Don't hold a grudge just because Joss isn't involved.

Remember: a franchise is about the title and nothing more. Was the new Star Trek movie faithful to the original series? Not in the least bit. Was it a good sci-fi movie? Absolutely. Was the reimagined Battlestar Galactica anything like the original? Probably less so than the new Star Trek. Was it a good television series? Definitely--one of the best ever. Likewise, just because there's a new movie with the Buffy tag doesn't mean it'll usurp anything Joss did. Buffy the Vampire Slayer the television series will proudly stand on its own and Buffy the Vampire Slayer the rebooted movie will stand on its own, either as a piece of crap, a work of genuis, or something in between.

I'll probably be stepping on lots of toes and maybe get a few angry comments, but Joss Whedon fans are caught in a self-reinforcing cycle. In their circle, they talk about how much of a genius he is and then when news like a new Buffy movie arises, they tighten the circle and attack anyone who dares challenge the great Whedon.

Joss doesn't own the franchise and has no legal right to do anything about it. Let Warner Brothers go ahead with the movie and we'll see what comes out. Then cast judgment.