MTV’s Video Music Awards show has become synonymous with the making of unforgettable television moments. The VMAs is a gold mine of pop culture, and each year it seems to strike it rich. This year’s VMAs was no different. The show was packed with big-name performers and, yes, even Britney Spears.

That’s right, she made it. But, her critics aren’t so sure it was the comeback her fans were hoping. And, for the most part they’re right. The response to the performance has been mostly a mix of negativity and disappointment.

Brittany Orr, a senior at UNC-Wilmington felt that Spears’ performance was one of bad taste.

“She was completely inappropriate for being a mother of two. I expected more from such a skilled performer,” she said.

No matter how you slice it though, Spears was obviously lip-synching, and even her dancing seemed more reminiscent of a pre-show run-through than of a full-blown Brit-ravaganza that almost everyone expected and wanted.

But, there were other stand-out performances as well.

Stacy Fuller, a junior at UNCW, said, “Chris Brown’s performance was my favorite of the night. He is such a talented performer. His dance moves are just incredible.”

Fuller added jokingly, “I want to learn how to do that.”

Justin Timberlake and Rihanna were by far the nights shining stars capturing more than five moon men between them.

Justin Timberlake won Quadruple Threat of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, Best Choreography for “My Love,” and Best Direction for “What Goes Around Comes Around,” according to MTV.com.

Rihanna took home the night’s most sought-after award, Music Video of the Year, along with Monster Single of the Year, according to MTV.com.

Beyonce and Shakira won this year’s Best Collaboration for “Beautiful Liar,” while Fall Out Boy walked away with a moon man for Best Group, according to MTV.com.

“Rihanna deserved it. She had a great year – and the video was amazing,” Fuller said.

For now though, the glitz and glamour have faded, the jaw-dropping, uniquely MTV performances are gone, the Palms Resort and Casino in Las Vegas has returned to normal (for Vegas), and this year’s VMAs has come to a close but won’t be easily forgotten.

Now, all there’s left to do is wait for the return of the moon man next year (or atleast until the MTV Movie Awards).