US TV
Show
“ Dollhouse ”
'Dollhouse': The Verdict
Published Sunday, Feb 22 2009, 08:00 GMT | By Ben Rawson-Jones | 29 comments
Fans of Buffy and Firefly will be fully aware that when the words 'Written and Directed by Joss Whedon' flash up on the screen at the start of any given episode, it's a surefire sign of quality. Sadly, this is not the case for Whedon's handling of the opening Dollhouse episode, which is largely an uninvolving mess. It's hard not to feel like a passive bystander to the onscreen events, such is the lack of any compelling dramatic hook, and the show looks like little more than an excuse for lead Eliza Dushku to play dress-up and make believe.
A cryptic chat between Echo and her stiff upper-lipped boss (Olivia Williams) opens proceedings and hints at a compelling backstory. Yet then we're quickly whisked off to a couple of painfully long sequences featuring Echo racing round on a motorbike and dancing around to Lady GaGa on a dancefloor with the man of her dreams. These happy memories are soon erased when her team extracts her from her location.
The problem here, and the rest of the episode, is that there's no reason to care for Echo's predicament or fate. A few hints about her and the 'Dollhouse' organisation's circumstances are thrown in along the way, but are simply not compelling enough to hook viewers into the on-screen events. Alongside failing to successfully establish the show's premise, a self-contained story featuring the abduction of a 12 year-old girl fails to impress.
Dollhouse throws up plenty of questions, but fails to make us crave answers in the same manner that a vaguely similar show like Alias managed to do in the space of its opening few minutes. It's early days for Joss Whedon's new show and it deserves time to develop and expand upon its central ideas, but the omens are not good given its soulless opener. One can't help but wonder how vastly superior the original pilot that Fox rejected is.
> Have you seen Dollhouse? Share your verdict
Your Views
29 Comments
Your Responses
Sam B, on March 3rd, 2009
I disagree. I'm halfway through the third episode of Dollhouse, and I love it. Whedon is dialling back the wit, yes, but he's concentrating on building something, something that is both dramatically satisfying and, yes, witty and punchy and all that jazz. It should be said at this point that I'm something of an atypical Whedon fan.I didn't like Firefly because of the humour, I liked it because it let the humour take a back seat to the characterisation, something that should always be lauded in a humorous drama series. Firefly was a shift in his writing, I think, a shift towards a more adult and satisfying humour that really connects the characters with whatever pithy lines they're spitting out at any one time. I recently re-watched Buffy when my brother got the entire series for Christmas, (The lucky, lucky b*****d). It hasn't aged well. The transitions between funny and maudlin are jarring, and towards the end of the series, the balance falls far too much towards "drama". Dollhouse is measured, carefully paced and intriguing. Yes, it lacks the zappy 'in-your-face' wit of your Angels and your Buffies, but it's more mature, more adult and more real. And I *like* Echo! Why not? The character being different every episode is not a sign of weak writing. It's a sign of courageous writing. Congratulations to Joss Whedon for being one of the very few writers in the world with the stones to *not* give the people what they want.
I disagree. I'm halfway through the third episode of Dollhouse, and I love it. Whedon is dialling back the wit, yes, but he's concentrating on building something, something that is both dramatically satisfying and, yes, witty and punchy and all that jazz. It should be said at this point that I'm something of an atypical Whedon fan.I didn't like Firefly because of the humour, I liked it because it let the humour take a back seat to the characterisation, something that should always be lauded in a humorous drama series. Firefly was a shift in his writing, I think, a shift towards a more adult and satisfying humour that really connects the characters with whatever pithy lines they're spitting out at any one time. I recently re-watched Buffy when my brother got the entire series for Christmas, (The lucky, lucky b*****d). It hasn't aged well. The transitions between funny and maudlin are jarring, and towards the end of the series, the balance falls far too much towards "drama". Dollhouse is measured, carefully paced and intriguing. Yes, it lacks the zappy 'in-your-face' wit of your Angels and your Buffies, but it's more mature, more adult and more real. And I *like* Echo! Why not? The character being different every episode is not a sign of weak writing. It's a sign of courageous writing. Congratulations to Joss Whedon for being one of the very few writers in the world with the stones to *not* give the people what they want.
Vicky, England., on March 1st, 2009
Dollhouse is one of the best serieses around at the moment. Thus far the first three episodes have been truly amazing and the only thing I would say is it's lacking some of the Joss charm and wit.
Dollhouse is one of the best serieses around at the moment. Thus far the first three episodes have been truly amazing and the only thing I would say is it's lacking some of the Joss charm and wit.
Kent, Aberdeen, on February 27th, 2009
The show had a semi-decent premise to it(Even if it got beaten to the punch by the far superior if ill fated 'My own worst enemy') but clearly Fox had the show so badly neutered during the delay/watering down period that it's now a mere shadow of what it was originally supposed to be. You need only look at how dull and witless the dialogue in the show is. Given how incredibly sharp Joss Whedon's shows are usually written, it's clear his heart isn't really in this one any longer. Guaranteed cancellation before it hits episode 10. I'd put money on it.
The show had a semi-decent premise to it(Even if it got beaten to the punch by the far superior if ill fated 'My own worst enemy') but clearly Fox had the show so badly neutered during the delay/watering down period that it's now a mere shadow of what it was originally supposed to be. You need only look at how dull and witless the dialogue in the show is. Given how incredibly sharp Joss Whedon's shows are usually written, it's clear his heart isn't really in this one any longer. Guaranteed cancellation before it hits episode 10. I'd put money on it.
mark, amblecote, on February 24th, 2009
I suspect that the fact that Fox ordered a second pilot (the original pilot became episode 4) and halted production for a month means the show won't survive beyond it's first series, ala Firefly. Also it doesn't help that the premise is ripped from Ghost in the Shell...pity really, but that's the reality of TV these days.
I suspect that the fact that Fox ordered a second pilot (the original pilot became episode 4) and halted production for a month means the show won't survive beyond it's first series, ala Firefly. Also it doesn't help that the premise is ripped from Ghost in the Shell...pity really, but that's the reality of TV these days.
Harriet, Nottingham, on February 23rd, 2009
Episode 2 is a MASSIVE improvement on the pilot with a lot more background story and interesting questions raised. I was disappointed after the first episode but now I can't wait to see more!
Episode 2 is a MASSIVE improvement on the pilot with a lot more background story and interesting questions raised. I was disappointed after the first episode but now I can't wait to see more!
B, Nottingham, on February 23rd, 2009
I'm reserving judgement until I've seen a few more episodes. It's a pretty far-fetched premise, but then good television often requires a suspended sense of disbelief. Buffy was hardly gritty realism. So far I have been disappointed by the lack of Whedon-esque wit and one-liners but that element will hopefully come in time. Another thing lacking which Joss Whedon normally does brilliantly is character development, and it's not really possible to do much of that in two episodes. I'm not sure it's possible to do it when your main protagonist is getting mind-wiped every episode either, but time will tell...
I'm reserving judgement until I've seen a few more episodes. It's a pretty far-fetched premise, but then good television often requires a suspended sense of disbelief. Buffy was hardly gritty realism. So far I have been disappointed by the lack of Whedon-esque wit and one-liners but that element will hopefully come in time. Another thing lacking which Joss Whedon normally does brilliantly is character development, and it's not really possible to do much of that in two episodes. I'm not sure it's possible to do it when your main protagonist is getting mind-wiped every episode either, but time will tell...
Seaneeboy, Leeds, on February 23rd, 2009
Episode two is a HUGE improvement, within minutes the Wheadon touches and polishes are apparent and it's like he's back. Don't judge it on this alone, and DS PELASE review episode two!
Episode two is a HUGE improvement, within minutes the Wheadon touches and polishes are apparent and it's like he's back. Don't judge it on this alone, and DS PELASE review episode two!
gyre, Bristol, UK, on February 23rd, 2009
I thought the first episode was a big mistake. They needed a real killer episode to pull folks in, and that tangle of parts wasn't it. Fox should have left Whedon to do what he wanted rather than interfere. The 2nd episode was far more enjoyable. Far far better. I don't know what they were smoking on the first episode, but this one is exactly the type of thing I wanted to see. I just hope Fox give Joss the benefit of the doubt and don't kill this off yet. It has the makings of a classic. -- gyre --
I thought the first episode was a big mistake. They needed a real killer episode to pull folks in, and that tangle of parts wasn't it. Fox should have left Whedon to do what he wanted rather than interfere. The 2nd episode was far more enjoyable. Far far better. I don't know what they were smoking on the first episode, but this one is exactly the type of thing I wanted to see. I just hope Fox give Joss the benefit of the doubt and don't kill this off yet. It has the makings of a classic. -- gyre --
Connor, Scotland, on February 23rd, 2009
I disagree i thought it was good and a good role for Eliza to take up because she takes up a new personality every episode.If people tune in on Friday Nights on FOX in US then this could have quite a future.
I disagree i thought it was good and a good role for Eliza to take up because she takes up a new personality every episode.If people tune in on Friday Nights on FOX in US then this could have quite a future.
Alex, France, on February 22nd, 2009
Yep, I quite agree with that. There are some good elements, the 'lair' of the dolls is pretty esthetic, Topher's goofyness reminds us a bit of Firefly's Wash and a much more of Buffy's Andrew. Again it seems that Fox has done everything to ensure that the show never kills off (not only telling Joss to refrubish the pilot but also locking the show in the Friday evening slot - a poison 'gift'). But I've seen episode 2 and it's a big improvement, real big. And if Fox backs off and lets Whedon spread his creative wings, this show will take flight and will, even for a short period, deliver!!
Yep, I quite agree with that. There are some good elements, the 'lair' of the dolls is pretty esthetic, Topher's goofyness reminds us a bit of Firefly's Wash and a much more of Buffy's Andrew. Again it seems that Fox has done everything to ensure that the show never kills off (not only telling Joss to refrubish the pilot but also locking the show in the Friday evening slot - a poison 'gift'). But I've seen episode 2 and it's a big improvement, real big. And if Fox backs off and lets Whedon spread his creative wings, this show will take flight and will, even for a short period, deliver!!
lanna, Swansea, on February 22nd, 2009
after watching the first two episodes, the storyline begins to open up. i thoroughly enjoy the episodes and hope they can continue. admittedly the first episode wasn't up to many expectations, the second started to become more compelling and understanding. considering it's by joss whedon i did expect somehting better but i guess we'll haev to wait and see.
after watching the first two episodes, the storyline begins to open up. i thoroughly enjoy the episodes and hope they can continue. admittedly the first episode wasn't up to many expectations, the second started to become more compelling and understanding. considering it's by joss whedon i did expect somehting better but i guess we'll haev to wait and see.
tina, lancashire, on February 22nd, 2009
the pilot was pretty dull, but the 2nd episode was great. i'll keep watching definitely.
the pilot was pretty dull, but the 2nd episode was great. i'll keep watching definitely.
Brian, Amsterdam, on February 22nd, 2009
Why are we surprised? Fox has a knack for killing off good, watchable shows, especially Whedon ones. First scene reminded me of the River Tam Tapes, a Firefly companion short, which was waaaaay fat and cool and out there and simply awesome. But having recently seen "This film is not yet rated" about the immorality of the American rating system (comes down to violence is good, even if it is mutilation of women, and sex=bad, ESPECIALLY GAY SEX), I'm not all surprised that Fox TV, is yet another proponent of this philosophy. Fox TV, it's where career-suicidal writers go. Or the really desparate ones. And yes, it was not good, that first eppy. Based on Buffy, Angel, and Firefly, I'd give it some time.
Why are we surprised? Fox has a knack for killing off good, watchable shows, especially Whedon ones. First scene reminded me of the River Tam Tapes, a Firefly companion short, which was waaaaay fat and cool and out there and simply awesome. But having recently seen "This film is not yet rated" about the immorality of the American rating system (comes down to violence is good, even if it is mutilation of women, and sex=bad, ESPECIALLY GAY SEX), I'm not all surprised that Fox TV, is yet another proponent of this philosophy. Fox TV, it's where career-suicidal writers go. Or the really desparate ones. And yes, it was not good, that first eppy. Based on Buffy, Angel, and Firefly, I'd give it some time.
Ellie, Surrey, on February 22nd, 2009
I love this show, the first two episodes have me hooked!
I love this show, the first two episodes have me hooked!
Karl, UK, on February 22nd, 2009
Episode two was great; episode one wasn't perfect but they could hardly tell you all, and I'm glad they didn't. I don't think it will be too long before echo escapes the dollhouse.
Episode two was great; episode one wasn't perfect but they could hardly tell you all, and I'm glad they didn't. I don't think it will be too long before echo escapes the dollhouse.
Ollie, on February 22nd, 2009
After reading what other people have written, I need to check out episode 2 but I thought the pilot was entertaining. Yes, it did not offer the delights and questions of other shows in the genre or other Joss W shows but was nice to see the group back on TV. I agree with other people, though, that this pilot was FOX's and not Joss Whedon and I feel that FOX may have already started on the wrong foot with Whedon- there have already been so many problems but I believe that it will take some episodes before the show really takes off, I just hope FOX will wait that long- we have seen what happens when FOX don't hit the ground running. I would have given it 3/4 stars...
After reading what other people have written, I need to check out episode 2 but I thought the pilot was entertaining. Yes, it did not offer the delights and questions of other shows in the genre or other Joss W shows but was nice to see the group back on TV. I agree with other people, though, that this pilot was FOX's and not Joss Whedon and I feel that FOX may have already started on the wrong foot with Whedon- there have already been so many problems but I believe that it will take some episodes before the show really takes off, I just hope FOX will wait that long- we have seen what happens when FOX don't hit the ground running. I would have given it 3/4 stars...
Sean, on February 22nd, 2009
I agree the first episode did lack a certain something...but I just watched Episode 2 and it was brilliant!...Edge of your seat stuff and it has opened a whole mythology surrounding ALPHA and ECHO!...I think its one of those shows that will get better and better...or at least I hope.
I agree the first episode did lack a certain something...but I just watched Episode 2 and it was brilliant!...Edge of your seat stuff and it has opened a whole mythology surrounding ALPHA and ECHO!...I think its one of those shows that will get better and better...or at least I hope.
ethan, brighton UK, on February 22nd, 2009
i actually quite enjoyed it... i found the opening scenes with motorbikes and cheesy dancing quite annoying, a bit too hollyoakes...but once the premise was established i found it quite engaging. having said that, i do think the premise was somewhat suffocated under a strangely large (for joss w) deluge of cliche; from the stupid start to the child abduction and the swarthy unshaved baddies it felt a bit like how buffy would have been had it been filmed in the 80s in miami by michael mann. but, that aside i still enjoyed it. when you watch something by joss whedon you're always secure that there will be something edifying and leftfield served up. i hope it gets a chance to develop and find its feet. especially as battlestar g is ending. i will need something to fill that void...
i actually quite enjoyed it... i found the opening scenes with motorbikes and cheesy dancing quite annoying, a bit too hollyoakes...but once the premise was established i found it quite engaging. having said that, i do think the premise was somewhat suffocated under a strangely large (for joss w) deluge of cliche; from the stupid start to the child abduction and the swarthy unshaved baddies it felt a bit like how buffy would have been had it been filmed in the 80s in miami by michael mann. but, that aside i still enjoyed it. when you watch something by joss whedon you're always secure that there will be something edifying and leftfield served up. i hope it gets a chance to develop and find its feet. especially as battlestar g is ending. i will need something to fill that void...
Aaron, Edinburgh, on February 22nd, 2009
I think that review was overly harsh. There is a fairly complex story going on that they had to try and give the basics of in the first episode, and I think they did that quite well. They needed the pre-title sequence and motorbike scene to set up a few plot points later on. The whole point about the bike race was to set up her injury which she didn't remember (also allowing the introduction of Amy Acker's character). Plus it showed how she had been imprinted with the personality of a girlfriend for the birthday guy, hence the reference at the end to Cinderella Same with the standoff later on. They needed to show that sometimes these imprints will have flaws. Was it the best episode of anything ever? No. But I do think this was overly-critical.
I think that review was overly harsh. There is a fairly complex story going on that they had to try and give the basics of in the first episode, and I think they did that quite well. They needed the pre-title sequence and motorbike scene to set up a few plot points later on. The whole point about the bike race was to set up her injury which she didn't remember (also allowing the introduction of Amy Acker's character). Plus it showed how she had been imprinted with the personality of a girlfriend for the birthday guy, hence the reference at the end to Cinderella Same with the standoff later on. They needed to show that sometimes these imprints will have flaws. Was it the best episode of anything ever? No. But I do think this was overly-critical.
Tube Talk
'Being Human': Episode 2 teasersTen tantalising teasers about episode two of the new Being Human.
2012-13 Season
'Arrow' casts 'Dexter' actor David RamseyDavid Ramsey joins The CW's adaptation of DC Comics' Green Arrow.
US TV Interviews
Randy Jackson on 'Idol' fainting, pressure: Q&AFive singers faint - and one falls off the stage - on most intense Hollywood Week yet.
US TV Ratings
Mandel's 'Mobbed' climbs to 8.8m for FoxThe latest Mobbed is once again helped by a strong American Idol lead-in.
Unfortunately I have to agree with most of this about the first episode, but I think the series improves greatly after that and I'm glad that I made myself give it a chance. Watching the first episode I was a bit unsure how we Joss expected to interpellate viewers to sympathise and identify with a character who is a different person atleast twice in an episode, but after wathing episode 2 I have to admit I was hooked! The motorbike chase/daning was unbeleivably cheesey though- a bit like Xander on a skateboard! Which thankfully we never saw again! I'm glad it's getting a second series, I think it has a lot of potential and honestly I love anything Joss does!