USA: Various Directors, 2009 (Created by Joss Whedon)I've been working my way through Joss Whedon's latest television show DOLLHOUSE over the past few months. Having finally seen both the unaired Pilot episode "Echo" and the postponed/unaired finale episode "Epitaph One" I'm happy to say that this was one of the best - albeit flawed - new TV shows I've seen in years.
DOLLHOUSE has an engaging premise and showcases some fine acting talent to deliver Whedon's sublime dialogue. Ok, it is no FIREFLY but it marks a strong entry in original science-fiction drama. I'm definitely looking forward to the recently announced second season as after a few decidedly average episodes this opening season was excellent.
To be perfectly honest, DOLLHOUSE season finale "Epitaph One" was both bold and baffling. It didn't feel part of the rest of the aired episodes. Whilst I can only admire Joss Whedon's confidence to take risks, I am surprised he would move the story arc in such a new direction this early in the development of the programme. I also think there was more mileage to be wrought out of the 'brainwashed operatives' evolution of self-awareness and the existence of the 'Dollhouse conspiracy'. What now for Season 2? A near-future set dystopia with the titular 'Dollhouse' of the title no more? The rag band of fugitives introduced in this final episode certainly provided a telling self-referential nod towards FIREFLY!
Score: 8/10
IMDB reference
Posts
2 comments:
I haven't watched all the way to the end yet, but I get the impression that Season 2 will follow on directly from the final broadcast episode rather than "Epitaph One". When he was interviewed at ComicCon recently, Joss Whedon said that "Epitaph One" was more an indication of where things might ultimately lead further on in the timeline, and that in any event what was seen in that episode wasn't necessarily the whole truth.
Pleased to hear that Michael, it makes far more sense thematically for Season 2 to delve deeper into the Dollhouse organisation and the memories of the actives.
I also want to see plenty more of Olivia Williams as Adelle DeWitt. Easily my favourite character and great actress.
Post a Comment