Dollhouse – The Omega is just the Alpha

You didn’t think that Dollhouse was coming back. I didn’t think Dollhouse was coming back. Brett surely didn’t think that Dollhouse was coming back. If you took that bet to Vegas, however, you lost big. Thankfully, we were wrong. Joss Whedon’s latest drama premieres its second season on Friday, September 25, despite disappointing in the ratings. But, as Joss said this week, “I don’t make hit shows; I make shows that stick around.” Fortunately for us, Dollhouse is back.

As per usual, Spoiler Warnings in effect!!!

When we last left our heroes (except … heroes … that totally doesn’t work for this show at all, does it?) most were dead, we were all in the future, and it was the end of the world as we know it. But that’s only if you purchased the DVD and were privy to the amazing unaired “Epitaph One.” If not, you probably remember Alpha trying to stuff Echo chalk-full-o’ personalities, Ballard making a deal with the devil, Whiskey finding out she wasn’t who she thought she was, and Langton taking over for Mr. Dominic.

The premiere is good, but it’s a bit bittersweet from my perspective. The best story told, and the most interesting character dynamic, is one that will unfortunately get so little airtime over the course of the season. Amy Acker’s Whiskey/Dr. Saunders is now dealing with being aware of who, or at least what, she is. Her struggles with Topher — who created her personality — are especially poignant because, seriously, who ever gets to question their maker like that? Unfortunately, Acker is only going to be around for three episodes, so the story will most likely simmer on the back-burner most of the season.

Echo is still in action, though her first client was a little bit of a surprise. The mission is to take down an arms dealer (BSG’s Jamie Bamber), and the active has to get close … a little more close than Ballard is actually comfortable with. It’s the deeper connection between the two of them, however, that leads to the eventual success, which prompts Ballard to make his relationship with the Dollhouse a bit more … official. Echo, on the other hand, is dealing with becoming a different kind of self-aware.

We only get quick glances of the rest of the Actives in the main cast. Victor is just about healed, and shares a telling moment with DeWitt. Sierra is there too, but only enough to remind us that she is there, and is still connected to Victor is some mysterious way. November is gone, but presumably not for long. Joss teased her return, but no details, other than since it was his show, you can be sure some kind of pain would be involved. Alpha also isn’t around, so Victor’s new face is safe … for now.

We got a quick introduction to one of the other guest stars in store this season. Alexis Denisof (Angel) plays a politician on a mission that doesn’t bode well for the Dollhouse. We’re also going to see Ray Wise (Reaper) as the director of another Dollhouse, and Summer Glau (Firefly) as someone in his employ. Micheal Hogan (BSG) will also stop by, but all of these genre has led Brett to wonder if their casting will actually bring new viewers. My perspective: I just think its pretty darn cool that they’ll be on the show, so I must be sitting in the choir that Joss is preaching to.

Clacked by Ivey West
on Sep 18, 2009 @ 12:00 EST5EDT