What I’m Watching: Dollhouse

Dollhouse: Season 2, Episodes 5 & 6 “The Public Eye” & “The Left Hand” (B+)

Another one of Joss Whedon’s beloved cult series has been cancelled, and of course this is when it really starts to get interesting. These two episodes are particularly well-paired together because they really kick off and also close off the Senator Perrin arc as well as to introduce the incredibly intriguing character of Bennett Halverson. Up until now, Perrin’s investigation into the Dollhouse and attempts to expose it has been sidelined in favor of the temperamental Echo malfunctioning and trying to go against her programming, and all of a sudden it’s front and center. November testifying seems a bit naïve since she’s aware of the broad scope and influence of the Dollhouse and that her plan would never quite work. Ballard’s speedy conclusion that Perrin’s wife was a doll was very intriguing, and the surprise reveal that it was Perrin rather than his wife who was a doll was absolutely fantastic. The fact that Perrin was a doll version of himself was even more interesting, and his contemplation of his life and his identity with Echo was great. His shouting of “I know who I am” is a particularly spectacular tagline for this now defunct show. It was good to get to know Perrin, but disappointing to see that he was so quickly brainwashed by the Dollhouse and forced to discredit November and make her out to be a crazy person. It’s all because of the influence of Bennett, one of the best characters this show has ever seen. Summer Glau is a stellar actress who first made her mark as the incomparably unique River Tam on Whedon’s “Firefly” and then starred on the recently-axed “Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.” This is a perfect role for her, and she plays it incredibly well. Her plan for personal revenge on Echo/Caroline really seemed to mess things up, but she’s utterly fascinating in every moment. Seeing her interact with Topher was fun, and this is the first time besides “Epitaph One” that I’ve truly enjoyed Topher. This was also the best impression for Victor, whose impression of Topher was brilliant, as well as his conversations with himself. I’m confused about why Echo disappeared and went on the run, and I’d rather she would have taken Perrin with her. Now the show isn’t about the grander scheme of things but only about Echo, and I think it would be far better if it took a more big-picture look at the Dollhouse. I also hope this isn’t the last we’ve seen of Senator Perrin, since Alexis Denisof did an extremely impressive job of playing him. Let’s hope for more Glau as well. Two episodes of this show air each Friday for the next two weeks, and the final three spool out in January. Stay tuned – this is going to be a thrilling ride.