Dollhouse

:

Season 1
  • Network: FOX
  • Series Premiere Date: Feb 13, 2009
Season #: 2, 1
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 419 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 346 out of 419
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 419
  3. Negative: 58 out of 419
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User Reviews

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  1. RenaeB
    Apr 26, 2009
    9
    This show had a rough start with it's generic made for TV cheese factor (episode three had to be the worst!), but it has definitely made a good recovery recently. Now we are seeing more Whedon style in the character development and in the action.
  2. KarenR
    Apr 29, 2009
    9
    A slow start, but as the episodes have progressed it has become more compelling to watch and is now one of my preferred choices. Hopefully Fox will allow this series to develop further.
  3. CarmenW
    Apr 30, 2009
    10
    I love this show! Completely unique and very interesting!
  4. S.C
    Apr 4, 2009
    10
    Watch the episode "Needs" and this show is starting to hit its stride! I've also noticed the ratings here seem to be skewed: the reviews from critics are all from when the show started (and was trying to find its feet). They should be updated to reflect the better quality.
  5. EmF
    Apr 4, 2009
    10
    Intriguing concept with good and evil almost fairly represented, swift action without too much gore, and good looking but not perfect people who don't have a patch on Barbie, and yet the storytelling manages to make me watch this show every week. I'd never heard of Joss Whedon until Serenity, so I'm not on the Firefly or Buffy (didn't watch it) bandwagon.
  6. TonyL
    May 14, 2009
    10
    A awesome show that leaves me in suspense and wondering about what is going to happen in every episode. Just the idea of good vs evil and who is good and who is evil makes this series something i would continue to watch.
  7. theog
    May 15, 2009
    10
    Dollhouse is amazing. The first several episodes are lackluster, but there is the sense of mystery and building tension. By episode 6 of season 1 the plot arc begins to steam ahead. By the end of the first season, I'm left with no doubts that we're witnessing Joss Whedons best story to date.
  8. MarkB
    May 3, 2009
    9
    Dollhouse has been much like many great shows. It started out as sort of medium, but is now what I'd call awesome. I love the various layers, the potential for analysis... it's just great.
  9. amys
    May 4, 2009
    9
    Still gaining maturity every week; the most recent episode, revealing Alpha, had two huge surprises. Joss is all over this series, and it shows. Can't wait to see what comes next.
  10. JonH
    May 5, 2009
    10
    This show is continuously exciting, and keeps the viewer enticed throughout the entire episode.
  11. JonC
    May 9, 2009
    10
    This show consistently keeps me glued to the screen. After each episode, my mouth is likely to be wide open with a loud gasp due to its EXTREMELY entertaining story and character development.
  12. DreH
    Jun 25, 2009
    9
    This show is every interesting, but something is not quite there. This show has a stellar cast, and has potential for greatness.
  13. NG
    Jun 25, 2009
    10
    It is highly addictive especially in the last couple of episodes.This is the only show I'll give a perfect score for.
  14. DavidK.
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    Incredible show, interesting characters, awesome concept, fun to watch.
  15. RayR
    Aug 29, 2009
    8
    We have to admit that FOX is one o fhte worst networks in broadcasting televison, at least i think that, EVER SINCE they canceled "Tru Calling". "Dollhouse" is a new project that i think has a future, the first 2 episodes were great, episodes 3,4,5,6,7,8,9 were okay, but the last 3 episodes rocked it, And it was an amazing season finally. I wasn't at all desapointed at Josh Wedon, We have to admit that FOX is one o fhte worst networks in broadcasting televison, at least i think that, EVER SINCE they canceled "Tru Calling". "Dollhouse" is a new project that i think has a future, the first 2 episodes were great, episodes 3,4,5,6,7,8,9 were okay, but the last 3 episodes rocked it, And it was an amazing season finally. I wasn't at all desapointed at Josh Wedon, but he could bring in more mistery, and suspanse to the show, it would only make it better.… Expand
  16. Phil
    Oct 14, 2009
    10
    I started watching midway through the first season, while most critics base their review off of the pilot episode. This series my have had a slow start, but it's really hit it's stride. Dollhouse uses an original concept to create a reality that makes your skin crawl and keeps you both emotionally and mentally engaged.
  17. ChristopherC
    Dec 10, 2009
    10
    I should have given this show more thought when it first came out. I am harder on shows that might show some of the truth.
  18. JamesR
    Dec 21, 2009
    8
    This show is really good. I admit, it has some flaws, but the story and campy feeling really work out. This is a show I'd be eager to keep watching. I'm not exactly a Joss Whedon fan either, I thought Firefly was barely watchable (except for Alec Baldwin's antics). But with Dollhouse, I think he's really hit on something accessible and intelligent. It's well worth This show is really good. I admit, it has some flaws, but the story and campy feeling really work out. This is a show I'd be eager to keep watching. I'm not exactly a Joss Whedon fan either, I thought Firefly was barely watchable (except for Alec Baldwin's antics). But with Dollhouse, I think he's really hit on something accessible and intelligent. It's well worth watching. As an aside, I think a reason people struggle to enjoy Joss Whedon's shows is the lack of overproduction and super-realism. If dollhouse was produced like an episode of 24 or something, I'm sure it would be mainstream successful. It sucks that the general public are so narrow minded about their viewing choices.… Expand
  19. KaraW
    Feb 13, 2009
    8
    Not perfect, but very intriguing. I can't wait to see where it goes.
  20. MikeW.
    Feb 13, 2009
    10
    Great show. Once again Joss Whedon creates an in depth world. I can't wait to explore it further. I only hope that FOX gives it the chance it deserves to build itself up. From watching so far it seems like his style has really matured into something even more awesome. You rock Joss!
  21. ricks
    Feb 14, 2009
    9
    Interestin show but still has it faults but, I think this show will turn into a great one sooner or later.
  22. RobertM.
    Feb 14, 2009
    10
    Yes, the plot was complex, but I like that. I was intrigued from beginning to end nad am really looking forward to next week.
  23. [Anonymous]
    Feb 14, 2009
    10
    Joss Whedon now know how the network folks operate and has to compromise to get his vision on the air. This means a lot of exposition and explaining in the early episodes so the network and the viewers that are quick to say "I don't get this" would get it. The storylines will soon delve into Joss Whedon's trademark addictive awesomeness soon.
  24. CazGoff
    Feb 14, 2009
    9
    Intriguing. A show that makes me want to come back for more. Enough backstory for the dumb of viewing but not too much for those who like to unwrap their presents more slowly. Dushku manages to pull off all the personas and the moral ambiguity of those running the Dollhouse leaves you on unsteady ground.
  25. Mike
    Feb 14, 2009
    8
    Joss makes a nice comeback to TV.
  26. Andrew
    Feb 15, 2009
    9
    I watched it earlier today and have been thinking about it all afternoon. It's going to be pretty good I think. I really like the conflict between the people who work directly with the actives and the higher ups. Pretty weird.
  27. Rebecca
    Feb 15, 2009
    8
    The first episode wasn't as good as I've come to expect from Joss Whedon, but with his track record I am definitely interested to see how it unfolds. Something tells me that if Fox gives it time to develop it will turn into a hit as big as Firefly and Buffy.
  28. silentone
    Feb 15, 2009
    10
    I think the show was mysterious and adventurous and with amazind drama. I definitely like Eliza's portrayal of Echo I thought it was exciting and very stimulating with drama to boot. I also liked Dichen's portrayal of Sierra because her character in the pilot was strong even though it was only brief.
  29. BradC
    Feb 17, 2009
    7
    I'm a big Whedon fan, but I found the pilot more interesting than good. I'm not sure Dushku has the range to pull off a role where she'll be a different character every week, and I'm not sold on the rest of the cast, either. I'm willing to keep up with it, but I'm not going to be surprised if it winds up running about as long as Firefly.
  30. TimothyN
    Feb 19, 2009
    8
    The first episode definitely suffered from first episode exposition, but it shows a lot of promise.
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Awards & Rankings

72
#72 Best TV Season of 2009
2
#2 Most Discussed TV Season of 2009
44
#44 Most Shared TV Season of 2009

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
57

Mixed or average reviews - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 28
  3. Negative: 6 out of 28
  1. Entertainment Weekly
    Reviewed by: Ken Tucker
    67
    Given the artfully vague hints of an intriguingly desperate past for Echo, as well as Whedon's track record, we ought to cut the show some slack. Let's see if Whedon can bring this doll to greater life.
    Read full review
  2. Newark Star-Ledger
    Reviewed by: Alan Sepinwall
    60
    Whedon is a vastly better storyteller than anyone involved in "My Own Worst Enemy," so Dollhouse can be very engaging, even if the premise doesn't make sense. Dushku isn't as versatile as the role demands--many weeks, the only difference in Echo's persona seems to be her wardrobe--but Whedon and his writers certainly are.
    Read full review
  3. San Francisco Chronicle
    Reviewed by: Tim Goodman
    50
    Joss Whedon is one of television's most talented visionaries, but his latest series--the highly anticipated midseason drama Dollhouse--is a major disappointment.
    Read full review
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