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
Watch Now

Where To Watch

Stream On
Buy on
Stream On

Review this tv show

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling

User Reviews

view
per page
  1. ColeG
    Mar 15, 2009
    9
    Maybe I am just a Whedonite, but I think Dollhouse is a great show. The pilot episode was a bit shaky, I have to agree. However, The Target really grabbed my attention. I always think Joss Whedon does great stuff, and I continue to follow thae actors on his shows (Nathan Fillion, Felicia Day, Summer Glau, etc)
  2. BrendanR
    Mar 27, 2009
    9
    An intriguing premise and great acting, this show is really getting interesting.
  3. NicoleH
    Apr 17, 2009
    9
    I really like this show. Interesting characters and intriguing storyline. Different from everything else on right now.
  4. RyanB
    May 25, 2009
    9
    Yes, this show was a little slow in the start, and as some critics say Dsuhku may not be up to playing so many varied roles. But the season finale (as well as several preceding episodes) was spectacular.
  5. Jackie_Coogan
    Jun 2, 2013
    9
    This show shoulda never aired on FOX. I mean Whedon shouda trieded a get it on Fx, HBO, Showtime or hell even Sy-Fi. Channels like those really would have aloud to manifest the complexity of the concept Insted we got a bucketfull of episodes where Echo acts like a Prosti. Meddling producers. Still it has some great momentes and awesome characters. Epitaph One is one the finest moments ofThis show shoulda never aired on FOX. I mean Whedon shouda trieded a get it on Fx, HBO, Showtime or hell even Sy-Fi. Channels like those really would have aloud to manifest the complexity of the concept Insted we got a bucketfull of episodes where Echo acts like a Prosti. Meddling producers. Still it has some great momentes and awesome characters. Epitaph One is one the finest moments of television (even though it never aired). And thoughs who complain about the humor, I don t know what your talking about, I laugh out loud all the time.… Expand
  6. tigerheart
    Jul 16, 2013
    9
    I think dollhouse is an amazing programme. The series starts as being a little dull, no major plt and confusing themes but as it goes on the characters develop and reveal their true personalities. The ending is truly emotional and i have to say i cried ALOT. Overall, Whedon does it again.
  7. EB
    Mar 21, 2009
    8
    The show keeps getting better. Granted the pilot wasn't great, but what pilot is? Exposition is a necessary evil in the beginning of any show, however, the plot and characters are improving noticeably with each show. Latest episode - Man on the Street - was extremely well done. I hope that people will give this show a chance.
  8. Maxh
    Nov 4, 2009
    8
    It's not an entirely consistent effort, but when it's good? It's brilliant. Could occasionally be a little weirder, a little darker, but is generally as funny as you'd want.
  9. AbdullahY
    Oct 17, 2009
    8
    I think Dollhouse is among the most exiting drama on air nowadays. Although I love my procedural/case of the week shows, Dollhouse transcends the genera and becomes something else, where the week's case takes the backseat and becomes a mere device to reveal yet another layer to this fantastic world. That being said, I wish that the lead was someone with better acting chops than Ms. I think Dollhouse is among the most exiting drama on air nowadays. Although I love my procedural/case of the week shows, Dollhouse transcends the genera and becomes something else, where the week's case takes the backseat and becomes a mere device to reveal yet another layer to this fantastic world. That being said, I wish that the lead was someone with better acting chops than Ms. Dushku who is fine in certain roles, but it is not really fair to ask her to pull off such a complex task.… Expand
  10. JacquiK.
    Feb 14, 2009
    8
    Not perfect, but still a very good start. Hints of Whedon that I hope will continue to grow as the 'verse takes form.
  11. CollinH
    Mar 14, 2009
    8
    Let's face it, anyone who's been a fan of Joss Whedon knows that critics are rarely nice with him. Yet fans still love his work. Dollhouse has many of the same weaknesses as his previous shows, but the strengths have been improved. Firstly, Joss Whedon's writing is perpetually stuck in the 1990's - which was impressive for Buffy in 1996, but in 2009 it's weak and Let's face it, anyone who's been a fan of Joss Whedon knows that critics are rarely nice with him. Yet fans still love his work. Dollhouse has many of the same weaknesses as his previous shows, but the strengths have been improved. Firstly, Joss Whedon's writing is perpetually stuck in the 1990's - which was impressive for Buffy in 1996, but in 2009 it's weak and immature. Some performances can be a little hollow - Harry Lennix does not seem to adapt well to Whedon's style, and performances from Reed Diamond and Dichen Lachmen are utterly forgettable - but Dushku herself, Olivia Williams, and Fran Kranz offer lifting performances. The plot development is a bit slow at first, but episodes 4 and 5 are noticeably better-written than the preceding episodes in terms of combining elements of the story like the mysterious Alpha, the FBI agent, and Echo's compounding sense of adaptability and identity. And Lastly, the set design marks Whedon's best production yet; I remember reading an article that Whedon trumped the number of episodes this season to afford more lavish environments, and it works. The show looks and feels like it belongs on a primetime network like Fox, even if it has the Friday night time slot of doom. For those who watched Firefly, you know where that show could have gone if given the chance, so given Dollhouse some time and it'll eventually live up to par.… Expand
  12. JasonG
    Mar 17, 2009
    8
    So far, I'm into it. Dushku is great in this role. She pulls off the tough girl and the vulnerable girl at the same time very well. It is good to see Battlestar Galactica's Tahmoh Penikett working, as he was excellent on BSG. I hope this one keeps up its momentum.
  13. JacquiO
    Mar 29, 2009
    8
    Very good...took a while to warm up, but has now finally hit its stride. Was just enjoyable, is now extremely compelling. Takes tradition SciFi conceits and delves into them with pop sensibility, fun action, and deep philosophical implications. What is reality? What is individuality? What is personality? This show asks it all. Extremely enjoyable.
  14. DavidC.
    Apr 11, 2009
    8
    Its difficult to judge, based solely on its own merit, because the bar has been raised so high by previous Whedon shows. Some thought it would be this glorious, perfect show of messianic proportions that would take us by the hand and lead us to the television equivalent of the promise land. Its not. But that doesn't mean its a bad show. Its formula breaks away from Joss' Its difficult to judge, based solely on its own merit, because the bar has been raised so high by previous Whedon shows. Some thought it would be this glorious, perfect show of messianic proportions that would take us by the hand and lead us to the television equivalent of the promise land. Its not. But that doesn't mean its a bad show. Its formula breaks away from Joss' previous endeavors, and even its humor, something for which Whedon is famous, feels different. Again, not bad, but different. The good news is that while I couldnt help feeling some disappointment with the first episode, the show has continued to improve with each coming week. Introducing interesting character arcs, unexpected twists, and a surprising level of depth in what first appeared a rather shallow concept. If people can get past what they think it should have been or hoped it would be, they'll find a compelling show that takes new directions none of us Whedonites saw coming. Please, for the love of God, don't let this be another Firefly. My heart can only take so much!… Expand
  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. 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
  17. KaraW
    Feb 13, 2009
    8
    Not perfect, but very intriguing. I can't wait to see where it goes.
  18. Mike
    Feb 14, 2009
    8
    Joss makes a nice comeback to TV.
  19. 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.
  20. TimothyN
    Feb 19, 2009
    8
    The first episode definitely suffered from first episode exposition, but it shows a lot of promise.
  21. lilyg
    Feb 22, 2009
    8
    Dollhouse's concept is intriguing. The show has good potential. Unfortunately, the pilot was dismal and did not meet expectations. The next episode 'The Target' ~ I felt like I was seeing a different show! Wow! What were they thinking not to use Target as the pilot episode. It was much more what I expected. Unfortunately, it this quick to judge market... it might be too Dollhouse's concept is intriguing. The show has good potential. Unfortunately, the pilot was dismal and did not meet expectations. The next episode 'The Target' ~ I felt like I was seeing a different show! Wow! What were they thinking not to use Target as the pilot episode. It was much more what I expected. Unfortunately, it this quick to judge market... it might be too late. All I can say is...take another look ... you might be surprised.… Expand
  22. MathiasH
    May 11, 2009
    8
    Starting up slow the Dollhouse has gradually steeped into character. Peaking in the last two episodes in writing, visuals and acting it has now reached Fireflyish dimensions. Hopefully we will see a season 2 with more of Tim Minear who's episodes is great and of course more of Josh.
  23. JasonH.
    Dec 13, 2009
    8
    I really enjoy the show, but it does have its flaws. The first is that it seems like "the Eliza Dushku show" in that it seems to have been created to show off Eliza's talent. The only problem: she isn't that great of an actress. The second problem is a bit peculiar, but the show seems experimental. Other than that, I love the other characters, and the premise is pretty interesting.
  24. lifeinrewind
    Jun 29, 2011
    8
    Dollhouse is a truly original concept which introduced a lot of intriguing and complex ideas. The first season had it's hiccups to start, showing loads of potential but the usual meddling by FOX crippled many of the early episodes into being more of the "case of the week" variety instead of building up the overarching mythology. Once the excellent sixth episode "Man on the Street" hit, itDollhouse is a truly original concept which introduced a lot of intriguing and complex ideas. The first season had it's hiccups to start, showing loads of potential but the usual meddling by FOX crippled many of the early episodes into being more of the "case of the week" variety instead of building up the overarching mythology. Once the excellent sixth episode "Man on the Street" hit, it was clear that Dollhouse was about a lot more than it seemed. By the end it had becoming compelling and addictive, featuring impressively strong performances by the supporting cast. Season 1 makes up a lot of points for the strong finish, including the surprisingly effective post-script episode "Epitaph One", which deals with events 10 years after the main storyline. Dollhouse still had yet to have its best moments, but Season 1 is still very entertaining and worth watching. Overall score: 8/10


    Individual Episode Ratings: E1 "Ghost" 8/10 E2 "The Target" 7/10 E3 "Stage Fright" 6.5/10 E4 "Gray Hour" 8/10 E5 "True Believer" 7/10 E6 "Man on the Street" 9/10 E7 "Echoes" 6/10 E8 "Needs" 8.5/10 E9 "Spy in the House of Love" 9/10 E10 "Haunted" 8.5/10 E11 "Briar Rose" 8.5/10 E12 "Omega" 8/10 E13 "Epitaph One" 9/10    … Expand
  25. heromoder
    May 11, 2015
    8
    There's a lot to like here. Eliza Dushku has long been a favourite if mine, and she delivers wonderfully as Echo. As always, Joss Whedon surrounds her with a diverse range of actors, Fran Krantz leading the charge. Mysterious, funny and thrilling, Dollhouse is a must-watch for sci-fi fans and crime watchers alike.
  26. Ryatta
    Nov 22, 2013
    8
    The first few episodes feel like a grind but they successfully set up our characters and universe to make the series second half must watch tv when the episodic feel starts to wear away
  27. AnthonyU
    Feb 16, 2009
    7
    Though one could see a lot of past Whedon shows in Dollhouse--Eliza Dushku, Amy Aker, and a set that looks strangely like Wolfram & Hart--there was very little of the wit and superb storytelling one typically associates with a Whedon enterprise in this first episode. However, if you're a Whedon fan you know not to count to count him out based soley on the first episode of a series. Though one could see a lot of past Whedon shows in Dollhouse--Eliza Dushku, Amy Aker, and a set that looks strangely like Wolfram & Hart--there was very little of the wit and superb storytelling one typically associates with a Whedon enterprise in this first episode. However, if you're a Whedon fan you know not to count to count him out based soley on the first episode of a series. I'm holding out hope that audiences won't be dissapointed as Dollhouse develops.… Expand
  28. Scribbler
    Mar 2, 2009
    7
    I was looking forward to this show for weeks before it premiered, and had to sit a while after the second episode to decide if I'd been disappointed. There are some things in the writing which snag, and the overdone plot of "The Target" nearly quashed my interest - but the premise of the series brought me to watch the third, and as the plot has thickened, and Echo's off-mission I was looking forward to this show for weeks before it premiered, and had to sit a while after the second episode to decide if I'd been disappointed. There are some things in the writing which snag, and the overdone plot of "The Target" nearly quashed my interest - but the premise of the series brought me to watch the third, and as the plot has thickened, and Echo's off-mission personality quirked further, I've found myself growing more and more engrossed in the possibilities of the series. It seems odd to me that the strongest acting regularly comes from one-shot characters, but as the episodes pass, we begin to see more out of the main characters, as though their actors are coming to realize their characters more fully at the same time as the plot unveils them. At this point, the series is full of potential, with plot and character development that draws the audience into exploring its intrigues; as it progresses further, I look forward to seeing how it develops.… Expand
  29. ColinC
    Feb 28, 2009
    7
    Not equal (yet) to Whedon's last effort, Firefly, but the show has potential. I'm certainly enjoying it so far (3 episodes in), and I'm confident that it will to continue to grow and get better.
  30. calk
    Feb 13, 2009
    7
    It seems promising.
Page:

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
See all critic reviews »