In another odd season for renewals and cancellations, it has been announced that Joss Whedon’s Dollhouse will be picked up for another season despite highly disappointing ratings in the later episodes.
Network execs claimed they had factored in Firefly’s subsequent longevity through DVD sales and film in their decision. However, one can’t help but notice that Firefly was a much stronger show, and that might have helped. Nonetheless, it’s better than another one to add to the cancellation bucket and hopefully the second season will be the needed improvement on a rather strong debut year to allow ratings to rise.
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles was less fortunate. Sorry fans, but the writing had been on the wall for some time. Although if Dollhouse deserved renewal on grounds of quality, I’m sure this probably did also.
I’m somewhat happy Dollhouse was renewed. Being a fan of Firefly and therefore Whedon, I am happy for him but, overall, Dollhouse is less than stellar in the quality and story department (though the includion of Alan Tudyk into a serious role was a nice surprise).
However, if I had to choose one show to renew any my options were Dollhouse and Terminator:TSCC, I would have chosen Terminator. Though lacking a little in the action department, the quality writing, acting and heady, philosophical ideas within the story put Terminator head and shoulders above Dollhouse. Sorry Joss, maybe your next project will rekindle the joy I got from Firefly.
The renewal I Fringe holds up my hope for a return of good quality, thought provoking science fiction on television.