Dollhouse

Comic-Con 2009: Joss Whedon Talks ’Dollhouse’ Season 2 and The Missing Episode

First off, let me say that Joss Whedon is as clever in person as he is via scriptwriting. First and foremost, Whedon and Eliza Dushku had one very important message for their fans: "We’re here because of you." Neither hid the fact that Dollhouse was very close to being canceled. So close, both admitted to being surprised when it was renewed although they were extremely humbled by the overwhelming support of the diehard Dollhouse fans. If you remember, BuddyTV was the main force behind the web/twitter revolution.

Joss Whedon even joked that Dollhouse was renewed because he found some really talented people to "fudge" the numbers. Enron maybe? He also alluded to TiVo/DVR viewers being the deciding factor in Dollhouse’s renewal. That’s not new news to most, but it’s good news for the upcoming season. If FOX keeps Dollhouse in the Friday night slot, nightly numbers won’t matter as much as if it were a Monday through Thursday show.

The most exciting news to come out of Comic-Con was that Buffy and Angel alum Alexis Denisof will definitely be guest starring for multiple episodes. Whedon noted that in season 1, he tried not to play favorites with the Whedon alums but with season 2, all bets are off. He’s no longer going to hide that he likes certain actors and wants to work with them often. That means, as many suspected or maybe hoped, Summer Glau is in talks to be a guest star sometime this season.

The second most interesting part of the panel was the elusive 13th episode otherwise known as "Epitaph One." It’s very clear, after watching it, why FOX didn’t want to air it. It’s very post-apocalyptic and dark. If you are a Dollhouse fan, you need to buy the DVD and watch this episode. The acting, the story, the pacing and the greater implications are a must. A fan asked Whedon if he feels boxed up with this set future painted for the world of Dollhouse and he responded that most of the episode is based on memories and memories are entirely subjective. So, although the 13th episode will be relevant to Dollhouse’s storyline, it won’t dictate the arc as much as you’d think.

Needless to say, Dollhouse season 2 will be amazing. Joss Whedon and Eliza Dushku (who is now producer) seem really confident about the year and really excited to show the world.