The show is back, and its plowing forward like there's no tomorrow

This review may contain spoilers.

In its first episode to air following the announcement of its cancellation, Joss Whedons Dollhouse delivers a two-part adventure that pushes this seasons narrative forward in a major way.

The percolating subplot of Sen. Perrin (Alexis Denisof) and his crusade to expose the Dollhouse comes to the forefront as Adelle (Olivia Williams) sends Echo (Eliza Dushku) on a mission to prevent Madeline aka November (Miracle Laurie) from testifying about her time at the Dollhouse.

Meanwhile, Ballard (Tahmoh Penikett) has his own personal reasons for wanting to protect her.

Topher also comes face to face with Bennett Halverson (Summer Glau of Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Whedons Firefly), his counterpart in the Washington DC Dollhouse. However, Bennett is far more sinister than she appears and has a past connection to Echo.

What Worked

First of all, the most talked-about - and Fox-promoted - aspect of these episodes is the appearance of Glau. She brings a dynamic new quality to the show, and while she takes a few scenes to warm up to, Bennett emerges as a fascinating new villain for the series.
The torture scene between her and Echo that bridges the two episodes is truly one of the most chilling sequences that Dollhouse has ever featured. Glau has experience playing slightly unhinged yet unaffected characters, and shes perfectly cast for this part. Plus, its nice to welcome her back to the Whedonverse.

Gjokaj also delivers another first-rate performance, as Victor is imprinted with Tophers personality back at the L.A. Dollhouse. Equipped with the same vocal tonality, mannerisms and even the catchphrases, Gjokajs impersonation captures the manic energy and neurotic psychosis that has made Topher the most distinctive character on the show. Victors conversations with the actual Topher made for some fun moments too.

What Didn't Work

Not a whole lot to complain about here. Dollhouse is becoming stronger and stronger with every episode this season as it builds to its series finale.

One weak point, though, is the shows continual failure to involve the entire main cast in its episodes. Once again, series regulars Harry Lennix and Dichen Lachman play little to no role in the events of these two episodes. Theres so much going on that many fans may not realize it until the credits roll, and theres certainly enough characters and plots running to keep the pace up.

However, Dollhouse has only seven episodes remaining in its run and loads of subplots and character arcs to wrap up. Since Fox has made it clear that it has no desire to order a third season, the time is now for Whedon to propel the story forward. These two episodes did an excellent job of ratcheting up the momentum. Lets just hope Whedon can keep it going and tell as much of this story as possible in the seriesremaining run.

Giving Credit Where Credit Is Due

Dollhouse stars Eliza Dushku, Harry Lennix, Fran Kranz, Tahmoh Penikett, Enver Gjokaj, Dichen Lachman and Olivia Williams. The Public Eye was written by Andrew Chambliss and was directed by David Solomon. The Left Hand was written by Tracy Bellomo and was directed by Wendey Stanzler.

Dollhouse airs Fridays at 9 p.m. on Fox.