Fox released its lineup for next season and it will not include "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles." Meanwhile, fans of writer Joss Whedon and producer-actress Eliza Dushku's "Dollhouse" have reason to rejoice, as the series has been granted a stay of execution.More than a few in the television media speculated that "Dollhouse" would not be back. "Dollhouse" survived long odds and returned," wrote San Francisco Chronicle reporter Tim Goodman.
Episodes of the Whedon sci-fi/action series were aired in a different order than the series creator intended. This made a difference to many who watched "Dollhouse" (like myself) who were confused as to its direction.
The consensus of critics and fans online is that 'house got better after the fifth episode or so.
Interestingly, "Dollhouse" seemed to be in a similar position to Sarah Connor after its first season a couple years ago. Despite shaky fan and viewer response, the "Terminator" spin-off series returned and won some supporters. Alas, this season there was not enough heat on the show to convince Fox to keep it for a third season.
I really liked Sarah Connor, but it pushed my trust to the limits in the second half of this season. About five episodes featured these bizarre, claustrophobic, main character studies. The series came back around again in the last four chapters and focused on Terminator mythology and robot action. I was riveted (forgive that) all the way up to the season finale -- an ending that would have changed the direction of the show brilliantly.
Sarah may be gone now, but these things can change if the network hears it from the viewing public. Especially if the feature film "Terminator: Salvation," which is released Thursday, kicks box office tail.
I like The Terminator program and would like for it to continue.
Thank you.
G Bradfield