Considering Joss Whedon created this show, it's not surprising that a cast member from one of his past series (Firefly, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel) comes to call sooner or later. Two of them are already in the cast — Dushku and Amy Acker, who plays Dr. Claire Saunders. Paging Alan Tudyk! I have not seen much of his work, but I am pleasantly surprised to see him this week. Who else should play the designer of the dollhouse but the actor who is famous for the geeky scientist on Firefly? The bits between Tudyk and Penikett are a joy to watch. Two sci-fi vets with solid chemistry, each brings his own individual strengths to the table. Ballard is a man with an unquenchable thirst for uncovering dollhouse secrets. He knows nobody is going to tell him anything outright. So, he must find another way. He makes his character possessed with a righteous streak overwhelming all rational logic. Tudyk's character is cautious, knowing there is trouble ahead if he does what Ballard wants. Big time. He does have one advantage, though — medicinal carrots! It's a visual concept making for huge comic relief.
Ballard may think he is trying to save Caroline (Echo's identity before she says yes to being a doll) but a bigger dilemma exists. For most of this season, a rogue doll named Alpha has been on the loose. He's utterly dangerous and completely ruthless. More than one remnant of destruction exists as proof, except nobody knows where he is. Wisely, there has been no shot of his face in order to let the mystery build.
Exactly who Alpha is might not be a mystery to most people who follow Internet chatter. Just in case, though, I am leaving off the actor's name. Suffice it to say the effect is breathtaking. I have long known this person as the character, but I am startled nonetheless. More than a few people could play Alpha, and part of the thrill in tuning in week to week is the guessing game. Before too long, it's possible Alpha goes away and another baddie takes over. According to the setup, dollhouses exist all over the world. One never knows exactly who one will meet next.
Article comments
1 - Bronco
It's worth noting that Tudyk was the geeky pilot on Firefly -- not the scientist.