Heroes, Dollhouse, and Chuck: how short seasons are saving sci fi TV

May 19, 12:01 AMOmaha Sci-Fi ExaminerLeAnn Tiede

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NBC Heroes

Heroes, Dollhouse, and Chuck were all renewed for the 2009-2010 seasons of television in spite of low or lagging numbers. All three shows considered “on the bubble” at different periods of the spring renewal decisions were brought back with fewer than the standard model of 21-22 episodes. For Heroes the abbreviated season is nineteen episodes. Nearly a full season of other television shows. Both Dollhouse and Chuck will return with only 13 episodes.

Shortened seasons allow for lower production costs, greater freedom for actors to be involved in other projects, and most importantly a tight focus for the writers. LOST has proven with its 16 episode seasons that storylines become tighter and the pacing has a better drive with fewer episodes. While it can seem disappointing for the viewer initially, in the end the pay off is worth it.

Heroes will definitely benefit the most from the shortened season model. This show has lacked focus which frustrated viewers for the last two seasons. The return of Brian Fuller has seemed to help with this issue and shortening the season from their practice of 25 episodes can only enhance the pacing and prevent wandering of this show.

For Chuck and Dollhouse the benefit is simply that they will return. A full season of either show was never in the cards. Thirteen episode seasons were the only chance they had of returning, and the networks made a big concession to fans in bringing back these two under-viewed shows in limited seasons.

In the end, the short season model works very well in Britain, has been gold for LOST and has saved some shows from the graveyard. While it may leave fans yearning for more during a longer break between seasons, it is far preferable to having nothing to wait for at all.

For more info: 
Dollhouse and the mystery 13th episode.
"Chuck Vs. the Dream Job"
Bryan Fuller's return to Heroes brings some much needed resolution.