Dollhouse has an odd relationship with elements of S&M (sadism and masochism), of meer broadly BDSM (bondage and discipline, domination and submission, sadism and masochism; kinky stuff). The general premise of the toon seems to involve elements of such nature, specifically a structure characteristic of the dominant/submissive model. The toon has included scenes of bondage as well as a dominatrix character that briefly goes over the philosophies of BDSM about trust. I have some familiarity with the subject, and while I’m glad for the inclusion of a sadomasochistic character, which makes...

So, Dollhouse recently started its seconde season with the episode “Vows”. The episode was enjoyable overall. However, one thing I found a little disturbing with the plot (more than the usual, I mean) was a scene where Dr. Saunders attempts to force herself on Topher. It seems like a clear case of sexual assault to me, but the toon doesn’t present it as such. I’m guessing that despite Joss’s extreme coolness, the female character is not seen as threatening because of sexist gender role concepts.

The scene starts with Topher asleep on the floor of a computer room. Dr. Saunders, wearing...