Archive for the ‘ emmy awards ’ Category

2013 Early Emmy Talk #1(The “locks”)


modern family

Last year, when I did this post for the 2012 Emmys, I actually predicted most of the locks right. The only ones I got wrong was Parks and Recreation for Series and John Slattery for Supporting Actor. However, I was still very weary about making a post this year because…for some reason, I feel like we’re in store for some really big surprises this summer. With some shows finishing out their tenures (and some new shows coming out), it’s tough figuring which shows and people are “safe.” The truth is…no one’s ever truly safe. Last year, everyone and their mother predicted Parks and Recreation and Louie for series nominations, and maybe even wins. Instead, they were surprisingly overturned by the likes of Veep (yay!) and Girls. So…it may be a bit silly to make predictions this early in the season…but, the Emmy bug is itching so…here goes.

Just a reminder, here are some ground rules:

1. This is not an OFFICIAL prediction list. I actually don’t make concrete predictions until voting’s over. I’m just going to name the 1 or 2 people in each category that, no matter what, will most likely get a nomination. That’s all…

2. I never consider new shows and new actors “locks.” Even if it’s PAINFULLY obvious, I leave them out for now. Remember when we all thought Luck would dominate? Exactly. (Side note: are there really any new series this year that are major contenders this year? Is House of Cards that big of a threat?)

3. …I think that’s it, actually.

OK. Here are the locks for the 2013 Emmys as of April 29th…

COMEDY

Lead Actor: With Larry David out of the way this year, we have one slot open…a slot that will probably be filled by either Matt LeBlanc (Episodes) or Jason Bateman (Arrested Development). However, this a category that seldom sees much movement so…Alec Baldwin (for his last season), Jim Parsons, Jon Cryer (last year’s winner) and Louie CK remain the four strongest contenders this year. Don Cheadle is very much in the game but…I can’t help thinking that last year might have been a “one time thing.” I guess we’ll see.

Lead Actress: She probably won’t win, but Tina Fey is most definitely getting in for her last season of 30 Rock. Last year’s winner and reliable Emmy favorite Julia Louis Dreyfuss is also in (and might even win again if the rest of season 2 is as good as these first 3 episodes). Parks and Recreation may be losing stock, but the likable Amy Poehler should stick around. And, last, I think America’s sweetheart Lena Dunham should have another chance of Emmy gold after being routinely snubbed last year. There aren’t many new contenders in this category, so we might very well see the same nominations we got last year. Newbie Mindy Kaling could squeeze in though…but again, I’m not considering newbies (not that I that I think she’s much of a lock anyway).

Supporting Actor: Is it too easy to assume that all four Modern Family dudes will be back this year? It’s tough because Arrested Development could bring a couple supporting actors of their own…and that would still be a perfect six. But still…supporting actor is tighter than you may think. I haven’t watched a single episode of MF this year so I have no inkling who’s been standing out. But…I think previous winners Eric Stonestreet and Ty Burrell are safe. If this is going to be the year that voters think outside the “Modern Family box.” then I believe those two will be left standing.

Supporting Actress: Because there are only two adult women in the Modern Family cast, I think it’ll be easier for Julie Bowen and Sofia Vergara to get in easily. As for everyone else? Good luck. If Jane Krakowski hadn’t been egregiously snubbed last year, she would definitely be a lock because it was 30 Rock‘s final season. However, because Emmy voters usually play the “Once you’re out, you’re always out” game, it’ll be a tough road for Jane K. Jessica Walter (AD) may also be a contender and could even win if given the chance. And last year’s surprise nominees Mayim Bialik and Merrit Weaver are still in the game…even though I’m quite confident both will be knocked out come July. (Hey…a Girls gotta eat.)

Series: There are three locks this year: Modern Family because…well…it’s Modern Family, 30 Rock (because their last season was universally acclaimed unlike the last seasons of past Emmy bait shows like Will and Grace. ) and Girls. Everything else is in a bubble. For Veep, it’s too early to say…although I would love to see it get nominated again. For Arrested Development….it’s even more too early because none of the episodes have premiered yet and, well, they could in theory be crap (also, we don’t quite know how voters will react to online television being in contention). Big Bang Theory remains the highest rated comedy on television. I haven’t watched it all this season (actually there are a lot of comedy shows I’ve missed on this season for one reason or another)…but I’ve heard even the most diehard fans say how uneven this season’s been. Louie SHOULD get in…but it’s last 2 (IMO superior) seasons have been snubbed so maybe we should just give it up. It’s also the last season of The Office but…unless the very last episode is spectacular, I’m not seeing right now. And, for the fun of it, let’s not leave out New Girls, Parks and Rec, Episodes, and Enlightened, k?

DRAMA

Lead Actor: The likes of Jeff Daniels (The Newsroom) and Kevin Spacey (House of Cards) have been getting a good amount of buzz…but they’re new shows so…Also, The Newsroom is a hella polarizing. Just sayin’. Anyway, I think the magic three (Bryan Cranston, Jon Hamm, Damian Lewis) will pop up. Steve Buscemi is a little shaky just because Boardwalk Empire isn’t a “hot button” show anymore (at least, that’s what it seems like to me…BTW, I don’t follow the show so maybe I’m wrong), but I still think it’s a lock. I think those 4 definitely have a better chance than Hugh Bonneville and Timothy Olyphant. Michael C. Hall will probably get a nomination, but I wouldn’t consider him a lock persay.

Lead Actress: Once again, I’m not going to put Elizabeth Moss (Mad Men) on the list because there’s still that slight chance she’ll switch to supporting (thus giving Jessica Pare a better chance to prevail). Who knows what’s up with Moss or her character or how long we’ll follow her this season? So…she’s not a lock. Call me strange but, like Lead Actor, I think there are 4 locks: Julianna Margulies, Claire Danes, Glenn Close (if she could manage a nomination last year, she’ll probably get in again this year for the last season of Damages) and Michelle Dockery (Golden Globe and SAG nominee who definitely stood out this last season of Downton Abbey). With Kathy Bates out, there is pretty much one slot open. Will it go to Kerry Washington? Connie Britton? Jessica Pare? Mariska Hargitay?

Supporting Actor: The Supporting Drama Actor category is looser than a…something that’s loose. Yeah, Aaron Paul and Peter Dinklage are virtual locks. But outside that…it’s anyone’s game. I mean, let’s remember, last year…two guys from Downton Abbey got in. You never know what the voters are thinking. I do believe Mandy Pantinkin (Homeland) and Jonathon Banks (Breaking Bad) are probably the next up…but they’ve never been nominated before [for these roles] so…again…very loose.

Supporting Actress: The Good Wife is in an interesting position. For the last three years, they’ve been able to hold on to those 2 supporting actress slots. But this year their hurt by a couple things. One, is Archie Panjabi’s really bad story line during the 1st half of the season. And two, the show as a whole being snubbed series which signifies that voters may be letting go of the series slowly but surely. Will these otherwise amazing actresses be the next victims? Only time will tell. Right now, they’re not locks. Maggie Smith and Anna Gunn (Breaking Bad) definitely are. (Hayden Panettiere FYC).

Series: It’s strange. All 6 nominees from last year could get in this year. In fact, that’s probably what I would predict if I were making a real prediction right now. However, for the sake of me not being bold, I’ll say that the only locks right now are Mad Men, Breaking Bad, and last year’s winner Homeland (even though critics and fans alike were very critical of the latter half of the season). Downton Abbey could be the token period piece / network show this category needs but…I dunno, it’s not everyone’s favorite show. And, hey, The Good Wife could come back and take the spot from Game of Thrones or Boardwalk Empire. Maybe? Probably not. House of Cards, The Newsroom, The Americans, and even Nashville are also contenders. But, again, I think it’ll probably just be the same 6 as last year…

Cool. I got that out of my system. Did I leave out any BIG contenders? Am I underestimating the power of Malibu County? What about Glee? Is that still a thing? Would it be so totally awesome if Shameless got any love besides Joan Cusack? Sound off below.

2013
04/29
CATEGORY
awards
connie britton
drama
emmy awards
emmys
glee
nominations
predictions
reflection
snubbed
television
the good wife
tv
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70th (2013) Golden Globes Predictions (Television Categories)


game change

Is anyone else completely psyched for this year’s Golden Globes. I don’t necessarily take the actual awards too seriously…but I love the ceremony atmosphere. It’s a lot less stuffy than some of the more “major” awards. It’s just cool seeing drunk celebrities so uninhibited. And as much as I liked Ricky Gervais and his painfully honest commentary, I am balls to the wall excited for Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. They are the two funniest women in Hollywood. They’re best friends. I am confident this will be a fun night. But before then, I just GOTTA predict which people will win (and should win). Right now, I’m just going to focus on television. I’ll predict the movie categories after the Oscar nominations are announced Thursday. I know it shouldn’t matter…but it does.

OK…let’s start this thang. The nominations are here.

DRAMA

Series: With Mad Men surprisingly out of the way, this category is down to two strong contenders. The Newsroom is the type of new show that the Globes would probably like to reward, but the negative reviews might turn the Press away. Breaking Bad is a show that was never popular with this awards group. It’s weird how this was the show’s first nomination. And, let’s face it, no one really talks about Boardwalk Empire anymore. So, it’s last year’s winner Homeland vs. last year’s winner Downton Abbey. According to many fans and critics alike, both shows have gone through “sophomore slumps” in their second seasons. Nonetheless, they’re both front runners, and I think these mostly foreign voters will want to vote for the sophisticated British drama: Downton Abbey.

(However, I believe Breaking Bad should win to make up for all those times it was snubbed an nomination (Also, my opinion on the second season of Homeland might have changed a bit since my “Top 10 TV Shows” article from a few days back.))

Actor: Again, if The Newsroom had gotten better reviews, I’d feel tempted to predict Jeff Daniels. But, I think this time, the voters won’t vote for the “new nominee.” Clearly the HFPA doesn’t love Mad Men anymore so I don’t see Jon Hamm prevailing. And, again, no one really talks about Boardwalk Empire. So, similar to the Emmys, it’s Cranston vs. Lewis. The HFPA have had so many chances to give Bryan Cranston the award. I don’t think it’s going to happen this year. I think recent Emmy winner Damien Lewis will win.

(And, I think Damien Lewis should win. He was really great this year. Bryan Cranston winning would be fine, if only to make up for the past years snubs.)

Actress: Like I’ve mentioned before, the Golden Globes really love awarding the new underdog, with or without Emmys. That’s why the likes of Anna Paquin and Katey Sagal have won the years before. So, yeah, Connie Britton and Michelle Dockery have a chance. However, the HFPA’s love for Claire Danes is undeniable (she has never lost a Golden Globe before). So, I think she’ll just win this one again.

(Claire Danes is a worthy winner, but, for the sake of spreading the wealth, I’d like to see Michelle Dockery nab the prize this time. Julianna Margulies has also had a great year. I love Connie Britton, but her story line in Nashville is the most boring.)

COMEDY

Series: This is a toughie for me. I think it’s safe to say Big Bang Theory and Smash are out. The Golden Globes clearly like Episodes - Matt LeBlanc won last year. Modern Family seems to win everything nowadays. And Girls is a new, critically acclaimed show – the type of show that voters would like. Hm…I think MF has run its course. Episodes will win. (So, if things go according to plan, British shows will win for Drama and Comedy.)

(I’m hoping Episodes win. It’s the only show in this lineup that I would have personally nominated.)

Actor: Alec Baldwin could get a “goodbye” win…but I think the voters’ ambivalence towards the show as a whole is holding Baldwin back. This is Louis CK’s first nomination…I think the nomination is the award for him. In short, I think this will be a good night for Matt LeBlanc and he’ll win again. He should watch for Don Cheadle though.

(Honestly…anyone but Jim Parsons. I’m rooting for Louis CK’s the most.)

Actress: It’s the dueling hosts – Amy vs. Tina! Just kidding. It’s really Lena Dunham vs. Julia Louis Dreyfus. The Golden Globes like cable comedies. They like young women. I think first timer Lena Dunham will prevail and win her first major award.

(Hm…I think Tina Fey is the best of these ladies. But, at the same time, seeing Amy Poehler finally win an award would be beautiful.)

TV MOVIE/MINISERIES

TV Movie/Miniseries: The Golden Globes usually just copy off the Emmys…even if there are new contenders. Game Change‘s only real competition is Hatfields and McCoys.

(Having not seen The Girl, Political Animals or the second season of The Hour, I have no choice but to root for Game Change.)

Actor: This category is pretty much out in the air. Benedict Cumberbatch of Sherlock is a strong contender, but I’m going to predict Kevin Costner this time for Hatfields and McCoys. 

(I think Cumberbatch should win. I really like Woody Harrelson though. It’s sad that he doesn’t get much credit for Game Change.

Actress: Jessica Lange won a Golden Globe last year for American Horror Story. She could very well win again for this second season. However, like I mentioned before, the Golden Globes usually just award the person who won the Emmy. So I think Julianne Moore will win for her wonderful Sarah Palin performance in Game Change.

(Yeah, Julianne Moore FTW.)

SUPPORTING PERFORMERS

Actor: The supporting categories are always a crapshoot. Besides Danny Huston for Magic City, any of these men have a chance. Eric Stonestreet won the Emmy last fall, while Max Greenfield and Ed Harris were nominated. However, Mandy Patinkin had a stand out role in this season’s Homeland. If the voters love Homeland, they watched this season. And if they were as impressed with his performance as everyone else was, then I think they’ll award him along with his two co-stars. It’s anyone’s game though.

(I think Mandy Patinkin is the most deserving (If Aaron Paul had been nominated, then we’d be having a different discussion.). If Eric Stonestreet wins, I’ll lose it.)

Actress: Without Jessica Lange in her way, this is Maggie Smith‘s to lose.

(Honestly, this is the one category where I really like all the nominees. However…a little part of me is rooting for Hayden Panettiere of Nashville. Yeah, is she really supporting? Who knows? She’s still really good and has sort of become a breakout this season. I hope she’s nominated for an Emmy)

So…that’s it. Stay tuned for my movie predictions which I’ll either have posted on the night of the 10th…or early 11th. Thanks for reading!

2013
01/08
CATEGORY
30 rock
awards
breaking bad
connie britton
drama
emmy awards
emmys
golden globes
nominations
predictions
reflection
review
snubbed
television
the good wife
tv
1 comment

My 10 Favorite Television Programs of 2012


I decided not to title this article “Ten BEST Shows of 2012″ because, honestly, there are still a few shows I haven’t watched yet…most notably American Horror Story. I really liked the first season. And although that first season probably wouldn’t have made my top 10 last year, I still think it’s worth noting that I would probably enjoy the show this season and that it would probably be a contender for my top 10.

Anyway, let’s go through the top 10 (separated by comedy and drama), and afterwards I’ll list a couple honorable mentions…

COMEDY:

5. ANT Farm - On this blog, I’ve discussed my adoration for kids shows like iCarly and Good Luck Charlie. (Both shows are definitely part of my honorable mention list). iCarly had a really nice series finale…however, most fans admit that the show had been getting worse and worse. However, a new generation of kids shows have surprisingly been holding up…and the best of the shows is definitely ANT Farm. The show stars musical prodigy China Anne McClain, and is about a bunch of young high schoolers who are part of a gifted program at their school. This show is actually very funny and if people actually looked past the “Disney Channel” label and gave it chance, they would crack up more than once. Also, China Anne McClain is more talented than Selenademimileyhilary and all the others IMO.

Standout episode: “fANTasy Girl” (Watch the episode twice!)

4. Episodes - This second season wasn’t as fresh and hilarious as its first season (last year it was my number 1 show). Nonetheless, this show still easily finds a spot in my top 5 comedies. This season took off from where the last one left us. The show did a good job dealing with Sean and Beverly’s separation. We saw them struggle with their marriage and also their show which didn’t do too well in the ratings. We also saw Joey deal with getting old and see him reflect sadly on his “Friends” day. Once again, this show does a good job balancing slightly raunchy humor with some realy poignant stuff. And I am definitely looking forward to the next season.

Standout episode: “Episode Nine” (This show is good with finales).

3. The New Normal - Book of Mormon is literally one of the best musicals of the last few years, so, naturally, I was very excited that Andrew Rannells had a new comedy show (esp. considering how hilarious he was in Girls). I really like this show. Yeah, some people think the show is too preachy. I dunno…I feel like we need shows like this. There are people out there who are still disappointingly racist and homophobic, so I don’t mind watching a show that stresses the importance of tolerance and acceptance. I think Rannells and Justin Bartha have great chemistry together. And, I don’t watch much cable reality television, but I have such a soft spot for Nene Leakes. IMO, her character is a better foil for the main characters than Ellen Barkin’s. This is the only new fall comedy that I watch religiously.

Standout episode: “Sofa’s Choice” (Shania as Little Edie was enough for me to get hooked onto this show.

2. 30 Rock - Here comes the waterworks! I’ve mentioned on this blog many times how much I love this show. I pretty much plan on writing another article towards the end of the show’s run. So, I’m not going to delve too deeply on my love for this show. However, season 7, in particular, has been great so far. And if things go according to plan, season 7 could end up being the show’s strongest season ever. Jane Krakowski has been a stand out. I’m really going to miss the show when it ends in January.

Stand out episode: “Mazel Tov Dummies” (Liz and Criss’s wedding made me crack up and cry at the same time.)

1. Veep - This eight episode first season has been pitch perfect. The first time I watched the season, I loved it. The second time I watched it, I appreciated the swift writing even more. This show is similar to 30 Rock in that there’s a joke every ten seconds. And most of the jokes are just hilarious. This show has one of the sharpest casts on television. I think it’s a little ridiculous  that people only focus on Julia Louis Dreyfuss, when Anna Chlumsky and Tony Hale also give great performances (which is why I’m glad The Emmys gave us a surprise and nominated the show as a whole along with the lead actress.) I like Girls alot…but this show deserves much more attention.

Stand out episode: “Baseball” (really all of them…but this episode is just the bees knees).

game change

DRAMA:

5. Game Change - The thing I really like about this TV movie is that it really paints a sympathetic portrait of the Republican party. Despite what the people at Fox News thinks, this movie isn’t completely scathing towards Palin orMcCain. I mean, yeah, it does point out how unqualified Palin would have been for the job (and how McCain tried to manipulate the public by choosing her in the first place). But, I left the movie not hating them…but feeling sorry for them. Maybe if I had known how much these people were struggling/hurting, I would have voted for McCain (jk…seriously…jk). Anyway, Julianna Moore gives a great performance and she won her Emmy fair and square with her pitch perfect Sarah Palin impression.

4. Breaking Bad - I really don’t think the producers should have split the last season in half. I would have rather waited 2 years for 16 episodes in a row, then watch 8 episodes a year. As much as I loved this season, I felt like it was mostly set up for the last 8 episodes next summer. This is the same problem The Sopranos had during their last season (although, because The Sopranos is more anthological, it worked better). This show is obviously still in my top 10 because it still remains one of the best shows on television. But…there are three drama shows I liked more this year. Bryan Cranston, Anna Gun and Aaron Paul still continue to do great work. And Jonathan Banks deserves an Emmy nomination next year.

Stand out episode: “Fifty-One” (the fight between Walter and Skyler was wild).

3. Homeland - This has become the show people love to hate apparently. Yes, towards the end of the season, the show became a bit ridiculous and implausible. But…I never got into this show because it was “realistic”. I got into this show because it was exciting and because I constantly anticipated what happened next. This show constantly surprised and I watched every episode on the edge of my seat. That’s mostly what I look for in a show like this. So…despite what others think, this show has not jumped the shark and I’m already looking forward to the third season (because I have no idea what they plan on doing with Brody). Mandy Patinkin CHALLA BREAD!

Stand out episode: “Q and A” (for obvious reasons).

2. The Good Wife - This technically still remains my favorite dramatic show. The show is just slick and sly, with fast paced editing and sharp characterization and performances. The show constantly makes me laugh and keeps me intrigued. Julianna Margulies continues to be a great leading lady and anchors the cast well. I’ve also really enjoyed the addition of Amanda Peet as a military lawyer who works for the DA’s office after losing her rape trial. The thing that’s preventing this show from being number 1 is the really terrible Kalinda story line this fall.  Luckily, the producers got rid of it and still have a chance to fully redeem season 4.

Stand out episode: “Another Ham Sandwich”

3. Shameless - The more I think about this show, the more I love it. It’s just such a messy, crazy, imperfect show with a great cast and crazier story lines. And, yeah, this show has so many “funny” moments that it could be counted as a comedy. But what really draws me to this show is the heartbreaking drama, particularly anything having to do with the mother (her suicide attempt was cray!)Karen’s birthing episode was also pretty dramatic, especially the scenes where she tries to get her mother (Joan Cusack) to not adopt the baby. Overall, I love this show with a passion and if no other critic is going to acknowledge it…then I will!

Standout episode: “Just Like the Pilgrims Intended”

Other honorable mentions go to: Mad Men (I just couldn’t fit it into my top 10), Louie, New Girl, Dance Moms, Saturday Night Live, Grey’s Anatomy, and Bob’s Burgers.

I also have to give a special shout out to Downton Abbey. Season three was really great this season and if it had already aired in America this year, it would have definitely made my top 10. But…I ultimately decided not to include the season this year. But look for it next year. I can’t wait until the rest of America watches it (y’know, the part of the population that’s never heard of Sceper).

OK! What’s in your top 10! Thanks for reading and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2012
12/25
CATEGORY
30 rock
breaking bad
children's tv
drama
emmy awards
emmys
reflection
review
television
the good wife
tv
3 comments

2012 Emmys Recap!


So…that just happened. Can I be honest? Between late July and now, my interest level in the Emmys have dropped considerably. Like I came into this ceremony not really caring about…anything. I suppose that’s a good thing because there were one too many “wasted wins”. So…congrats you rich celebs! Let’s just go through this…THE GOOD, THE BAD, and THE UGLY!

THE GOOD

  • The following wins: Damian Lewis (I was hoping Bryan Cranston would make history but Lewis was my second choice and it’s nice seeing an underdog win), Homeland (again, I was technically rooting for Breaking Bad, but, by golly, this was a spectacular first season and I’m glad something beat Mad Men this year. Proud of the cast and crew.)
  • I actually liked the opening video. It was kind of cool seeing a nominated actress pop up, one after the other. Seeing a nude Lena Dunham eat cake in a stall was…interesting. And I did have a pretty big LOL moment when Heidi, Howie, Tom, Ryan and Jeff popped up said they would host the show. It wasn’t as great as Jane Lynch’s last year. And it doesn’t even come close to the likes of Jimmy Fallon’s or Conan O’Brien’s…but I guess I have to appreciate the fact that Jimmy didn’t piggyback off those past hosts and do a song or put himself in other shows. It was a short and sweet opening.
  • Louis CK winning two Emmys. That was nice. He won his first Emmy for writing which was a slight disappointment considering I thought the script he submitted was pretty weak compared to some of the others. But Louie CK writes every episode on his show so I’ll say this Emmy represents his solid work along the season. I’m just glad he walked away with an Emmy. It would have been tragic if he had been snubbed this year.
  • Sofia Vergara happily chanting “BRAVO!!” to her co-star Julie Bowen after she won, showing how great of a sport Vergara is. I suspect her time will come soon.
  • During the “Best Direction in a Comedy Series” clip package, the directors are asked who make the best directors. Lena Dunham’s “Jewish Men?” had me chuckle.
  • Despite the fact that I was pretty angry with Modern Family dominating again, their clip package involving a badass Lily was funny. Funniest quip: “Can anyone understand what [Sofia Vergara's] saying?”
  • Melissa McCarthy going over the Lead Actors in a Comedy Series (Alec Baldwin has great chest hair, Jim Parsons is smooth like a baby.) She’s such a funny lady on such an unfunny TV show!

THE BAD

  • The following wins: Eric Stonestreet (although his slight pro-gay rights message was appreciated), Julie Bowen (which means Kristen Wiig has ZERO Emmys for her work on SNL. ZERO!!!), Steve Levitan for Directing in a Comedy Series, Modern Family (so, yeah, pretty much anything having to do with Modern Family), Jon Cryer (although his utter disbelief didn’t make the whole moment seem too terrible), Maggie Smith (she’s excellent on Downton Abbey, but in such a strong year for supporting actresses, did she really need another Emmy?), Kevin Costner (Really? Really.),

THE UGLY

  • Last year’s Emmys was so great because they had these beautifully edited clip packages for all the actors nominated. This year, they had nothing for the comedy actors, and barely anything for the drama/Movie actors. C’mon! Remind us one last time why these actors are great!

AND THE OUTSTANDING

  • The following wins: Aaron “Freakin’” Paul!!! (Deserved a second win through and through! I love how passionate and intense his speeches are. As great as Esposito is, I don’t think he should win just because his character dies), Claire Danes (“Mandy Patinkin. HOLLA!”), Julianna Moore (and pretty much all the love Game Change got was fantastic)
  • Y’know, I was really rooting for Amy Poehler to finally get a golden baby, but I absolutely adore Veep and I think Julia Louis Dreyfuss was still deserving. That little skit she created with Amy Poehler was hilarious and genius and was definitely the brightest moment of the entire night. Amy Poehler continues to have such a great attitude despite her continual losses. Let’s cross our fingers for next year.
  • Again, Jon Stewart’s 10th win was pretty disappointing. What made it better was Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert pulling Stewart back to prevent him from getting on the stage. And what followed was a pretty earnest speech from Stewart, giving props to all the other nominees in particular. I don’t think Jon Stewart should pull a “Candice Bergen” and drop out of the race, but I really hope next year someone new can win. I hope this every year and it never happens!

Overall, I can’t say this was a great Emmy night. It was so-so. Some great funny little bits, a couple deserving winners, a few undeserving ones. Jimmy Kimmel was a fun host, but I think he could have been better. But…who am I kidding? I’m just glad this is all over! Goodnight!

2012
09/24
CATEGORY
awards
breaking bad
ceremony
drama
emmy awards
emmys
nominations
predictions
recap
reflection
review
television
tv
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FINAL 2012 EMMY PREDICTIONS + Reviewing the Comedy Series and Drama Series nominations


For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

First things first, I want to apologize for kind of forgetting about this blog for the last few weeks. The truth is, I have just begun my senior year of college, and I haven’t had much time to even speculate over the Emmys. I was really hoping I would do more categories this year. I even watched all the nominees for Animated Program and Voice Over Program…but I simply didn’t have the energy to finish what I started. I’m happy that I at least covered all the “major” categories. That was my main goal. So…no regrets…but still disappointed.

So this will be my final post before the big night(s), so I’m just going to squish everything on one page. Let’s start with figuring who I think will win. In my “Reviewing the Nominees” posts, I only revealed who I thought SHOULD win. Now is the time to buck up and make real objective predictions. Let’s do this!:

(Of course, I won’t be predicting anything from the Creative Arts Emmys because those are taking place as I type this. Again…sorry!)

Movie/Minseries - I think the political drama Game Change will prevail. It’s a short movie that most voters have probably seen.

Lead Actor in a Movie - I’m going to go out on a limb and say that Bill Paxton will win for Hatfields & McCoys beating his more famous co-star, the same way Barry Pepper beat Greg Kinnear last year. (Bill Paxton gave the stronger performance of the two the same way Pepper did.)

Lead Actress in a Movie – Julianna Moore all the way.

Supporting Actor in a Movie - Hm…I think Ed Harris will take this for Game Change as well…

Supporting Actress in a Movie – I want it to be Sarah Paulson so bad but…Jessica Lange has been the front runner since she won the Golden Globe earlier this year.

I pretty much also think Game Change will take awards for Writing and Directing.

Lead Actor in a Drama Series - Bryan Cranston (6 for 6, baby! 6 for 6!)

Lead Actress in a Drama Series - This is Claire Danes to lose. If both Jon Hamm and Elizabeth Moss couldn’t win last year, I don’t think either of them have a chance this year.

Supporting Actor in a Drama Series - Nope. Not Giancarlo. It’s gonna be Aaron Paul all the way. I can feel it. I can feel it in my loins.

Supporting Actress in a Drama Series - Downton Abbey can’t walk away empty handed, so I think Maggie Smith will unfortunately beat Christina Hendricks.

Directing for a Drama Series - The Emmys love pilots, which is why I’m tempted to go with Homeland…but Breaking Bad’s “Face Off” was the most talked about episode of the year.

Writing for a Drama Series - What a toughie. I’m going to have to go with… the Homeland pilot. 

Lead Actor in a Comedy Series - Louis CK is well respected in Hollywood, but after Jim Parsons beat Steve Carell last year…it would be silly not to predict him again.

Lead Actress in a Comedy Series - Amy Poehler’s not going to win. Let’s just prepare for it now. The plucky Zooey Deschanel wouldn’t be such a bad pick however.

Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Jesse Tyler Ferguson from Modern Family. He had a stand out year, and I think voters will eventually want the whole cast to win.

Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - I only have one more chance to do this…so I might as well do it now: Kristen Wiig

Directing for a Comedy Series - Louis CK. He can’t go home empty handed again. I think this will be the category where he will prevail.

Writing for a Comedy Series - Lena Dunham for the same reason I had for Louie CK.

The Amazing Race and The Daily Show will win their respective categories for the billionth year.

For the full nominees for all these categories, plus more detailed takes on the categories (along with my choices as to who SHOULD WIN…visit my EMMY PAGE.

OK! The next (and more important) part of this post is my views of the Drama Series and Comedy Series nominations.

Here are the nominees for Best Drama Series:

Boardwalk Empire

Mad Men

Game of Thrones

Breaking Bad

Homeland

Downton Abbey

Who Should Win: Of these nominees, there are four shows I love and watch, and two shows I care little about. While I recognize that Game of Thrones and Boardwalk Empire are beautiful, well made, well written shows with dedicated fan bases (particularly GoT)…the shows have never really caught my interest. BE is just a little too slow for my taste…the exciting moments are too far in between. And, more than anything, the subject matter never initially interested me…and sadly the show didn’t make me more interested. As for GoT…I’ve never really been a fan of genre television. It’s not my style. So I can’t pretend I’d be happy if either of these shows won.

I have to admit, I’ve grown to love Downton Abbey. I know I was quite ambivalent about the show during the 1st season…and I wouldn’t say the 2nd season is BETTER…but the 2nd season definitely, for some reason, made me understand what has drawn people to the show. I STILL think Mildred Pierce is a much better program…but I genuinely do enjoy this show and I am so looking forward to the 3rd season (which I will be watching tomorrow…no matter what…not waiting for PBS). On the other hand, Mad Men is a show I’ve always liked, that gets better and better with every season. Season 5 was just so amazing with stand out episode after the other. I still don’t think Mad Men is the best drama on TV…and I never have. But I appreciate the show for at least improving, something even the best shows fail to do…

Homeland was the surprise hit of the season…and I was certainly surprised at how much I loved show and how engaged I was while watching the episodes. I never thought I would love a military thriller…but this show definitely caught my attention. I’m very glad it got all the attention it did. However…it’s been too long…Breaking Bad has to win. It was the most talked about show last year. And I feel like so many people discovered this show and watched it from the beginning because of the sheer awesomeness of this season. It would be a shame in 10 years to look back and realize that we never awarded this great drama. We’re doing it right now with The Wire. Let’s not make the same mistake with Breaking Bad.

Last Good Wife shout out: The Good Wife is better than all these shows.

Who Will Win: Mad Men. Sigh…just…sigh.

Here are the nominees for Best Comedy Series: 

30 Rock

Modern Family

The Big Bang Theory

Girls

Veep

Curb Your Enthusiasm

Who Should Win: This is a category that always pisses a lot of people off. It just shows how strong the comedies are lately. We truly are living in a golden age. However…I will confidently say that I would replace Modern Family, Big Bang Theory and Girls with Parks and Recreation, New Girl, and Louie among others. Sorry! Just sayin’. Girls had a really solid first season. I truly did look forward to new episodes…and I’m looking forward to the next season. But Lena Dunham is still a very green writer and actor. I just feel like voters, in nominating this show, were rewarding the young person’s accomplishments and not the actual product. Girls was simply not among the top 6 this year. Plain fact. The other two shows are similarly overrated. I used to LOVE The Big Bang Theory…I still really like it. But (kill me) I truly believe 2 Broke Girls has more heart and funnier jokes (neither shows deserve recognition…but if a multi-camera sitcom had to win…) And Modern Family is cute…but it’s not terribly edgy and there’s very little development. I hope they step it up next year.

30 Rock is my favorite show but it’s won 3 times…so I don’t really need to see it win again. I mean, I would be happy for the show…but I don’t think it’s a necessary win. At this point, people aren’t going to like the show any more or less. The same technically could be said for Curb…but the show HAS NEVER won. And, as someone who has started getting into the show, I think it would be cool if they finally did. I mean, “Palestinian Chicken” is just a perfect 30 minutes of television. However, my vote would definitely go to Veep, a thoroughly underrated show that cracks me up every third line spoken. I just don’t know how they come up with such funny dialogue and situations. If an Emmy win means more people will give this gem a chance, then I am ALL FOR IT.

Who Will Win: Modern Family.

So…that’s as much as I can do. I’ll see you all next week and I definitely plan on recapping the ceremony and reviewing the winners and all that jazz. Thanks for reading!

 

2012
09/15
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Reviewing the 2012 Emmy Nominees #29 (Choreography)


For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

Here are the nominees for Choreography:

Stacy Tookey – So You Think You Can Dance (In this Shirt / Turning Tables / Heart Asks For Pleasure First)

Christopher Scott – So You Think You Can Dance (Misty Blue / Velocity)

Spencer Liff – So You Think You Can Dance (Whatever Lola Wants / Please Mr. Jailer / Where Do I Begin)

Joshua Bergasse – Smash (National Pastime / Let’s Be Bad / Never Met a Wolf)

Travis Wall, Teddy Forance, and Nick Lazzarini – Dancing With the Stars (Without You)

Who Should Win: This is another fun category I love doing! In the case of So You Think You Can Dance, especially, it’s so much fun to relive the dances from last season. Some of you are probably wondering why I haven’t been recapping this current season of the show. The truth is, in the beginning, I was planning on doing it…but I simply don’t have the passion for the show anymore. I still watch it and enjoy it (although the last episode where they rehashed old Mia Michael routines was pretty awful), but I’m sort of fed up with the new rules and the judges and some of the dancers chosen for the top 20 (cough cough Cyrus). So…for this year at least, I’m not going to kill myself over the show.

Anyway, in 5th is Christopher Scott who gets a big FAIL for not submitting his strongest dance of that season (“Ain’t no sunshine“). If he had submitted that dance he actually probably would have been number 1 on my list. Instead he has two good, but not great, routines up. In 4th is Stacy Tookey. “In This Shirt” was a little “too much” for me (like too much unnecessary movement), but I do think her other dances are wonderful, particularly “Heart” which centers around two housewives who are trapped in their homes. She’s still a “poor man’s Mia Michaels,” but she tries and I appreciate her effort. This is her third nomination in a row!

Another thing Smash accomplished that Glee never could do is get a nomination for Choreography. I found a lot of the choreography on the show very impressive and slick (one example is during the “National Pastime” number where Marilyn sings that “baseball diamonds” are a girl best friends and the back ground baseball player dancers fashion a diamond out of baseball bats). It’s not as deep and emotional as the other numbers…but it’s not supposed to be! Joshua Bergasse really kills it.

It’s weird seeing really good choreography on the gimmick that is Dancing with the Stars, but Travis Wall and co. really brought it with this beautiful, ethereal piece. If this dance wins, I’ll consider it a victory really for SYTYCD because most (if not all) the dancers who contributed are alums of the show (including recent winner Melanie Moore). However, I actually think Spencer Liff should come up on top. “Whatever Lola Wants” doesn’t do much for me, honestly, but his other two dances were among the best of that season. “Please Mister Jailer” featured two criminally underrated dancers doing a bunch awesome, sensual tricks around a prison cell, while “Where Do I Begin” centers around a secret relationship involving a dance teacher and his student. Both dances are crazy amazing, subtle, sexy, and incredibly powerful. I’m glad these somewhat under the radar dances got nominated and I hope they win!

Who Will Win: After three years, I think Stacy Tookey will finally win. Watch out for Travis Wall and co. Voters love big company dances.

2012
08/18
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Reviewing the 2012 Emmy Nominees #28 (Music and Lyrics)


For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

Here are the nominees for Original Music and Lyrics:

“Let Me Be Your Star” (Smash) – Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman

“It’s Not Just For Gays Anymore” (65th Annual Tony Awards) – Adam Schlesinger and David Javerbaum

“I Can’t Believe I’m Hosting” (Saturday Night Live – Jason Segel) – Eli Brueggermann, Seth Meyers, and John Mulaney (Not on Youtube)

“Welcome Back to Hope” (Raising Hope – Prodigy) – Matthew W. Thompson

“The Heart of Christmas” (The Heart of Christmas) – Matthew West

Who Should Win: See how strong this category can look when it’s not filled with Lonely Island raps? There are even some legitimate, serious songs in this mix (as opposed to those funny, joke songs that usually crowd the category). In 5th would be “I Can’t Believe I’m Hosting”. It’s a very funny sketch and the Muppets do a great job with it…but it’s not the pinnacle of songwriting excellence.

It’s tough for me to do this but “It’s Not Just For Gays Anymore” makes my fourth position. It’s an incredibly hilarious, clever song. And it was a great way to open the ceremony. I dunno…I’m just not feeling it as much as the top 3.

Matthew West is the only nominee who actually performs the song he wrote. First and foremost, it’s pretty noble that voters were able to notice this Christian song for a small Christian movie from a “little known about” Christian network. I don’t know how the voters were able to find it but I’m glad they did. I discovered a new song to add to my Christmas playlist. I just…wish that more Christians were more accepting of different people (not tolerant, but full-fledged “acceptance”). But, whatevs, this isn’t the time for that (I just bring it up because this Christian song is in the same category as a song about “gay people”…and that Candance Cameron Bure who stars in the movie The Heart of Christmas is a Chick-Fil-A Supporter). OK! I’m done!

Smash DID achieve something that Glee never could – it was nominated for the Original Music category. “Let Me Be Your Star” is a lovely, powerful song with great vocals by Katherine McPhee and Megan Hilty. But…my vote goes to “Welcome Back Hope”. At about less than 2 minutes, the song is the shortest of the bunch, but, in my opinion, has the most heart. And it’s impressive that Thompson was able to squeeze in so many clever lyrics in such a compact song. I think the song also strikes a chord with me because, while the song is mostly centered around the character Hope, it’s also a song that allows us to think about our own lives and how we’ve grown up and about our life as little kids. The song has everything. It’s cute. It’s funny. And Kate Micucci does a great job performing it with a ukulele accompaniment. Vote for it!

Who Will Win: I think the voters want something really funny so I think “It’s Not Just For Gays Anymore” will ultimately prevail. The song was performed by Neil Patrick Harris and it’s about how theatre is uh…not just for gays anymore!

2012
08/18
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Reviewing the 2012 Emmy Nominees #27 (Main Title Categories)


For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

Here are the nominees for Outstanding Main Title Design:

American Horror Story

Great Expectations (Can’t find on Youtube)

Magic City (Can’t find on Youtube)

Strike Back

New Girl

Who Should Win: Never hearing of the show before, I was quite surprised by how utterly gorgeous Strike Back’s theme was. The music. The fiery hew. The shadowed figures. So terribly lovely. However…I gotta pick New Girl. It was short. It was sweet. It was funny. The song was catchy (I know there’s a separate category for that but still…). And it would be cool if my favorite new comedy didn’t walk away completely empty handed. I think AHS’s is too overwhelming. Great Expectation‘s was simply too boring. Magic City would have been better if it had been shorter. The whole thing with the swimmers got boring and monotonous after a while.

On a side note: I’m so glad that there are some shows still making there. Some shows have downgraded to just a simply title card. Why?

Who Will Win: You know what? I think New Girl will win this. I think the opening is the most different from the five and the voters might find it refreshing.

Here are the nominees for Outstanding Main Title Theme Music:

Touch

Great Expectations (Can’t find on Youtube)

Page Eight 

Homeland

Hell on Wheels

Who Should Win: That was a fun three minutes! I mean, they’re all good. I’m not particularly passionate about any of the choices. Great Expectations has a nice deep, dramatic score that’s somewhat haunting. I never much cared for Homeland‘s opening, or even really their music. It’s just too messy. Page Eight has a nice jazzy thing going for them. I think I liked Hell on Wheels’ ragged country score the best. I couldn’t help but tap my toes to the beat. It almost reminded me of Justified‘s.

Who Will Win: Probably Great Expectations.

2012
08/18
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Reviewing the 2012 Emmy Nominees #26 (Commercial)


For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

Here are the nominees for Outstanding Commercial:

Volkswagen – “The Bark Side”

Volkswagen – “The Dog Strikes Back”

Chrysler Brand – “It’s Halftime in America”

Target – “Color Changes Everything”

Procter & Gamble - “Best Job”

Who Should Win: I love this category. It’s like watching five really short mini movies. Overall, I’m not too crazy about the Volkswagen commercials. The “Dog Strikes Back” was very strange and it seemed like two different things were going on. The Bark Side was cute, I suppose. But…I don’t get what it had to do with cars.

The Chrysler commercial is definitely well made and I liked the whole “half time” concept used in football and in real life. I thought it was a little over blown TBH, and it didn’t have the same raw power as last year’s Eminem commercial. Maybe it’s just that this commercial has been parodied so many times, I can’t take it very seriously anymore. Shrug!

The Target commercial was very cute and…well…colorful. However, my hat tips for Procter & Gamble for bringing out the water works. The commercial may be seen as a little sexist, but I feel like “house moms” and traditional home makers aren’t taken seriously anymore (by both dumb men and feminists to be honest). I think it’s noble that this commercial details that being a parent is “job” enough. And, there’s also an inspirational hook as we watch athletes from when they’re little kids to full on Olympians. They even featured a male volleyballer, which is quite sick in my opinion.

Who Will Win: Voters seem to like the Chrysler commercials (the Eminem one won last year), so I’d have to say Chrysler‘s the front runner right now. But with the Olympics still on everyone’s brain, I think the Olympic-themed commercial has a very strong shot.

2012
08/18
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Reviewing the 2012 Emmy Nominees #23 (Lead Actress in a Drama Series)


For the next few weeks, I’ll be reviewing the nominees in the major categories. When it comes to the performers in comedy or drama series, I will be discussing their episode submissionsas well as their performance on the show as a whole. There are some shows I haven’t really watched; so in some situations, the only way I’ll be able to judge a performer is by the submission solely (I’ll make it clear what those shows are.) So be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly for my picks on who should win…

For more Emmy discussion, visit my Emmy page.

Here are the nominees:

Julianna Margulies – The Good Wife (“Parenting Made Easy”)

Michelle Dockery – Downton Abbey (“Episode 7″ Christmas)

Elizabeth Moss – Mad Men (“The Other Woman”)

Kathy Bates – Harry’s Law (“Onward and Upward”)

Claire Danes – Homeland (“The Vest”)

Glenn Close – Damages (“I’ve Done Way Too Much For This Girl”)

I watch all these shows regularly.

Who Should Win: This was a very difficult category for me to rank. I came into this believing that I would be rooting for Claire Danes…but after re-watching all the episodes and considering these actresses’ best moments, thoughts of different picks began swirling my brain. Ultimately, I have to say that Claire Danes has given one of the best TV performances of this entire year. I’m really not crazy about her episode submission. I think “Blind Spot” would have been her best submission. Even “Marine One” or “The Weekend” would have been stronger. I think her performance in “The Vest” comes across as a bit too hammy, and there are very few “quiet” scenes to balance out all the crazy. So, it was difficult to remember her truly best moments of the season after watching “The Vest”. But…regardless of that, I supposed Danes deserves an Emmy for a season worth of great performances.

I was also strongly considering Elizabeth Moss. Sometimes…I don’t think she’s given enough to deserve an Emmy. Like…I feel like her degree of difficulty isn’t as strong as some of the other contenders. And that’s not fair to her…but it’s just the way it is. But, ultimately, she does everything she’s supposed to do perfectly. If one deserved to win an Emmy based off one scene, then it would be Moss. The last scene of her episode where she resigns from her job to Don was beautiful and almost heartbreaking and Moss just does a stellar job through and through. Danes technically already has an Emmy for Temple Grandin…maybe this is the year that Moss should get a turn at winning something. Anything.

Then there’s Julianna Margulies who, despite winning last year, I believe is incredibly underrated. Her performance (similar to Moss) isn’t terribly explosive, but she’s really the moral glue of the entire show. While a lot of supporting characters on The Good Wife are amazingly eccentric, Margulies is consistent and steady and she thoughtfully plays her role. Also, she’s such a bonafide lead of her show. The show is an ensemble, but Margulies is at the heart of it all. Everything begins and ends with her. What I’m saying is…y’all better appreciate what Margulies is trying to do!

If Kathy Bates must win an Emmy this year, I honestly rather it be for Harry’s Law than for her stint on Two and a Half Men. I personally really like the show and I’m sad to see it end. I think it was really cool that she submitted the last episode of the series. Her last few moments (from singing “Take Me Home” to visiting her ex husband’s grave) are quite poignant and beautifully acted. Michelle Dockery’s nomination was definitely a surprise (esp. over Elizabeth McGovern), but it was a nice one. It’s interesting…an actor’s best scene usually is a scene where something tragic or sad happens, but Dockery’s best scene is simply the “proposal scene” at the end of the Christmas special. Dockery does a good job and hopefully this nomination will allow for Fellowes to write her meatier stuff next season so she can possibly be ahead of the pack next year. And there’s Glenn Close who plays one of greatest, interesting, multi-dimensional female characters on television. Season 4 wasn’t terribly strong for her and her submission isn’t that great. She’s the only nominee who really shouldn’t be in the discussion. Maybe next year!

At the end of the day…I think the trophy should go to Claire Danes.

My actual predictions will be coming later in the summer. Click here for more Emmy stuff! Thanks for reading! 

2012
08/18
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