What I'm Watching: The Cleaner

The Cleaner: Season 1, Episode 3 "Meet the Joneses" (B)

This show really is turning out to be much more of a procedural than I might ever had expected. The split-screen effect gets a little schizophrenic, though I do like how in-depth the show is with its episodic plotlines. Annabeth Gish wasn't quite as good as I might have hoped after watching her in the last season of "The X-Files". The happenings in William's home life are rather cyclical, and a new dramatic element needs to be introduced soon (more of the daughter, less of the son, perhaps?) for this show to get the creative shot it needs. Darnell's date is entertaining, and I hope that his devotion to William doesn't mess that up too badly.

What I'm Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl

Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 1, Episode 7 (B+)

I'm continually impressed by this show's ability to remain engaging week after week with Billie Piper taking the whole show on by herself. This week she is joined by an entertaining "fourth" for her foursome with a couple celebrating their 15th/20th anniversary. I enjoyed the fourth's continual misgivings and uncertainties about the whole scenario despite his claims to being an experienced professional, as well as the true, unadulterated passion the couple had for each other after such a long time. Next week is the show's first season finale, though I assume season two should begin in the U.K. in no time at all.

What I'm Watching: Weeds

Weeds: Season 4, Episode 7 "Yes I Can" (B+)

I'm thrilled with this episode, the best by far this season for this show. The Mary-Louise Parker I know and love is back also, exerting her naive curiosity and getting herself and some other people into trouble. It's fantastic to see some of the old cast members, like Lupita and Marvin, though I wish Sanjay was a bit more like his old self. I'm entirely amused by the prospects of Doug and Andy's coyote business, especially with their immigrants as side contractors for Shane' new bathroom install. I don't know about Shane masturbating to his mother's pictures, as he's already messed up enough. Silas' fling with Julie Bowen's cheese shop owner is harmless fun, for the time being at least. Isabel and Celia do have an entertaining relationship. Roy Till being gay isn't terribly relevant to the show, but I guess it says something about his motives for flirting with Celia? Or her desire and desperation to flirt with anyone and anything?

What I'm Watching: The Closer

The Closer: Season 4, Episode 3 "Cherry Bomb" (B+)

I always like to see Brenda and Commander Taylor working together, especially on a case that involves corruption in law enforcement. I'm willing to forgive the fact that Brenda has already pulled the stunt of pretending to be a lawyer. Daniel Baldwin seems like the lesser actor in the Baldwin family, showing no token smarminess like his many brothers. This episode isn't as fast-paced or perhaps shocking as some recent ones have been, but it's always a reliable show which never has a bad episode.

What I'm Watching: Mad Men (Season Premiere)

Mad Men: Season 2, Episode 1 "For Those Who Think Young" (B+)

This is a welcome and wonderful return for a show that was always good but seemed even better with all the good press recently with a $25 million ad campaign and a monstrous number of Emmy nominations. Looks like the wait paid off, with an impressive installment and double the number of viewers from last year. The cast continues to be terrific, and I find Jon Hamm especially excellent. Telling that hotshot in the elevator to take off his hat is only one of the many reasons that Don Draper is a superb character and Hamm is a fine actor. I like the new Peggy better than the old one, and Valentine's Day is a great way to start off the year for this show.

What I'm Watching: Swingtown

Swingtown: Season 1, Episode 8 "Puzzlerama" (C+)

This is a definitely ridiculous episode sort of characteristic of the whole show's tone. It's a perfect guilty pleasure, complete with a preposterous mustache and a scavenger hunt with transparent intentions. I think I like Janet and Tom best together, though Susan and Roger do of course give them a run for their money. I'm a bit shocked that Bruce just went for it in public with his co-worker, though it was obviously expected from last week's "spontaneous shower". I don't really care about the daughter's plot (much like the parents on "One Tree Hill" and "The O.C." - they just don't need to be there), though the son's is slightly more interesting, especially since the girl is actually talking to him now. There's no way this show will last past the summer, but for the rest of the summer, I'm along for the ride.

What I'm Watching: Monk & Psych

Monk: Season 7, Episode 2 "Mr. Monk and the Genius" (B+)
Psych: Season 3, Episode 2 "Murder?…Anyone?…Anyone?…Bueller?" (B+)

This week's installments of the Friday night USA comedies are slightly better than last week's premieres. While "Monk" actually moves forward at a rather plodding pace and lacks a big reveal at the end, it's still an amusing ride and David Strathairn always gives a great performance. "Psych" was truly terrific, with a fantastic high school reunion episode which highlights Dule Hill's comedic efforts and James Roday's attempts at flirtation. I was especially impressed with a near-unrecognizable Rachel Leigh Cook as Shawn's high school crush. And Corbin Bernsen and Cybill Shepherd play well together as Shawn's parents. These shows feel especially appropriate for the summer, adequately showcasing murder stories in a lighter, happier nature than many others.

What I'm Watching: Burn Notice

Burn Notice: Season 2, Episode 3 "Trust Me" (B)

This show is proving to be a lot of fun. I started watching it only because of the advertised guest appearance by Tricia Helfer (completely absent, even her voice, from this episode) but have been pleasantly surprised to find an amusing and entertaining dynamic between the three leads. Even Sharon Gless, who I can't really look at the same way again after watching her uber-creepy turn on "Nip/Tuck" earlier last night, is decent enough as Michael's mother (though hardly deserving of that Emmy top 10 placement). Bruce Campbell is also pretty terrific and hilarious. I'm excited to see where they go next - I like this angle of investigating Carla.

What I'm Watching: The Cleaner

The Cleaner: Season 1, Episode 2 "Rag Dolls" (B)

This follow-up to last week's surprising premiere maintains the same level of quality without going above and beyond to qualify it as a great series quite yet. The cast is more solid this time, and I can see how they're going to establish its week-to-week format. I like the introduction of the junkies (in this case, drug mules) before we really know who they are and then the story incorporates itself into the main plot of the show. This show just needs a bit more time to develop, but for now I'm on board. I want to see what happens with the "perfect" daughter and her very flawed parents.

What I'm Watching: Secret Diary of a Call Girl

Secret Diary of a Call Girl: Season 1, Episode 6 (B+)

This show has been doing well enough for itself, managing not to become too repetitive without really progressing too much through its first five episodes. This installment is not much different, except that it introduces an interesting new element: a bad review for Hannah. It's amusing to watch how she handles it, and it's really no big surprise that good old buddy Ben is the one who provides her with a sparkling review. I think she suspects, but she should really know. It's clear to me that there's something there, and especially because she told him and only him about what it is she actually does, it's likely that he will get cold feet before the wedding and admit his feelings to Hannah. Two more episodes to go for this season, and then however many more seasons after that at some undetermined date. I'll stick around for a while.

What I'm Watching: Weeds

Weeds: Season 4, Episode 6 "Excellent Treasures" (B+)

"Weeds" has been wavering this season, with a so-so premiere followed by an incredibly dramatic third episode with a terrific performance from Justin Kirk. I liked Nancy's arc with Guillermo, and I think the new way it's going with the man in the suit being the mayor is a good path for the show. It seems weird that everyone is suddenly living with the Botwins, and I've been reading a lot about how the gang is so obviously being drawn back together. Isabelle was great in the third season, so I'm glad to have her back, and once they finally give Doug something to do, things will be good again. I like the idea of Andy and Doug as coyotes, and I loved Andy's comparison to JetBlue. Silas' upcoming affair with neighbor-lady Julie Bowen should be fun to watch. Now that the characters all have something to do, the show can really get started and start heading somewhere. This was a good transitional installment, but I know that formerly devoted fans are getting beyond tired of the show's pace and seemingly unknown direction. I've held on so far, but we need some major action soon, or this show is going to go downhill and may not be able to get back on its feet.

Catching Up: Summer Series

With all this Emmy hysteria and my race to finish both “Firefly” and the complete “X-Files” series before their respective film follow-up theatrical showings (“X-Files” review coming soon), I’ve neglected to review all the summer television I’ve been watching. While it’s not nearly as much as I watch in the fall, there’s still a good deal of shows that I’ll summarize here before starting to review them each on a weekly basis (possibly in an end-of-week digest format, but we’ll see). I won’t be reviewing all the episodes I’ve seen over the past few weeks, but I’ll pick up where I am and start reviewing from here on out.

I’ve just posted pilot reviews for Flashpoint and The Cleaner. I plan to continue watching “The Cleaner” starting with episode two tonight. I tried the second installments of both “Flashpoint” and In Plain Sight only to discover that they were just as bad as the first ones. I am happy to say that I opted to pick up Swingtown after my initial dismissal of the show and have now deemed it a proper guilty pleasure. As I mentioned a few posts earlier, “Swingtown” will be moving to the new timeslot of Fridays at 10pm.

As far as returning shows go, I decided to check out two sophomore shows which I had only seen the first few episodes of when they premiered last summer. I’m watching Burn Notice because of guest star Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica”), who is good on the show, though regrettably not quite as good as on BSG. It’s a quirky show that’s amusing at best and entertaining enough to sustain my interest, especially now that it doesn’t conflict with “Swingtown”. The other show is Saving Grace, which I think I’ve had just about enough of at this point. I never got into it, giving up last summer after only four episodes. Holly Hunter gives a decent performance but the show just doesn’t feel right. Watching it after The Closer also doesn’t quite give it a fair chance. Brenda Jonhson and the gang were back for a strong premiere last week and a good enough episode last night. I look forward to their continuing adventures, and I’m glad to see Phillip P. Keene (Buzz) added to the credited cast at the beginning of the episode. There’s nothing I hate more than a terrific ensemble that doesn’t credit all of its members accordingly (examples: see SAG nods for the casts of the movie “Ray” and shows like “24” and even “The Closer” in its first season).

Lighting up my weekend viewing are the Friday night USA offerings Monk and Psych, which premiered last week with amusing if not somewhat unsatisfying installments. “Monk” offered a fitting farewell to the late Stanley Kamel (Dr. Kroeger) and “Psych” managed to introduce Cybill Shepherd without overshadowing the rest of the cast. I think both of those shows will improve this coming week and throughout the rest of the season. I’ve heard some exciting news about some of the best characters from “Monk” returning for the show’s 100th episode this season.

In addition to this bunch, I’ve been doing my best to keep up on Showtime’s Monday night comedy pack Weeds and Secret Diary of a Call Girl without actually having the channel. So far, so good, though I’m pretty sure I’m watching the original British version of “Secret Diary of a Call Girl”. Billie Piper really runs that show all by herself, and she’s doing an impressive job. On “Weeds”, I’m finding Mary-Louise Parker rather irritating, as opposed to fascinating last season. Justin Kirk is really fantastic this year, and while I didn’t love Albert Brooks’ arc, he spun the story in a good direction. The show, despite a clever new opening bit each episode, has been getting off to a slow start, reorganizing all its characters in the proper way, but I think it should pick up soon enough. I haven’t yet seen last night’s episodes of either show, so I’ll start off my new reviews with thoughts on these two.

It’s weird that this summer is missing so many shows that really do feel right in the summer, such as “Entourage”, “Californication”, “Flight of the Conchords”, and especially “Rescue Me”. I’d even prefer to have the second season of “Damages” running right now rather than opposite a massive slate of programming in the spring. All of those will come in due time, I suppose. At least there is one upcoming positive: season two of the best reviewed-show in ages begins this Sunday at 10pm. Tune in to AMC for Mad Men. I know I will.

Reviews of upcoming episodes of all these shows and my thoughts on the whole “X-Files” series are coming soon. I will be reviewing “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog” as soon as I get a chance to see act three.

Coming in the next few weeks: the 2nd Annual AFT Television Awards, honoring the very best in television this past season, in my opinion. I’m sorting through right now, finding eight great contenders in some categories and three in others. I’ll begin announcing categories soon; you won’t want to miss them.

Pilot Review: The Cleaner

The Cleaner (A&E)
Premiered July 15 at 10pm

Consider this the surprise of the year. I expected nothing from this show, with a lead star I hate and a seemingly trite premise. My expectations were far beyond exceeded. This show is well put-together, and despite a few quirky elements, works incredibly well. The story is nothing too new, but the tone of the show seems appropriate and makes it feel fresh. Benjamin Bratt talking to God every few minutes is something I can do without out, and the team’s interactions need a little fine-tuning. Otherwise, this show reminds me quite a bit of “Breaking Bad” both in terms of narrative and style, but this one impressed me much more right off the bat. I was shocked to see Grace Park (Boomer from “Battlestar Galactica”) on this show, as I had no idea she was moonlighting (like Tricia Helfer, a.k.a. the only reason I watch “Burn Notice”). She’s a welcome presence, and it’s nice to see her explore her more flirtatious side. Gil Bellows, who I knew was the same guy who Tim Robbins tutored in “The Shawshank Redemption”, gave a powerful performance in the pilot, almost unrecognizable under that handle-bar mustache. And even Benjamin Bratt did a fine job – I guess there is a reason he went into acting. I’m not entirely in love with this show but it surprised me enough to hook me in for at least a few episodes unless it takes a spectacular nosedive in quality.

How will it work as a series? Simultaneously barreling through Bratt’s character’s own addictions and the way the team interacts and deals with their cases should provide an enticing double narrative which should work very well, especially as it has time to develop.
How long will it last? Original series seem to be the thing for cable networks these days, and given the critical success of recent offerings like “Damages”, “Mad Men”, and “Breaking Bad”, I think this one will be on the air for at least the season, and if it gets good enough reviews, it should be back for season two next year.

Pilot grade: B

Pilot Review: Flashpoint

Flashpoint (CBS)
Premiered July 11 at 10pm

Like CBS’s other current scripted series, “Swingtown”, this seems like a show destined for the summer. Unfortunately, it’s not nearly as good as the latter show, and in fact pretty darn uninteresting. The token gimmick of the show is to launch headfirst into the middle of the hostage situation for about thirty seconds before rewinding to show just what it was that sent the eventual hostage-taker over the edge. The case in the pilot episode is relatively routine, so you’d expect that the show’s cast would make up for that lacking with some intrigue. Cocky rookie who thinks he knows everything but is still a really good shot with a gun is far from original. Star Hugh Dillon has the right look for the role, but that doesn’t mean he can act. I don’t know who cast Amy Jo Johnson in her role. She’s annoying, and the character seems expressly designed to have no personality. I’ve never found Enrico Colantoni to be a terribly good actor (and I’m not even a fan of “Veronica Mars”, where I know fans like him), thus his underwhelming negotiating abilities don’t impress me much. Overall, the show is a rather poorly put-together procedural which tries to pander to an audience who can accept unsatisfying action without a hint of substance.

How will it work as a series? Unless there’s a really good case or the team members are actually given some substance, I’d imagine it would be the same thing over and over again. I’ve also already seen episode two, which still flatlines, even with a better case.
How long will it last? As I said, summer show. CBS has just announced that it will swap the time periods for “Swingtown” and “Flashpoint”, sending the latter show to Thursdays at 10pm. It could squeak by until the end of the summer, but beyond that, this show is history.

Pilot grade: F

Emmy Nominees: Best Directing/Writing for a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/6 for directing, 3/5 for writing

The three expected episodes in both categories were The Office (Dinner Party), Pushing Daisies (Pie-lette), and 30 Rock (Rosemary’s Baby). The second The Office episode in directing was “Money” rather than “Fun Run” while 30 Rock’s second installment recognized for writing was “Cooter” instead of “Greenzo”. Added to both lists was the pleasant addition of Flight of the Conchords, with “Sally Returns” up for directing and “Yoko” up for writing. Also recognized for directing: the “No Cannes Do” episode of Entourage. Overall, a fine list in both categories highlighting some excellent comedic achievements this year. Much more solid than the drama contenders, and it shows which shows are truly the best in comedy, omitting stuff like “Two and a Half Men”.

Who should win? Either “Rosemary’s Baby” or “Dinner Party”
Who will win? I think “Pie-lette” will pick up directing, while “Dinner Party” may snag writing

Emmy Nominees: Best Directing/Writing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 3/5 for directing, 5/5 for writing

Imagine my surprise when I realize I had correctly predicted all the nominees for Best Writing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie. Rather exciting, I must say. Anyway, four presentations got nominated for both directing and writing: Bernard and Doris, Extras: The Extra Special Series Finale, John Adams, and Recount. The Company rounded out directing, while Cranford picked up a mention for writing. Out of all those, I’ve seen the first episodes of “John Adams” and “Cranford” as well as the TV movie “Recount”. I’ll have to do some catching up. “Five Days” was completely shut out with a grand total of zero nominations. No “High School Musical 2” in directing as I had predicted, but it did get a mention for Best Children’s Program.

Who should win? No comment
Who will win? I think “John Adams” wins directing while “Bernard and Doris” wins writing

Emmy Nominees: Best Directing/Writing for a Drama Series

My predictions: 2/5 on both counts

As expected, both categories recognized the pilots of Damages and Mad Men, though “The Constant” episode of “Lost” was snubbed in both categories, especially bizarre since even in season two, “Lost” managed a nomination in both categories. I did mix up my predictions The Wire’s series finale and “House’s Head” from House. The latter ended up in the directing category while the former was nominated for writing. I picked the wrong episode of Boston Legal nominated for directing (“The Mighty Rogues” is nominated instead of “The Court Supreme”) as well as the wrong second episode of “Mad Men” recognized for writing (“The Wheel” got nominated over “Nixon vs. Kennedy”). Rounding out each category are two nominees I sort of foresaw but refused to predict: the pilot of Breaking Bad, nominated for directing, and “Six of One” from Battlestar Galactica (!) nominated for best writing. With the exception of “Boston Legal” and the overrated nature of the “Damages” pilot, I’m generally happy with these nominees.

Who should win? Probably “Mad Men” for both
Who will win? Probably “Mad Men” for both

Emmy Nominees: Best Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 3/5, predicting the completely shut-out “As You Like It” and “An American Crime”

As expected, Bernard and Doris, A Raisin in the Sun, and Recount are in. I didn’t expect such a positive response for Extras, though I guess I should have given Gervais’ win last year in the comedy actor category. And the fifth nominee is The Memory Keeper’s Daughter, which I didn’t even have in my top ten predictions, but I’m not at the point where I follow TV movies enough to really know what I’m talking about. I’ve only seen “Recount” and I plan to watch as many of the rest as possible.

Who should win? No comment
Who will win? I’ll go with “Bernard and Doris”

Emmy Nominees: Best Miniseries

My predictions: 2/4

I definitely thought that the well-reviewed “The Company” would triumph over the not-so-well-received The Andromeda Strain and Tin Man. The other two nominees, Cranford and John Adams, were expected. I’ve seen a bit of each (save for “Tin Man”), and plan to delve further into “John Adams” and begin “Tin Man” at some point soon.

Who should win? “John Adams”
Who will win? “John Adams”

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 4/5, missing Ashley Jensen for Sarah Polley

I’m glad to see Ashley Jensen here for “Extras” (which I supremely underestimated), especially since I’ve come to enjoy her recently on “Ugly Betty”. Laura Dern and Eileen Atkins definitely deserve to be here, for their outstanding work in “Recount” and “Cranford”, respectively. And I haven’t seen the TV movies that Audra McDonald and Alfre Woodard are nominated for, but I’ll try to get to it before I make my final predictions.

Who should win? Any of these nominees
Who will win? Dern

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 1/5, picking only Tom Wilkinson

Wow, only “John Adams” and “Recount” here. David Morse, Stephen Dillane, and Tom Wilkinson get nominated for playing George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin, respectively. I’m a bit surprised that Danny Huston isn’t here for his portrayal of Sam Adams. In any case, instead of John Hurt, who I predicted for “Recount”, we have Denis Leary and Bob Balaban, both good choices who do in fact provide good support in the film to their respective teams. No Alfred Molina (he should have submitted “As You Like It”) or Michael Keaton from “The Company”. I’m glad that Kevin Kline isn’t here, since he totally didn’t deserve that SAG win for “As You Like It”. I didn’t get far enough into “John Adams” to meet the characters nominated here, but overall it looks like a good list.

Who should win? Leary between him and Balaban
Who will win? Wilkinson

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 4/5, picking Vanessa Redgrave over Catherine Keener

Interesting, Catherine Keener gets the lone Emmy mention for “An American Crime”. I guess I’d agree (though Ellen Page was pretty good too). Other nominees: Judi Dench (Cranford), Laura Linney (John Adams), Phylicia Rashad (A Raisin in the Sun), and Susan Sarandon (Bernard and Doris). I’ve only seen the first three.

Who should win? Linney?
Who will win? I think this is a race between Dench and Rashad, though Sarandon could upset. I say Rashad.

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 4/5, picking Daniel Radcliffe over Ricky Gervais

This category was pretty simple. I overestimated “My Boy Jack” (shut out) and underestimated the strength of Ricky Gervais and his “Extras” series finale. Other nominees here include Ralph Fiennes (Bernard and Doris), Paul Giammati (John Adams), and Kevin Spacey and Tom Wilkinson of “Recount”. Seems like a good list to me. I still have to watch the “Extras” finale and “Bernard and Doris”.

Who should win? Giammati (from what I’ve seen)
Who will win? Giammati

Emmy Nominees: Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 4/6, picking Amy Ryan over Joosten and Silverman

After some people predicted her ending up with two nominations, Amy Ryan wasn’t even able to get nominated for her spectacular comic performance in the season finale of “The Office”. It’s not much of a surprise after seeing both John Krasinski and Jenna Fischer snubbed, but it still stings just as much. I’m sorry, but Kathryn Joosten did nothing Emmy-worthy this season on “Desperate Housewives”. While Polly Bergen’s role wasn’t my cup of tea, that I can understand. Sarah Silverman didn’t need to be hear but she was rather funny on “Monk”. I just have the bad taste of her own series in my mouth. As far as the three “30 Rock” ladies are concerned – Edie Falco, Carrie Fisher, and Elaine Stritch, none of them was as nuanced as Ryan, but they’ll do. This will be a tough competition.

Who should win? Falco, I suppose
Who will win? My gut feeling is actually Sarah Silverman…we’ll see

Emmy Nominees: Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 1/5, picking only Arnett

This is one category where not having the top ten list really screwed up my (and anyone else’s) predictions. Will Arnett and three other “30 Rock” guys made it in, but not the other three I was expecting. Instead of Matthew Broderick, David Schwimmer, Jerry Seinfeld, or Dean Winters, the nominees are Steve Buscemi, Tim Conway, and Rip Torn. All three are fine actors, but nothing about their parts, all severely limited, was remotely Emmy-worthy. And Shelley Berman becomes the first “Curb Your Enthusiasm” guest star to get nominated for an Emmy? I don’t see that being merited much at all.

Who should win? Arnett
Who will win? With this competition, how could Arnett not win?

Emmy Nominees: Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series

My predictions: 2/5, picking only Burstyn and Nixon

I have relatively little to say here as there was no released top ten list and I haven’t seen a single one of the nominees in their respective guest spots (save for Huston in the first part of the two-parter from which she submitted the second). Ellen Burstyn and Cynthia Nixon weren’t surprises, and Anjelica Huston’s inclusion isn’t too shocking either. I should have expected Sharon Gless after her mind-blogging inclusion in the supporting actress top eleven for “Burn Notice”. And to be honest, I don’t even know who Diahann Carroll is (she did get nominated for an Oscar in 1974, I do know that). I’ll try to watch the episodes before I make my final predictions so as to provide some more helpful commentary.

Who should win? Can’t say
Who will win? I have no idea…maybe Burstyn?

Emmy Nominees: Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 3/6, missing Durning, Morse, and Platt for Carradine and O’Toole

How did Peter O’Toole manage to get snubbed here? Maybe it was a case of a well-known and respected performer making it on name recognition alone and not having the episode or performance to back it up? In any case, I’m very saddened for Keith Carradine especially given that “Dexter” was able to get nominated for Best Drama Series. Good for Charles Durning, getting nominated at the end of his four-season-long turn as Tommy’s dad on “Rescue Me”. Robert Morse doesn’t come as too much of a surprise, given the success and popularity of “Mad Men”. I do like Oliver Platt, though I haven’t seen him on “Nip/Tuck”, but it’s good that he got nominated here especially since his work in the miniseries “The Bronx is Burning” was ignored. Stanley Tucci is doing well for himself, ensuring that “ER” continues to have a guest acting nomination year-to-year. I’m glad that Glynn Turman did make it in, especially after Blair Underwood’s shocking snub. And who
didn’t expect Robin Williams?

Who should win? I haven’t seen Platt or Tucci, so I’d go with Turman
Who will win? Probably Williams though maybe Turman

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 2/5, missing Poehler, Smart, and Taylor for Fischer, Krakowski, and Perkins

Now this is a category where all six of last year’s nominees were eligible again this year, though unlike the comedy supporting actor race, only two of them made it back in. While I appreciate and occasionally clamor for change, I wish that the returning nominees were far different. I’ve had enough of the recognition for Holland Taylor and am less impressed with Vanessa Williams after seeing far more deserving candidates on her own show (Ashley Jensen, Judith Light, Becki Newton, Ana Ortiz). I’m so glad that Kristin Chenoweth made it in for “Pushing Daisies”. I’m happy for Jean Smart, but over Jenna Fischer? How could she be snubbed? It’s horrible! And Amy Poehler was really the wild card in this category, and she made it. I have yet to see her episode, but I think it’s a whole different game and her nomination may simply be the result of her concurrent movie success.

Who should win? Chenoweth
Who will win? Many are saying Williams, but I think Chenoweth can do it. Watch out for Poehler, though, as her chances are hard to predict.

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, missing Jon Cryer and Kevin Dillon for John Krasinski and Jack McBrayer.

Why must John Krasinski be continually snubbed? He’s now put in four seasons of terrific work on “The Office” and has zero awards nominations to show for it. I was hoping for some new blood in this category, but instead we’re treated to the exact same lineup as last year, something which I think happens extremely rarely in any of the categories. I have no problem with Kevin Dillon, who I probably should have put in my predictions when I realized how good his episode submission was, but I don’t think he’s deserving of a spot. He’s good, but in a very crowded field, he’s not one of the best. His costar Jeremy Piven is, and it’s good that he’s here, along with Rainn Wilson from “The Office”. I’m okay with Neil Patrick Harris, who’s currently entertaining me on “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog, though I’d rather see other faces here. And why does Jon Cryer keep getting nominated? Enough already. New blood! John Krasinski! Jack McBrayer! Chi McBride! Michael Urie! Hey, maybe even John C. McGinley next year for what should be the final season of “Scrubs”! He’s only had it coming for eight years.

Who should win? Piven or Wilson
Who will win? While Piven could easily scoop up yet another trophy, I’m tempted to say that Harris or Wilson has a shot. For the moment, I’m thinking Wilson.

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

My predictions: 4/5, picking Rose Byrne over Dianne Wiest

I’m quite happy that “Damages” lead actress Byrne, who I never liked right from the beginning, was snubbed after everyone assumed she was a lock. I can’t say I’m thrilled about any of the actual nominees, all of whom were pretty much expected. We still don’t know which episode of “In Treatment” Dianne Wiest submitted, but it didn’t have to be that good to beat out all the other actresses who made it into the top ten on name recognition alone. “Grey’s Anatomy” stars Chandra Wilson and Sandra Oh managed to cling to life while their show disappeared almost entirely from the list of nominations. I’m not happy, but Candice Bergen is no surprise. And at least Rachel Griffiths is here with a legitimately decent performance (and she has a “Six Feet Under” costar to join her – Michael C. Hall!).

Who should win? Ugh… Wiest or Griffiths
Who will win? Hard to say. Probably Wilson though it could be Wiest or Bergen

Emmy Nominees: Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 4/5, missing Zeljko Ivanek for Blair Underwood

I’m absolutely shocked that Blair Underwood didn’t make it in, especially since costars Gabriel Byrne, Dianne Wiest, and Glynn Turman all did. It’s too bad, since he may never have a role like this one again. I wish I could be happier for Zeljko Ivanek, who I think deserved a nomination six years ago for his supporting work on “24”, but I just can’t get past his accent. Good for him, I suppose. His costar Ted Danson is also here, no surprise. Last year’s nominees William Shatner and Michael Emerson return, and John Slattery finally gets an Emmy nomination after floating around quite a number of shows the past few years.

Who should win? Emerson or Slattery
Who will win? I’d say that with Underwood gone, Emerson should have no problem winning, but watch out for that sneaky Ivanek! I still say Emerson.

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 5/5

I think I’ve really gotten a handle on things since I went 0/5 two years ago when all four Housewives and Mary-Louise Parker were snubbed in favor of four actresses on cancelled shows and newcomer Julia Louis-Dreyfus. This is my second year with a perfect score in this category. I’m glad no Housewives made it in, their time is done. I’m actually fine with this lineup. While I can’t stand Julia Louis-Dreyfus on “Old Christine”, I’ve grown to appreciate America Ferrera, who many thought would be snubbed, on “Ugly Betty”. Christina Applegate made it this far, which is great for her, and I’m so glad that Mary-Louise Parker, who was INCREDIBLE on season three of “Weeds”, made it in amidst people doubting her chances. And then there’s Tina Fey, who I believe has four nominations this year (acting, producing, and writing “30 Rock”, as well as hosting an episode of “Saturday Night Live”). As she said in the season premiere, this is her year.

Who should win? Parker, but I’ll take Fey
Who will win? Fey

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, picking David Duchovny and Larry David over Lee Pace and Charlie Sheen

I’m very upset about the omission of David Duchovny. He was terrific on his show and I thought with a Golden Globe win he could at least get nominated for an Emmy. It’s as if voters pretended “Californication” wasn’t even on, nominating it for just two awards (casting and cinematography, both deserved). It turns out I was wrong about Lee Pace not being nominated if his show wasn’t also nominated, but I think almost everyone was surprised by that. And I guess there’s no stopping Charlie Sheen. A lot of people thought Tony Shalhoub wouldn’t make the cut, and I know that he’s reviled almost as much as James Spader, but watching his show, I do think he deserves accolades, it would be nice to see someone else win for a change though, like maybe Alec Baldwin or Steve Carrell

Who should win? With Duchovny out of the picture, I’d be happy with either Baldwin or Carrell.
Who will win? It has to be either Baldwin or Carrell. Baldwin has one amazing scene and Carrell has a whole episode – my bet is Baldwin.

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series

My predictions: 4/5, choosing Minnie Driver over Hargitay

Too bad for Minnie Driver. I guess the show just isn’t popular enough. I hope the show returns for a third season and it’s incredible and both she and Izzard have a legitimate shot next year. Mary McDonnell of “Battlestar Galactica” couldn’t break through either, which is especially unfortunate given that fifth nominee Mariska Hargitay was not that good in her episode (I’ve already gotten negative comments about my viewpoint here, but I’m prepared to stick to it. Both Glenn Close and Holly Hunter are in, no surprise, joining previous nominees Sally Field and Kyra Sedgwick. At least Patricia Arquette isn’t here (I wonder if that angry “Medium” fan is still lurking around and reading my blog?).

Who should win? Sedgwick
Who will win? I think Close won this a long time ago when her show first started.

Emmy Nominees: Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 5/6, predicting Bryan Cranston would be snubbed

Technically, I guess this counts as 100%. Many predictors, including myself, could not decide between Gabriel Byrne and Bryan Cranston, and apparently neither could voters. Thrilled that Michael C. Hall made the cut after his horrible snub last year. Newcomer Jon Hamm and returning nominee Hugh Laurie and James Spader are no surprise. And last year’s nominee Denis Leary did manage to get nominated for Best Supporting in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie, so it’s really only Eddie Izzard who missed out here.

Who should win? Hall, though I’d be happy with Hamm.
Who will win? People think Spader is invulnerable, especially after beating James Gandolfini last year, but I think that Hall, Hamm, and Laurie have a good shot as well. My current bet would be Laurie.

Emmy Nominees: Best Comedy Series

My predictions: 4/5, picking “Pushing Daisies” over “Two and a Half Men”

I was right about Entourage making it in, but I, along with almost everyone else, was sure that “Pushing Daisies” had a winning chance. Pretty surprising that it didn’t make it in. No other surprises here. “Ugly Betty” predictably gets snubbed, while Curb Your Enthusiasm returns to the list after a year off the air. Unfortunately, my hope that Two and a Half Men might be snubbed this year did not come true. And anyone who didn’t expect 30 Rock and The Office is just plain crazy

Who should win? “30 Rock” probably had the most reliable season, but I did enjoy “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, “Entourage”, and “The Office” (minus some episodes) quite a bit.
Who will win? With “Pushing Daisies” out of the way, “30 Rock” has this locked up unless they really mess up the episode submissions (which they won’t) and either “Curb Your Enthusiasm” or “The Office” pick their absolute best (which they won’t).

Emmy Nominees: Best Drama Series

My predictions: 5/6, choosing “Boston Legal” as my alternate

I always feel like six nominees is sort of cheating. In any case, I’m happy that there are six here so that Boston Legal doesn’t actually take away a deserving show’s spot. This was the first category revealed, and NBC cut it way too close so that they were midway through announcing Damages by the time they cut over to the nominations. I am so thrilled that my risky prediction of Dexter paid off. I’m sort of still in shock that it made it in, but so glad. Also terrific that Lost was able to wedge its way back in, despite garnering only one other nomination. House and Mad Men were expected. Two of last year’s eligible nominees, “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Heroes” are unsurprisingly absent. This is quite a historic year, with not one but three non-HBO cable series breaking in for the first time ever.

Who should win? Tough call. Probably “Mad Men” this year, though I’d love to see “Dexter” (or “Lost”) win.
Who will win? “Mad Men” should have the most consistently good set of episodes to seal it for the win.

Emmy Nominees: First-Pass Reactions

Emmy nominees were revealed this morning, and I'll have detailed commentary for every category up later today, but for the moment I'd like to offer some brief reactions to the nominees. While there were some exciting surprises, there were just as many horrific omissions. Quick summary below:

Wonderfully snubbed: Rose Byrne for "Damages"
Shockingly snubbed: Peter O'Toole for "The Tudors"
Inexplicably snubbed: "Pushing Daisies" for Best Comedy Series, Blair Underwood of "In Treatment"
Horribly snubbed: John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, and Amy Ryan of "The Office", David Duchovny of "Californication", Keith Carradine of "Dexter"

Wonderfully included: "Dexter" for Best Drama Series, also "Lost", "Flight of the Conchords" for Best Writing and Directing, "Battlestar Galactica" for Best Writing, Kristin Chenoweth of "Pushing Daisies"
Surprisingly included: Amy Poehler of "SNL", Zeljko Ivanek of "Damages"
Unnecessarily included: Kevin Dillon of "Entourage"

Wrongfully included: Rip Torn, Tim Conway, and Steve Buscemi (much as I love him) for "30 Rock" over more deserving guest stars like Matthew Broderick, Jerry Seinfeld, David Schwimmer, and Dean Winters

They cheated (6 nominees): "Boston Legal" along with my predicted five for Best Drama Series, both Bryan Cranston and Gabriel Byrne for Best Actor, also both Best Guest Actress (comedy) and Guest Actor (drama)

5/5: Best Actress in a Comedy Series (two years running, making up for 0/5 two years ago), Best Reality Program, and Best Writing for a Miniseries/Made-for-TV movie (go figure)

Much more to come later!

Final Emmy Predictions

I’m having a few last minute jitters. I’d like to predict Mary McDonnell for “Battlestar Galactica”, but I’m just not sure it will happen. I’m still not certain whether the fifth Best Drama Actor nominee will be Gabriel Byrne or Bryan Cranston, but I’m convinced it won’t be both. I know I should be safer and swap out “Dexter” and “Entourage” for “Boston Legal” and “Two and a Half Men”, respectively, but I’d like to hope that fostering change is possible and that maybe it will happen this year. I also really think that Naveen Andrews has a better shot than many are giving him credit for, and that he could easily end up the 6th nominee in the Drama Supporting Actor field. Otherwise, I’m fairly happy with my predictions, and hoping for the best. Nominees are announced Thursday morning at 8:30am, and I’ll be on right away with some brief first reactions. I may have to wait until the evening on Thursday to offer my full thoughts on all the categories, but I’ll get to that as soon as I can.

Final predictions:

Best Drama Series
DAMAGES
DEXTER
HOUSE
LOST
MAD MEN

Best Comedy Series
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
ENTOURAGE
THE OFFICE
PUSHING DAISIES
30 ROCK

Best Lead Actor in a Drama Series
GABRIEL BYRNE, IN TREATMENT
MICHAEL C. HALL, DEXTER
JON HAMM, MAD MEN
HUGH LAURIE, HOUSE
JAMES SPADER, BOSTON LEGAL

Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series
GLENN CLOSE, DAMAGES
MINNIE DRIVER, THE RICHES
SALLY FIELD, BROTHERS & SISTERS
HOLLY HUNTER, SAVING GRACE
KYRA SEDGWICK, THE CLOSER

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
TED DANSON, DAMAGES
MICHAEL EMERSON, LOST
WILLIAM SHATNER, BOSTON LEGAL
JOHN SLATTERY, MAD MEN
BLAIR UNDERWOOD, IN TREATMENT
(6th nominee: NAVEEN ANDREWS, LOST)

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
CANDICE BERGEN, BOSTON LEGAL
ROSE BYRNE, DAMAGES
RACHEL GRIFFITHS, BROTHERS & SISTERS
SANDRA OH, GREY’S ANATOMY
CHANDRA WILSON, GREY’S ANATOMY

Best Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
ALEC BALDWIN, 30 ROCK
STEVE CARRELL, THE OFFICE
LARRY DAVID, CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
DAVID DUCHOVNY, CALIFORNICATION
TONY SHALHOUB, MONK

Best Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
CHRISTINA APPLEGATE, SAMANTHA WHO?
AMERICA FERRERA, UGLY BETTY
TINA FEY, 30 ROCK
JULIA LOUIS-DREYFUS, OLD CHRISTINE
MARY-LOUISE PARKER, WEEDS

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
NEIL PATRICK HARRIS, HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER
JOHN KRASINSKI, THE OFFICE
JACK MCBRAYER, 30 ROCK
JEREMY PIVEN, ENTOURAGE
RAINN WILSON, THE OFFICE

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
KRISTIN CHENOWETH, PUSHING DAISIES
JENNA FISCHER, THE OFFICE
JANE KRAKOWSKI, 30 ROCK
ELIZABETH PERKINS, WEEDS
VANESSA WILLIAMS, UGLY BETTY

Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
KEITH CARRADINE, DEXTER
PETER O’TOOLE, THE TUDORS
STANLEY TUCCI, ER
GLYNN TURMAN, IN TREATMENT
ROBIN WILLIAMS, LAW & ORDER: SVU

Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
ELLEN BURSTYN, BIG LOVE
ANNE DUDEK, HOUSE
CYNTHIA NIXON, LAW & ORDER: SVU
JURNEE SMOLLETT, GREY’S ANATOMY
MIRA SORVINO, HOUSE

Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
WILL ARNETT, 30 ROCK
BEAU BRIDGES, MY NAME IS EARL
MATTHEW BRODERICK, 30 ROCK
MATTHEW MODINE, WEEDS
DEAN WINTERS, 30 ROCK

Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series
POLLY BERGEN, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES
EDIE FALCO, 30 ROCK
CARRIE FISHER, 30 ROCK
AMY RYAN, THE OFFICE
ELAINE STRITCH, 30 ROCK

Best Directing for a Drama Series
LOST, “The Constant”
MAD MEN, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”
DAMAGES, “Pilot”
BOSTON LEGAL, “The Court Supreme”
THE WIRE, “-30-”

Best Writing for a Drama Series
MAD MEN, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”
DAMAGES, “Pilot”
LOST, “The Constant”
MAD MEN, “Nixon vs. Kennedy”
HOUSE, “House’s Head”

Best Directing for a Comedy Series
PUSHING DAISIES, “Pie-lette”
30 ROCK, “Rosemary’s Baby”
THE OFFICE, “Goodbye Toby”
THE OFFICE, “Fun Run”
CALIFORNICATION, “Pilot”

Best Writing for a Comedy Series
PUSHING DAISIES, “Pie-lette”
30 ROCK, “Rosemary’s Baby”
30 ROCK, “Greenzo”
THE OFFICE, “Dinner Party”
THE OFFICE, “Branch Wars”

Best Miniseries
JOHN ADAMS
THE COMPANY
CRANFORD

Best Made-for-TV Movie
BERNARD AND DORIS
RECOUNT
AS YOU LIKE IT
A RAISIN IN THE SUN
AN AMERICAN CRIME

Best Lead Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
PAUL GIAMMATI, JOHN ADAMS
RALPH FIENNES, BERNARD AND DORIS
KEVIN SPACEY, RECOUNT
DANIEL RADCLIFFE, MY BOY JACK
TOM WILKINSON, RECOUNT

Best Lead Actress in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
PHYLICIA RASHAD, A RAISIN IN THE SUN
JUDI DENCH, CRANFORD
LAURA LINNEY, JOHN ADAMS
SUSAN SARANDON, BERNARD AND DORIS
VANESSA REDGRAVE, THE FEVER

Best Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
KEVIN KLINE, AS YOU LIKE IT
MICHAEL KEATON, THE COMPANY
TOM WILKINSON, JOHN ADAMS
JOHN HURT, RECOUNT
ALFRED MOLINA, THE COMPANY

Best Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
LAURA DERN, RECOUNT
ALFRE WOODARD, PICTURES OF HOLLIS WOODS
EILEEN ATKINS, CRANFORD
SARAH POLLEY, JOHN ADAMS
AUDRA MCDONALD, A RAISIN IN THE SUN

Best Directing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
JOHN ADAMS
THE COMPANY
RECOUNT
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2
FIVE DAYS

Best Writing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
JOHN ADAMS
CRANFORD
RECOUNT
BERNARD AND DORIS
EXTRAS: THE EXTRA SPECIAL SERIES FINALE

Best Variety Special
Barry Manilow: Songs from the Seventies
George Carlin: It’s Bad for Ya!
James Taylor: One Man Band
Justin Timberlake: FutureSex/Love Show
Kathy Griffin: Straight to Hell

Best Variety Series
The Colbert Report
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Jimmy Kimmel Live
Late Night with Conan O’Brien
Saturday Night Live

Best Variety Performance
George Carlin, It’s Bad for Ya!
Stephen Colbert, The Colbert Report
Kathy Griffin, Kathy Griffin: Straight to Hell
Barry Manilow, Barry Manilow: Songs from the Seventies
Tracey Ullman, Tracey Ullman’s State of the Union

Best Reality/Competition Program
The Amazing Race
American Idol
Dancing with the Stars
Project Runway
Top Chef

Best Reality Program
Antiques Roadshow
Dirty Jobs
Dog Whisperer
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List

Best Reality Host
Tom Bergeron, Dancing with the Stars
Phil Keoghan, The Amazing Race
Heidi Klum, Project Runway
Ty Pennington, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
Ryan Seacrest, American Idol

And, just for fun:

Best Music & Lyrics
Flight of the Conchords, “Bret, You’ve Got It Going On”
High School Musical 2, “You are the Music in Me”
The Jimmy Kimmel Show, “I’m Fucking Matt Damon”
The Jimmy Kimmel Show, “I’m Fucking Ben Affleck”
Saturday Night Live, “Iran So Far Away”

Emmy Predictions: Best Comedy Series

Listed below are the ten semi-finalists for this category. Episodes submitted are listed in parentheses after their names. Beware of minor spoilers for the episodes described. Nominees are pictured in order of likelihood of getting nominated, and listed below alphabetically.

CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM (The Bat Mitzvah)
Larry David continues to offend pretty much everyone he meets in HBO’s current longest-running series, which has managed to get nominated the past few seasons despite an irregular, far-apart schedule. “The Bat Mitzvah” offers a typical taste of David’s humor, and, aside from some off-color mocking of mentally challenged people, it should appeal to voters. There is also the statistic that, without fail, HBO has been nominated in one of the Best Series categories since 1993. The prospects for “The Wire” aren’t good, and “Curb” probably has the best shot out of the three HBO comedies up for the top prize in this category.

ENTOURAGE (The Day Fuckers)
I seem to be almost alone on my prediction for a repeat nod for “Entourage”. The HBO series finally made it in last year for its third season, which wasn’t nearly as good as its second. While this season got off to a slow start with the filming of Vince’s latest movie “Medellin”, it picked up later, and I think “The Day Fuckers” is the best episode the show has to offer from this year. It’s entertaining and features strong plotlines from the guys and from superagent Ari, who also submitted this episode. I think it’s too soon for “Entourage” to depart from the lineup, but I’m also aware that that isn’t how it works. There’s no automatic nomination, as fans of “Six Feet Under” can tell you when the show was horrifically snubbed (worst in Emmy history, in my mind) for its final, excellent season, after previous nominations for all of its seasons. My bet is that “Entourage” sticks around a bit longer.

FAMILY GUY (Padre de Familia)
This year’s most surprising inclusion is also its first: the show was previously eligible in only the animated category, but due to a Star Wars-themed special, it was able to submit here as well this year. “The Simpsons” tried this back in the early nineties for a few years with no success. I despise “Family Guy” and didn’t like the submitted episode much, but I did laugh a few times. From what I’ve heard, the panels went nuts for it and really seemed to love it. I can’t imagine it was popular enough either with voters or panels to score within the top five. Its episode is raunchy, crude, and distasteful. The question is – is it funny enough to make up for those risks? My answer: no.

FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS (Sally Returns)
My excitement about the inclusion of this show almost made up for my disappointment about the previous show making it in. The third HBO show in this category tells the story of a two-man New Zealand folk parody duo who live in New York City and break out into song twice an episode. The songs are undeniably brilliant, and the show is thoroughly amusing. I’m not surprised that it didn’t go over well at panels, but my hope is that if it made it this far, it can go the distance. Unfortunately, I’ve decided to be (more) realistic this year, and thus the hilarious and superb “Flight of the Conchords” can’t make my predictions for this category. Rest assured, however, that I will be absolutely ecstatic if somehow this show does manage to get nominated.

THE OFFICE (Local Ad)
The NBC workplace comedy won this award two years ago and returned with a repeat nomination last year. The show’s fourth season was harshly interrupted as the first casualty of the writers’ strike in November, and certain episodes (Survivor Man, The Deposition) are best left forgotten. I personally enjoyed the hourlong episodes at the beginning of the season, though many didn’t. Most fans suggested submitting the season finale, “Goodbye Toby”, but I think “Local Ad” is a far wiser choice. It’s a typical hilarious episode which doesn’t require any intrinsic knowledge of the characters to fully appreciate it. The best thing it has going for it is the teamwork by the cast. They’re all used so well and the local ad in the episode comes together just as seamlessly and surprisingly well as the episode itself. “The Office” is in for a nomination.

PUSHING DAISIES (Pie-lette)
This season’s most inventive new show is actually a dramedy, which sets it vastly apart from all the other contenders in this category (save for “Weeds”). It’s fascinatingly imaginative, though I’m sure that there are an equal number of people who hate it as there are who love it. The pilot is the show’s submission, which is a fantastic choice especially since there were few episodes to choose from because it didn’t return after the strike began. While it did take me more than episode to fully love the show, I was certainly intrigued enough by the first installment to appreciate its quality. It’s a gamble, but I think “Pushing Daisies” can make it in.

30 ROCK (Cooter)
Last year’s winner won based on its stellar episode selection. Many are wary this year of the choice of the season finale over the more universally-loved “Rosemary’s Baby” or “Greenzo”. I think the show chose a great episode, which plays particularly well after “Family Guy”, demonstrating how to be blatant and funny without being a joke to death. There’s no way “30 Rock” is getting snubbed, and I’m fairly confident that, unless voters really love “Pushing Daisies”, the folks over at TGS can bring home another trophy, with the right episode choices (I’ll post my recommendations later).

TWO AND A HALF MEN (Rough Night in Hump Junction)
I liked this show back when it first started, but in the five (!) years since then, it’s deteriorated a whole lot. I tuned out when it started interfering with “24” and I couldn’t muster the energy to program my second VCR. I did see a number of episodes this year, all uniformly bad, save for one fantastic installment which really surprised me. “Rough Night in Hump Junction” was not that episode. Hold the phone, Charlie’s a womanizer? And he sleeps with lots of women? Enough already. My hope is that Emmy voters will realize this show just isn’t funny anymore. When I tally up the nominees I expect, there’s isn’t room for “Two and a Half Men” anyway. I know that I should be less optimistic and swap “Entourage” out for “Men”, but I’m going to go out on a limb here.

UGLY BETTY (Something Wicked This Way Comes)
This show was on fire last year, but has lost almost all of its buzz in its second year. I actually found that I enjoyed the show a good deal watching all of the submitted episodes by performers. The chosen installment is fine, but it’s not as good as “Bananas for Betty” or “A Nice Day for a Posh Wedding” might have been. About a quarter of the episode is part of the play “Wicked” and voters’ enthusiasm could be heavily influenced by their feelings towards the stage production. Before watching episodes, I thought “Ugly Betty” would miss out due to a drastic drop in quality, now I think it will be simply because of others ahead of it.

WEEDS (Go)
It’s a pity that such a stellar submission has to go to waste. “Weeds” has never done as well as it should with the Emmys, earning a directing nod, two nominations for Elizabeth Perkins, and one for Mary-Louise Parker over its two previous seasons. Its third season improved largely over the second, in my opinion, and was capped off with a truly fantastic season finale. Sadly, there’s no way “Weeds” can be nominated. For starters, the episode is knee-deep in plot which voters who aren’t regular viewers will find altogether confusing. The show features a drug dealer as its heroine, which can’t go over well, and if it hasn’t gotten nominated by now, it’s highly unlikely it ever will. Not this year, anyway.

Current predictions:
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
ENTOURAGE
THE OFFICE
PUSHING DAISIES
30 ROCK

Emmy Predictions: Best Drama Series

Listed below are the ten semi-finalists for this category. Episodes submitted are listed in parentheses after their names. Beware of minor spoilers for the episodes described. Nominees are pictured in order of likelihood of getting nominated, and listed below alphabetically.

BOSTON LEGAL (The Court Supreme)
Last year’s episode submission, “Angel of Death”, had a dramatic punch which many interpreted as exploitative in its usage of Hurricane Katrina to dramatize its storyline. This year’s episode lacks that seriousness in the way it so recklessly approaches its subject matter. In pretty much the quickest turn of events I’ve ever seen, Alan Shore all of a sudden has the opportunity to argue in front of the Supreme Court of the United States. Shore treats it like a joke and hardly even prepares for it. He has a lengthy speech in front of the judges that’s mostly just him talking without really saying anything. I really tried not to let my own dislike for the show bias me too much while watching this episode (obviously it did at least a little), but I’ll still convinced that this is a far weaker submission than last year. This is excellent proof that this show should not be competing in drama categories – the lawyers head to the Supreme Court and don’t even give a damn. William Shatner’s whole role in the episode only supports that argument. The side plotline, involving Jerry and his call girl girlfriend, is uneven at best and does little to help the story along. Unfortunately, however, I’ve heard only good things about the reaction to the show by judging panels, and it’s highly likely it will get nominated. I’m just not sure if I have the heart to bring myself to predict it.

DAMAGES (Pilot)
Submitting a pilot, especially one with buzz as high as this, seems like a good idea. There’s no back story which needs to be quickly summarized or filled in, and this is the basis for the show that got all the hype. It’s a strong pilot to be sure, and certainly better than the show which resulted from it. Even I said that I liked the style of the show in my initial review of the pilot. By the end of the season, however, I was more than tired of it. Luckily for this show, all voters will see is the pilot. The main handicap for “Damages” is the network it airs on: FX. All of the cable network’s previous offerings, “The Shield”, “Nip/Tuck”, “The Riches”– haven’t managed to get nominated (I’m not sure about top tens, as I didn’t follow as closely in recent years). This show has Glenn Close and rave reviews going for it, and I think that the mix of severe drama with lighter comedy should make this an appealing offering that voters won’t be able to pass up. Even with history working against it, “Damages” should easily get nominated.

DEXTER (The Dark Defender)
The popular Showtime drama made the top ten for the second year in a row after failing to make the top five last year. The series went with the finale from last year as opposed to the pilot. This year the show has picked another episode which relies heavily upon a knowledge of the show’s style and previous episodes to really appreciate it (or so I’d assume, given that I did see that episode after watching all the previous installments). That said, it is a pretty terrific episode, certainly my favorite one of the season. The central plotline involves Dexter’s dual personality, perceived by some as the brutal “Bay Harbor Butcher” and by others as the more heroic “The Dark Defender”. Not knowing Dexter may make it hard to sympathize, but I’m hoping that the stellar guest appearances by Keith Carradine and Jaime Murray (well before she became unbearable) will earn it the recognition it deserves. From the reports that Tom O’Neil and others are giving, the judging panels really didn’t like the violence of the show, and that (sadly) should prevent it from getting nominated. To hell with it, I’m going to predict it anyway as a surprise.

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (Leave No One Behind)
I’m proud of myself for correctly predicting that “Friday Night Lights” would make the top ten again this year. I’m remembering back to last year when I predicted the show for Best Drama Series and Best Actress (Connie Britton), and then it got almost entirely shutting out, ending up with two paltry nods for directing and casting. And that was after all I heard was buzz for the football drama. I would imagine it ranked very low on the popular vote and while the episode itself is good, it’s hard to get into if you’re not a regular viewer (I say this from personal experience). I can see that it’s a good show, and it has a very intoxicating feel to it. I think this is one show that you need to be a regular viewer to fully appreciate, unlike, say “Grey’s Anatomy” or “House”, where any episode can summarize the tone of the series. Count “Friday Night Lights” out.

GREY’S ANATOMY (Freedom, Parts 1 & 2)
The most important thing to note with respect to two-time nominee “Grey’s Anatomy” is that rumors suggest that judging panels only saw the first half of the two-part season finale as the series’ submission, which could leave anyone with a bad taste in their mouth. As a strict non-fan of the show, I found the submitted episode mildly acceptable, with decent patient plotlines, but overshadowed by the utter annoyance of all of the regular cast members. T.R. Knight runs around squawking while the rest of them yell at each other. Many are predicting that this will be the year “Grey’s Anatomy” misses out on the top prize, and I’m tempted to agree. Its buzz is going down, and it’s easily possible that “House”, “Damages”, “Mad Men”, and “Lost” ranked higher in the popular vote. I wouldn’t be surprised if it did get in, but I think it will miss the mark this year.

HOUSE (Frozen)
“House” has been excessively popular since its very debut, scoring nominations in this category the past two years. Despite the addition of a bunch of new cast members this season, I think it’s still just as strong in terms of popularity. I have even more faith in the show after seeing its fantastic submission. I was never a fan of “House” from the beginning, but I really liked “Frozen”, which has House and his team struggling to diagnose researcher Mira Sorvino, who’s trapped in the South Pole. It’s both funny and moving, and Laurie, who I’ve never loved, turns in an impressive performance. “House” is safe.

LOST (The Constant)
I don’t think it’s too much of an exaggeration to suggest that “Lost” has the largest, most devoted fan base of any show currently on television. That alone assures it an extremely high popular vote ranking, but it’s also an influential detractor. Diehard fans seem to love it no matter what, the trick is hooking in those new to the scene. After winning Best Drama Series with the pilot episode, “Lost” failed to follow-up with two terrific but storyline-centric episodes in “Man of Science, Man of Faith” and “Through the Looking Glass” the following two years after placing in the top ten both times. This year, the episode is not deeply embroiled in the “Lost” universe but instead creates a fascinating time-travel loop with an irresistible and moving love story. I’m going to guess that “Lost” has what it takes to make it in this year.

MAD MEN (Smoke Gets In Your Eyes)
“Mad Men” is probably the most universally-acclaimed series to hit the airwaves since that other multi-Emmy winner that it’s frequently compared to, “The Sopranos”. The pilot, its submission, is excellent and that’s the episode that started all the buzz, which is re-upping at this moment as season two starts in less than two weeks. I can’t see a thing getting in the way of “Mad Men” getting nominated. While it’s true that no non-HBO cable show has ever managed a series nomination, there’s no actual dictating rule that will prevent a show from getting nominated. Once it’s made the top ten, there’s no stopping it. It’s all a question of how the viewer responds. The network doesn’t matter.

THE TUDORS (Episode 205)
This here is a historical epic drama that wasn’t able to hook me in with a somewhat plodding pilot. Emmy voters didn’t seem to love it much either, as it missed out on the top ten for Best Drama Series last year. This year, it’s in, but star Jonathan Rhys-Meyers still isn’t, and only esteemed guest star Peter O’Toole is carrying any buzz. Shows like this haven’t done well in recent years at the Emmys, with “Deadwood” breaking in only once, and “Rome” missing out on a nomination after making the top ten last year. The 1960s may be as far back as voters want to go. I haven’t seen the episode, but I imagine that it’s tough to get into without the backdrop of the whole series as a reference.

THE WIRE (-30-)
“The Wire” is a particularly interesting case. Nearly every person I have ever spoken to or read has said that this is, hands-down, the best show ever. I’ve never gotten into it, but it’s on my list to do someday (this summer if it gets nominated). In all its four seasons on the air, it has managed one sole nomination, for writing back in 2005. Clearly people are eager to reward it, but it’s one of those shows that is acclaimed by everyone who watches it but isn’t watched by enough people to really get noticed. I’ve heard negative reports about the screening of the series finale, which seemed burdensome and lengthy to first-timers. If the popular vote was somehow high enough, which I’m sure it wasn’t, it might stand a shot, but I think this is the end of the line.

Current predictions:
DAMAGES
DEXTER
HOUSE
LOST
MAD MEN

Emmy Predictions: Best Writing for a Comedy Series

Contenders are listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here and I find the directing and writing categories especially difficult to predict, so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
PUSHING DAISIES, “Pie-lette”
30 ROCK, “Rosemary’s Baby”
30 ROCK, “Greenzo”
THE OFFICE, “Dinner Party”
THE OFFICE, “Branch Wars”

Alternates:
THE OFFICE, “Money”
THE OFFICE, “Fun Run”
THE OFFICE, “Local Ad”
CALIFORNICATION, “Pilot”
30 ROCK, “Cooter”

Emmy Predictions: Best Directing for a Comedy Series

Contenders are listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here and I find the directing and writing categories especially difficult to predict, so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees. Note: this category has had six nominees for the past two years, which makes it likely they’ll be another tie this year, resulting in additional nominees.

Current predictions:
PUSHING DAISIES, “Pie-lette”
30 ROCK, “Rosemary’s Baby”
THE OFFICE, “Goodbye Toby”
THE OFFICE, “Fun Run”
CALIFORNICATION, “Pilot”

Alternates:
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, “The Rat Dog”
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, “The N Word”
30 ROCK, “Cooter”
THE OFFICE, “Branch Wars”
FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS, “Sally”

Emmy Predictions: Best Writing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

Contenders are pictured and listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
JOHN ADAMS
CRANFORD
RECOUNT
BERNARD AND DORIS
EXTRAS: THE EXTRA SPECIAL SERIES FINALE

Alternates:
FIVE DAYS
AN AMERICAN CRIME
A RAISIN IN THE SUN
THE COMPANY
PICTURES OF HOLLIS WOODS

Emmy Predictions: Best Directing for a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

Contenders are pictured and listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
JOHN ADAMS
THE COMPANY
RECOUNT
HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2
FIVE DAYS

Alternates:
AS YOU LIKE IT
AN AMERICAN CRIME
CRANFORD
BERNARD AND DORIS
SENSE & SENSIBILITY

Emmy Predictions: Best Writing for a Drama Series

Contenders are listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here and I find the directing and writing categories especially difficult to predict, so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
MAD MEN, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”
DAMAGES, “Pilot”
LOST, “The Constant”
MAD MEN, “Nixon vs. Kennedy”
HOUSE, “House’s Head”

Alternates:
MAD MEN, “The Wheel”
IN TREATMENT, “Paul and Gina: Week 4”
THE WIRE, “-30-”
LOST, “The Shape of Things to Come”
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, “Six of One”

Emmy Predictions: Best Directing for a Drama Series

Contenders are listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here and I find the directing and writing categories especially difficult to predict, so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees. Note: this category has had seven nominees for the past three years, which makes it likely they’ll be another tie this year, resulting in additional nominees.

Current predictions:
LOST, “The Constant”
MAD MEN, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes”
DAMAGES, “Pilot”
BOSTON LEGAL, “The Court Supreme”
THE WIRE, “-30-”

Alternates:
HOUSE, “Wilson’s Heart”
LOST, “The Shape of Things to Come”
MAD MEN, “The Wheel”
LOST, “There’s No Place Like Home”
BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, “Six of One”

Emmy Predictions: Best Made-for-TV Movie

Contenders are pictured and listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
BERNARD AND DORIS
RECOUNT
AS YOU LIKE IT
A RAISIN IN THE SUN
AN AMERICAN CRIME

Alternates:
MY BOY JACK
PICTURES OF HOLLIS WOODS
EXTRAS: THE EXTRA SPECIAL SERIES FINALE
PU-239
RUFFIAN

Emmy Predictions: Best Miniseries

Contenders are pictured and listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
JOHN ADAMS
THE COMPANY
CRANFORD

Alternates:
FIVE DAYS
SENSE & SENSIBILITY
TIN MAN
THE ANDROMEDA STRAIN
THE BRONX IS BURNING
THE KILL POINT
COMANCHE MOON

Emmy Predictions: Best Supporting Actress in a Mini-Series/Made-for-TV Movie

Contenders are pictured and listed in the order I think they’re likely to get nominated. I don’t have much to say here so I’ll save my commentary for the nominees.

Current predictions:
LAURA DERN, RECOUNT
ALFRE WOODARD, PICTURES OF HOLLIS WOODS
EILEEN ATKINS, CRANFORD
SARAH POLLEY, JOHN ADAMS
AUDRA MCDONALD, A RAISIN IN THE SUN

Alternates:
MAMIE GUMMER, JOHN ADAMS
JANET MCTEER, FIVE DAYS
ASHLEY JENSEN, EXTRAS: THE EXTRA SPECIAL SERIES FINALE
PENELOPE WILTON, FIVE DAYS
MARY ELIZABETH MASTRANTONIO, THE RUSSELL GIRL