Top Ten New Shows of 2009: #9

My annual TV Awards, the AFT Television Awards, are given out during the summer. But this year, during both the spring and the fall, produced many impressive new television series. As 2009 closes out and 2010 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#9: Dollhouse
Joss Whedon’s new series couldn’t possibly be as exciting as “Firefly,” but at times it came close. Any scenes with Amy Acker were far and away the most compelling, and the show recently raised fascinating questions of identity. It’s only now reaching its most thrilling, and unfortunately FOX has deemed it worthy of only three more episodes. At least the show produced the terrific installment “Epitaph One.”

Best Episode: “Epitaph One”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top Ten New Shows of 2009: #10

My annual TV Awards, the AFT Television Awards, are given out during the summer. But this year, during both the spring and the fall, produced many impressive new television series. As 2009 closes out and 2010 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#10: Glee
This musical series has an unparalleled beat. Even when the plotlines don’t quite work, the music certainly does. The cast is fun and fresh, ranging from TV newcomer Lea Michele to hilarious veteran Jane Lynch, the musical score is terrific, and the songs are stellar. They’ve done well so far, and hopefully the show’s return in April can provide more sensible storylines to jive with the music.

Best Episode: “Showmance”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

What I’m Watching: Better Off Ted

Better Off Ted: Season 2, Episode 4 “It’s Nothing Business, It’s Just Personal” (B)

Veronica is really at her best when she’s being her usual cold self, and having her fall under someone else’s spell hardly seems sensible. I really didn’t care for the first episode to feature her magician boyfriend Mordor, and bringing him back made for a few quick laughs but ultimately proved more distracting than anything else. Seeing Ted boxed up in the smallest office imaginable where he literally has devote time to getting into his chair and behind his desk is fun, and watching him sputter about as he tries to harmlessly meddle in other people’s affairs is somewhat satisfying. Linda and Ted working together is once again a good thing, and it’s refreshing to know that neither of them quite knows exactly what they’re talking about, and it’s a good thing that they have each other to get things done as a not-quite-operative team. However dazed she was, Veronica’s explanation of the company’s strategy for motivation was hilarious. Manipulating its employees is one of the things Veridian Dynamics does best, and this is certainly one of those cases. The rationale behind changing something, even if there’s no reason for it, as a motivating factor is quite brilliant, and it’s humorous to see how it works on lab rats Lem and Phil. It helps that the two of them are so funny together and that the red coat really stands out. Watching them keep guessing what the coat means and Phil dreadfully proclaim that he worked so hard not to get the coat they had deemed a punishment was a great way to wrap up that plotline.

What I’m Watching: Men of a Certain Age

Men of a Certain Age: Season 1, Episode 4 “The New Guy” (C+)

I’d love to watch an episode of this show without squirming in my chair the whole time. There always has to be at least one part of each episode which is so devastatingly uncomfortable and unbearable that it almost makes the rest of it not worth the trouble. This installment was a notch better than the previous one, but still had that despicable awkward arc to bring it down. The universe is way too small in the world of this show. There’s no reason that Dave needed to attend the school function and run into Terry. As a character, he’s infuriatingly obnoxious and offers no positive qualities. At least Owen’s disapproving father helps shape him into a stronger, more resilient person, but Dave’s presence adds nothing and takes away so much. Dave jokingly bidding four million dollars, bidding against himself, and then shouting that his kid better get into the school was a horrific chain of events I wish I could erase from my memory. This episode did do something right, and that’s having the fundraiser, a way to bring all (or at least most) of its characters together. Owen also had his best plotline yet, listening closely to the stories recounted by Sonia and her new guy and doing his best to “get the timeline straight.” He may not be a terribly effective car salesman, but he’s going to stick up for his friend. This was a particularly pathetic hour for Joe, who went on a bender with his bookie and then woke up to the harsh reality that he still has to pay off his debts. Confessing to Owen that he had been e-mailing with another woman before his wife cheated on him was another sad step, and that guy really has to start pulling his life together.

Don’t be surprised if there’s no review of this show next week; I haven’t decided if I’m going to keep watching it or not since a number of shows return next week. Anyone have an opinion?

What I’m Watching: Better Off Ted

Better Off Ted: Season 2, Episode 3 “Battle of the Bulbs” (B)

This was an episode that tried hard and sort of came through in the end, certainly funny but definitely a little odd. Putting Andrea and Ted together on the same project in a work context was fun, especially since, as Andrea pointed out, they’ve never really had the opportunity to actually work together. Watching Ted get his idea stomped on when he refused to hear Andrea out was a little bit satisfying, though the best part of the whole plotline was Veronica mentoring Andrea on how to be intimidating and not to back down even if her idea was stupid. And like all of the products manufactured by Veridian Dynamics, there’s always some unanticipated malicious side effect that threatens to shut down the whole project. The incorporation of Lem’s mom into the main storyline didn’t feel quite as welcome or effective, and was more of a distraction than a compelling plot arc. It did give Phil something fun to do and served as a good way to incorporate him, but for the most part it didn’t work too well. The random reappearance of Maz Jobrani as the occasionally hilarious but sometimes just crude Dr. Bhamba was entertaining, however I do have one bone to pick with his presence on the show. As I speculated in my review of the show’s first season finale this summer, didn’t he take the blame for a huge scandal and get fired by Veridian a long time ago?

What I’m Watching: Scrubs

Scrubs: Season 9, Episode 5 “Our Mysteries” (C+)

Good riddance to J.D. As he himself puts it, he’s left so many times that it’s not even worth celebrating as he departs the show for what is sure not to be the last time. He’s become increasingly silly in the only season where it would actually have done him well to be mature, and his need for approval by trying to seek out the person who gave him a bad review. J.D. and Turk’s imagined detective fantasy with the unnecessary magnifying glass was somewhat entertaining, but encountering Dr. Kelso in the middle of their investigation and realizing that it was Dr. Cox who wrote the evaluation didn’t make a whole lot of sense, nor did it really enhance either the comedy or the drama of the situation. J.D. and Turk constantly amassing all the students with lies about Rob Schneider or the cast of “Twilight” seems to take things a bit too far, and blurring the line between the power the two of them think they have in their imaginations with the abilities to influence others in real life has gotten a bit out of hand. Denise’s relationship with Drew is taking on a more definitive nature, and that’s probably a good thing to keep some of the characters grounded. Seeing the high-pitched intern from last season was a bit bizarre since it’s a way of acknowledging that she’s still there and around but wasn’t beloved enough to take on a starring role in this new incarnation of the show. Lucy’s threat of not having sex with Cole unless she was his blood partner was amusing, though J.D.’s attempt to help Lucy out by not showing up when she needed him most seemed like a poor last lesson for him to leave on.

Take Three: Men of a Certain Age

Men of a Certain Age: Season 1, Episode 3 “Mind’s Eye” (C)

As this show continues to develop, it’s becoming clearer that there’s not much worthwhile to be found here. I’ll stick it with it for at least one more week because there’s nothing on next week, but may abandon it the week after that as we’re inundated with the premieres of a number of returning shows. The plotlines in this show are just off-putting, and it’s clear in almost every case that the guys are walking into a trap and setting themselves up for a fall. The truly lame arc in this episode is that of Joe’s son, since Joe himself hardly seems interested in his son’s discontent and can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong. He’d do better to talk to his buddies or maybe even his ex-wife instead of relying on the sage advice of his co-workers, who don’t seem terribly bright. The only bright spot of the whole storyline was his final comment, which provides the title for this episode – “you realize you’re actually in the car with me, not just in your mind’s eye.” Owen giving everyone discounts and deals was never going to work out well, and it was just tragic to watch. It was somewhat entertaining to see everyone ask about Owen in amusing ways, and there was something effectively triumphant about him saying, “Yeah, I am the fat guy.” Why he needs to give a motivational speech when he accepts his award for top salesman is puzzling, and it’s just setting him up for a failure and a realization of how much money he lost by giving out so many deals. Terry’s acting job at least gave him something to do, but his efforts to enhance the myth of family and his relationship with his fake wife were a bad idea from the start. Had he told her he was into her at the start rather than trying to forge an attraction by creating an illusion about their romance, he might have saved himself the trouble of finding out in a horribly embarrassing way that she was otherwise engaged. It seems like the kind of thing that would happen to him, but it was so devastatingly predictable. It was really nice to see Cynthia Watros, even in such a limited, one-shot role, and this makes me really hope that she’ll be back for season six of “Lost” next year.

What I’m Watching: The Closer (Season Finale)

The Closer: Season 5, Episode 15 “Dead Man’s Hand” (B+)

What a wonderful holiday treat to get Mary McDonnell back as Captain Raydor for the season finale of this show. It’s only been back on the air for three weeks and now it’s off again until the summer when its sixth season presumably begins, and having McDonnell return for her third appearance this season was a spectacular way to invoke great memories of the show and make it seem like no time has passed at all since the first twelve episodes of this season aired way back in the summer. Seeing Brenda and Raydor butt heads is always fun, especially when an infuriated Chief Pope tries to get involved and yell at both of them about working together much more effectively. They did do an impressive of piecing together the case in the end, though. I love how the music turned deathly serious and dramatic when the duo broke the news to their suspects that they knew that were familiar with each other before the previous night while in the morgue, and the way they revealed that the supposedly abused cop’s husband could not possibly have inflicted her wounds was pretty cool. Their closing discussion where they quite peacefully agreed that they just don’t like each other and that it’s a difficult dynamic to change was really fun, and it’s a great way to leave things since McDonnell can come back in the future and things can be just as tense and hilarious at that point. This episode also had a few other fun moments, including Pope’s attempt to try and take back his words about Fritz’s promotion and Buzz being able to get to the crime scene quicker because he used his GPS. The bonus shot of Buzz’s license plate (BUZZO) was great too. Fritz’s potential promotion surely won’t be realized and take Brenda away from her team, but at least she’ll start to appreciate Fritz and won’t neglect him the same way she has been recently. I already graded this season back when the initial 12 episodes aired in August, and the last three episodes haven’t changed my mind in any way. It’s been a good year for Major Crimes.

Season grade: B+
Season MVP: Kyra Sedgwick

What I’m Watching: Dollhouse

Dollhouse: Season 2, Episode 9 & 10 “Stop-Loss” & “The Attic” (B+/B)

I had intended to review these two episodes separately, but once I saw the second just after the first, I knew there was no way I could tackle “Stop-Loss” without fully acknowledging the awesome surprise at the end of the second episode. Before we get to that, the first episode was cool as a way to see that Rossum really is a formidable foe, and their attempts to create a group consciousness are even more fearsome than the concept of the programmable dolls. Echo’s ability to infiltrate and defeat the group consciousness was pretty remarkable, and she really is becoming a good lead for the show, now that she’s no longer defective but instead hyperactive in her ability to access her personalities and get quite a bit done. The second episode wasn’t quite that strong because the within-the-mind realities it created were a bit forced, and it all felt like a less thrilling version of Sydney’s search to discover her missing two years during the third season of “Alias.” It was fun to see Reed Diamond back as Dominic, though when Echo thought she saw Whisky, I got very excited and was considerably let down when it wasn’t her. The decision of Clyde and Dominic to remain into the Attic seemed a bit convenient, but I suppose it will be helpful for everyone on the outside once they figure out a way to bring it down. Adelle seemed to be becoming genuinely evil during both these episodes, which of course didn’t make much sense given her status in “Epitaph One.” The revelation of her tasking Echo to find out what secrets of Rossum are hidden in the Attic was fantastic in terms of the setup it provides for the coming episodes, but the secrecy with which she proceeded seems a bit much. Sending Sierra and Victor there also seems quite dangerous but I guess everyone’s okay now. That closing shot of the whole team, including a newly revived and Doll-form Paul and more prominent Ivy, assembled and ready to take down the Dollhouse, was pretty damn exciting. I don’t care as much about finding Caroline, but the next few episodes are going to be spectacularly intense. They’re rolling out one by one on Friday nights starting January 8th, and I so wish there were more than three episodes to go in this show now that it’s finally gotten really good.

What I’m Watching: Better Off Ted

Better Off Ted: Season 2, Episode 2 “The Lawyer, The Lemur & The Little Listener” (B)

This is a funny but altogether peculiar episode, where all of the plotlines are a bit too strange for the episode to be completely terrific. First of all, seeing Lem start aggressively making out with a woman in the elevator with Phil right there seemed a tad out of character, and him having to pay for the time he was spending with her for her law services then didn’t make much sense or have much relevance since the relationship was already outlandish and weird to start. Andrea’s children’s book followed that same logic, and Phil’s semi-delight at being the main character and her snappy responses to his efforts to chart his character’s course were amusing. Veronica has already used Rose to help her fire people, and incorporating the young one strongly goes against the commonly emphasized notion that this show isn’t really about Ted, and that all of the supporting characters are for the most part much stronger than him. Nonetheless, it’s still interesting and entertaining to see Veronica try to manipulate Rose for her own good and see how she appeals to the young girl in order to get her to help her. The mix-up where Rose overheard the wrong information about an employee was funny, and it’s always enjoyable to see Ted get the blame for something he didn’t do. Overall, the cast makes these more than slightly silly plotlines work, and they deserve credit for that, as does the successful show as a whole.

What I’m Watching: Scrubs

Scrubs: Season 9, Episode 4 “Our Histories” (C+)

Why is this new show still about how J.D. and Turk spend every moment of their lives being immature together? When the fact that they love each other more than their wives is implied by other people, that’s fine, but when J.D. outright says, “I’m spending the night with the love of my life,” and out bursts Turk, it’s a bit too dumb and silly. The dramatic point of that arc was, however, more poignant, and that would be Dr. Cox’s desire for them to acknowledge that they are in fact getting older. The fact that the plotlines are becoming truly generational to the point that J.D. and Turk actually reference the time they spent a whole night talking to a dying patient, which occurred in a previous episode of the series, is an interesting way of both repeating past storylines and also recognizing the notion that this group is supposed to have the same kind of experiences. The multi-generational parties aren’t quite working, but seeing the four students utilize their different skills and personality traits to bond with the patients is somewhat intriguing and decently entertaining. Ted’s departure from the hospital feels about a year too late, since he and Gooch never actually interact with any of the med students. Dr. Kelso’s surprise party which only had him standing there after a millisecond was a nice parting touch, as was his handshake, but why Ted was even still around in this new incarnation is a bit of a puzzle.

What I’m Watching: NCIS: Los Angeles

NCIS: Los Angeles: Season 1, Episode 10 “Brimstone” (B+)

This show is always about the action-packed start. This one was particularly up close and in the middle of the action, with the marine’s cell phone exploding as he received a fatal phone call. From my experience with television and movie watching, it’s usually a good idea to pay attention to what you’re doing when you’re at an ATM taking out money, because that’s often a time when people get murdered or robbed. In this case, the murder was much more carefully planned out, and investigating all of the members of the unit was a cool way of narrowing down the suspects. LL Cool J speaking Arabic didn’t quite sound right, but I will admit that it is pretty awesome that Sam is able to read Arabic perfectly off of the back windshield of a car on command. I’m even more impressed by the effort that the killer put in by bothering to etch out a whole sentence in Arabic where most people would simply write “Wash Me.” More seriously, the theme of atonement and punishing the unit for their misdeeds overseas was very interesting, and it seems that whenever the team gets involved with something having to do with Iraq or Afghanistan, it’s always very intriguing and a bit more exciting. It’s worthwhile to note that the original “NCIS” also featured a Muslim-centric plotline this week, yet another similarly linking the two otherwise mostly unconnected shows. This is the last “NCIS: Los Angeles” episode until January, and I anticipate its return next year.

What I’m Watching: NCIS

NCIS: Season 7, Episode 10 “Faith” (B+)

A holiday episode about a character’s relationship with his family is exactly the kind of thing that sets this show apart from other procedurals. We’re already familiar with Gibbs’ father, and seeing him stop by to spend the holidays with his son is a nice treat. His far-too-brief interaction with Ducky was an especially fun surprise, even if the good doctor was actually doing research on the elder Gibbs’ mental condition. In this installment, the senior Gibbs didn’t play an active part in the case, but that thread was equally intriguing. Seeing Corey Reynolds, more commonly known as Sergeant Gabriel on “The Closer,” as a Muslim chaplain is an unexpected pleasure, and he does a terrific job of getting the team to contemplate their perspectives. This episode does an impressive job of tackling faith and the way it’s treated by the navy. In typical “NCIS” fashion, the most enjoyable part is the dynamic between the main characters. McGee meeting and trying but failing horribly to impress Abby’s tech friend was quite hilarious. Ziva and Tony’s back-and-forth continues to be the best reason to watch this show. We haven’t seen them in action together in a major way for a while, and their incredible brawl in the bar was the highlight of the episode. Tony’s inability to actually contribute to the fight was quite funny, and their end-of-episode delivery of Tony’s gift was a fitting holiday touch for a fun holiday episode.

Round Two: Men of a Certain Age

Men of a Certain Age: Season 1, Episode 2 “Let It Go” (C+)

After an uncertain start last week, this show hasn’t really found its footing yet. It’s also not doomed to failure, but it’s going to have to pull itself together soon it if wants to remain relevant and worthwhile. All three characters’ storylines are chugging along at an accelerated pace, but the question of whether they’re actually interesting has yet to be answered. Perhaps the most accessible and at the same time the least interesting of the three stories is that of Owen, whose continual inability to stand up for himself for the first three quarters of the episode and subsequent satisfying power play is just obnoxious. Most of all it’s a shame to see the incredibly talented Andre Braugher wasting himself on such a role. The other two haven’t quite found their funk either, but they seem to be doing work that fits their abilities. Joe’s efforts to reconcile with his wife by judging her response to his question about seeing other people are evidently poorly conceived and executed, but Ray Romano does a good job of playing the sad sack trying desperately to determine what he should bring to a party. His flagrant denial of his gambling addiction is a more serious undertone to the show that will likely not be explored since the other two don’t seem overly intent on doing something about it. Terry’s exploits are a bit tiresome but also quite entertaining, and seeing Scott Bakula run from a huge guy about to beat him up is pretty funny.

What I’m Watching: The Closer

The Closer: Season 5, Episode 14 “Make Over” (B+)

It’s really fun to have Beau Bridges guest star on this episode, and this role was a whole lot more challenging and fulfilling than his Emmy-nominated guest spot from last year on “Desperate Housewives.” The most impressive part of it was responding to and playing off of G.W. Bailey’s intolerant and insensitive Lieutenant Provenza, whose reaction to Detective Andrews’ new look and identity and subsequent acceptance of it was the most spectacular part of this whole episode. That, and, of course, the continuing curiosity of Detective Sanchez, whose inability to keep his thoughts to himself was almost as funny as Detective Andrews’ willingness to answer them. Regarding the case, it’s always fantastic to get some hotshot in there who thinks that they know the law and how they can ensure they won’t get themselves caught, only to find themselves tricked and under arrest. That chain of events was particularly satisfying when it came to Sam Osgood, who oozed self-importance and smugness from the first moment he appeared on screen. Playing mother and son against each other also doesn’t hurt. Brenda’s hot pink coat was quite extravagant, though it wasn’t quite as showy as Fritz’ bold decision to go on their vacation without her. At the end of the day, he’s still the most loving and supportive spouse in the universe, so his return to their home at the end of the episode wasn’t much of a surprise, but it was still sweet.

SAG Nominees: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 5/5
Who’s missing: “Desperate Housewives,” “Entourage,” “Weeds”

I’m thrilled that I got a perfect score in at least one category, especially such a fun one as this. For the first time in the show’s history, “Desperate Housewives” isn’t nominated, and, unlike the Globes, the SAG Awards are over “Entourage” and they’ve also completely forgotten about “Weeds.” They’re ambitious enough to welcome in two new comedies, Glee and Modern Family, both of which received no other mentions. Back for the first time since its sole nomination in 2006 is Curb Your Enthusiasm, likely because the cast of “Seinfeld” is counted in its ensemble. The popular 30 Rock and The Office are back again for their second and third times, respectively. “30 Rock” won last year, while “The Office” took it the two years before that.

Who could win? Either “Glee” or “Modern Family.” I’d go with Glee.

SAG Nominees: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

My predictions: 3/5, missing "The Good Wife" and "True Blood"
Who’s missing: “House,” “Breaking Bad”

With the departure of “Boston Legal,” a slot is open, and it goes to a fall network freshman series, which is quite rare in this category. I suppose that the ensemble of The Good Wife is probably the strongest part of the show, so it’s a decent inclusion. Though I didn’t predict that the cast of “House” would be omitted, I picked “Breaking Bad” to take over a slot. It turns out I had the wrong now-sophomore show that was shut out last year, and I’m so delighted by my error. True Blood has one of the most exciting and diverse ensembles on television, and it’s really cool that it got nominated here. Both The Closer and Dexter are back from last year, which is great, and then there’s last year’s winner and the likely choice by most for the best ensemble on television, the cast of Mad Men.

Who could win? Probably a repeat for Mad Men.

SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, missing Applegate and Louis-Dreyfus
Who’s missing: Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds), America Ferrera (Ugly Betty), Tracey Ullman (State of the Union)

Silly me, I thought that voters had forgotten all about Christina Applegate (Samantha Who?) and Julia Louis-Dreyfus (The New Adventures of Old Christine). The former’s show was cancelled in the spring, while the latter earned her last and only nomination way back in 2005. In order to include them, it’s sayonara to two long-standing nominees in this category, Mary-Louise Parker and America Ferrera. New series stars need to be welcomed in, however, like this year’s Emmy winner Toni Collette (The United States of Tara) and three-time SAG winner Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie). And don’t forget about Tina Fey (30 Rock), not that you could, who has taken home this award the past two years.

Who could win? One of the newbies, but who? I think Falco, though a farewell nod to Applegate could be in the cards.

SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, missing David and Sheen
Who’s missing: David Duchovny (Californication), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory), Jeremy Piven (Entourage)

You read correctly, folks. Fellow actors think that Charlie Sheen (Two and a Half Men) delivers one of the top five male comedy performances on television. When he was last nominated in 2005, it seemed like it might have been a fluke, but no, now he’s back to edge out fan favorites like Jim Parsons and far more talented performers like David Duchovny. It doesn’t make much sense at all. Praising Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm) for his acting also seems a bit bizarre, but at least he’s putting in some effort. Tony Shalhoub (Monk) earns his seventh career nomination for his departed series, while expected nominees Alec Baldwin (30 Rock) and Steve Carrell (The Office) are back for another round. Baldwin is defending champ, having taken home the past three consecutive trophies. Shalhoub won twice, in 2003 and 2004.

Who could win? Give it to the guy going out, Shalhoub.

SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 3/6, missing Arquette, Hunter, and Marguiles
Who’s missing: Sally Field (Brothers & Sisters), Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men), January Jones (Mad Men), Anna Paquin (True Blood)

I’m delighted to see that voters are finally over Sally Field, which came as a nice surprise since they even gave her the award last year, but Patricia Arquette (Medium)? I happen to despise the show and the performer, and I can’t understand how anyone thinks she is deserving of an award. More importantly, why does she continue popping up on the list after not being on it for years? Does she really deserve to displace the red-hot “Mad Men” actresses? I think not. Also still holding on, though much more deservedly so, is Holly Hunter (Saving Grace), as well as Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order: SVU). Cable ladies Glenn Close (Damages) and Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer) are back again, joined by an actress from a new show – Julianne Marguiles (The Good Wife). She may be on a freshman series, but the actress is a two-time SAG winner for her work on “ER.”

Who could win? Fresh might be best in this case: Marguiles.

SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 4/5, missing Baker
Who’s missing: John Lithgow (Dexter), Gabriel Byrne (In Treatment)

I don’t know what everyone loves so much about Simon Baker (The Mentalist). There’s nothing particularly terrific about his performance or his show, but he just seems to keep getting in everywhere. He doesn’t really take anyone’s slot, however, because, though the SAG supposedly aggregates supporting and lead performances into their categories, it’s usually just leads, as it is in all fields this year. Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), despite another Globe snub, managed to break in here, which is a good thing, joining returning nominees Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Jon Hamm (Mad Men), and Hugh Laurie (House). Minus “In Treatment” star Gabriel Byrne, this is the same group that was nominated at the Emmys this past year.

Who could win? This is the first nomination for Cranston; he takes it.

Final SAG Predictions

The Golden Globe nominations yesterday don’t really change my predictions for the SAG nominations tomorrow. It’s possible that, like at the Globes, “Parks and Recreation” and “Breaking Bad” will be snubbed, as will “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Jim Parsons, and Tony Shalhoub. It’s also possible that they’ll be replaced by the two leads of “Glee” or by Jane Lynch herself, and that Courteney Cox will also earn a nomination for “Cougar Town.” Beyond those quick notes, I’m happy with my predictions as I made them before the Globes announcement. What do you think? Check back tomorrow morning for analysis of the nominees, one category per hour.

Best Male Actor in a Drama Series
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Hugh Laurie, House
John Lithgow, Dexter

Best Female Actor in a Drama Series
Glenn Close, Damages
Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer

Best Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Steve Carrell, The Office
David Duchovny, Californication
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory
Tony Shalhoub, Monk

Best Female Actor in a Comedy Series
Toni Collette, The United States of Tara
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

Best Male Actor in a Television Miniseries or Movie
Kevin Bacon, Taking Chance
Kenneth Branagh, Wallander
Brendan Gleeson, Into the Storm
Jeremy Irons, Georgia O’Keefe
Ian McKellen, The Prisoner

Best Female Actor in a Television Miniseries or Movie
Joan Allen, Georgia O’Keefe
Drew Barrymore, Grey Gardens
Jessica Lange, Grey Gardens
Anna Paquin, The Courageous Heart of Irena Sandler

Best Ensemble in a Drama Series
Breaking Bad
The Closer
Dexter
House
Mad Men

Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
30 Rock

What I’m Watching: Californication (Season Finale)

Californication: Season 3, Episode 12 “Mia Culpa” (B+)

To think that after he slept with every female guest star except Sue Collini this season, it was a sin from Hank’s past that ultimately proved unforgivable in the eyes of his one and only Karen. It’s not as if the return of Mia in this episode serves to negate everything that happened this season, but rather to resolve the fact that Hank and Karen can’t be together and that Hank’s acts, however unintentional some of them may actually have been, will always haunt him. It’s too bad that Mia didn’t have a chance to meet all of the other ladies Hank romanced this season, but it’s probably for the best. James Frain (“Invasion,” “24”) was a fantastic guest star as Mia’s boyfriend whose subtle threatening suggestions served to rub Hank just the wrong way. The music playing while the two had their conversation really added to an already impressive scene which served to show Hank’s blood boiling as his livelihood and his relationship with his family was threatened. The final scene of the season was one of the most powerful I’ve seen recently, especially for a show that’s supposedly a comedy. Not letting us hear the words Hank used to admit his deed and instead watching the horror and disgust appear on Karen’s face was immensely effective, and their blowout, coupled with Becca running to her father’s defense, was a particularly tragic and stunning way to close out the season. It has been a great and usually entertaining year of this show, probably just as good as the first, filled with so many excellent guest stars, like Embeth Davidtz, Peter Gallagher, Eva Amurri, Diane Farr, and Kathleen Turner that it’s difficult to highlight just one. I’m eagerly awaiting the fourth season, though my excitement has been turned a bit more serious with the considerably devastating but still extraordinary finale.

Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Diane Farr

What I’m Watching: Dexter (Season Finale)

Dexter: Season 4, Episode 12 “The Getaway” (B+)

There’s been something about the last two season finales of this show that has seemed to wrap everything up a bit too neatly and quickly, making Dexter’s season-long pursuit of his nemesis end much too easily. For a moment, this seemed like it might follow suit, but it diverged in a fascinating way. We’ve never actually seen Dexter lose his temper with those he’s not about to kill before, and his two aggressive acts of assault was particularly surprising (I’m not counting his hilarious head-butting of Doakes since that’s a different story). This was a good episode for Harry lectures, and the season-long parallel of Dexter and Arthur as family men was played out in this episode to fascinating and devastating effect. Deb’s discovery of the identity of Dexter’s mother had me worried that she was going to put the pieces together and catch Dexter, but then I remembered that she’s really not that bright and that her recent realizations were exceptions to the rule. Dexter’s capture of Trinity was a particularly strong and haunting way to send the character to his death, but the horrific consequences of Arthur escaping while Dexter was arrested weren’t realized until the very last moments of the episode. It almost didn’t, and still doesn’t seem real, since Dexter didn’t even think to check to see if Rita was in the house when he first walked in because he didn’t expect her to be there, and his gruesome discovery of his son sitting in a pool of blood just like him looked a lot like the humorous posters made for this season of the show. Dexter hardly even said anything, and it’s hard to imagine what he’ll do now. I’m wary of theories speculating that Arthur wasn’t the murderer, and that it might have been either Dexter’s neighbor or Quinn. This is Arthur’s last murder and act of revenge for Dexter ruining his tranquil family life. It’s just like another famous season finale where the villain was apprehended, and only after that did the main character realize that the traitor had done some devastating last-minute destruction (I won’t mention what it is for fear of spoiling it, but if you’ve seen it, you know what I’m referring to). In summation, this has been easily the best season of this show since the first, and John Lithgow has been an extraordinary guest star, in addition to the always spectacular Michael C. Hall. They both deserve the Golden Globe nominations they earned yesterday. I can’t wait for season five, premiering sometime in 2010, but I’m still reeling from the end of this episode.

Season grade: A-
Season MVP: John Lithgow

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Television Series – Comedy/Musical

My predictions: 4/5, missing “Entourage”
Who’s missing: “Californication,” “Weeds”

I’ve always stuck by Entourage when no one else did with my predictions, and I’m not sure why I gave up now. It’s peculiar that it’s still being nominated, especially since most fans have turned against it. Its six-year streak now matches the recent runs of “Frasier” and “Sex in the City” in this category, and I don’t think most would equate the entertaining buddy series with those two shows. “Californication” didn’t deserve to be so casually tossed aside, especially for a spectacularly awesome season. The Office and 30 Rock are back again, while the remaining two slots are saved for new shows, both doing extraordinarily well right now: Glee and Modern Family. It’s a fun list, and nice to see new shows being embraced.

Who could win? You can’t stop the beat of Glee.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Television Series – Drama

My predictions: 3/5, missing “Big Love” and “House”
Who’s missing: “Breaking Bad,” “In Treatment”

The Golden Globes, traditional lovers of new and unusual fare, have decided this year to embrace only returning shows. For the second year in a row, “Breaking Bad” is completely shutout, and after leading the nominees last year, “In Treatment” is nowhere to be found. Dexter, Mad Men, and True Blood are all hot (and terrific) right now, so that makes sense. Big Love is the one instance of the Globes being ahead of the Emmys, giving the show its third nomination after a year off the air. Rounding out the list is House, also on its third nomination. Not much originality, but I guess fans just love their shows.

Who could win? There really isn’t anything on right now quite as strong as Mad Men.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actress in a Supporting Role in a Television Series

My predictions: 1/5, predicting only Byrne
Who’s missing: “In Treatment” actresses, Marcia Gay Harden (The Courageous Heart of Irena Sandler and Damages), Jeanne Tripplehorn (Grey Gardens)

This was my worst category (along with Best Screenplay – Motion Picture), but some of the unexpected nominees are great surprises. Jane Lynch (Glee) is very fun, and that show really did well, earning five nominations. I’m also elated to see Jane Adams (Hung), and I’m so glad she got recognized. I can’t understand why Rose Byrne (Damages) is here again, especially over her far superior costar Marcia Gay Harden. I don’t watch “Big Love,” but Chloe Sevigny becomes the first of the wives to break through with a nomination. Rounding out the category is Janet McTeer (Into the Storm), whose performance I haven’t seen but would very much like to if I get the chance.

Who could win? I think this will be either serious – McTeer – or funny – Lynch. I’d hedge my bets on Lynch.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Television Series

My predictions: 3/5, missing Emerson and Hurt
Who’s missing: John Mahoney (In Treatment), Tom Courtenay (Little Dorrit), Len Cariou (Into the Storm)

This year, it turns out that the five nominees all come from series ,and the Globes’ complete shutout of “In Treatment” means that John Mahoney isn’t going to be here. The notion that William Hurt (Damages) was better than him is inane to me, though I’m very excited to see Michael Emerson (Lost), despite the fact that he should have been here years ago and the show hasn’t been nominated for any Globes since 2006, and his inclusion now feels like a blatant attempt to copy the Emmys. Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and Jeremy Piven (Entourage) return as nominees from last year, and are welcomed by an old nominee for a new show, and that’s John Lithgow (Dexter), who becomes the first actor to earn a nomination in this category for a recurring role in eight years. Besides Hurt, this is actually quite a good list.

Who could win? Heavy competition, but I think that Lithgow will slay them all.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actress in a TV Series – Comedy/Musical

My predictions: 3/5, missing Cox and Michele
Who’s missing: Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds), America Ferrera (Ugly Betty) Christina Applegate (Samantha Who?), Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation)

Out with the old, and in with the new. With the exception of reigning champ Tina Fey (30 Rock), the other four nominees are all newbies. Gone are former winners like three-time nominee America Ferrera and four-time nominee Mary-Louiser Parker for the first time in their series’ runs, which is especially surprising for the latter actress given the fact that “Weeds” was welcomed back into the Best Comedy Series category last year. No matter, because the Globes are on to newer things. They haven’t yet jumped aboard the “Parks and Recreation” bandwagon, but hopefully they’ll get there eventually. Showtime actresses Toni Collette (The United States of Tara) and Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie) are here, joined by network stars Courteney Cox (Cougar Town) and Lea Michele (Glee). Though her show doesn’t exactly justify it, this must be a nice day for Cox, who has now earned her first-ever major awards nomination for any show. And I’m certain that Michele is absolutely ecstatic, as are musical-loving fans of her show everywhere.

Who could win? Tough call with so much talent in one place, but I think that singer Michele will triumph here based primarily on the fact that her show has more buzz than the other four of these other series.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actor in a TV Series – Comedy/Musical

My predictions: 3/5, missing Jane and Morrison
Who’s missing: Tony Shalhoub (Monk), Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory)

I guess people really are tired of Tony Shalhoub, but I couldn’t be more thrilled about one of the people who took his spot. The terrific Thomas Jane (Hung) is currently my choice for the Best Comedy Actor on TV for this season, and I think it’s absolutely fantastic that he got nominated. If you haven’t seen the full list of nominees and you’re a fan of the show, you’ll find a delightful surprise in the Best Supporting Actress category, though sadly no Best Comedy Series nomination. I’ll take what I can get though, which includes the repeat nomination for the continually fantastic David Duchovny (Californication), despite the dismissal of his series in the Best Comedy Series category. Returning nominees for the millionth time are Alec Baldwin (30 Rock) and Steve Carrell (The Office), both still doing great work on their respective shows. And the fifth nominee is a newbie who doesn’t exactly deserve this, but it’s all part of the appeal of his show, and that’s Matthew Morrison (Glee).

Who could win? I’ll be optimistic and choose Jane.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actress in a TV Series – Drama

My predictions: 5/5
Who’s missing: Sally Field (Brothers & Sisters), Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order: SVU), Holly Hunter (Saving Grace), Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men)

This was the first category announced, and so I was especially thrilled to get a perfect score (I also got all five nominees in the Best Animated Feature race!). This category makes me especially happy because it dismisses past nominee Sally Field and recognizes once again the lovely January Jones (Mad Men) and Anna Paquin (True Blood). It’s clear that the Globes like Jones, and everyone else like costar Elisabeth Moss. While I don’t love Julianna Marguiles (The Good Wife) on her show, I’ll admit that Glenn Close (Damages) did win me over a bit more this year on her series than for the first season when she was lavished with awards. And, of course, I’m delighted to see that Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer) continues to be recognized, since I’m still watching and greatly enjoying her performance and the show. One important note: “Damages,” despite earning three acting nominations, was not welcomed back into the Best Drama Series category this year.

Who could win? I’ll go with Marguiles, though Close could easily repeat.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actor in a TV Series – Drama

My predictions: 3/5, missing Baker and Paxton
Who’s missing: Gabriel Byrne (In Treatment), Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad)

So the Globes are never going to be interested in “Breaking Bad,” despite having a full thirteen episodes to consider this year. And it’s a real pity, especially after Gabriel Byrne’s win in this category last year and the strong showing for the series, that they’ve already forgotten about “In Treatment.” Clearly “Big Love” will never escape their attention, as Bill Paxton earns a nomination after his show took a year off the air. Newcomer Simon Baker (The Mentalist) is also here in traditional Emmy copycat fashion, joined by expected and deserving nominees Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Jon Hamm (Mad Men), and Hugh Laurie (House).

Who could win? I think this is Hall’s year.

Final Golden Globe Predictions

These are my final predictions for the TV categories that will be announced at 8:30am Eastern Time tomorrow morning. I only have one update to make from my musings posted during Thanksgiving week, and that’s the addition of John Lithgow as a likely supporting actor nominee for his recurring role on “Dexter” this season. Jimmy Smits didn’t manage the feat last year even though he ultimately ended up with an Emmy nod, but I think Lithgow should be able to pull it off. I’m basically banking on old favorites to repeat, and only a few new shows to break through – like “Glee” and “Modern Family” and the female leads from “The Good Wife,” “Nurse Jackie,” “The United States of Tara,” and “Parks and Recreation.” I’m also one of the few who believe that “In Treatment” will fare well and be remembered this year, mostly because the second season was even stronger than the first. The mini-series and TV movie categories are pretty much educated guesses and nothing more since I really haven’t seen any of them. Let’s hope for some good surprises tomorrow! Check back all day after the announcement for analysis of each category.

Best Television Series - Drama
Breaking Bad
Dexter
In Treatment
Mad Men
True Blood

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Drama
Gabriel Byrne, In Treatment
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Hugh Laurie, House

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Drama
Glenn Close, Damages
January Jones, Mad Men
Julianna Marguiles, The Good Wife
Anna Paquin, True Blood
Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer

Best Television Series - Musical or Comedy
Californication
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
30 Rock

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Steve Carrell, The Office
David Duchovny, Californication
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory
Tony Shalhoub, Monk

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Musical or Comedy
Toni Collette, The United States of Tara
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

Best Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Grey Gardens
Into the Storm
Little Dorrit
Prayers for Bobby
Taking Chance

Best Performance by an Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Kevin Bacon, Taking Chance
Kenneth Branagh, Wallander
Brendan Gleeson, Into the Storm
Jeremy Irons, Georgia O’Keefe
Ian McKellen, The Prisoner

Best Performance by an Actress in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Joan Allen, Georgia O’Keefe
Drew Barrymore, Grey Gardens
Jessica Lange, Grey Gardens
Anna Paquin, The Courageous Heart of Irena Sandler
Sigourney Weaver, Prayers for Bobby

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Tom Courtenay, Little Dorrit
Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother
John Lithgow, Dexter
John Mahoney, In Treatment
Jeremy Piven, Entourage

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television
Rose Byrne, Damages
Hope Davis, In Treatment
Marcia Gay Harden, The Courageous Heart of Irena Sandler
Jeanne Tripplehorn, Grey Gardens
Dianne Wiest, In Treatment

What I’m Watching: Ugly Betty

Ugly Betty: Season 4, Episode 9 “Be-Shure” (B+)

I love the world of coincidence this show lives in, where Betty, Hilda, and Ignacio all go to the same pharmacy at the same time and then it turns out that the woman who discreetly sold both Suarez daughters pregnancy tests is Ignacio’s new Jewish girlfriend. It’s marvelous entertainment, and this show has always been great at playing everything over the top. Betty and Hilda both thinking they were pregnant because of the dropped pregnancy test was fun, and Matt’s reaction was particularly great. It’s nice that he and Betty are no longer at odds and that they’ve come to reconcile, and even if both of them might take things say something that seems to take things too far occasionally, they still make a great couple, and the show could use one of those, especially with Hilda and Archie’s relationship no longer going along swimmingly. Marc’s inability to be critical of Daniel was pretty hilarious, though it seems that his joyful employment may be short-lived since the ever-duplicitous Wilhelmina has managed to become the lesser of two evils as Daniel’s solution to buying out the tyrannical and obnoxious Cal Hartley. I hope Cal’s departure won’t mean the firing of Matt, since his working role with Betty is just as good as his romantic one. Claire’s search for her son was a pleasant vacation, and it’s the kind of plotline that could easily be dropped after this one visit, or continued along further. I can’t imagine that he’s the type who would take advantage of her fortune since he seemed very down-to-earth, so I’d predict that he’ll be a sort of saving grace for the Meade family, a potential new Mode employee, perhaps?

What I’m Watching: Dollhouse

Dollhouse: Season 2, Episodes 7 & 8 “Meet Jane Doe” & “A Love Supreme” (B)

These double episodes are a lot of fun, and it certainly progresses the story quite a bit. I didn’t love this batch as much as last week’s, but they’re nothing if not exciting. Seeing Echo manage all of her many personalities and just call up imprints every moment is pretty impressive, though I have trouble with the fact that there always has to be some sort of malfunction that makes her missions go awry. This newfound relationship between Echo and Paul is really intriguing, and I love that they’re secretly working with Boyd. The first episode seemed to indicate that Adele might also be someone they could trust, but her presentation of Topher’s device to Harding and her brutal, unforgiving treatment of Echo shows that she’s really one of the bad guys. We do know, of course, that they’ll Adele and Topher will end up being quite close and even romantically involved, and seeing Topher reveal that he constructed the device he thought Harding was trying to build was haunting. I’m becoming much more impressed with Topher as this show goes on, after everything with Bennett and Victor imprinted as him, and “Meet Jane Doe” is especially poignant because of what we know will come to be by the time of “Epitaph One,” though the premature cancellation of this show may prevent us from ever reaching that narrative point. Alpha’s return in “A Love Supreme” was cool because Alan Tudyk really does a terrific job of playing this wicked villain, and Echo allowing him to escape means he should be back soon for revenge again. I can’t imagine that Paul is really dead, but at least Boyd knows what’s actually going on with Echo and can be there as her ally. These two episodes were mostly jarring to me due to the use of actives as technicians and doctors in the imprinting process, which seems like it’s putting them at great risk of realizing that they’re not themselves.

SAG Predictions: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees:
DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES
ENTOURAGE
THE OFFICE
30 ROCK
WEEDS

This is another category that could easily find itself with the same five nominees as last year. The Office and 30 Rock will be back for sure, while Weeds is a roll of the dice. Waning support for both Desperate Housewives and Entourage may lead them to be snubbed, but they’ve held on this long, so why not keep going? The strongest new contenders begin with Parks and Recreation, provided voters do actually like it. A more serious choice would be The United States of Tara, whereas the more fun selections would be fall freshmen Glee and Modern Family. Californication wasn’t nominated last year, but enough celebrity guest stars this year might help it make it there. I’d love to throw the twice-nominated Ugly Betty back into the mix and nominate the fantastic people on Chuck, but I don’t see either of those realistically happening. Never-nominated How I Met Your Mother and The Big Bang Theory could earn their first nominations given the fact that the Emmys just gave them both a vote of confidence. But don’t forget about Curb Your Enthusiasm, which was nominated for this award once (in 2006) and could benefit from the addition of four cast members this season who took home this very award three times back in the 1990s for “Seinfeld.”

Predicted nominees:
CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM
GLEE
MODERN FAMILY
THE OFFICE
30 ROCK

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

SAG Predictions: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees:
BOSTON LEGAL
THE CLOSER
DEXTER
HOUSE
MAD MEN

Cross off “Boston Legal” – it isn’t on the air anymore. Mad Men is the strongest it’s ever been and Dexter is probably helped by the addition of John Lithgow to its ensemble. The Closer and House will likely return, so the question is, what will fill that fifth slot? Lost was only ever nominated once, when it won back in 2005. Following the pattern it’s established of being nominated every two seasons, 24 is due for a nod this year, but I don’t see it happening. Grey’s Anatomy was nominated in the past, but that doesn’t seem likely either. The ensemble of Damages didn’t merit a nod last time it was eligible, and In Treatment, Breaking Bad, and True Blood all weren’t nominated last year for any SAG awards. There’s always a chance that the excellent cast of Sons of Anarchy could break through here, but I think that’s taking too big of a leap and one of last year’s snubbed contenders is probably a safer bet.

Predicted nominees:
BREAKING BAD
THE CLOSER
DEXTER
HOUSE
MAD MEN

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

SAG Predictions: Best Female Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees:
CHRISTINA APPLEGATE, SAMANTHA WHO?
AMERICA FERRERA, UGLY BETTY
TINA FEY, 30 ROCK
MARY-LOUISE PARKER, WEEDS
TRACEY ULLMAN, STATE OF THE UNION

This list could look very different this year. Tina Fey (30 Rock) isn’t going anywhere, and Mary-Louise Parker is probably safe too. Beyond that, Tracey Ullman (State of the Union) was a pretty random nominee last year and may not repeat. She’s still eligible, but Christina Applegate (Samantha Who?) saw her show get cancelled, while America Ferrera (Ugly Betty) was unceremoniously dumped from the Emmy lineup. More crucially, there are new contenders just waiting to burst in, like Toni Collette (The United States of Tara), Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation), and seven-time SAG nominee Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie). Additionally, keep an eye out for Courteney Cox (Cougar Town), Lea Michele (Glee), Jane Lynch (Glee), and departing star Kristin Chenoweth (Pushing Daisies).

Predicted nominees:
TONI COLLETTE, THE UNITED STATES OF TARA
EDIE FALCO, NURSE JACKIE
TINA FEY, 30 ROCK
MARY-LOUISE PARKER, WEEDS
AMY POEHLER, PARKS AND RECREATION

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

SAG Predictions: Best Male Actor in a Comedy Series

Last year’s nominees:
ALEC BALDWIN, 30 ROCK
STEVE CARRELL, THE OFFICE
DAVID DUCHOVNY, CALIFORNICATION
JEREMY PIVEN, ENTOURAGE
TONY SHALHOUB, MONK

There’s no reason this list couldn’t repeat. Alec Baldwin (30 Rock) and Steve Carrell (The Office) are locked, while two-time winner and six-time nominee Tony Shalhoub (Monk) really wouldn’t be snubbed for the final year of his show. David Duchovny (Californication) has had a great year on his series and should be back, though Jeremy Piven (Entourage) may find himself out on the street due to his food poisoning controversy. The two contenders nipping at their heels are Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother) and Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory). I think Parsons probably has a better shot, though Harris really is becoming very popular these days.

Predicted nominees:
ALEC BALDWIN, 30 ROCK
STEVE CARRELL, THE OFFICE
DAVID DUCHOVNY, CALIFORNICATION
JIM PARSONS, THE BIG BANG THEORY
TONY SHALHOUB, MONK

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

SAG Predictions: Best Female Actor in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees:
SALLY FIELD, BROTHERS & SISTERS
MARISKA HARGITAY, LAW & ORDER: SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT
HOLLY HUNTER, SAVING GRACE
ELISABETH MOSS, MAD MEN
KYRA SEDGWICK, THE CLOSER

All five nominees from last year are eligible again, but a juggernaut whose show didn’t air last year is back: Glenn Close (Damages), and she has yet to win since she lost to outgoing “The Sopranos” star Edie Falco back in 2007. Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer) and Sally Field (Brothers & Sisters) should both be safe, while Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order: SVU) has been left off in years past in favor of other entrants. Holly Hunter (Saving Grace) may be the first to go, while newly minted Emmy nominee Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men) should be back, though her costar January Jones (Mad Men) may finally get the recognition she deserves as well. New competition from Julianne Marguiles (The Good Wife) might displace one of these nominees, while, however unlikely it is, any one of the “In Treatment” actresses – Dianne Wiest, Hope Davis, or Allison Pill could make a splash.

Predicted nominees:
GLENN CLOSE, DAMAGES
SALLY FIELD, BROTHERS & SISTERS
MARISKA HARGITAY, LAW & ORDER: SVU
ELISABETH MOSS, MAD MEN
KYRA SEDGWICK, THE CLOSER

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

SAG Predictions: Best Male Actor in a Drama Series

Last year’s nominees:
MICHAEL C. HALL, DEXTER
JON HAMM, MAD MEN
HUGH LAURIE, HOUSE
WILLIAM SHATNER, BOSTON LEGAL
JAMES SPADER, BOSTON LEGAL

For starters, toss out Shatner and Spader since “Boston Legal” is finally over and didn’t air this past year. Hold on to the other three – Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Jon Hamm (Mad Men), and Hugh Laurie (House), since their shows haven’t gotten any less popular. Last year, Gabriel Byrne (In Treatment) was left out, and he might sneak in for season two of the acclaimed HBO drama. Similarly snubbed Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) should definitely pop up here as his show has only become more well-known and praised. Returning TV star and two-time nominee Kiefer Sutherland (24) might get nominated again, while this year’s new Emmy winners, Michael Emerson (Lost), and nominees, Simon Baker (The Mentalist), could get in as well. There aren’t really any new shows to worry about here, though season-long guest star and two-time SAG winner John Lithgow (Dexter) could pose a serious threat to his competition.

Predicted nominees:
BRYAN CRANSTON, BREAKING BAD
MICHAEL C. HALL, DEXTER
JON HAMM, MAD MEN
HUGH LAURIE, HOUSE
JOHN LITHGOW, DEXTER

Final predictions will be offered on Wednesday, December 16th, after Golden Globe nominees are revealed, though that shouldn’t impact the race too significantly. SAG nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 17th, and come back to TV with Abe for a detailed look at each race.

What I’m Watching: 30 Rock

30 Rock: Season 4, Episode 8 “Secret Santa” (B)

There was a lot going on in this episode that was a bit too over-the-top, but there were enough laughs that it made it pretty decent overall. It’s good that Liz’s haircut is being phased out without much emphasis, since that was just a plotline gone awry. Liz’s attempt to bond with Jack and get him the perfect gift was fun, and the best part of the whole episode was the gift that Liz was able to surprise Jack with – calling in a bomb threat to Penn Station to keep Jack’s married crush in town. It’s the ultimate gift that costs zero dollars, and Liz did a great job on that. Plus, it’s much better than Jack’s wooden framing of Liz’s high school play program. The ability of the writers to so easily make up a religion to avoid Kenneth’s over-enthusiasm about holiday cheer was impressive, and it’s nice to see Twofer in particular spotlighted and given the chance to spout complete crap in order to dispel Kenneth and his game. Tracy’s warning about getting into intellectual territory was great, and it’s good that he had something to do that wasn’t quite as ridiculous as usual. The new cast member is turning out to be terrific, and his quip about sarcasm and Jews in Canada was brilliant. His interactions with Pete and Jenna are priceless. Who ever thought that the robot would be such a worthwhile addition to the cast?

What I’m Watching: The Office

The Office: Season 6, Episode 13 “Secret Santa” (B)

Michael’s petty jealousy often becomes tiresome, especially when it dominates too much of the episode. Seeing Phyllis get excited about playing Santa was fun, and her subtle threat about getting Bob involved was pretty amusing. The notion of having Secret Santa as a backdrop to the episode worked very well because it provided a smattering of entertaining moments in addition to featuring two of the cast members very prominently. Andy’s attempt to show his devotion for Erin was great in the way that he came on way too strong, and it’s nice that he came through in the end for her. Their flirtation was fun, and it’s enjoyable that they’re unable to actually say what they want to when they’re talking but still exhibit sexual tension like crazy. Dwight trying to assemble his gift was hilarious, and the revelation that Michael got him an all-purpose nutcracker was really terrific, and a sign that they are true friends. After all, Dwight the elf was the only one who voted that Michael should be Santa. Michael’s direct pipeline to David Wallace is a bit outrageous, but the way he explained calling his kid’s school made it all worthwhile. It’s good that the office got some good news, and the obnoxious David Wallace will be out of the picture while these guys will keep their jobs and hopefully get some better management.

What I’m Watching: Parks and Recreation

Parks and Recreation: Season 2, Episode 12 “Christmas Scandal” (B+)

The fact that everything is extremely outrageous in this episode isn’t a problem, and it only gets funnier as the camera continues to zero in directly on Leslie’s appalled face. Her delight with putting on a proper parody at the start of the episode shows that she really can be funny in the right circumstances, and Pawnee is the one thing that she really knows well. Seeing her get called in prepared to defend her performance and then watching her face transformed to display disgust was pretty hilarious. The politician’s story was far-fetched, sure, but the casual way he rattled off his increasingly ridiculous actions was even more preposterous. The Pawnee Sun’s coverage of the scandal and then the TV show’s highlighting of it was great, and it was too funny to see Ann get wrapped up in everything and just look plain dumbfounded about how this whole situation morphed and evolved into her suddenly being accused of having a threesome with Leslie and the politician. Ron’s unenthusiasm about giving the presentation was great, and it’s really nice to see that, at the end of the day, Leslie is the one who actually gets everything done, and she loves doing it. Not only that, but everyone around her understands that and appreciates it, even if Ron is the only one who even somewhat acknowledges it. Looking at the less productive people in the department, it’s fun to see the friendship continuing to flourish between April and Andy, and I especially enjoyed Andy’s gift suggestion about getting her gay boyfriend a copy of “Brokeback Mountain.”

What I’m Watching: Modern Family

Modern Family: Season 1, Episode 10 “Undeck the Halls” (B+)

This show is really capitalizing on generally the same kind of setup each episode, and it’s working magnificently. Focusing on Phil’s questionable parenting techniques, Jay’s desire not to change, and Cameron’s longing for the spotlight seems to be the loose outline for each episode, and in this one, it all turns out to be very funny. Alex’s brilliant plan to have each of them take the fall for something none of them did didn’t exactly plan out as panned, and seeing Phil struggle to drag the tree out of back and into the house was great. The divide in parenting points of view between Phil and Claire was also funny, best evidenced by Phil not putting too much of an emphasis on the lying and not enough on the smoking, much to Claire’s chagrin. Watching the usually hapless Manny pull one over on Jay was hilarious, mostly due to how impressed he was with himself and how put off Jay was by the prank. The skinny Santa wasn’t as funny as everything else, but his need to utilize violence at the end of the episode because the guy was naughty instead of nice was pretty great. I really enjoy the interview sequences with Cameron and Mitchhell, especially when Cameron tries to be subtle in describing one of the things that make him truly joyful in life, like caroling. Running into them at the mall and then getting insulted by the head mutineer were definitely high points of the episode.

What I’m Watching: Glee (Winter Finale)

Glee: Season 1, Episode 13 “Sectionals” (B-)

The fact that Will got disqualified from accompanying the kids to sectionals still reeks of randomness to me, and that’s the basis for this episode, which makes it somewhat problematic. It’s a satisfying parting installment because the glee club overcomes obstacles and ultimately works together wonderfully to win the competition, but we already knew about all of the roadblocks in their way, which makes it all a little less exciting. It is marvelous, I’ll concede, that Emma was the one who volunteered to accompany the kids to sectionals, and it’s great to see her actually at work trying to mediate, even if she needs to grab Will for some support when things get physically violent. Her telling off the two rival glee club coaches was probably the best moment of whole episode, save for that long-in-the-works kiss planted on her by Will at the end. She’s a fantastic character, and her neuroses are actually the least interesting things about her. It’s so great to get to see so much of her, and probably best that we don’t really see Ken as their relationship hits the bricks. The absolution of Will’s marriage is also a welcome release, and all those Terri haters out there should be really glad that she’s out of his life. Quinn’s secret being out of the bag actually isn’t as big a deal as perhaps it might have seemed, though it’s good because it gives Quinn a moment to Dianna Agron to display her dramatic talents again, and allows Finn to actually do something smart and angrily tell Puck that they’re not cool. This show is taking a break until April (at least that’s the plan at this point), and hopefully its return will take things in new directions (pun intended). I’ve enjoyed this first half of the season, despite the fact that my reviews weren’t always entirely positive, and I’m looking to forward to seeing where they’ll go next.

What I’m Watching: Better Off Ted (Season Premiere)

Better Off Ted: Season 2, Episode 1 “Love Blurts” (B+)

It’s only been a few months that his show has been off the air since the back half of its first season aired this summer, and it’s a welcome return for the show. The series started off decently and eventually managed to find its footing by capitalizing on its stellar ensemble. The cast works marvelously together, and amid the often absurd and somewhat questionable plotlines, they’re always great. The second season begins with perhaps the most ridiculous idea that Veridian Dynamics has come up with yet – pairing up its employees based on calculated sexual compatibility. Everyone’s reaction to the situation was equally amusing, and I like how they were all so different yet just as entertaining. Veronica’s business-only approach to having the surprisingly capable Lem as her sperm donor just so that she can think about having a baby was typically over-the-top in a good way, and her reasoning for wanting to have a baby as explained to Ted was pretty funny. Phil’s researching of his ancestry was fun, but it’s the sexual tension and weird rivalry between Ted and Andrea that really makes the show work. The fact that both of their potential partners had just something a little off about them was great so that it wasn’t at first so obvious. Seeing Taye Diggs in this role was fun, and the highlight of his performance was his excitement at detailing his desire to dress up as a bear. Ted’s rambling about Utah was just bizarre, but then again, this show has never really been about Ted, and more about the hilarity of Veridian Dynamics.

What I’m Watching: Scrubs

Scrubs: Season 9, Episode 3 “Our Role Models” (C+)

This episode suffers from the same exact problems as last week’s double-hitter premiere, defined mostly by an ability to move on and try and start a new show. J.D.’s obsession with Dr. Cox as his mentor and trying to make his nemeses look bad has been played out over and over and over again. Turk bonding with Dr. Cox isn’t an event that belongs in this incarnation of the show, and J.D.’s jealousy should have been out the door the moment the show was renewed for a ninth season without him officially on board. Denise’s decision to act as a temporary mentor for Lucy was fine, and it’s nice to see them interact, but the other characters aren’t developing nearly as well. It really seems like all of the dialogue that comes out of Cole’s mouth, like his paranoid notion that he and Drew are involved in some sort of recognition, was written for Aziz Ansari, and he just doesn’t do it as well. The writers couldn’t have possibly though that Ansari would have been available for this show since he was already cast on “Parks and Recreation” long before this show ever got renewed again. The jokes aren’t necessarily terribly funny, but at least having new cast members around means that they don’t all feel completely recycled like they did over the past few seasons. Despite what I said last week, Lucy is reminding me more and more of Elliot, though her ability to keep her voice at the same pitch all the time is much appreciated.

Pilot Review: Men of a Certain Age

Men of a Certain Age (TNT)
Premiered December 7 at 10pm

This show is a first for TNT. It doesn’t fit in with any of the other programs the network airs. It’s not a medical show, cop series, or legal drama. That said, it doesn’t seem quite sure exactly what it is. These men of a certain age are three actors who haven’t really been seen in a while since each starring in a long-running 90s series. It’s certainly a bizarre trio culled from radically different backgrounds. Ray Romano was the loveable but dorky Raymond in CBS’ popular “Everybody Loves Raymond,” whose comic charm came mostly from his unenthusiastic mutterings and bird-like appearance. Scott Bakula is experienced in light-hearted sci-fi, headlining both NBC’s “Quantum Leap” and UPN’s latest “Star Trek” series, “Enterprise.” Andre Braugher starred in NBC’s “Homicide: Life on the Street” and briefly anchored FX’s short-lived but spectacular “Thief.” Romano and Bakula are decent actors for their respective parts, but this work is well below the capabilities of a skilled performer like Braugher. His role best echoes that, as a man who struggles to live up to his father and can’t seem to do it despite his best efforts. Braugher can do so much more, and seeing him stranded in this role is a shame. There’s some humor in this show, most of which comes from the bantering between the three leads. The more awkward moments come from Romano, and there’s a lot that still needs to be worked out. These men are stuck in the middle of their lives, and there’s not necessarily anything too interesting going on. I’m willing to give it another go, but I’m not sure this one can live long.

How will it work as a series? Having three leads means that the show can devote energy to three different threads, some of which may be better than others. This was only the pilot, and presumably coming episodes will have a clearer focus on where the show is ultimately heading. If supporting characters like wives, children, and ex-girlfriends become more prominent than co-workers, the show might do well. It’s still too early to tell, and this pilot hardly seems indicative of what the show will actually be like, and if it is, I think it won’t be terribly exciting but overall relatively harmless.
How long will it last? TNT has been fairly kind to its series recently, and even the axed “Raising the Bar” got two seasons before it got cancelled. Launching the show behind “The Closer” is a smart idea, though in three weeks it will be all by itself, airing during the holidays when most other shows aren’t airing. The pedigree of the three stars combined together should help it do well, and I imagine that, in cable tradition, it will be swiftly renewed for a second season. We’ll have to see how the show does creatively in the next couple of weeks, though.

Pilot grade: B-