Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #1

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#1: Justified
FX has done it again, thinking outside the box with another edgy drama. The first and last episodes of the first season were the strongest, bookending a terrific debut for old-fashioned modern-day lawman Raylan Givens, who treats Kentucky like the Old West. Timothy Olyphant is a fantastic lead, and having players like Walton Goggins, Joelle Carter, Natalie Zea, M.C. Gainey, and Raymond J. Barry help to make this the #1 new show of 2010.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #2

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#2: Boardwalk Empire
Here we have a show worthy of comparison to the HBO greats like “The Sopranos” and “Six Feet Under.” This Prohibition-era epic boasts a stellar, large ensemble, including standout players like Kelly Macdonald and Michael Shannon, and extraordinarily rich storytelling that covers a wide breadth of people, events and themes. Each episode feels like its own mini-movie, and there’s a reason why this series might finally dethrone “Mad Men” at the top awards this year.

Best Episode: “Anastasia” / “Nights in Babylon”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Catching Up: The Good Guys

As the calendar year comes to a close and new television episodes get sparser and sparser, I feel it’s fitting to offer a short write-up on those shows that I abandoned in terms of weekly reviews for the site but kept up with throughout the season, at whatever pace.

I stopped covering this show after episode three and only stayed on to recap it every week for TV Tango’s Rapid Recaps & TV Web-bits From Last Week through the end of the summer. When it returned this fall, I didn’t expect to stick with it. What had happened, however, over the course of the show’s first nine episodes, is that it became surprisingly endearing and there was something about it that just seemed appealing. This isn’t to be confused with an actual increase in quality or a show that just needs some time to develop and grow into itself (see “The Big C” and “The Good Wife” for recent examples of the latter). This show isn’t good by any measure, but it is a great guilty pleasure. Bradley Whitford truly seems like he’s having a blast, whether he’s decrying the demerits of doing paperwork or interfacing with computers or just sporting that crazy mustache. Colin Hanks, as his token young, by-the-book partner, wasn’t quite as irritating as it might have originally seemed, and he too seemed to grow up into a sort of funk and learn how to deal with and manage the unruly and unpredictable Dan. The sudden addition of Samantha in episode fourteen enabled the guys to have someone who actually respected them and was perfectly happy to help them out without adding any caveat, like Lieutenant Ruiz and Liz did. Samantha sort of leapt from being a casual guest star to essentially a regular player (though not credited as such, I believe), as did Julius, whose role got increasingly ridiculous as the show went on and he ended up in protective custody into Jack’s home. I’m glad Jack and Liz got back together, though how (and that) the relationship was sustained was pretty preposterous. Casting Gary Cole as Frank was an inspired choice, and I’m also somewhat baffled by the talent enlisted as guest stars – from Nia Vardalos in the pilot to Frances Fisher as Liz’s mom to Ray Wise, Danny Trejo, Ed Begley Jr., and finally Joshua Malina in the penultimate episode. I’m just surprised that all of those names were interested in (less so about them being available for) guest-starring on this show. The news came in last week that the show will not be renewed for a second season, which makes me somewhat sad because this was a relatively harmless series that was good for filling in a boring forty-five minutes, especially on the weekends.

What I’m Watching: Undercovers (Last Episode)

Undercovers: Season 1, Episode 11 “The Key to It All” (C+)

As a final installment, this really isn’t going to cut it. To be fair, there are technically two episodes left in the show’s thirteen-episode run, but it seems less and less likely that NBC is ever going to air them considering the onslaught of new programming beginning almost as soon as the new year starts. I’ve been a staunch defender of this show while nearly everyone else was trashing it, but it hasn’t been perfect, and perhaps my expectation that it would deliver as it hurtled towards cancellation (as “Dollhouse” did last year) wasn’t reasonable. Still, this episode does ring somewhat disappointing as compared with the ones that preceded it. A hostage situation in Israel revolving around only a key piece of information seems highly unlikely and entirely sensational, and the fact that Samantha is connected to it makes it even less credible. I was excited when Steven pressed Shaw and seemed like he was going to push him further and demand answers, but then he just backed off and went to go talk to Samantha. The supposedly shocking ending with their conversation being recorded, overheard, and reported isn’t surprising at all since we knew the place was bugged, and we don’t have any more information at all about what’s going on. All we know is that Alan Dale is in charge, as always, and that Shaw devotes way too much time to cooking and investing his time and energy into the Blooms’ restaurant, even though you’d expect he’d have other agents to handle or something like that.

I’m going to hold off on evaluating the show as a whole until those two last episodes surface, either online or on DVD, in the hopes that the show undergoes a miraculous recovery and becomes instantly classic in its final moments. Unlikely, but I can hope.

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #3

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#3: Human Target
If I was to describe this show in one word it would be: awesome. This weekly action series is chock full of adrenaline and excitement, and what’s truly surprise is that it actually boasts good acting! Chi McBride’s part is a worthy follow-up to “Pushing Daisies,” Mark Valley is immensely charismatic, and Jackie Earle Haley is flat-out hilarious. Add two new female characters and a whole host of excellent guest stars and you have one great show.

Best Episode: “Rewind” (plane flipping)
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #4

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#4: The Big C
After an uncertain start, Showtime’s latest female-led dramedy got really, really good by episode four, delivering each week with humor and compelling dramatic plotlines. Laura Linney is great, yes, but credit is also due to a terrific ensemble, including John Benjamin Hickey, Phyllis Somerville, Oliver Platt, and Idris Elba. This show has an unmatchable energy and spark to it that was fine-tuned by the end of the season and should lead nicely into season two.

Best Episode: “Happy Birthday, Cancer”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

What I’m Watching: The Closer

The Closer: Season 6, Episode 14 “Living Proof: Part Two” (B+)

This two-part holiday episode really proved to be quite deadly, but there’s just something so wonderful and entertaining about the cast that makes it all work so well. While they’re always funny and never short on one-liners, what we don’t always get is the incredible teamwork that makes them such an effective bunch. In this case, we have the carefully-scheduled trickery on the part of Brenda and the rest of Major Crimes, determining that the killer isn’t covered by spousal privilege because he’s not actually married, and, as they have done before, clearing him of one charge so that he gets cocky and all but admits to another. Supplementing all of this deadly Albanian cleansing we have some great humor from the Johnson parents. Their cordoning off of the crime scene when their RV was burglarized was quite funny, and I enjoyed their very serious reactions to the whole affair. It’s absolutely brilliant and entirely hilarious that the burglary was actually Fritz’s Christmas present to Brenda, which of course served to convince the Johnsons that they should in fact stay in Atlanta rather than picking up and relocating full-time to the West Coast. Ending on the image of the entire Major Crimes group, plus Pope, Taylor, Raydor, and Dr. Morales eating together was a lot of fun. I especially enjoyed the fact that Dr. Morales was the one who volunteered to do the carving, and that he put his glove on before doing so. We still have one more episode to go this season, and I’m looking forward to it as always.

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #5

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#5: The Walking Dead
A truly awesome two-hour pilot started off a tragically short six-episode first season and demonstrated that it’s possible to create compelling, dramatic television about zombies and the survivors who have been left behind. The show is suspenseful, gripping, and decently acted. Its potential for the future is what’s most promising, and season two in 2011 is sure to be much (and rightly) anticipated.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #6

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#6: Treme
HBO continues to demonstrate its excellence in creating absorbing dramatic television with this multi-character series about New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. Like many of the now-classic shows that came before it, one episode of this series feels like an entire movie. Excellent writing and top-notch turns from John Goodman and Kim Dickens contribute to the overall quality of the show, which ended on a high note with a moving season one finale.

Best Episode: “I’ll Fly Away”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #7

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#7: Parenthood
Peter Krause has found himself a new family drama decently worthy as follow-up to “Six Feet Under,” and he’s surrounded by a fantastic cast, including Mae Whitman, Lauren Graham, Erika Christensen, and Dax Shepard. Complex, believable, relatable storylines and strong writing can be found on this funny, often very light dramedy, and such a large cast affords the story almost infinite directions to explore.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #8

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#8: Better With You
The newest entrant to ABC’s highly successful comedy block is a return to what the sitcom used to be, infused with a laugh track and situational problems that arise within one family unit. Exploring three different couples, all at a different stage in their relationship, works well, thanks in part to fun performances from Joanna Garcia, Josh Cooke, Debra Jo Rupp, and Kurt Fuller.

Best Episode: “Better with Firehouse”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#9: Gravity
This quirky Starz dramedy was fascinating from the start but not entirely even, and it could definitely have used a second season to develop. Unfortunately, ten precious episodes is all we’ll ever have of terrific performances from Robyn Cohen, Eric Schaeffer, and Krysten Ritter, some truly original storytelling, and a number of magnificently-created scenes exploring the lives and woes of these intoxicating characters.

Best Episode: “One Cold Swim Away”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#10: How to Make It in America
Like some of HBO’s other recently-launched comedies, this one took a bit of getting used to, but ultimately proved to be an inspiring, endearing story of two guys just trying to get their small clothing business going, constantly encountering obstacles but still determined to succeed. With only eight episodes aired so far, the second season should have a good chance at really establishing itself.

Best Episode: “Never Say Die”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #11

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#11: Undercovers
I’m still baffled that NBC has already cancelled this show, but perhaps expectations were too high for J.J. Abrams’ latest project. It was ambitious to cast two relative unknowns (in the U.S. at least), Boris Kodjoe and Gugu Mbatha-Raw, but the show pulled it off. The first batch of episodes was great, and I think the show could have overcome the hurdles it later encountered given more time to develop.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #12

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#12: Hawaii Five-0
This reboot of the classic cop show started off with a fun, fast-paced pilot and then got a little less impressive. It remains entertaining enough, and the cast of Alex McLoughlin, Daniel Dae Kim, Grace Park, and especially Scott Caan works together pretty well. For someone who prefers serialized television, it’s wholly unnecessary, but for a casual viewer, it’s certainly appealing.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #13

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#13: The Deep End
The quick demise of this show – after only six episodes – makes me sad that networks constantly launch shows at midseason only to see them die before ever really establishing themselves. This guilty pleasure utilized Matt Long, Tina Marjorino, and Billy Zane to craft a show true to its name, and I would have loved to see what kind of messes these people got themselves into in this surprisingly fun series.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #14

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#14: The Glades
I stopped watching this show for no other reason than that it’s a procedural and I had too many shows airing on Sunday nights at the time. Matt Passmore’s energetic performance, however, was a major reason to watch this show, and, in many ways, it’s the perfect summer show, as well as a huge success story for the A & E network.

Best Episode: “In the Light”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #15

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#15: Rubicon
Put this show on the list of series I desperately need to catch up with but haven’t had the chance to do yet. I remember being so intrigued by episode one and then rather confused by the next few, only to abandon the series altogether because Sunday nights were just too crowded. I wanted to stick with it but just couldn’t decipher all of the mystery, so for the moment this show gets ranked here until I get the chance to peruse the entire series.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #16

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#16: Covert Affairs
This forgotten summer show steadily improved after a shaky start, choosing to focus on great action and some of the supporting characters (namely Christopher Gorham’s Auggie) rather than the often out-of-place Piper Perabo, whose recent Golden Globe nomination has many people scratching their heads. The show wasn’t always on, and it was never quite as good as “Alias,” but it has potential, and could definitely get there.

Best Episode: “In the Light”
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

What I’m Watching: Psych (Season Finale)

Psych: Season 5, Episode 16 “Yang 3 in 2D” (B+)

It’s interesting to me that this show has chosen to come back to a particular plotline in the final episode of each of the last three seasons, never addressing it in any other installments. Perhaps it’s some sort of attempt to show people that this show is capable of actually being serious as it goes off the airwaves for a few months, but I suppose the pre-mortem bickering between Shawn and Gus sort of negates that theory. Even so, it works well enough, and it’s intriguing to see the characters try to get serious for the hour. I was surprised to see Mena Suvari as the kidnap victim slash serial killer apprentice, having last seen her in the heinous December 10 theatrical release “Hemingway’s Garden of Eden.” It’s good to see that Suvari is still capable of good acting, even in a small, somewhat thin part. I was thrilled and impressed (and unaware of prior to seeing the episode) with the casting of Peter Weller as Mr. Yin. Weller has played big bad guys on both “24” and “Dexter” recently, so why shouldn’t he be the mastermind here as well? I very much enjoyed Gus’ questions about what he was being injected with and how he was going to die, which led to both him and Shawn explaining their reasons for wanting to die first. Shawn’s desire to go play badminton with Yang after she went back to jail reminded me of how Monk wanted to go visit his friend Andy Richter after he got arrested for trying to kill him. Different motivations and levels of awareness, sure, but still entertaining. In July, I do hope to see much more of Juliet and Shawn’s relationship, but it’s been a good year just like always.

Season grade: B+
Season MVP: James Roday

What I’m Watching: Human Target

Human Target: Season 2, Episode 6 “The Other Side of the Mall” (B)

This was a peculiar episode, but due to the efforts of everyone involved, it actually worked. John Michael Higgins is not the first person I would think of to guest-star on this show, but his caffeinated, upbeat nature was fun for the role he played. This is the kind of show that doesn’t need to air a special Christmas installment, yet why not try? I enjoyed the various reactions of the team members to the upcoming holiday of Christmas, particularly Chance’s frequent comparisons of overabundant celebrations as “hell” and Winston’s complaining to the client’s wife about how Chance wouldn’t let him decorate the office. I’m tempted to excuse the soapy nature of the son’s romantic problems due to the fact that some level of corny young love and convenient mistletoe placement has to be acceptable during this holiday season. Setting the episode’s big physical confrontation in the mall was entertaining, and having the wife’s lawn play a part in the revelation of danger was fun too. I’m pleased about the way the relationship between Chance and Ilsa is developing, since they seem to have a special bond that, helpful as they are, the other members of the team don’t quite have. I’m saddened to think that this show’s season will be so short for a broadcast series (only thirteen episodes, I believe), but at least we’ll get a double-dose of the show for two weeks in a row when it takes over the 9pm slot as well on January 5th and 12th.

What I’m Watching: Undercovers

Undercovers: Season 1, Episode 10 “Funny Money” (B+)

It’s bittersweet to see solid installments like this when a show has already been cancelled. The problem is that the weaker episodes were the ones airing when this show officially got axed, so having good episodes now almost doesn’t count. But I’m still watching, and it would seem that NBC assumes someone else out there is too if they’re bothering to air these remaining installments. What’s most exciting about this episode is the strong set of guest stars. It must be something about this Wednesday at 8pm timeslot, because “Human Target” also has such terrific casting for its guest roles. What was really cool here was that we got a mini-“Dollhouse” reunion, albeit of two actors who never got much of a chance to interact on FOX’s departed show. Harry Lennix (a.k.a. Boyd) was a fun choice to play Steven’s brother, and Enver Gjokaj (a.k.a. Victor) as the other guy’s brother. I wouldn’t have necessarily pictured Gjokay and Henri Lubatti, of “Sleeper Cell” and “24” glory, as brothers, but it does make a lot of sense, and I loved the duality of Lennix’s character being the one to shoot Lubatti while both of their brothers were also present. Back home, it’s fun to see Leo and Lizzy bonding, though sending Lizzy off to go on tour with her boyfriend doesn’t track too well, although it’s somewhat more reassuring because there’s a ticking clock on the show, and there won’t be enough time to fully explore that character’s potential. Another new episode coming next week.

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #17

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#17: Rizzoli & Isles
This show might be ranked higher if it hadn’t officially switched over from a genuinely good show to a guilty pleasure, as I stated in my review of episode eight. Still, the chance to see Angie Harmon of “Women’s Murder Club” and Sasha Alexander of the first two seasons of “NCIS” team up was a whole lot of fun, as was Bruce McGill’s supporting partner. For a cop show set in Boston, it’s pretty decent entertainment.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #18

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#18: Haven
This is a show that I gave up on reviewing early on but continued watching at my own pace. Its Friday night timeslot on Syfy is telling: it’s like “The X-Files” lite with less engaging characters and fairly generic weekly mysteries. Yet there’s something about the town of Haven, and it’s not just that a show with Eric Balfour in the cast has made it to a second season. It’s more so the unquestioning and fiercely brave nature with which Audrey tackles the latest case of weird.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #19

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#19: The Bridge
This show was an intriguing if over-the-top look at corruption within the police department in Canada, and, like the much-touted demise of both “Lone Star” and “My Generation” in the fall, this series only lasted two episodes (including a two-hour pilot) before being yanked from CBS, where it had an impossible Saturday night summer timeslot. Canadian viewers will have the opportunity to see how Aaron Douglas’ pursuit turns out, but unfortunately, we in the U.S. only got to see three episodes.

Pilot & Episode Two | Episode Three

Top 20 New Shows of 2010: #20

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 2010 closes out and 2011 begins, here’s a look back at the best new shows of the year.

#20: Caprica
This is one of those “shows gone wrong” that started out well enough, not nearly as good as its predecessor “Battlestar Galactica,” but still passable and watchable. Throughout its first season, it suffered from prequel syndrome, where things in the past necessarily have to be less scientifically advanced than in the future, and the start of the back half of season one, which I didn’t make it through, was far too obsessed with religion. A curious start that didn’t lead anywhere worthwhile, and Syfy’s midseason cancellation of the show wasn’t so premature after all.

Best Episode: Pilot
Pilot Review | Episode Reviews

Pilot Review: Perfect Couples

Perfect Couples (NBC)
Sneak Preview December 20 at 10pm

NBC decided to showcase the new series that will make up one sixth of its new three-hour lineup in mid-January on Thursday nights in an early presentation, and even if it’s not officially the pilot episode, it’s the first glimpse of this show and, as far as we know, the best indication of the show’s quality given its early berthing. The good news is that “Outsourced” is still the worst show in NBC’s comedy block. The bad news is that this is most clearly the second worst - though I don’t personally like “Community,” I can grasp some of its subtler merits, which it seems apparent are entirely absent here. The 2010-2011 TV season has already given us an adequate sitcom about the trials and tribulations of dating, “Better With You.” This show isn’t quite a carbon copy of that because it centers around three couples all the same age rather than a multigenerational assortment. That only makes it less interesting, however, especially since this is such an original premise. After an obnoxious start that simply packs together as many relationship faux-pas as possible, the episode shows its cards too quickly and becomes highly predictable. One of the couples, Rex (Hayes MacArthur) and Leigh (Olivia Munn) is the token quirky, high-functioning duo whose actions and routine are completely unbelievable and serve to distinguish them from the rest of society without necessarily needing problems between the two of them to exist. Trying to combat jet lag by pre-adjusting and learning Italian are reasonable efforts that high-maintenance people might attempt, but this show goes way overboard with it. The same is true of the attempt made by Amy (Mary Elizabeth Ellis) to get her insanely dumb boyfriend Vance (David Walton) to try therapy by tricking him into thinking he was talking to a real estate agent. Comparatively, the lack of romance between Dave (Kyle Bornheimer) and Julia (Christine Woods) is relatively boring. Bornheimer already tried a romantic comedy show earlier this year and failed with “Romantically Challenged.” I much prefer him when he’s in jerk mode rather than in his much performed role as a hopeless sap, and I suppose it’s at least something that Woods isn’t a confused double/triple/quadruple agent like she was on “Flash Forward.” It seems like both Rex and Vance are being positioned as the annoying best friend, which should prove overwhelming and bothersome. Munn doesn’t have anything to do as her character has no personality, and I don’t know what to make of Ellis. This show doesn’t have much to offer, and there’s one thing it could really use: a laugh track. While most shows would be best advised not to have one, it would be helpful to know that, at least somewhere, there’s someone laughing.

How will it work as a series? I suppose there’s some value in having a show where you don’t have to faithfully watch every week since it seems more than likely than there will be no permanent plot developments of this show and it will all be purely circumstantial, situational comedy. My argument for having a laugh track would make it stick out among NBC’s comedy block, where there are no other shows with laugh tracks, but I don’t think this one is going to be too funny or compelling without it.
How long will it last? Slipping it into the slot formerly held by “30 Rock” is not going to impress viewers who used to tune into that show, but it may be safe for a decent amount of time thanks to its embedding with five other comedies. I can’t imagine it being renewed, though somehow “Rules of Engagement,” a throwaway CBS midseason comedy nestled within a comedy block, is entering its fifth season. The post-“Friends” Must-See TV slot killed more shows than it berthed, so I expect this one to go away come upfront time in May.

Pilot grade: D-

What I’m Watching: The Closer

The Closer: Season 6, Episode 13 “Living Proof: Part One” (B+)

Alas, here we have one of the only Christmas episodes in recent years to actually air the week of Christmas, giving its urgency an added oomph because the celebratory national holiday is actually upon us this Friday. And a national holiday it does seem to be rather than a religious one, because all of the members of Brenda’s team are taking advantage of the time off to get away to exotic locales – like Italy – or just to spend time with their families. It’s entertaining to see Sanchez in an elf’s hat and to hear Flynn summarily dismissed from gift-wrapping duty, and I was also amused by the pitches the various team members gave as to why their plans were deathly important. The episode had a rather violent opening, with some angry Albanian chatter and someone being flattened by a police car, and having the bad kid as the suspected killer was intriguing too. I wasn’t prepared for a “to be continued” cliffhanger because this show so rarely (if ever) does those, but I suppose it does make sense since they just weren’t able to solve the case in time. Captain Raydor’s presence is fun, as is having the Johnson parents in town. I can’t quite imagine them sticking around all the time, but it is funny to hear Fritz and an otherwise nostalgic Brenda try to think of excuses, like raising the security alert in the United States, to convince her folks not to relocate from Atlanta to Los Angeles.

What I’m Watching: Burn Notice (Season Finale)

Burn Notice: Season 4, Episodes 17 & 18 “Out of the Fire” & “Last Stand” (B+)

I sometimes feel a bit left out of the fun on this show because I didn’t watch from the very beginning (my own fault; I gave the pilot a C+ and didn’t pick the show back up until learning that Tricia Helfer would be recurring in season two). That becomes problematic when I’m not sure whether I’ve actually seen Larry before (and it’s perfectly possibly I have and have just forgotten) or whether I’m supposed to know who Dylan Baker is when he ushers Michael into the CIA office in DC at the very end of the episode (some quick research indicates I’m not). In any case, this finale is certainly game-changing, and in a far clearer way than last year’s, where Michael found himself arrested and then seated comfortably on a chair in someone’s living room. Now, he may finally have gotten himself back into the game, which could be a great pathway for introducing some new series regulars and straining his relationship with the people who stuck with him throughout his time being burned. I liked this episode because of its intensity and the very mortal attitude which all the characters took on during it. Jesse and Fiona discussing her relationship with Michael was a nice treat, and Michael talking to and later smooching with Fiona was also nice. Sam really came through on his end by bringing the cavalry at the right moment, and now we have yet another villain who’s gone before we really knew what he was up to – Vaughn. It’s been a good season, and we have at least two more to look forward to thanks to an early renewal back in April. Season five shouldn’t be far off, likely premiering in July.

Season grade: B+
Season MVP: Jeffrey Donovan

What I’m Watching: Psych

Psych: Season 5, Episodes 14 & 15 “The Polarizing Express” (B-) & “Dead Bear Walking” (B+)

I got considerably confused by USA’s decision to air two episodes of both “Psych” and “Burn Notice” on back-to-back nights and just went ahead and presumed that this was this show’s season finale given that “Burn Notice” wrapped its season on Thursday night. It turns out that’s not the case, and we still have one installment left and coming this Wednesday. I found episode fifteen, the second of the night, to be perfectly fitting as a season capper, especially in comparison to the one that preceded it. The good news is that this show did manage to pull off a hallucinogenic, highly referential, alternate reality dream holiday episode than most shows probably could. It was still decidedly irreverent and pretty random, even and especially with Tony Marcus present as Shawn’s spiritual guide. I enjoyed his quick quip about being confused with and losing roles to Peter Dinklage. Episode two of the night proved far more entertaining – and inventive – thanks both to the goofy polar bear plot and the presence of Lassie’s sister. I couldn’t place her when I was watching the episode, but some IMDB research reveals that she was one of the only good parts (Cobie Smulders of HIMYM was the other one) of the terrible film “The Slammin’ Salmon.” Seeing Lassie’s relationship with his sister is interesting, and it’s nice that Shawn made is so that Lassie could close the case and be restored to glory in his sister’s eyes. I love how creepy Gus gets when he finds someone attractive, and it was pretty hilarious to see her essentially ask him out only to have him become terrified when he saw Lassie’s face when he looked at her.

What I’m Watching: Human Target

Human Target: Season 2, Episode 5 “Dead Head” (B+)

It’s probably fair to say that we know less about the characters on this show than we do on most other shows. It’s an asset, however, because even when we do get a peek into the private lives of one of the team members, there’s still so much more left to discover, making them extraordinarily complex characters. It’s also important to remember that this show could be a throwaway, brainless action series, but instead it features some of the best characters (not to mention guest stars) on television. Back to the point at hand, I’m glad to see a bit of Winston’s past and see him so invested in taking down this corrupt lawman who made his life miserable for so many years. I liked his ex-wife’s twin usage of “just like old times” to knock Winston’s endless obsession and then to help him get away when the cops pulled up at her door. Guerrero is still breaking Ilsa into their business, and it’s fun to see him try to get her to realize the seriousness of situations while she tortures him by cutting him checks. His gift of treasury paper to her is absolutely strange, and it’s hilarious to her face go from pleasantly surprised to confused and rather disgusted. I’m glad Ames is back, and she’s a good person to interrogate this week’s guest star, a.k.a. Roger Bart, whose nutty role on “Desperate Housewives” wasn’t quite as good as this one, even if it’s not overly memorable (no pun intended).

What I’m Watching: The Good Wife

The Good Wife: Season 2, Episode 9 “Nine Hours” (B+)

I can’t say I’m overly familiar with how legal shows work since I usually steer clear of procedurals, but I must say that this show does an excellent job of throwing around terms and situations and clarifying their meaning without outright defining them. When Alicia, Will, and Diane are all speechless and all ask the same questions, you know something’s up, and this did prove to be quite an intriguing and suspenseful episode (I did find it somewhat silly that they all uniformly kept saying “he phoned” instead of the more colloquial “he called”). On the subject of phones, however, I did enjoy having Kalinda on the line with Will while Alicia was on the phone with the clerk. Alicia’s candid conversation with a less than candid Kalinda was fun, as was Alicia’s attempt to schedule a time to sit down with Will and really get serious about their relationship. Peter’s rather aggressive defense of his privacy during a televised debate was interesting, and it’s worth noting at this point that actor Chris Noth received a surprise Golden Globe nomination for his role here, which I suppose makes sense more so for this season (and the latter half of last year’s) than for the beginning third of the show. I still would prefer to see Josh Charles recognized, as well as Alan Cumming, who was honored with an Emmy nomination in the guest category last year. The show’s ensemble also picked up a well-deserved Screen Actors Guild nomination for the second year in a row, and I think they may well be able to win the award this time around.

What I’m Watching: The Closer

The Closer: Season 6, Episode 12 “High Crimes” (B+)

Maybe they’ve been doing it all along, but I’m starting to notice just how impressive the action-related scenes are on this show. I especially enjoy how the entire team gets involved in the sting operations, and the costumes worn by Gabriel and Sanchez were particularly hilarious. There’s a reason that this show, which for some reason receives few other accolades aside from praise (and an Emmy win, finally, this past year) for star Kyra Sedgwick, just earned its fifth Screen Actors Guild award nomination for Best Ensemble in a Drama Series. The latest addition to the talented cast, Courtney Vance, is proving to be perfectly acclimated to working and interacting awkwardly with the team. His assignment of Provenza to be drug liaison is an entertaining and clever move, and I’m enjoying his presence quite a bit. It’s also interesting to see the dynamic between Brenda and Pope explored as she finds herself being almost pushed into pushing him out. Fritz’s reaction to the situation and his own concern over Brenda’s close relationship with Pope is also intriguing, especially in light of how rudely and selfishly Pope behaved last season earlier this season when he found himself out of the running for the position of chief. Having Taylor in the mix and some inevitable restructuring on the way gives this season, with only a two-part episode and then one early 2011 installment left, decently thrilling. And it was also recently announced that the show will be ending after season seven, presumably premiering this summer. While I’m sad to see the show go, it’s had a terrific run, and seven strong years for a procedural isn’t bad at all.

What I’m Watching: Desperate Housewives

Desperate Housewives: Season 7, Episode 10 “Down the Block There’s a Riot” (C+)

Ah, the event episode. This show has taken advantage of it plenty of times before, as recently as last season with the plane crash. The idea of a riot isn’t so crazy, I suppose, but it’s the way in which it’s presented that lacks a bit of credibility. All of the build-up to the riot felt extremely staged, strategically placing characters like Susan and Juanita in harm’s way, and pretty ridiculously dressing Keith so that he could easily be mistaken for an ex-convict. Lynette hiring a mob is believable, but them turning into a militia force and trying to turn over a car crossed the line. Also, shouldn’t Lee be able to back out of the sale of his house somehow? Paul’s trickery seems a bit too perfect. I’m shocked that no one knows it’s always a terrible idea to write a letter that you’re not going to send and then leave it out for someone to find. The entire daughters-switched plotline has always felt somewhat forced and over-the-top, mostly due to Gaby’s childish behavior. Renee being in love with Tom is also causing undue problems, and to have her leave the lane without having actually had any compelling storylines isn’t right. It’s good to know that Mike still exists, if only via videoconference, and that makes him the only person who’s not a suspect in Paul’s shooting. I do suspect it’s a throwaway character who shot him, and we’ll probably find out next year, which as it turns out isn’t all that far away, since this show returns on January 2nd.

What I’m Watching: Dexter (Season Finale)

Dexter: Season 5, Episode 12 “The Big One” (B+)

There are plenty of similarities between this year’s finale and previous ones, but that doesn’t mean this isn’t a terrific finale and a generally original one at that. This reminded me most of the season one closer, with the killer opening up the trunk to check on his captive and then parading her in front of Dexter as he details his plans to end her life. The difference here is that the bad guy, a.k.a. Jordan Chase, is also interested in offing Dexter, and it’s only thanks to his clever escape skills and foot-stabbing action that he’s able to avoid certain death. That’s now two episodes in a row that Dexter finds himself surprised and ends up a prisoner of someone who’s out to get him. Just like in season one, Deb was physically present at the scene of the crime but survives without any knowledge of Dexter’s complicity, though the scene in this episode was considerably more intense and really had my heart beating fast. It speaks volumes about Deb that she’s able to let them get away and conduct herself professionally without making herself an official accomplice by seeing their faces. I’m somewhat disappointed that Dexter’s secret hasn’t been revealed to her, but it does make sense and was exceptionally well-executed. Another thing that was handled very well was the departure of Lumen. I couldn’t imagine her dying or leaving, but deciding to go because she doesn’t feel the need to kill was a clever way to have her leave for understandable reasons. I like the fact that Dexter protected Quinn and then refused to admit that he did him a favor, and that he was so casual about hating Quinn when talking to Deb. This has been one terrific season, just as good as last year and almost as good as season one, and I’m eagerly looking forward to season six. Kudos to both Jonny Lee Miller and Julia Stiles for great guest spots this year as well.

Season grade: A-
Season MVP: Michael C. Hall

SAG Nominees: Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 4/5, picking “The Big Bang Theory” over “Hot in Cleveland”
Who’s missing: “The Big Bang Theory,” “Parks and Recreation”

This is a bit of a puzzle. The high-rated TV Land sitcom Hot in Cleveland surely made history today by earning not one but two nods, but does it deserve it? Not really. Sure, it may include Emmy-nominated actresses Wendie Malick and Jane Leeves, and of course, Betty White, but still. It doesn’t belong here, especially when the two shows listed above aren’t here. The other four nominees are expected: hot shows Glee and Modern Family and perennial favorites 30 Rock and The Office. “Glee” won last year, “30 Rock” the year before that, and “The Office” twice before that.

Who could win? It’s Modern Family’s turn.

SAG Nominees: Best Ensemble in a Drama Series

My predictions: 5/5
Who’s missing: “True Blood,” “Sons of Anarchy,” “Breaking Bad,” “Friday Night Lights”

I’m glad that the faith in The Closer put forth by SAG voters has been just as unwavering as my own. Its fifth nomination serves as its only non-Sedgwick recognition, and I’m glad it’s still here. Newbie Boardwalk Empire snags the slot occupied last year by HBO hot show “True Blood,” which was just as absent from the Globes lineup as it is here. Dexter holds onto its spot for the third year in a row because it’s still going strong, and well-respected shows The Good Wife and Mad Men, which has won this category for the past two years, return as well.

Who could win? Either “Boardwalk Empire” or “The Good Wife.”

SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 2/5, picking only Danes and Sarandon
Who’s missing: Romola Garai (Emma), Hope Davis (The Special Relationship), Judi Dench (Return to Cranford), Hayley Atwell (The Pillars of the Earth), Jennifer Love Hewitt (The Client List)

So it’s not just Emmy voters who love “Temple Grandin.” Not one, not two, but three nominees from the TV movie - Claire Danes, Catherine O’Hara, and Julia Ormond, officially matching the record set in this category (as well as the corresponding male one) by “Angels in America” for most individual nominations by a TV movie or miniseries in one category. Joining the three ladies mentioned above are Susan Sarandon (You Don’t Know Jack) and Winona Ryder (When Love is Not Enough).

Who could win? Danes, probably.

SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 3/5, picking Sheen and Strathairn over Goodman and Stewart
Who’s missing: Michael Sheen (The Special Relationship), David Strathairn (Temple Grandin), Idris Elba (Luther), Ian McShane (The Pillars of the Earth)

SAG voters do love their Shakespearean actors, which is probably a big part of the reason that Patrick Stewart (Macbeth) got in. Globe-snubbed John Goodman (You Don’t Know Jack) takes the one supporting spot filled by the oddly omitted David Strathairn (Temple Grandin), joining fellow cast member Al Pacino (You Don’t Know Jack). Globe nominees Dennis Quaid (The Special Relationship) and Edgar Ramirez (Carlos) round out the list.

Who could win? Either Stewart or Pacino.

SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, picking Collette and Linney over Vergara and White
Who’s missing: Toni Collette (The United States of Tara), Laura Linney (The Big C), Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation), Lea Michele (Glee)

In this category we have our biggest shock – the omission of Laura Linney. It turns out she’s not the only semi-serious Showtime actress to be snubbed – last year’s nominee Toni Collette was as well – but, bizarrely, Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie) did still make it in. Joining the fray are three supporting actresses, Emmy winner Jane Lynch (Glee), Sofia Vergara (Modern Family), and – in a bit of a surprise - Betty White (Hot in Cleveland). Rounding out the list is defending three-year champion Tina Fey (30 Rock).

Who could win? I think Fey gets booted this year, but for who? I’d say Lynch but I think it’s going to be White.

SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Comedy Series

My predictions: 3/5, picking Parsons and Stonestreet over Colfer and O’Neill
Who’s missing: Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory), Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family), Matthew Morrison (Glee), Thomas Jane (Hung)

I’m beginning to seriously take issue with all these mentions for Chris Colfer (Glee). For one thing, unlike the Golden Globes, this name of this category only covers comedies and not musicals (the same is true of the Emmys). He may be good in his role, but I don’t think he’s comparable to the likes of Alec Baldwin (30 Rock), Steve Carell (The Office), or the fantastically recognized Ty Burrell (Modern Family). I’m also very pleased to see Ed O’Neill (Modern Family) – who I predicted for a Globe nod instead – get a nomination after being the only adult cast member snubbed at the Emmys. And, interestingly enough, especially after the strong Globes showing on Tuesday, Emmy winner Jim Parsons does not break into the race here.

Who could win? Baldwin has won this category for the past four years in a row. Maybe Carell or Burell finally dethrones him this year?

SAG Nominees: Best Female Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 4/5, picking Jones over Hargitay
Who’s missing: January Jones (Mad Men), Patricia Arquette (Medium), Holly Hunter (Saving Grace), Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy)

This lineup really isn’t all that interesting, recognizing some Golden Globe-winning actresses that the Globes have now forgotten all about, like Mariska Hargitay (Law & Order: SVU) and Glenn Close (Damages), the newly Globe-minted Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men), and of course Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife) and Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer). It’s too bad a branch of actors couldn’t recognize the brilliance of Katey Sagal (Sons of Anarchy). For the record, Margulies, last year’s winner, is the only one of this crop who has ever won this award.

Who could win? Difficult to say given that no one aside from Margulies has had a terrific year, but maybe Sedgwick finally wins, both because of her Emmy victory this year and because her show still hung on in the Best Ensemble in a Drama Series category.

SAG Nominees: Best Male Actor in a Drama Series

My predictions: 5/5
Who’s missing: Simon Baker (The Mentalist)

One could easily call this category boring and predictable if it wasn’t honoring five terrific performers. This is an exact duplicate of the Globe lineup - Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire), Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad), Michael C. Hall (Dexter), Jon Hamm (Mad Men), and Hugh Laurie (House), and there isn’t much more to say other than it makes sense. Hall won last year, and Laurie has won twice in the past, making this year’s win up for grabs.

Who could win? I think Cranston, though it could be any of them.

SAG Predictions

I made my SAG predictions before the Golden Globes announced their nods, and I don’t think anything yesterday changes them at all. They’re not the same awards bodies, so I feel like SAG voters will probably keep Glenn Close in over Piper Perabo. Anyway, nominations will be announced tomorrow morning, and here are my predictions. Check back tomorrow to see the nominees and commentary.

Best Male Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi (Boardwalk Empire)
Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad)
Michael C. Hall (Dexter)
Jon Hamm (Mad Men)
Hugh Laurie (House)

Best Female Actor in a Drama Series
Glenn Close (Damages)
January Jones (Mad Men)
Julianna Margulies (The Good Wife)
Elisabeth Moss (Mad Men)
Kyra Sedgwick (The Closer)

Best Male Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin (30 Rock)
Ty Burrell (Modern Family)
Steve Carell (The Office)
Jim Parsons (The Big Bang Theory)
Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family)

Best Female Actor in a Comedy Series
Toni Collette (The United States of Tara)
Edie Falco (Nurse Jackie)
Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Laura Linney (The Big C)
Jane Lynch (Glee)

Best Male Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
Al Pacino, You Don't Know Jack
Dennis Quaid, The Special Relationship
Edgar Ramirez, Carlos
Michael Sheen, The Special Relationship
David Strathairn, Temple Grandin

Best Female Actor in a Miniseries or Made-for-TV Movie
Claire Danes, Temple Grandin
Hope Davis, The Special Relationship
Judi Dench, Return To Cranford
Romola Garai, Emma
Susan Sarandon, You Don't Know Jack

Best Ensemble in a Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
The Closer
Dexter
The Good Wife
Mad Men

Best Ensemble in a Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
30 Rock

What I’m Watching: Smallville

Smallville: Season 10, Episode 11 “Icarus” (C-)

After an above-average (for this show) installment having to do with an alternate universe, we’re back to the same old ineffectiveness of the VRA plotline. It gets especially complicated when it deals with century-old mythical beings, and I’m convinced I had to have been not paying attention for the few minutes when the existence of people like Hawkman in this universe was explained. In any case, we do have a joke about missing the typewriter, or rather, the telegraph, to remind us that the now-defunct Hawkman is in fact older than dust, and I’m more interested in the fact that he just seems to be able to save the day only when Clark is busy doing something else, making his sacrifice to save Lois feel all the more random. The fact that Clark, Hawkman, and Oliver just parade around inside General Wilson’s office when everyone in the world is looking for them is rather unbelievable. I do find it rather hilarious that Michael Hogan’s character has lost his eye on this show. Lois and Clark’s engagement, like much of their relationship, is inconsequential in the greater scheme of things, since they’re going to have to battle this Darkness that apparently was also responsible, according to Hawkman, for both the Crusades and the Holocaust (such delusions of grandeur can also be found, albeit more cleverly deployed, in CSM-centric episodes of “The X-Files”). Cat not turning Lois in is a bit of relief since these guys need some allies, but overall, this episode just doesn’t cut it.

What I’m Watching: Burn Notice

Burn Notice: Season 4, Episode 16 “Dead or Alive” (B+)

With such a small cast, it’s to be expected that each of its members should get a spotlight every once in a while. In this episode, it’s Sam, who does bring in cases occasionally, though at a less frequent rate than Fiona and obviously Michael. Bruce Campbell is a terrific actor, and he was just feted for the first time for this role with a Satellite Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor in a Television Series, where he’ll compete with the likes of Ty Burrell, Alan Cumming, Martin Short, and a few others. He does a terrific job of playing Sam as a goofy character but also with some serious elements, like when he furiously shouts out “that was my friend!” during the course of the interrogation. I knew right away that partner Pete was a bad guy since actor Raphael Sbarge always seems to play bad guys who initially seem incredibly innocent, like in his season four appearance on “Prison Break.” It was also fun to see Richard Kind back as Marv in a role that had him interacting with Michael, though sadly he’s now just been gunned down by Michael’s latest obstacle. Fortunately for us (and not at all fortunate for Michael) is the fact that the latest enemy for Michael to face is none other than Tyler Brennen, played by the fantastic Jay Karnes, a.k.a. Dutch from “The Shield.” Last he was on this show, Michael pretended to put his danger in danger, and so I’m sure he’s rather angry about that. This week’s two-hour series finale is sure to be full of revenge on his part.

What I’m Watching: Nikita

Nikita: Season 1, Episode 11 “All the Way” (B-)

Finally, after ten episodes of stalling, we finally have some major plot developments! Even if the episode isn’t spectacular as a whole, I’d still like to mention the merits that it does have because they do deserve commendation. I loved how this episode combined coordinated explosions set to detonate around Division by Alex with the hilariously over-the-top breaking of her bonds by Nikita, who presumably took some violent and painful revenge on her tormenter Amanda. Jaden’s reaction to seeing Nikita (shouting her name, way to go) was humorous, and it was great that Nikita just took out every single one of the guards who came at her before escaping. So now Alex is still undercover at Division but has just increased her rank to agent, so she’ll be able to go out in the field much more. She’s also had her first kill, though taking out Thom was definitely not what she wanted to do. This is a great episodes to have as the last installment before the show goes on hiatus for the rest of the year since the back half of the season has the potential to be much stronger and much more action-packed, since Jaden has hopefully been left behind with Alex now out in the field, as have Alex’s inhibitions now that she’s killed someone. Michael’s role in ensuing episodes will also likely be changed now that Alex has been promoted, and I’m interested to see how quickly he’s able to piece together her duplicity, as well as where he’ll end up standing when her allegiances are revealed.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best TV Series – Comedy/Musical

My predictions: 4/6, missing “The Big Bang Theory” and “Nurse Jackie”
Who’s missing: “The Office,” “Entourage,” “Community,” “Parks and Recreation”

Overstuffed categories are a bit of an annoyance, but I suppose this is a strong list. Even if The Big Bang Theory and Nurse Jackie aren’t my cup of tea, I can appreciate the fact that fans of the former must be ecstatic and that the second season of the latter may in fact have been better than the first (both seasons got grouped into one year of eligibility for the Emmys). The disappearance of “The Office” isn’t too shocking since the show did that back in 2007 and came back again. “Entourage” is not nominated for the first time in its history, making room for newcomer The Big C to join Glee, Modern Family, and The Office.

Who could win? I think this goes to Modern Family since “Glee” won last year.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best TV Series - Drama

My predictions: 4/5, picking “Big Love” over “The Walking Dead”
Who’s missing: “Big Love,” “Breaking Bad,” “House,” “In Treatment,” “True Blood”

I must say that this is one terrific category. Barring the absence of “Breaking Bad” and “Sons of Anarchy,” both of which were finally honored for their acting, I would probably agree that Boardwalk Empire, Dexter, The Good Wife, Mad Men, and The Walking Dead were the best dramas on television this year.

Who could win? I would have definitely said Boardwalk Empire by a mile, but the inclusion of “The Walking Dead” could seriously shake things up.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Mini-Series or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 3/5, missing “Carlos” and “The Pillars of the Earth”
Who’s missing: “Return to Cranford,” “Luther,” “The Special Relationship”

I really should start watching more miniseries. Both Carlos and The Pillars of the Earth performed well, joining Emmy champ The Pacific. On the TV movie end, we have Temple Grandin and You Don’t Know Jack, leaving out two other TV films nominated elsewhere, “Return to Cranford” and “The Special Relationship.” I had predicted “The Walking Dead” to be a sixth nominee here, but instead it ended up in the Best Drama Series category. If you’ve seen any of these nominated programs (I’ve only seen “The Pacific”), please feel free to offer commentary.

Who could win? I think The Pacific can eclipse “Temple Grandin.”

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

My predictions: 2/5, picking only Lynch and Macdonald
Who’s missing: Julia Ormond (Temple Grandin), Susan Sarandon (You Don’t Know Jack), Betty White (Hot in Cleveland), Debra Winger (In Treatment)

For the record, I predicted Hope Davis (The Special Relationship) to pup in the lead actress category rather than here, effectively ruining my totals in both categories. Joining the only non-weekly series representative we have returning nominee Jane Lynch (Glee), newcomer Kelly Macdonald (Boardwalk Empire), Emmy nominee Sofia Vergara (Modern Family), and this year’s season-long guest-star Julia Stiles (Dexter). Not a bad list at all.

Who could win? Who knows? I think it’s Vergara’s time, though Macdonald, who has been nominated in this category before, could take it too.

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

My predictions: 1/5, picking only Strathairn
Who’s missing: John Goodman (You Don’t Know Jack & Treme), Neil Patrick Harris (How I Met Your Mother), Irrfan Khan (In Treatment), Jeremy Piven (Entourage), Oliver Platt (The Big C)

Supporting my theory of this category being unpredictable, I managed to score my lowest grade of all here. From last year’s Emmy pool, we get winners David Strathairn (Temple Grandin) and Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family), as well as nominee Chris Colfer (Glee). Then we have two choices from out of nowhere. Instead of Josh Charles or the Emmy-nominated Alan Cumming, we get recurring actor Chris Noth (The Good Wife), making this the second time he’s pulled off such a feat after being feted for “Sex in the City” without being a series regular back in 1999. And rounding out the list we have the very entertaining Scott Caan (Hawaii Five-O), who really is the best part of his show. If nothing else, certainly a fun category.

Who could win? Completely up in the air – maybe Stonestreet.

Golden Globe Nominees: Best Actress in a Mini-Series or Made-for-TV Movie

My predictions: 2/5, picking only Danes and Dench
Who’s missing: Winona Ryder (When Love is Not Enough), Maggie Smith (Downton Abbey)

I really haven’t seen any miniseries or TV movies recently, so I was hopeless from the start in this category. Hope Davis (The Special Relationship) got pushed down to the supporting category, making room for Hayley Atwell (The Pillars of the Earth), Romola Garai (Emma), and, less impressively, Jennifer Love Hewitt (The Client List) to join Claire Danes (Temple Grandin) and Judi Dench (Return to Cranford). Feel free to comment if you’ve seen any of these performances.

Who could win? Given how nuts the Emmys went for “Temple Grandin,” I wouldn’t root against Danes.