Hello! Please see below for the infamous tv schedule spreadsheet. Anything highlighted I’m going to watch, anything in RED is new, BLUE is new timeslots.
But before we get into my two cents on the new fall shows, I have a bit of casting scoop:
Freddy Prinze Jr. has been cast in 24 next year (don’t know how I feel about that) while John Lithgow will be on Dexter. The Whedon also gave an interview the other day and said that we should expect to see Summer Glau (T:SCC, Firefly) in the Dollhouse next year but that she wouldn’t be a doll because that would be too obvious.
Fall Season Previews:
ABC
Shark Tank (Tues 8)-Regular people pitch their ideas to five high powered investors.
The Forgotten (Tues 10)-Centers around a team that investigates the murders of victims whose identity is unknown. Their goal is to figure out who the “forgotten victim” is & solve their murder. Originally Reiko Aylesworth (Michelle, 24) was one of the leads, but she has since dropped out. Ehh, I watch too many murder of the week shows, don’t need to add this one!
Hank (Wed 8) Kelsey Grammer stars as a rich man who lives in NYC with his family until he loses his fortune & is forced to move his family to Virginia. I won’t be checking this one out.
The Middle (Wed 8:30) –Patricia Heaton stars as the matriarch of a wacky family living in the middle of Indiana. The trailer reminded me a little of Malcolm in the Middle, but I chuckled a few times so I’ll probably check it out. Plus, bonus points….the husband is Janitor from Scrubs!!
Modern Family (Wed 9)-This show revolves around three “modern families”; the stereotypical American family with 3 kids, an older man/younger woman newlywed couple and two gay men who have just adopted a baby girl. Familiar faces include Julie Bowen (Lost, Ed) and Ed O’Neill (Married…With Children). I was entertained enough by the preview that I will be checking this one out as well.
Cougar Town (Wed 9:30) Bill Lawrence (the creator of Scrubs) brings a new comedy starring Courtney Cox-Arquette as a newly divorced, 40-ish woman trying to deal with aging while getting back into the dating world. Busy Phillips (Freaks & Geeks, Dawson’s Creek) and Christa Miller (Scrubs) co-star. Definitely going to check this one out.
Eastwick (Wed 10) When a tall, dark & handsome stranger arrives in town three women discover they have some mystical abilities. Familiar faces: Rebecca Romijn I’ll be passing on this one.
Flash Forward (Thurs 8) ABC had 2 minute previews for all of their new shows except for this one, apparently they are trying to keep the whole thing very hush, hush. From the 12 second preview, it looks like a bunch of people black out & see some horrible event that is supposed to occur in the future. Stars Joseph Fiennes (Shakespeare in Love) and Penny from Lost. I may check it out, but I’m already triple booked for Thurs at 8, so unless it gets rave reviews I’ll probably skip it.
V! (midseason) This is a remake of a 1980’s miniseries. Some aliens land ( Independence Day style) but then they send a message saying they are peaceful. While it seems that the visitors are friendly, a group of people start to believe that the visitors have an evil agenda and are using their influence to manipulate humans. I thought it looked interesting. Cast includes a bunch of favorites like Juliet from Lost, Tom Baldwin from the 4400, Inara from Firefly and Scott Wolf (you should know who that is without me listing all his credits!!). I’ll probably check it out just because of the cast. Hopefully it is cool.
The Deep End (midseason) Lawyer show. That’s pretty much all I got from the trailer. But I did see Mac from Veronica Mars, Dr. Abbott from Everwood & Billy Zane!! If I’m really bored I may check out the pilot.
Happy Town(midseason) On first glance it looks like a nice little story about a woman moving to a quiet, happy town (get it?) in Minnesoooooota. Well then someone gets killed by the “Magic Man” (sorry but all I could think of was Talladega Nights) and wackiness ensues. I’ll be passing on this one. Although I think I saw Amy Acker in the trailer..hold on…a quick check on IMDB confirms that I did see Amy Acker (Angel, Dollhouse) but I don’t think that is enough for me to check out the show (Plus this show just got a wretched review on AICN).
You can check out all the ABC trailers at: http://abc.go.com/fallpreview/index
NBC
The Marriage Ref (midseason)- From reading this description, it sounds a lot like the 30 Rock episode where Lemon goes on to a talk show & yells “That’s a DEAL BREAKER” at couples asking her advice. And if you don’t watch 30 Rock, then you lose!!
Trauma (Mon 9)-Set in San Francisco & follows first responder paramedics.
Day One (midseason) After a cataclysmic event, survivors try to rebuild. Familiar faces: Carly Pope (24, Popular) Julie Gonzalo (Veronica Mars, Eli Stone)
Parenthood (Wed 8)-Based on the Steve Martin film, the show explores the family life of the 4 grown siblings of the Braverman family. Familiar faces: Peter Krause (Dirty Sexy Money, Six Feet Under), Maura Tierney (ER), Craig T. Nelson (Coach), Dax Shepard (Punk’D), Monica Potter (Patch Adams) and Erika Christensen (Traffic, Six Degrees) Besides the cast, this show boasts some serious tv cred, with producers Ron Howard & Brian Grazer, writer/director Jason Katims (FNL), plus the pilot is directed by Thomas Schlamme (The West Wing). How can you not check this one out?
Mercy (midseason)-A medical drama focusing on three nurses from Mercy Hospital. Familiar Faces: Michelle Trachtenberg (Buffy, Gossip Girl) also Guillermo from Weeds is one of the nurses (not one of the main 3) Fun Fact: One of the main characters, Veronica is torn between her husband & a new doctor that she has a past with. The two characters are played by actors who were on Men In Trees, Ivan & Jack!! I don’t usually like medical dramas, but I was a bit interested by the preview.
Community (Thurs 8)- Joel McHale (The Soup) stars as a lawyer who has to go to community college after it is revealed that he never graduated from college. He soon realizes that Greendale Community College is made up of high-school losers, newly divorced housewives, and old people who want to keep their minds active. He starts a study group to get closer to a pretty girl and everyone becomes friends (awwww). Familiar faces: Chevy Chase. The show is written & directed by the people who brought you Arrested Development. That’s enough for me to check it out.
NBC previews are available at: http://thefutoncritic.com/news.aspx?id=8076
CBS
Three Rivers (Sun 9)-Looks at organ transplants from three different perspectives. From the donor, the recipient and the surgical team. The cast was recently completely replaced except for the dude that was in Moonlight.
Accidentally on Purpose (Mon 8:30) Jenna Elfman has a one night stand with a younger man & gets knocked up. I’m not a big Elfman fan & the preview looked a little too “sitcom-y” for me so I’ll be passing this one up.
The Good Wife (Tues 10) Ever wonder what those women are thinking when they are standing stone faced next to their husbands during a press conference where the man is confessing to adultery or some type of crime. Julianna Marguiles is a woman who must re-enter the workforce (as a lawyer) and try to keep her family together after her husband (Chris Noth) is caught up in a very public sex and political corruption scandal that lands him in jail. Familiar Faces: Christine Baranski & Grams from Dawson’s Creek!
CBS previews are available at: http://www.cbs.com/primetime/fall_preview_2009/
Fox
The Cleveland Show (Sun 8:30)-Animated show, I think Cleveland is a character on Family Guy.
Sons of Tucson(midseason)-Three boys pay a slacker to play their dad when their real one goes to jail. Familiar Faces: Tyler Labine (Reaper)
Past Life (midseason) A psychologist & a detective solve crimes by helping people with “past life traumas”. I thought the trailer didn’t look half bad but I have too many of those cop/non cop buddy shows on my plate.
Human Target (midseason)- Based on a DC Comics graphic novel, the show follows Christopher Chance (Olivia’s boyfriend from Fringe), a bodyguard who will do anything to save the lives on his clients (in the preview it is Caprica Six from BSG). Familiar Faces: Chi McBride (wah….I want him on Pushing Daisies). Trailer looked interesting, but is he going to protect different people every episode? That could get tired pretty quick. Anyhoo, it will really depend on what night its on.
Brothers (Fri 8)-Holy crap this looks terrible!! Michael Strahan plays an ex-NFL superstar who comes home to help his brother who is struggling to run his restaurant after a car accident has left him in a wheel chair. I can’t believe this show was actually given the greenlight.
Glee (Wed 9) If you missed the pilot episode after the American Idol finale you should check it out on hulu.com. Is there anything better than a story about bringing people together through singing & dancing?
Fox previews are: http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b124530_watch_previews_of_foxs_new_fall_pilots.html
CW
Melrose Place (Tues 9)-Oh CW this is why you are still banned. Anything with potential you cancel (that’s why I didn’t watch Reaper or Privledged) while you keep on drivel that should have been cut years ago. And to top it all off, you have no original ideas. So one year after trying to nostalgic-me into watching 90210 (which only worked for 3 episodes) you are trying yet again with Melrose. SPOILER ALERT. THE NEXT FEW LINES WILL DISCUSS PLOT POINTS OF THE PREMIERE.
Since Heather Locklear wouldn’t do it, you resurrected my dear Sydney only to kill her off in the pilot. Well I’m not going to fall for it! Plus Ashley Simpson? BLECH.
The Beautiful Life (Wed 9)-It’s so hard being a supermodel, especially when you are Mischa Barton. I’ll pass, thanks!
The Vampire Diaries (Thurs 8) A teenage girl is drawn to a new boy at high school who just happens to be a vampire. He’s good, but his brother is a bad vampire which of course puts the girl & her brother’s life in peril. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ Familiar faces: The good vampire was Kim’s husband on this season of 24 & also Amy Abbott’s bad boyfriend on Everwood. The bad vampire is Boone from Lost!
CW previews: http://www.cwtv.com/thecw/the-cw-fall-2009-preview
Here's the spreadsheet for your viewing pleasure!!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
KT Update-Season Finale Grades!!
Hello my friends,
Well, another tv season has concluded. It has been too, too long. Work was monopolizing my time & I apologize for the lack of KT updates. On the plus side, with facebook I am able to post notable news stories right to my page so you are never left without scoopage!! Anyhoo, please see below for my season finale report card. Last week was Upfront Week so later this week I’ll be sending out the 2009 Fall TV Schedule and some first impressions of the new shows. That will be followed up by a wrap up of the season, listing out the best performances (according to me).
Before I get to that, I’d just like to take a minute to say that people in Hollywood are DUMB. How can you possible think of making a buffy anything without the Whedon? I could see if it was 20 years from now & you were introducing the character & mythology to a new group of people but Buffy has a rabid fan base & I think you are just setting yourself up to fail. A big Booo Bahhhhh Hisss to that one!!!
As I have mentioned before, it is pretty hard for me to break up with a show after I’ve invested so much of my time but I did successfully ditch Heroes (really? You escape from a plane crash & then just hang around there? You don’t run for your life??) and Private Practice (the last 2 episodes were sitting on my tivo and I just had absolutely no desire to watch them).
Even after all this time I'm still heartbroken over the loss of Pushing Daisies. At least ABC has decided to air the final episodes along with those of Eli Stone & Dirty Sexy Money. I believe they start airing this Saturday, so make sure to set your Tivo's!!
How I Met Your Mother-This has been an interesting season with Ted nearly getting married, Barney realizing he has feelings & the constant struggle to hide both Robyn & Lilly’s real life pregnancies. HIMYM continues to be one of my favorite shows, even though later, I can’t ever remember what the episodes were about. Season Finale & Season: B+
24-This season was a significant improvement over season 6 (which truthfully, isn’t sayg very much). I was happy to see Soul Patch Tony, but I kinda wish he had stayed good because it would have been nice if Jack had one person he could always trust. I really liked the new President & her staff (except for her daughter who stunk & I’m glad her ass is going to jail). As an added bonus, Kim showed up & ultimately did not suck. She was able to avoid kidnapping, cougar attack & amnesia & even ended up contributing (and, if we are to make our own assumptions about the finale, saved her dad). I thought the finale was a bit anticlimactic, but I guess they all can’t end with Nina killing Terri (best ending ever)….Season: B+; Finale B
Chuck-You need to be watching this show. WHY ARE YOU NOT WATCHING THIS SHOW?? Chuck has one of the best ensemble casts on tv (I would argue second to 30 Rock). Adam Baldwin is frikkin fantastic as gruff agent Casey, while Sarah is the stuff little boys dream about and the staff of the Buy More regularly make me fall off the couch because I am laughing so hard. The show really kicked it up a notch over the last few episodes & turned the series on its head in the finale. Thankfully the show was picked up by NBC & will return to the schedule at midseason. Plenty of time for you to get your asses on Netflix and add it to your queue (or you can go to hulu.com or NBC.com). Season: A; Finale A+
The Mentalist-This is one of those shows that snuck up on me. I wasn’t going to watch (especially since I’m watching too many cop shows right now) but then I saw a few of the commercials & decided to check it out. The show rests on Simon Fuller’s Jane’s shoulders & he pulls it off. He has just the right amount of arrogance to make him still likable. We know he knows more than we do and he knows that we know that he knows more than everyone, but he never comes off as obnoxious. Many times the story of the week is predictable, but it is how Jane and his CBI peers figure it out that makes the show worth watching. Plus I’m definitely interested to see how the Red John story plays out. Season: A, Finale:
Life-Oh Charlie Crews, I will miss you! It saddens me that this show is gone, but I’m glad that the writers had the foresight to know that they were in danger & wrapped up most of the big mysteries of the series. Again, for me, this show was not about the week to week mysteries, it was about my connection to Crews, his mystery, his friends & his connection to Danni. I thought the finale was fantastic, especially that throat punch at the end. Season: A; Finale: A+
Fringe-I started watching this show for my beloved Pacey & even though the week to week stories were interesting, I was there for Pacey & because Jay LOVES this show. It tends to freak me out, but I like it. Although I was not over the moon for this show on a weekly basis, I have to say the finale as fantastic. Where shows like Lost & Greys’ simply set up cliffhangers for the sake of cliffhangers (more on that later) Fringe actually gave some answers to the questions we’ve been asking all season while proposing exciting new questions for next season. Besides the last scene (which was CRRRAZZY) I can’t believe Pacey is alternate dimension Pacey!!!! Season: B+; Finale: A+
Lost-Two hours. Two hours & really what did we learn? Yes, we saw some progress on the John Locke storyline. Locke is indeed dead, his body cloned & hijacked by Jacob’s early companion. Did Jacob want Ben to stab him? Was Ben finally the one being played? Exactly who is the “they” that are coming? But really, I felt like the show just spent 2 hours moving at a glacial pace to just set up more questions for next season. Questions that we’ve been asking all season anyway. What’s up with those other people on the plane? Ok, we know they are linked to Jacob, still no clue who they are. Will Jin & Sun be reunited? Will the time travelling stop? And is Juliet dead? (my guess is yes as she is in a new show next year)….so we’ll see. Last summer I rewatched the entire series straight through & I have to say that it made me appreciate the show so much more. I have faith that next season will be worth it. But I think as far as season finales go, it was WEAK. Season: A, Finale: C+
Grey’s Anatomy-I tried to break up with this show when Denny showed up. If it had just been Denny I may have been able to handle it but really the first half of the season was pretty weak. When Shonda finally admitted that Izzie did have a brain tumor (as rumored) then I decided to give it another go. It was a very uneven season. As I previously mentioned I hated Denny & I also couldn’t stand the cardiologist with Aspergers, the interns re-enacting Flatliners, does anyone remember Melissa George? Plus the disappearance of Hahn showed a complete lack of respect for not only the actress, but also for the audience (a thought I will come back to in a minute) I thought Meredith & Derek were a lot less annoying than last season (likable even!!), I think McSteamy & Callie have the best friendship ever (and I was secretly hoping for them to get together after Hahn left) and I loved every second of the Christina & Owen story (well, except for the icicle incident). The second half of the season was a lot better. Once we knew about Izzie’s illness, Katherine Heigl (love her or hate her) demonstrated the acting abilities she possesses and I thought this storyline upped everyone’s game, except of course for my dear George, who probably had a total of 45 min of screen time this year. As if I wasn’t mad enough at Shonda for George’s lack of screen time, I am furious with her for the conclusion of his storyline. I think she is a spiteful person & I have lost a lot of respect for her as a result. So you give an actor 6 lines through the first half of the season & then get pissed when he asks to be released from his contract? Shonda claims all characters have ebbs & flow. Seriously? I don’t remember anyone else having an ebb like this one. And then, in the finale, which is most likely his last episode, you drag him for a block and a half by a bus & leave him as a mangled mess. To add insult to injury, none of his friends realized it was him (because you know, they are use to George not being around on account of his 6 lines all season) until the last 5 min of the show. Even if you are having issues with an actor, you owe it to your audience to send a beloved character out in a respectful manner and I don’t think she did the George character right. Izzie on the other hand, would have a fantastic send off, if in fact she is leaving, which I don’t think she is. So yeah, we’ll see how next season goes. I’m pretty bitter about the finale & think Shonda is a big ol bitch, so if the show doesn’t hold my interest it will be pretty easy for me to remove it from my schedule. Season: C+ (D for first half A for final half); Finale C+ (thought it was good minus the whole George incident and I think the penultimate episode was 1000x more emotional)
Survivor-This is a show that varies by season. It really depends on the cast & how they interact. I thought this was a great season, it was very easy to root for JT, Stephen & Taj (especially when they went into the merge down by 3) but they managed to rally & vote off the entire other tribe. In addition, I thought Tyson added just the right amount of villain & love him or hate him, Coach provided many comic moments. Plus, not only did I win the Survivor Pool (go JT) I also want the Survivor Fantasy league (Tobins-is that a first??) Season: A, Finale: A+
The Office-Honestly, I probably wouldn’t watch this show if Jay didn’t love it so much. As I’ve said in the past, I’m kinda over Steve Carrell & it is hard for me to take him seriously as a boss. I will say that I really enjoyed the Michael Scott Paper Company development, especially since it demonstrated what makes Michael so valuable. Season: B+; Finale:B+
The Amazing Race-I thought this season had potential. The cheese challenge was hysterical & I was all about the Mel & Mike. Too bad they didn’t make it to the end. I was underwhelmed with the teams that made it to the end and I thought the finale was a bit anticlimactic. Still good times though. Season: B; Finale: C
Desperate Housewives-I will miss Edie Britt. I think the series will be missing the brutally honest bitch element that Nicole Sheridan brought to the show. I thought it was a solid season, especially the start of the season when we first were met with the ladies’ new situations, five years after the finale. I was a bit disappointed that they threw Gabby & Carlos back into the lap of luxury, but at least they are a solid couple this year. I thought the finale was ok, a bit anticlimactic, and really, I could care less about who Mike is marrying (my bet would be Catherine though) what is really interesting to me (and terrifying at the same time) is Lynette’s unplanned pregnancy (with twins!!!) Season: B, Finale: B+
Brothers & Sisters-This season was so-so for me. There were some great moments (any Walker family dinner for example). For me, it is still all about Kevin. I’m glad Tommy is gone, he was pretty lame anyway and I’m soooooo over Ryan. I had a little Buffy déjà vu when Kitty ran after Robert’s helicopter, but I suspect their marriage is DONE which is a bit sad because I like Rob Lowe, but I think it will provide some fireworks. Season: B-; Finale: B
Castle-I am a Nathan Fillion fan which is why I decided to check this show, but I grew to like it very quickly (although truthfully it is mostly because of Fillion’s character, Nick Castle). In the same way that The Mentalist relies on Patrick Jane’s ability to read people & see things others overlook, Castle, as a mystery writer, is able to take a step back from the case & see what the cops are overlooking. Again, I could care less about the weekly mysteries, it is just fun to see what trouble Castle will get himself into each week. It is a completely ridiculous concept, but Filllion is so awesome I don’t care. Season: B Season Finale: B+
Scrubs- I’m glad that ABC picked up this show last year so that it could get the proper send off it deserves. Solid season & I thought the finale was perfect (and I’m not too happy about them bringing it back next year). Season: B Finale: A
Better Off Ted-I think this is a great sitcom with a really strong cast. Besides Ted himself, I think Portia Di Rossi is a stand out. All the supporting characters are solid & I really like the original feel of the show. The finale provided extra laughs as the folks from Veridian tried to increase morale by decorating the “drones” cubes in 4 prepicked “safe” styles (cat, space, antique car & Green Bay Packers)—you know instead of letting everyone decorate their cubes in their individual styles-- and Veronica tried to complement everyone (including the kitchen cabinet) while keeping her hair down to appear less intimidating.. Season: B+, Finale: B+
30 Rock- I am so in love with this show. The best cast on tv with every single person contributing to make magic. I regularly laugh out loud & I’m glad that Liz Lemon & company are finally getting some respect. Season: A; Finale: A
Bones-I started watching this show over the summer (thank you Netflix) and caught up about halfway through the season. I think the show is great most days with a few misses (I really hated the conclusion of the grave digger storyline). I am interested to see how they are going to keep the Booth/Bones dynamic moving along without getting tired. I’m a wee bit scared of the amnesia storyline that is waiting for us next year & I thought the season finale was a big ol waste of time (don’t hype your 2 main characters getting together if it is not real!!). Season: B; Finale: D
Dollhouse-I thought the season started off a little rough but showed definite improvement as the season went on. I’m hoping Joss & Co. have a game plan laid out just in case the show survives another season because I’m a bit concerned that the overarching storyline could stall out. In addition, I was also afraid that Eliza Dushku couldn’t carry a show on her own but I think she has improved as well. I thought the finale was a little bit of a let down, but there were a few cool moments (like finding out that the doctor aka Fred was a doll and Omega kicked ass). Season: B; Finale: B-
Friday Night Lights-For me, the season started in October, so forgive me if I forget some of what happened. Regardless, I remember really enjoying the season and all of the characters (especially my Timmy!). I think the finale was great & I’m really interested to see where the show is going to go next year. Where will people’s loyalties lie? Who will still be around? How will Coach Taylor adapt? Very exciting indeed! Season: A; Finale: A
Well that's it for now. Be on the look out for the fall season grid, first impressions on the new schedule & the best of the 08-09 season!!
Well, another tv season has concluded. It has been too, too long. Work was monopolizing my time & I apologize for the lack of KT updates. On the plus side, with facebook I am able to post notable news stories right to my page so you are never left without scoopage!! Anyhoo, please see below for my season finale report card. Last week was Upfront Week so later this week I’ll be sending out the 2009 Fall TV Schedule and some first impressions of the new shows. That will be followed up by a wrap up of the season, listing out the best performances (according to me).
Before I get to that, I’d just like to take a minute to say that people in Hollywood are DUMB. How can you possible think of making a buffy anything without the Whedon? I could see if it was 20 years from now & you were introducing the character & mythology to a new group of people but Buffy has a rabid fan base & I think you are just setting yourself up to fail. A big Booo Bahhhhh Hisss to that one!!!
As I have mentioned before, it is pretty hard for me to break up with a show after I’ve invested so much of my time but I did successfully ditch Heroes (really? You escape from a plane crash & then just hang around there? You don’t run for your life??) and Private Practice (the last 2 episodes were sitting on my tivo and I just had absolutely no desire to watch them).
Even after all this time I'm still heartbroken over the loss of Pushing Daisies. At least ABC has decided to air the final episodes along with those of Eli Stone & Dirty Sexy Money. I believe they start airing this Saturday, so make sure to set your Tivo's!!
How I Met Your Mother-This has been an interesting season with Ted nearly getting married, Barney realizing he has feelings & the constant struggle to hide both Robyn & Lilly’s real life pregnancies. HIMYM continues to be one of my favorite shows, even though later, I can’t ever remember what the episodes were about. Season Finale & Season: B+
24-This season was a significant improvement over season 6 (which truthfully, isn’t sayg very much). I was happy to see Soul Patch Tony, but I kinda wish he had stayed good because it would have been nice if Jack had one person he could always trust. I really liked the new President & her staff (except for her daughter who stunk & I’m glad her ass is going to jail). As an added bonus, Kim showed up & ultimately did not suck. She was able to avoid kidnapping, cougar attack & amnesia & even ended up contributing (and, if we are to make our own assumptions about the finale, saved her dad). I thought the finale was a bit anticlimactic, but I guess they all can’t end with Nina killing Terri (best ending ever)….Season: B+; Finale B
Chuck-You need to be watching this show. WHY ARE YOU NOT WATCHING THIS SHOW?? Chuck has one of the best ensemble casts on tv (I would argue second to 30 Rock). Adam Baldwin is frikkin fantastic as gruff agent Casey, while Sarah is the stuff little boys dream about and the staff of the Buy More regularly make me fall off the couch because I am laughing so hard. The show really kicked it up a notch over the last few episodes & turned the series on its head in the finale. Thankfully the show was picked up by NBC & will return to the schedule at midseason. Plenty of time for you to get your asses on Netflix and add it to your queue (or you can go to hulu.com or NBC.com). Season: A; Finale A+
The Mentalist-This is one of those shows that snuck up on me. I wasn’t going to watch (especially since I’m watching too many cop shows right now) but then I saw a few of the commercials & decided to check it out. The show rests on Simon Fuller’s Jane’s shoulders & he pulls it off. He has just the right amount of arrogance to make him still likable. We know he knows more than we do and he knows that we know that he knows more than everyone, but he never comes off as obnoxious. Many times the story of the week is predictable, but it is how Jane and his CBI peers figure it out that makes the show worth watching. Plus I’m definitely interested to see how the Red John story plays out. Season: A, Finale:
Life-Oh Charlie Crews, I will miss you! It saddens me that this show is gone, but I’m glad that the writers had the foresight to know that they were in danger & wrapped up most of the big mysteries of the series. Again, for me, this show was not about the week to week mysteries, it was about my connection to Crews, his mystery, his friends & his connection to Danni. I thought the finale was fantastic, especially that throat punch at the end. Season: A; Finale: A+
Fringe-I started watching this show for my beloved Pacey & even though the week to week stories were interesting, I was there for Pacey & because Jay LOVES this show. It tends to freak me out, but I like it. Although I was not over the moon for this show on a weekly basis, I have to say the finale as fantastic. Where shows like Lost & Greys’ simply set up cliffhangers for the sake of cliffhangers (more on that later) Fringe actually gave some answers to the questions we’ve been asking all season while proposing exciting new questions for next season. Besides the last scene (which was CRRRAZZY) I can’t believe Pacey is alternate dimension Pacey!!!! Season: B+; Finale: A+
Lost-Two hours. Two hours & really what did we learn? Yes, we saw some progress on the John Locke storyline. Locke is indeed dead, his body cloned & hijacked by Jacob’s early companion. Did Jacob want Ben to stab him? Was Ben finally the one being played? Exactly who is the “they” that are coming? But really, I felt like the show just spent 2 hours moving at a glacial pace to just set up more questions for next season. Questions that we’ve been asking all season anyway. What’s up with those other people on the plane? Ok, we know they are linked to Jacob, still no clue who they are. Will Jin & Sun be reunited? Will the time travelling stop? And is Juliet dead? (my guess is yes as she is in a new show next year)….so we’ll see. Last summer I rewatched the entire series straight through & I have to say that it made me appreciate the show so much more. I have faith that next season will be worth it. But I think as far as season finales go, it was WEAK. Season: A, Finale: C+
Grey’s Anatomy-I tried to break up with this show when Denny showed up. If it had just been Denny I may have been able to handle it but really the first half of the season was pretty weak. When Shonda finally admitted that Izzie did have a brain tumor (as rumored) then I decided to give it another go. It was a very uneven season. As I previously mentioned I hated Denny & I also couldn’t stand the cardiologist with Aspergers, the interns re-enacting Flatliners, does anyone remember Melissa George? Plus the disappearance of Hahn showed a complete lack of respect for not only the actress, but also for the audience (a thought I will come back to in a minute) I thought Meredith & Derek were a lot less annoying than last season (likable even!!), I think McSteamy & Callie have the best friendship ever (and I was secretly hoping for them to get together after Hahn left) and I loved every second of the Christina & Owen story (well, except for the icicle incident). The second half of the season was a lot better. Once we knew about Izzie’s illness, Katherine Heigl (love her or hate her) demonstrated the acting abilities she possesses and I thought this storyline upped everyone’s game, except of course for my dear George, who probably had a total of 45 min of screen time this year. As if I wasn’t mad enough at Shonda for George’s lack of screen time, I am furious with her for the conclusion of his storyline. I think she is a spiteful person & I have lost a lot of respect for her as a result. So you give an actor 6 lines through the first half of the season & then get pissed when he asks to be released from his contract? Shonda claims all characters have ebbs & flow. Seriously? I don’t remember anyone else having an ebb like this one. And then, in the finale, which is most likely his last episode, you drag him for a block and a half by a bus & leave him as a mangled mess. To add insult to injury, none of his friends realized it was him (because you know, they are use to George not being around on account of his 6 lines all season) until the last 5 min of the show. Even if you are having issues with an actor, you owe it to your audience to send a beloved character out in a respectful manner and I don’t think she did the George character right. Izzie on the other hand, would have a fantastic send off, if in fact she is leaving, which I don’t think she is. So yeah, we’ll see how next season goes. I’m pretty bitter about the finale & think Shonda is a big ol bitch, so if the show doesn’t hold my interest it will be pretty easy for me to remove it from my schedule. Season: C+ (D for first half A for final half); Finale C+ (thought it was good minus the whole George incident and I think the penultimate episode was 1000x more emotional)
Survivor-This is a show that varies by season. It really depends on the cast & how they interact. I thought this was a great season, it was very easy to root for JT, Stephen & Taj (especially when they went into the merge down by 3) but they managed to rally & vote off the entire other tribe. In addition, I thought Tyson added just the right amount of villain & love him or hate him, Coach provided many comic moments. Plus, not only did I win the Survivor Pool (go JT) I also want the Survivor Fantasy league (Tobins-is that a first??) Season: A, Finale: A+
The Office-Honestly, I probably wouldn’t watch this show if Jay didn’t love it so much. As I’ve said in the past, I’m kinda over Steve Carrell & it is hard for me to take him seriously as a boss. I will say that I really enjoyed the Michael Scott Paper Company development, especially since it demonstrated what makes Michael so valuable. Season: B+; Finale:B+
The Amazing Race-I thought this season had potential. The cheese challenge was hysterical & I was all about the Mel & Mike. Too bad they didn’t make it to the end. I was underwhelmed with the teams that made it to the end and I thought the finale was a bit anticlimactic. Still good times though. Season: B; Finale: C
Desperate Housewives-I will miss Edie Britt. I think the series will be missing the brutally honest bitch element that Nicole Sheridan brought to the show. I thought it was a solid season, especially the start of the season when we first were met with the ladies’ new situations, five years after the finale. I was a bit disappointed that they threw Gabby & Carlos back into the lap of luxury, but at least they are a solid couple this year. I thought the finale was ok, a bit anticlimactic, and really, I could care less about who Mike is marrying (my bet would be Catherine though) what is really interesting to me (and terrifying at the same time) is Lynette’s unplanned pregnancy (with twins!!!) Season: B, Finale: B+
Brothers & Sisters-This season was so-so for me. There were some great moments (any Walker family dinner for example). For me, it is still all about Kevin. I’m glad Tommy is gone, he was pretty lame anyway and I’m soooooo over Ryan. I had a little Buffy déjà vu when Kitty ran after Robert’s helicopter, but I suspect their marriage is DONE which is a bit sad because I like Rob Lowe, but I think it will provide some fireworks. Season: B-; Finale: B
Castle-I am a Nathan Fillion fan which is why I decided to check this show, but I grew to like it very quickly (although truthfully it is mostly because of Fillion’s character, Nick Castle). In the same way that The Mentalist relies on Patrick Jane’s ability to read people & see things others overlook, Castle, as a mystery writer, is able to take a step back from the case & see what the cops are overlooking. Again, I could care less about the weekly mysteries, it is just fun to see what trouble Castle will get himself into each week. It is a completely ridiculous concept, but Filllion is so awesome I don’t care. Season: B Season Finale: B+
Scrubs- I’m glad that ABC picked up this show last year so that it could get the proper send off it deserves. Solid season & I thought the finale was perfect (and I’m not too happy about them bringing it back next year). Season: B Finale: A
Better Off Ted-I think this is a great sitcom with a really strong cast. Besides Ted himself, I think Portia Di Rossi is a stand out. All the supporting characters are solid & I really like the original feel of the show. The finale provided extra laughs as the folks from Veridian tried to increase morale by decorating the “drones” cubes in 4 prepicked “safe” styles (cat, space, antique car & Green Bay Packers)—you know instead of letting everyone decorate their cubes in their individual styles-- and Veronica tried to complement everyone (including the kitchen cabinet) while keeping her hair down to appear less intimidating.. Season: B+, Finale: B+
30 Rock- I am so in love with this show. The best cast on tv with every single person contributing to make magic. I regularly laugh out loud & I’m glad that Liz Lemon & company are finally getting some respect. Season: A; Finale: A
Bones-I started watching this show over the summer (thank you Netflix) and caught up about halfway through the season. I think the show is great most days with a few misses (I really hated the conclusion of the grave digger storyline). I am interested to see how they are going to keep the Booth/Bones dynamic moving along without getting tired. I’m a wee bit scared of the amnesia storyline that is waiting for us next year & I thought the season finale was a big ol waste of time (don’t hype your 2 main characters getting together if it is not real!!). Season: B; Finale: D
Dollhouse-I thought the season started off a little rough but showed definite improvement as the season went on. I’m hoping Joss & Co. have a game plan laid out just in case the show survives another season because I’m a bit concerned that the overarching storyline could stall out. In addition, I was also afraid that Eliza Dushku couldn’t carry a show on her own but I think she has improved as well. I thought the finale was a little bit of a let down, but there were a few cool moments (like finding out that the doctor aka Fred was a doll and Omega kicked ass). Season: B; Finale: B-
Friday Night Lights-For me, the season started in October, so forgive me if I forget some of what happened. Regardless, I remember really enjoying the season and all of the characters (especially my Timmy!). I think the finale was great & I’m really interested to see where the show is going to go next year. Where will people’s loyalties lie? Who will still be around? How will Coach Taylor adapt? Very exciting indeed! Season: A; Finale: A
Well that's it for now. Be on the look out for the fall season grid, first impressions on the new schedule & the best of the 08-09 season!!
Monday, January 05, 2009
KT Update! Midseason Schedule
Hey everyone! It is midseason time so I have attached an updated tv schedule with return dates/premiere dates for the winter schedule. Below are some snippets about the new shows that will grace tv screens beginning in January. I’ll probably check out Castle (out of loyalty to Nathan Fillion), Cupid (loyalty to Rob Thomas-although if I don’t watch & it gets cancelled, will he write the Veronica Mars movie???) and Dollhouse.
Midseason shows:
Castle (ABC, Mon 10PM) Nathan Fillion tries again. I really hope this show works out for him or I may have to stop watching his shows. I feel like I’m jinxing him! This time as mystery novelist Nick Castle, who teams up with an NYPD detective when a copycat murderer starts staging murder scenes from Nick's novels.
Cupid (ABC, Tues 10PM) Back in 1998 this tv show starred Jeremy Piven as Trevor Pierce, a man who keeps insisting to his psychologist that he is the Roman god of love, Cupid. Now, ABC is bring back the retooled Rob Thomas (creator of Veronica Mars) romantic comedy starring Bobby Cannavale as Trevor & Sarah Paulson as his shrink.
The Unusuals (ABC, Wed 10PM) Amber Tamblyn (Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants) stars as a detective transferred from vice to the homicide division & discovers that her new colleagues all have a quirky sense of humor & several dirty little secrets.
Lie to Me (Fox, Wed 9) Tim Roth stars in this rip off of the Mentalist.
Kings (NBC, Thurs 10PM) Is a reimagining of the David vs. Goliath struggle starring Ian McShane, Christopher Egan (Vanished), and Sebastian Stan (Gossip Girl). Supposedly everyone geeked out at the preview which premiered at Press Tour.
Harper’s Island (CBS, Thurs 10PM) A 13 episode murder mystery event. A bunch of people go to a secluded island for a destination wedding. Then people start turning up dead. Who done it? You’ll find out in 13 weeks (provided the show makes it that long).
Dollhouse (Fox, Fri 9PM) If you don’t know about this show then you don’t read my blog. The Whedon’s first foray back into the land of tv & I’m nervous. I don’t trust Fox. Anyhoo, just in case you’ve been under a rock for the past 6 months, Dollhouse centers around Eliza Dushku’s Echo, a member of a highly illegal and underground group who have had their personalities wiped clean so they can be imprinted with any number of new personas. For the love of God, watch it!!!
Flashpoint (CBS, Fri 9PM) Papa Mars stars in this show which focuses on the Strategic Response Unit.
The Golden Globes are already next week (how dare they put it on against the return of Jack Bauer). I'll make my comments after the show about the winners, I haven't seen any of the movies, so I really can't comment on those anyway.
Midseason shows:
Castle (ABC, Mon 10PM) Nathan Fillion tries again. I really hope this show works out for him or I may have to stop watching his shows. I feel like I’m jinxing him! This time as mystery novelist Nick Castle, who teams up with an NYPD detective when a copycat murderer starts staging murder scenes from Nick's novels.
Cupid (ABC, Tues 10PM) Back in 1998 this tv show starred Jeremy Piven as Trevor Pierce, a man who keeps insisting to his psychologist that he is the Roman god of love, Cupid. Now, ABC is bring back the retooled Rob Thomas (creator of Veronica Mars) romantic comedy starring Bobby Cannavale as Trevor & Sarah Paulson as his shrink.
The Unusuals (ABC, Wed 10PM) Amber Tamblyn (Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants) stars as a detective transferred from vice to the homicide division & discovers that her new colleagues all have a quirky sense of humor & several dirty little secrets.
Lie to Me (Fox, Wed 9) Tim Roth stars in this rip off of the Mentalist.
Kings (NBC, Thurs 10PM) Is a reimagining of the David vs. Goliath struggle starring Ian McShane, Christopher Egan (Vanished), and Sebastian Stan (Gossip Girl). Supposedly everyone geeked out at the preview which premiered at Press Tour.
Harper’s Island (CBS, Thurs 10PM) A 13 episode murder mystery event. A bunch of people go to a secluded island for a destination wedding. Then people start turning up dead. Who done it? You’ll find out in 13 weeks (provided the show makes it that long).
Dollhouse (Fox, Fri 9PM) If you don’t know about this show then you don’t read my blog. The Whedon’s first foray back into the land of tv & I’m nervous. I don’t trust Fox. Anyhoo, just in case you’ve been under a rock for the past 6 months, Dollhouse centers around Eliza Dushku’s Echo, a member of a highly illegal and underground group who have had their personalities wiped clean so they can be imprinted with any number of new personas. For the love of God, watch it!!!
Flashpoint (CBS, Fri 9PM) Papa Mars stars in this show which focuses on the Strategic Response Unit.
The Golden Globes are already next week (how dare they put it on against the return of Jack Bauer). I'll make my comments after the show about the winners, I haven't seen any of the movies, so I really can't comment on those anyway.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
KT! Update: A Breakup, A Makeup & Letting Go
Well my friends, it has been a long 2 ½ months. I apologize for the lack of KT updates, but work was kicking my ass & I didn’t have time to do a proper update. Originally, I was holding on to write my fall tv review, but I guess that doesn’t matter now as a few of those shows will not be on my television much longer. The tv season has been chugging along, so let’s get to it, eh?
As far as the new shows go, I am still enjoying Fringe, although I still say that if Pacey wasn’t there I wouldn’t be such a loyal fan. The show is a little icky for me at times, but luckily for me, Pacey makes it all better.
90210 didn’t make it past week 3. While watching an episode that was Brenda free, I thought to myself, “Do I really care?” and ultimately, the answer was a big no.
Although Jay was enjoying it, I was just about to quit My Own Worst Enemy when NBC cancelled it. I thought Christian Slater did a good job, but his “normal guy” personality was annoying. If he had just been badass for the whole show that would have been cool. Maybe Christian can go meet up with Jack Bauer this year (more on Jack in a minute).
The new show I am enjoying most is The Mentalist. Simon Baker is fantastic as a man atoning for past sins by working for the California Bureau of Investigation. His special talent is that he notices all the little details everyone else misses. Baker makes the show, while it is usually quite obvious “who done it” you don’t mind because Baker is having so much fun figuring it out.
So, the title of this update is a Breakup, a Makeup & Letting Go. Ready to hear who I’ve dumped? Grey’s Anatomy. In the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “We are so over, we need a new word for over.” I was late to the party, but watching the pilot sucked me in. I didn’t want to like them, but I did and I ended up invested. And then the whole Denny incident, that’s what pushed me over the edge & made me a true Grey’s fan. Interesting that it is Denny again that has pushed me over the edge. This storyline with Denny & Izzie is atrocious. It is so horrible that I’m actually OFFENDED by it. I just can’t believe that ABC would greenlight this kind of wretched, stupid, horrendous writing! Even though I thought it was lame, at least when I thought that Izzie was going to have a brain tumor I could make sense of how she was seeing Denny. But then Shonda came out & said that Izzie did not have a tumor & that Denny would be around at least until February. I just…can’t. I can’t. It has been removed from my Tivo & I shall not take part in it again, which does give me a twinge of sadness because McSteamy was growing on me. But then I just get all angry again because everyone I use to like I can’t stand anymore. Why won’t Cristina teach her interns? Especially after everything she went through with Hahn? Why are the interns acting out Flatliners? Why do we keep adding characters when there are already too many? Plus, I’m hearing that George has been so absent lately because ABC is getting ready to boot him too. Done..done..done…On the plus side, I’m glad that it pissed me off so much, that I could dump it because I still can’t break up with Heroes & it is killing me.
And as one thing ends, another begins….
I broke up with Britney a long time ago & I’ve been secretly hoping that she would come back & kick some ass old school style. She’s been making the rounds recently (MTV, GMA) and I have to say that although I don’t think she’s back to “Oops level” it is certainly an improvement. This morning she performed “Circus” and “Womanizer” on GMA. Of course she didn’t sing live & in “Womanizer” there was a lot of walking around, but there was a lot more dancing in “Circus.” At times she did look a little awkward but for the most part she was Britney. And ya know what, I am going to buy her new record. She needs some positive reinforcement right now because I’m still a wee bit concerned about her. I mean, I’m glad she’s got her daddy & original manager back with her but during the MTV special there were moments she did not look entirely stable. Check out the GMA performance here:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid2997052001/bclid3075891001/bctid3349166001
Letting Go.
Oh, I’m still so depressed about Pushing Daisies. I’m getting over Dirty Sexy Money & Eli Stone but I’m a sad girl when I think about losing Ned & company. Creator Brian Fuller has said that a movie may be in the works, so I’ll hold out hope for that.
At least I still have Jack Bauer. 24: Redemption was awesome, Jack Bauer kicked ass (even killed someone with his leg) and I’m super excited for this season. Hooray for Jack.
Oh & before I forget, next month the mid-season shows start rolling in, so be on the look out for the new & improved tv listings soon! Fox is already pissing me off! Dollhouse will be on Friday nights starting in February. Why oh Why don’t you show the Whedon the proper respect?
As far as the new shows go, I am still enjoying Fringe, although I still say that if Pacey wasn’t there I wouldn’t be such a loyal fan. The show is a little icky for me at times, but luckily for me, Pacey makes it all better.
90210 didn’t make it past week 3. While watching an episode that was Brenda free, I thought to myself, “Do I really care?” and ultimately, the answer was a big no.
Although Jay was enjoying it, I was just about to quit My Own Worst Enemy when NBC cancelled it. I thought Christian Slater did a good job, but his “normal guy” personality was annoying. If he had just been badass for the whole show that would have been cool. Maybe Christian can go meet up with Jack Bauer this year (more on Jack in a minute).
The new show I am enjoying most is The Mentalist. Simon Baker is fantastic as a man atoning for past sins by working for the California Bureau of Investigation. His special talent is that he notices all the little details everyone else misses. Baker makes the show, while it is usually quite obvious “who done it” you don’t mind because Baker is having so much fun figuring it out.
So, the title of this update is a Breakup, a Makeup & Letting Go. Ready to hear who I’ve dumped? Grey’s Anatomy. In the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “We are so over, we need a new word for over.” I was late to the party, but watching the pilot sucked me in. I didn’t want to like them, but I did and I ended up invested. And then the whole Denny incident, that’s what pushed me over the edge & made me a true Grey’s fan. Interesting that it is Denny again that has pushed me over the edge. This storyline with Denny & Izzie is atrocious. It is so horrible that I’m actually OFFENDED by it. I just can’t believe that ABC would greenlight this kind of wretched, stupid, horrendous writing! Even though I thought it was lame, at least when I thought that Izzie was going to have a brain tumor I could make sense of how she was seeing Denny. But then Shonda came out & said that Izzie did not have a tumor & that Denny would be around at least until February. I just…can’t. I can’t. It has been removed from my Tivo & I shall not take part in it again, which does give me a twinge of sadness because McSteamy was growing on me. But then I just get all angry again because everyone I use to like I can’t stand anymore. Why won’t Cristina teach her interns? Especially after everything she went through with Hahn? Why are the interns acting out Flatliners? Why do we keep adding characters when there are already too many? Plus, I’m hearing that George has been so absent lately because ABC is getting ready to boot him too. Done..done..done…On the plus side, I’m glad that it pissed me off so much, that I could dump it because I still can’t break up with Heroes & it is killing me.
And as one thing ends, another begins….
I broke up with Britney a long time ago & I’ve been secretly hoping that she would come back & kick some ass old school style. She’s been making the rounds recently (MTV, GMA) and I have to say that although I don’t think she’s back to “Oops level” it is certainly an improvement. This morning she performed “Circus” and “Womanizer” on GMA. Of course she didn’t sing live & in “Womanizer” there was a lot of walking around, but there was a lot more dancing in “Circus.” At times she did look a little awkward but for the most part she was Britney. And ya know what, I am going to buy her new record. She needs some positive reinforcement right now because I’m still a wee bit concerned about her. I mean, I’m glad she’s got her daddy & original manager back with her but during the MTV special there were moments she did not look entirely stable. Check out the GMA performance here:
http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid2997052001/bclid3075891001/bctid3349166001
Letting Go.
Oh, I’m still so depressed about Pushing Daisies. I’m getting over Dirty Sexy Money & Eli Stone but I’m a sad girl when I think about losing Ned & company. Creator Brian Fuller has said that a movie may be in the works, so I’ll hold out hope for that.
At least I still have Jack Bauer. 24: Redemption was awesome, Jack Bauer kicked ass (even killed someone with his leg) and I’m super excited for this season. Hooray for Jack.
Oh & before I forget, next month the mid-season shows start rolling in, so be on the look out for the new & improved tv listings soon! Fox is already pissing me off! Dollhouse will be on Friday nights starting in February. Why oh Why don’t you show the Whedon the proper respect?
Friday, September 19, 2008
KT Update-When did Brian Austin Green Get So Delicious?
Before I dive into some fall reviews, I want to take a second to discuss The Sarah Connor Chronicles over on Fox. Jay & I just finished Season 1 last night, which we found quite enjoyable (although I am baffled by the Terminator lore). Can someone please tell me how John Connor’s father is from the future? Doesn’t that mean that there was some form of a future where John Connor did not exist? Wasn’t Kyle Reese sent back to protect Sarah Connor because she was John Connor’s mother? Just thinking about the whole thing makes me go cross-eyed. In any case, as much as I enjoy the show, it reached a new level when Brian Austin Green joined the cast. DAMN!! what a hottie! As most of you know I am a sucker for a comeback & I think that Green is doing a stellar job and I have to endorse this show which airs on a jam packed Monday night on Fox (uh, why is everything on Mondays this year?) I’m a wee bit concerned for this show because it is up against so many other quality shows but if you have room on your TIVO I say give it a chance.
Next week is a big night for premieres (HIMYM, Heroes, Grey’s, Survivor & The Office) so I thought I’d give you my two cents on what I’ve been watching in the mean time.
Prison Break-Although I broke up with this show half way through season 2, Jay just can’t give up on it and so against my own better judgment, I decided to spend some time with my hubby in front of the tv (Lord knows he sits through SYTYCD, Survivor and Project Runway most nights without TOO much complaining). But, I should have known better. The first hour was not too painful, but when our favorite escapees all happened to get arrested precisely at the same moment (setting up the “take down the company or you all go to jail for a very long time” premise) that’s when I hit my limit. In the words of Chunk, “That’s all I can stand, I CAN’T STAND NO MORE!!!!”. KT Premiere Grade: D
90210- Ok, I’m going to tread lightly on this one. I know a whole heap of you watched this & hated it with a firey passion. I have to say, I was not part of this group. I didn’t LOVE it, but I didn’t HATE it either. I did consider skipping the next two installments, but since little else is on, I gave the show a 2nd & 3rd shot. With the exception of Naomi, the cast is growing on me. I really like Silver a lot & I think that she & Dixon have the potential to be a cute couple. Ethan is growing on me but Annie gets on my a little bit. I do find myself getting more excited by the Kelly/Brenda storylines & do worry that the show might lose something for me once those storylines go away. I didn’t like that Dylan was Sammy’s father. I’m still part of the Dylan-Brenda fan club. Anyhoo, I’m going to continue watching. Do I dare say that this is a quality show? Umm, no. But take a sneak peak at the old 90210 & you’ll find that this one is quite similar in tone. Its corny, but that’s how the show has always been. KT Premiere Grade: C+
Fringe-I’m not going to hide my bias, oh I’m coming right out & admitting that I *heart* Pacey & he is 75% responsible for me watching this show (J.J. Abrams is 25% responsible). I will say that this show creeps me out at times, but then I get to watch Pacey run around in his trench coat or make a sarcastic comment and all is right with the world. I’m intrigued by the premise of this show & enjoyed the premiere. I like the dynamic of the three main characters & didn’t really see the last plot twist coming (Jimmy called it a second before it happened).
So there you have it. Wow, it is Sept. 19 and I’ve only watched 3 premieres? That’s just crazy talk! Good thing I’ve been netflixing like a maniac this summer! I’m just finishing up Season 1 of Bones (I’ll have a review once I finish); as I mentioned Jay & I have been watching Sarah Connor Chronicles (and Battlestar Galatica) and finally I’ve been working my way through Lost. I just finished Season 2. Oooooo Michael. So misguided!!!
Before I head off, I just wanted to share some delightful news that has made mine & Jay’s lives much, much easier. It seems Tivo & Direct TV have kissed and made up. A few years ago Direct TV offered Tivo’s as part of their box. Then they broke up & Direct TV started offering these sub-par DVRs. Now news comes that a deal has just been brokered that will link the two for five years and in addition they are working on an HD Direct TV Tivo. Hooray! Happiness at last. Jay can watch football & I can have my tivo back. Oh happy day!
So that’s about it for today. I’ll be back next week to discuss the Emmy’s and some of the premieres I’ve waiting for:
Dancing With the Stars Mon 8PM ABC
How I Met Your Mother Mon 8:30 PM CBS
Heroes Mon 9PM NBC (There is a recap show at 8)
Knight Rider Wed 8PM NBC
Survivor Thurs 8PM CBS
Grey’s Anatomy Thurs 9PM ABC
The Office Thurs 9PM NBC
The Amazing Race Sun 8PM CBS
Desperate Housewives Sun 9PM ABC
Brothers & Sisters Sun 10PM ABC
Next week is a big night for premieres (HIMYM, Heroes, Grey’s, Survivor & The Office) so I thought I’d give you my two cents on what I’ve been watching in the mean time.
Prison Break-Although I broke up with this show half way through season 2, Jay just can’t give up on it and so against my own better judgment, I decided to spend some time with my hubby in front of the tv (Lord knows he sits through SYTYCD, Survivor and Project Runway most nights without TOO much complaining). But, I should have known better. The first hour was not too painful, but when our favorite escapees all happened to get arrested precisely at the same moment (setting up the “take down the company or you all go to jail for a very long time” premise) that’s when I hit my limit. In the words of Chunk, “That’s all I can stand, I CAN’T STAND NO MORE!!!!”. KT Premiere Grade: D
90210- Ok, I’m going to tread lightly on this one. I know a whole heap of you watched this & hated it with a firey passion. I have to say, I was not part of this group. I didn’t LOVE it, but I didn’t HATE it either. I did consider skipping the next two installments, but since little else is on, I gave the show a 2nd & 3rd shot. With the exception of Naomi, the cast is growing on me. I really like Silver a lot & I think that she & Dixon have the potential to be a cute couple. Ethan is growing on me but Annie gets on my a little bit. I do find myself getting more excited by the Kelly/Brenda storylines & do worry that the show might lose something for me once those storylines go away. I didn’t like that Dylan was Sammy’s father. I’m still part of the Dylan-Brenda fan club. Anyhoo, I’m going to continue watching. Do I dare say that this is a quality show? Umm, no. But take a sneak peak at the old 90210 & you’ll find that this one is quite similar in tone. Its corny, but that’s how the show has always been. KT Premiere Grade: C+
Fringe-I’m not going to hide my bias, oh I’m coming right out & admitting that I *heart* Pacey & he is 75% responsible for me watching this show (J.J. Abrams is 25% responsible). I will say that this show creeps me out at times, but then I get to watch Pacey run around in his trench coat or make a sarcastic comment and all is right with the world. I’m intrigued by the premise of this show & enjoyed the premiere. I like the dynamic of the three main characters & didn’t really see the last plot twist coming (Jimmy called it a second before it happened).
So there you have it. Wow, it is Sept. 19 and I’ve only watched 3 premieres? That’s just crazy talk! Good thing I’ve been netflixing like a maniac this summer! I’m just finishing up Season 1 of Bones (I’ll have a review once I finish); as I mentioned Jay & I have been watching Sarah Connor Chronicles (and Battlestar Galatica) and finally I’ve been working my way through Lost. I just finished Season 2. Oooooo Michael. So misguided!!!
Before I head off, I just wanted to share some delightful news that has made mine & Jay’s lives much, much easier. It seems Tivo & Direct TV have kissed and made up. A few years ago Direct TV offered Tivo’s as part of their box. Then they broke up & Direct TV started offering these sub-par DVRs. Now news comes that a deal has just been brokered that will link the two for five years and in addition they are working on an HD Direct TV Tivo. Hooray! Happiness at last. Jay can watch football & I can have my tivo back. Oh happy day!
So that’s about it for today. I’ll be back next week to discuss the Emmy’s and some of the premieres I’ve waiting for:
Dancing With the Stars Mon 8PM ABC
How I Met Your Mother Mon 8:30 PM CBS
Heroes Mon 9PM NBC (There is a recap show at 8)
Knight Rider Wed 8PM NBC
Survivor Thurs 8PM CBS
Grey’s Anatomy Thurs 9PM ABC
The Office Thurs 9PM NBC
The Amazing Race Sun 8PM CBS
Desperate Housewives Sun 9PM ABC
Brothers & Sisters Sun 10PM ABC
Monday, August 25, 2008
KT! Update-They Make Me Cry
As you know, I’ve spent a good chunk of this summer watching my favorite tv shows on dvd. I am in the second season of Lost, Buffy and Sex & The City. For the first time I’m re-watching Angel season 1. All of these shows have been swirling around in my mind. At the same time, I’ve finally given in & read the Twilight series. In case you haven’t heard, Twilight is young adult fiction about a teenage girl named Bella who falls in love with a vampire named Edward Cullen. Twilight is the latest teen phenomenon happening right now, at ComicCon the movie’s panel was swarmed by girls dying to get a look at the cast & a sneak peak at the film. Last week I finished the last book of the series, and I have to say I was deeply disappointed. Perhaps I am tainted by the years of vampire lore that Joss Whedon has given me, or that Edward Cullen is not nearly as cool, tortured or dangerous as Angel or Spike. Or that even though they walk in this violent, supernatural world, there is never any collateral damage. No one important is ever lost & everything ends up so tidy. Or that Bella & Edward’s story didn’t move me the way that Buffy & Angel did 10 years ago (holy crap!) & still do. Just yesterday, I watched the crossover episode of Angel where Buffy comes to L.A. and Angel becomes human and I cried through the entire episode. I’ve seen that episode probably 6 or 7 times & I can still feel the pain between those two. So then I started thinking, are there any other tv couples that can do that to me? A couple that I can get so immersed in that I can feel their love & their pain? That I can re-watch an episode several times & still feel the emotions like the first time? Honestly, I think there is only one couple on tv right now that can do that to me, and we’ll get to that later. But first, let’s take a look back at some couples that I fell in love with and/or tore my heart out.
10. Let’s start with a blast from the past. I’m going all the way back to the early 90’s for Brenda & Dylan. Probably my first dalliance with a bad boy (although looking back, how bad was Dylan?) Brenda & Dylan were THE couple for me during my teen years. They provided your daily dose of drama & I loved every second of it. The big dance? The pregnancy scare? The break up to R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion” (you know it makes an impact when I can remember the song). That was when 90210 was on point. Once Brenda & Dylan broke up, the show lost something for me. I never quite bought Kelly & Dylan together & no one ever sparked with Brenda the way Dylan did. You know you’ve got something when all I can think about on the new 90210 was that it is a shame that Luke Perry turned it down because it would have been fantastic to see Brenda & Dylan together all these years later.
9. I know the big love story on Grey’s Anatomy is supposed to be Meredith & Derek and there were points along the way where that could have happened. But for me, nothing will ever, ever beat Izzy & Denny. I came into Grey’s late. I fought the power & did not start watching the first season on dvd until the series was already in Season 3. So I knew about Denny. I remember all the brouhaha on the internet after the episode aired but holy crap did I sob when it actually happened! Jay was in the other room & came in to see what was wrong with me. That’s how bad I was sobbing. It is one thing for me to tear up, but really for a show to make me sob, well that’s an accomplishment that is usually reserved for Joss Whedon. Although I still watch and occasionally really enjoy the show, that was the moment Grey’s peaked for me and I doubt it will ever be able to top it.
8. I was a big fan of Friends & of Ross and Rachel. In my opinion, the whole relationship was fantastic in the beginning but after a few years, it got a little old (plus then Monica & Chandler took center stage). The reason I have them on this list is because if I’m flipping through the channels and happen to land on a Friends re-run and it happens to be the episode with the Prom video, it gets me, every…single….time.
7. For a while I loved the WB and then for a while I hated it. But during those dark times there was a little show about a little town in Colorado called Everwood that kept me tied to my former favorite network. Everwood was not your every day WB teeny-bopper show. The cast was amazing and I felt like I knew & loved every single one of them, most of all Amy & Ephram. It is your typical story of the outcast who falls in love with the most beautiful girl school, but with the addition of a coma ridden boyfriend, a famous neurosurgeon dad and a hot blond babysitter. Things in Everwood were never as they seemed and I really appreciated that (hello, they freakin killed Colin). In fact, Everwood is the reason for my embargo against the CW (cancel Everwood & bring back 7th Heaven??? Seriously! I’ll never get over that)…anyhoo, you could always see the love between Ephram & Amy even when they weren’t together and when they finally were, it was worth the wait (and of course the breakup was heartbreaking too) but it was all ok in the end when Amy performed the grandest gesture of all with the ferris wheel.
6.The Pacey-Dawson debate continues to rage on years later but I stand by my assessment that it was ALL ABOUT PACEY. Dawson was whiny & stupid & had bad hair. Pacey was sarcastic, biting, and yes boys & girls, romantic. The Pacey & Joey romance brought something back to the Creek. Things were getting B-O-R-I-N-G until Pacey told Joey to ask him to stay. Remember the wall? Talk about romantic gestures, that one still gets me.
5. As we all know, the Whedon is the master of ripping your heart out of you chest, showing it to you, and then throwing it on the ground & stomping on it. He has done many things that have traumatized me over the years (see Buffy & Angel) but this was one of the worst things…ever. Talk about sobbing…uncontrollably. Winifred Burkle joined Team Angel & at once Wesley Wyndham Pryce was smitten. One would think the two would be a perfect match with their mutual love of research & the supernatural, but it took Fred four seasons to realize her feelings for Wesley and just when she did, well, I can’t even talk about it here or I might have a break down. But yeah, it was bad and Wesley never recovered & I’ll never forgive the WB for cancelling the show during its best season because I really would have loved to have seen what the Whedon had in store for everyone.
4. At this point I’ve accepted that once the bad boy shows his vulnerable side, I’m a sitting duck. When Veronica Mars premiered Logan Echolls was the typical spoiled rich boy with an attitude. I pretty much hated his guts. But then you see a little into his home life, realize he is still reeling from his girlfriend’s murder and you go a little soft. Then he loses his mother & it is all over. I fell for him just as hard as Veronica did. The first kiss between the two of them in front of the motel is one of the top five kisses I’ve ever seen on tv (quite possibly my favorite). Logan & Veronica were electric & every time she hurt him or he came through for her my heart fluttered.
3. So I know this is probably going to cause an uproar, but for me, the most emotional breakup of Sex & they City was Carrie & Aidan, both times. I was never the biggest fan of Big, (I think although he loved her he was so self-centered and closed off) and Aidan just gave himself so completely to Carrie, both times. I was devastated when Carrie slept with Big & then told Aidan on Charlotte’s wedding day (!) I was even more traumatized when I realized (when she broke into hives in the tacky wedding gown) that she would never marry Aidan. Oh, and then that breakup. That last night when they cuddled together in the room that would never be their apartment. Heartbreaking.
2. As I previously mentioned, I’ve been watching a lot of tv on dvd. While re-watching Lost this summer, I realized just how much I love Sun & Jin. Some tears did fall in the finale when Jin was left behind on the freighter, so I knew that I was affected by them, but it wasn’t until I re-watched the first two seasons did I realize how much. In the beginning, Jin came off as cold hearted. But as their story evolved and you saw how their love was completely mutilated by Sun’s family, it was easy to root for a reunion.
Sun & Jin are the emotional heart of Lost. Their story encompasses so many great things, it shows the power of redemption and forgiveness. I’m going to keep out hope that an another emotional reunion is in their future.
1. I’m sure you are all sooo shocked. Yes, for me it is all about Angel & Buffy. As Cordelia pointed out “They’ve got the forbidden love of all time”. Ahh, the slayer in love with a vampire. At first it didn’t seem so bad, I mean sure he was over 200 and she was 16, but it wasn’t until they consummated their relationship that this love story took its Shakespearian turn. I was so shocked & distressed about the second half of season 2 that I started reading spoilers. I couldn’t afford to be taken completely off guard like that. I mean, for the love of God, it is a tv show! Angel becoming evil, Buffy killing Angel, the prom, Faith’s poison, graduation, the Crossover! Even at the end, when Buffy told him that she was “cookie dough”. Buffy & Angel are one of the greatest couples because their love is eternal, no matter what happens or how much time they spend apart they will always love each other and thus, hurt each other (and all of us in the process!)
So that about wraps things up. My favorite tv couples and let me tell you, Edward Cullen & Bella don’t even come close to them (and don’t get me started on that final book, worst ever!!). Did I leave someone off the list, if so let me know?
The fall season starts next week, so I’ll be profiling the shows I’m going to watch & then doing a quick report card once everything has premiered. Looking forward to an eventful fall season! Hooary!
10. Let’s start with a blast from the past. I’m going all the way back to the early 90’s for Brenda & Dylan. Probably my first dalliance with a bad boy (although looking back, how bad was Dylan?) Brenda & Dylan were THE couple for me during my teen years. They provided your daily dose of drama & I loved every second of it. The big dance? The pregnancy scare? The break up to R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion” (you know it makes an impact when I can remember the song). That was when 90210 was on point. Once Brenda & Dylan broke up, the show lost something for me. I never quite bought Kelly & Dylan together & no one ever sparked with Brenda the way Dylan did. You know you’ve got something when all I can think about on the new 90210 was that it is a shame that Luke Perry turned it down because it would have been fantastic to see Brenda & Dylan together all these years later.
9. I know the big love story on Grey’s Anatomy is supposed to be Meredith & Derek and there were points along the way where that could have happened. But for me, nothing will ever, ever beat Izzy & Denny. I came into Grey’s late. I fought the power & did not start watching the first season on dvd until the series was already in Season 3. So I knew about Denny. I remember all the brouhaha on the internet after the episode aired but holy crap did I sob when it actually happened! Jay was in the other room & came in to see what was wrong with me. That’s how bad I was sobbing. It is one thing for me to tear up, but really for a show to make me sob, well that’s an accomplishment that is usually reserved for Joss Whedon. Although I still watch and occasionally really enjoy the show, that was the moment Grey’s peaked for me and I doubt it will ever be able to top it.
8. I was a big fan of Friends & of Ross and Rachel. In my opinion, the whole relationship was fantastic in the beginning but after a few years, it got a little old (plus then Monica & Chandler took center stage). The reason I have them on this list is because if I’m flipping through the channels and happen to land on a Friends re-run and it happens to be the episode with the Prom video, it gets me, every…single….time.
7. For a while I loved the WB and then for a while I hated it. But during those dark times there was a little show about a little town in Colorado called Everwood that kept me tied to my former favorite network. Everwood was not your every day WB teeny-bopper show. The cast was amazing and I felt like I knew & loved every single one of them, most of all Amy & Ephram. It is your typical story of the outcast who falls in love with the most beautiful girl school, but with the addition of a coma ridden boyfriend, a famous neurosurgeon dad and a hot blond babysitter. Things in Everwood were never as they seemed and I really appreciated that (hello, they freakin killed Colin). In fact, Everwood is the reason for my embargo against the CW (cancel Everwood & bring back 7th Heaven??? Seriously! I’ll never get over that)…anyhoo, you could always see the love between Ephram & Amy even when they weren’t together and when they finally were, it was worth the wait (and of course the breakup was heartbreaking too) but it was all ok in the end when Amy performed the grandest gesture of all with the ferris wheel.
6.The Pacey-Dawson debate continues to rage on years later but I stand by my assessment that it was ALL ABOUT PACEY. Dawson was whiny & stupid & had bad hair. Pacey was sarcastic, biting, and yes boys & girls, romantic. The Pacey & Joey romance brought something back to the Creek. Things were getting B-O-R-I-N-G until Pacey told Joey to ask him to stay. Remember the wall? Talk about romantic gestures, that one still gets me.
5. As we all know, the Whedon is the master of ripping your heart out of you chest, showing it to you, and then throwing it on the ground & stomping on it. He has done many things that have traumatized me over the years (see Buffy & Angel) but this was one of the worst things…ever. Talk about sobbing…uncontrollably. Winifred Burkle joined Team Angel & at once Wesley Wyndham Pryce was smitten. One would think the two would be a perfect match with their mutual love of research & the supernatural, but it took Fred four seasons to realize her feelings for Wesley and just when she did, well, I can’t even talk about it here or I might have a break down. But yeah, it was bad and Wesley never recovered & I’ll never forgive the WB for cancelling the show during its best season because I really would have loved to have seen what the Whedon had in store for everyone.
4. At this point I’ve accepted that once the bad boy shows his vulnerable side, I’m a sitting duck. When Veronica Mars premiered Logan Echolls was the typical spoiled rich boy with an attitude. I pretty much hated his guts. But then you see a little into his home life, realize he is still reeling from his girlfriend’s murder and you go a little soft. Then he loses his mother & it is all over. I fell for him just as hard as Veronica did. The first kiss between the two of them in front of the motel is one of the top five kisses I’ve ever seen on tv (quite possibly my favorite). Logan & Veronica were electric & every time she hurt him or he came through for her my heart fluttered.
3. So I know this is probably going to cause an uproar, but for me, the most emotional breakup of Sex & they City was Carrie & Aidan, both times. I was never the biggest fan of Big, (I think although he loved her he was so self-centered and closed off) and Aidan just gave himself so completely to Carrie, both times. I was devastated when Carrie slept with Big & then told Aidan on Charlotte’s wedding day (!) I was even more traumatized when I realized (when she broke into hives in the tacky wedding gown) that she would never marry Aidan. Oh, and then that breakup. That last night when they cuddled together in the room that would never be their apartment. Heartbreaking.
2. As I previously mentioned, I’ve been watching a lot of tv on dvd. While re-watching Lost this summer, I realized just how much I love Sun & Jin. Some tears did fall in the finale when Jin was left behind on the freighter, so I knew that I was affected by them, but it wasn’t until I re-watched the first two seasons did I realize how much. In the beginning, Jin came off as cold hearted. But as their story evolved and you saw how their love was completely mutilated by Sun’s family, it was easy to root for a reunion.
Sun & Jin are the emotional heart of Lost. Their story encompasses so many great things, it shows the power of redemption and forgiveness. I’m going to keep out hope that an another emotional reunion is in their future.
1. I’m sure you are all sooo shocked. Yes, for me it is all about Angel & Buffy. As Cordelia pointed out “They’ve got the forbidden love of all time”. Ahh, the slayer in love with a vampire. At first it didn’t seem so bad, I mean sure he was over 200 and she was 16, but it wasn’t until they consummated their relationship that this love story took its Shakespearian turn. I was so shocked & distressed about the second half of season 2 that I started reading spoilers. I couldn’t afford to be taken completely off guard like that. I mean, for the love of God, it is a tv show! Angel becoming evil, Buffy killing Angel, the prom, Faith’s poison, graduation, the Crossover! Even at the end, when Buffy told him that she was “cookie dough”. Buffy & Angel are one of the greatest couples because their love is eternal, no matter what happens or how much time they spend apart they will always love each other and thus, hurt each other (and all of us in the process!)
So that about wraps things up. My favorite tv couples and let me tell you, Edward Cullen & Bella don’t even come close to them (and don’t get me started on that final book, worst ever!!). Did I leave someone off the list, if so let me know?
The fall season starts next week, so I’ll be profiling the shows I’m going to watch & then doing a quick report card once everything has premiered. Looking forward to an eventful fall season! Hooary!
Friday, July 18, 2008
KT Update! Doh, I forgot about the Emmy's!
Wow, I’m out of the loop, eh! Emmy nominations were Thursday morning & luckily I just happened to see them. Here are the nominees along with my usual two cents.
Outstanding Comedy Series
30 Rock
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Entourage
The Office
Two And A Half Men
Thoughts on the nominees: I think Entourage had a lackluster year & don’t think it deserves to be here. I’m also one of the people that is so over The Office.
Who should be on this list: How I Met Your Mother had another stellar year. Although Neil Patrick Harris stands out to a lot of people the show works because of the comic ability & chemistry between the whole cast. Pushing Daisies is one of those rare occasions when American tv viewers actually support a quirky, funny show with heart. This is one of the shows that I’ve missed the most.
Outstanding Drama Series
Boston Legal
Damages
Dexter
House
Lost
Mad Men
Thoughts on the nominees: Boston Legal, really? I do not watch Damages, Dexter or Mad Men. All three received critical acclaim this year. I’ll be watching Mad Men shortly & my brother Matthew swears by Dexter. I’m excited that Lost has returned to this category but I’m a little confused by House. I know the season ended really strong, but I don’t know if the show was one of the best dramas on tv.
Who Should be on this list: Brothers & Sisters was amazing this year. I love the whole Walker clan (even Tommy) and was glued to the television to find out if Rebecca really was a Walker. In addition, Love Kevin, love him to death I’m a pit peeved he didn’t get nominated! Friday Night Lights is a spectacular show. At first I fought the power of this show, I wasn’t interested in another teeny bopper soap drama. But FNL is not that at all. This is a character driven drama. The students, coaches, teachers, they are not one dimensional. I will say that the whole Tyra-Landry storyline probably robbed this otherwise stupendous show of some well deserved recognition. Also, I didn’t watch The Wire but from what I’ve heard this show was vastly underrated & should have gotten some Emmy love.
Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality - Competition Program
American Idol Ryan Seacrest, Host
Dancing With The Stars Tom Bergeron, Host
Deal Or No Deal Howie Mandel, Host
Project Runway Heidi Klum, Host
Survivor Jeff Probst, Host
Thoughts on the nominees: I would argue that Deal or No Deal is more of a game show than a Reality Competition Program. So I would nix Mandel. Other than that, I can’t really argue with this list. Although Seacrest is the front runner, he would not be my choice as the winner (I’m still a little mad at him for being so cruel to Michael Johns.) Bergeron is hysterical on DWTS. He’s always cracking jokes at the absurdity of the entire show. Love it. Heidi Klum is also incredible, but I would argue that she brings more entertainment value as a judge than as a host, plus how can you call Heidi a host & not give some credit to Tim Gunn? That leaves (as the survivor fanatics call him) Jiffy Pop, who SHOULD win this hands down. Somewhere along Survivor’s 16? 17? Seasons Probst started to give the contestants hell. He’ll call you out at tribal council about something happened back at camp. CAREFUL! If you roll your eyes while one of your tribes mates is talking he’ll call on you next. He has been brutal to those that have quit the game and even makes the occasional snide remark. Probst is everything a good host should be. He brings something indispensible to the show without trying to make himself the center of attention (I’m looking at you Seacrest).
Who Should be on this list: If we booted Howie you’d either need to add The Amazing Race’s Phil (who I don’t think really brings anything to the show except for some amusing facial gestures) and my new favorite Cat Deely. Cat is the host of “So You Think You Can Dance”. So by now you know I’m obsessed with this show but Cat rules. She often tries to defend contestants to the judges, consoles them after an ugly review and was recently seen getting down on her hands and knees (in a designer dress!) and putting Chelsie’s toe back into her show AND I can feel her empathy for the contestants. I think she really has a bond with the dancers & often says/does what I’d do if I was on the stage.
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series
30 Rock Alec Baldwin as Jack Donaghy
Monk Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk
Pushing Daisies Lee Pace as Ned
The Office Steve Carell as Michael Scott
Two And A Half Men Charlie Sheen as Charlie Harper
Thoughts on the nominees: Love Baldwin, pleasantly surprised about Lee Pace. Sooooooo over Tony Shaloub and Steve Carell. I don’t watch Two & a Half Men but people love it.
Who Should be on this list: Zachary Levi (Chuck). Obviously if the show is named after you, you’ve got to be strong. Levi’s Chuck is simultaneously silly, awkward & bold as he tries to deal with this new life that has been thrust upon him. One of my top shows from 2007 and Levi was a big reason why.
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series
Boston Legal James Spader as Alan Shore
Breaking Bad Bryan Cranston as Walt White
Dexter Michael C. Hall as Dexter Morgan
House Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House
In Treatment Gabriel Byrne as Paul
Mad Men Jon Hamm as Don Draper
Thoughts on the nominees: So Hugh Laurie consistently does a good job, but I don’t think this year was any different than years past, although I guess I can’t gripe when he hasn’t won yet. I didn’t watch Breaking Bad, but I loved Bryan Cranston in Malcolm in the Middle and I don’t think he ever got nominated for that. The final three nominees I can’t fairly comment on as I haven’t seen those shows either…although who watches Dexter loves the show & Michael C. Hall (but I still love him from Six Feet Under).
Who Should be on this list: Kylie Chandler has been stellar as Coach Eric Taylor. This year the Taylor’s faced new adversity with the new job, baby & Julie acting like a big hussy. Coach has been robbed! Again I’ll also say that The Wire should have gotten some love in this category too.
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series
30 Rock Tina Fey as Liz Lemon
Samantha Who? Christina Applegate as Samantha Newly
The New Adventures Of Old Christine Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Christine Campbell
Ugly Betty America Ferrera as Betty Suarez
Weeds Mary-Louise Parker as Nancy Botwin
Thoughts on the nominees: I watch 3 of the 5 shows. Christina Applegate is simply charming in Samantha Who? and Mary Louise Parker rocks as Nancy Botwin, but I’m going with Fey who has improved immensely from last year & is the heart and soul of 30 Rock.
Who Should be on this list: I think it is interesting that none of the women of Wisteria Lane made it this year. I would have expected to see Bree. I also would have liked a little love for Men In Trees. Anne Heche was perfect as the delightful Marin Frist. For the love of God you cancelled her show, at least give the woman an Emmy nomination!!!
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series
Brothers & Sisters Sally Field as Nora Holden-Walker
Damages Glenn Close as Patty Hewes
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson
Saving Grace Holly Hunter as Grace Hanadarko
The Closer Kyra Sedgwick as Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson
Thoughts on the nominees: Four of the five women here are bonafide movie stars. I think sometimes the name catches the Emmy voter’s eye more than the performance and really I’m only thinking of Holly Hunter here. Everyone else has tremendous buzz about their performances.
Who Should be on this list: I would have liked to see Connie Britton from FNL. When she slapped Julie I cheered out loud.
Outstanding Reality-competition Program
American Idol
Dancing With The Stars
Project Runway
The Amazing Race
Thoughts on the nominees: These are the most “respectable” of the genre. Runway was (say it with me) Fierce last year!
Who Should be on this list: I limit my reality intake, the only other shows I watch that would be classified as reality would be Deadliest Catch & So You Think You Can Dance. And actually, Deadliest Catch wouldn’t qualify since it isn’t a competition program.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series
Entourage Jeremy Piven as Ari Gold
Entourage Kevin Dillon as Johnny Drama
How I Met Your Mother Neil Patrick Harris as Barney Stinson
The Office Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute
Two And A Half Men Jon Cryer as Alan Harper
Thoughts on the nominees: Although I think Piven & Dillon are great, Entourage had a lackluster season. Rainn Wilson is still amusing on The Office & how can I say anything bad about Duckie? But hells yeah Neil Patrick Harris!
Who Should be on this list: The one glaring omission in my eyes is Chi McBride. He brings so much to Pushing Daisies. I almost think that the show would be too saccharine without him.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
Boston Legal William Shatner as Denny Crane
Damages Ted Danson as Arthur Frobisher
Damages Zeljko Ivanek as Ray Fiske
Lost Michael Emerson as Ben
Mad Men John Slattery as Roger Sterling
Thoughts on the nominees: Aside from Shatner (who I’m so bored with) I think this is a pretty decent list. As I’ve said, I watched neither Damages nor Mad Men, but both shows received a lot of buzz. Ben Rules!
Who Should be on this list: Kevin from Brothers & Sisters. He had some great storylines this year & some awesome lines. I nearly fell out of my chair when Justin confessed to Kevin that he had feelings for Rebecca. Plus, the proposal to Scotty was amazing. It was so heartfelt, I think I may have shed a tear.
Riggins, FNL. I love Riggins. How can you not? The bad boy with the heart of gold that just smolders on the screen. I don’t know if he is the best actor on FNL, but I know I always remember his scenes.
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series
Pushing Daisies Kristin Chenoweth as Olive Snook
Samantha Who? Jean Smart as Regina Newly
Saturday Night Live Amy Poehler, Performer
Two And A Half Holland Taylor as Evelyn Harper
Ugly Betty Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater
Thoughts on the nominees: A decent list. I’m pulling for Chenoweth.
Who Should be on this list: Jennifer Esposito, Samantha Who. Esposito’s Andrea is fantastically shallow, self centered and catty; but in a good way. She’s the constant reminder of what “Bad Sam” was.
Dana Delaney, Desperate Housewives. DH was infinitely better this year and a lot of the credit goes to Katherine’s arrival on Wisteria Lane. From clashing with Bree to the resolution of her mystery, Delaney was increbile.
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series
Boston Legal Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt
Brothers & Sisters Rachel Griffiths as Sarah Walker-Whedon
Grey's Anatomy Chandra Wilson as Dr. Miranda Bailey
Grey's Anatomy Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang
In Treatment Dianne Wiest as Dr. Gina Toll
Thoughts on the nominees: Sandra Oh? Really? But Cristina was so whiny & boring this year. Sure she had a few stand out scenes but for the most part, Blah. I don’t watch Boston Legal or In Treatment and I think Chandra Wilson & Rachel Griffiths have both been consistently strong.
Who Should be on this list: I should just add a disclaimer that although I am watching this show, I am not up to the most recent season. That being said, Mary McDonnell (President Roslin) and Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck) have been consistently tremendous. I can’t imagine that the quality of either actress’ work has declined. Give some love to the Sci-Fi channel!
Outstanding Comedy Series
30 Rock
Curb Your Enthusiasm
Entourage
The Office
Two And A Half Men
Thoughts on the nominees: I think Entourage had a lackluster year & don’t think it deserves to be here. I’m also one of the people that is so over The Office.
Who should be on this list: How I Met Your Mother had another stellar year. Although Neil Patrick Harris stands out to a lot of people the show works because of the comic ability & chemistry between the whole cast. Pushing Daisies is one of those rare occasions when American tv viewers actually support a quirky, funny show with heart. This is one of the shows that I’ve missed the most.
Outstanding Drama Series
Boston Legal
Damages
Dexter
House
Lost
Mad Men
Thoughts on the nominees: Boston Legal, really? I do not watch Damages, Dexter or Mad Men. All three received critical acclaim this year. I’ll be watching Mad Men shortly & my brother Matthew swears by Dexter. I’m excited that Lost has returned to this category but I’m a little confused by House. I know the season ended really strong, but I don’t know if the show was one of the best dramas on tv.
Who Should be on this list: Brothers & Sisters was amazing this year. I love the whole Walker clan (even Tommy) and was glued to the television to find out if Rebecca really was a Walker. In addition, Love Kevin, love him to death I’m a pit peeved he didn’t get nominated! Friday Night Lights is a spectacular show. At first I fought the power of this show, I wasn’t interested in another teeny bopper soap drama. But FNL is not that at all. This is a character driven drama. The students, coaches, teachers, they are not one dimensional. I will say that the whole Tyra-Landry storyline probably robbed this otherwise stupendous show of some well deserved recognition. Also, I didn’t watch The Wire but from what I’ve heard this show was vastly underrated & should have gotten some Emmy love.
Outstanding Host For A Reality Or Reality - Competition Program
American Idol Ryan Seacrest, Host
Dancing With The Stars Tom Bergeron, Host
Deal Or No Deal Howie Mandel, Host
Project Runway Heidi Klum, Host
Survivor Jeff Probst, Host
Thoughts on the nominees: I would argue that Deal or No Deal is more of a game show than a Reality Competition Program. So I would nix Mandel. Other than that, I can’t really argue with this list. Although Seacrest is the front runner, he would not be my choice as the winner (I’m still a little mad at him for being so cruel to Michael Johns.) Bergeron is hysterical on DWTS. He’s always cracking jokes at the absurdity of the entire show. Love it. Heidi Klum is also incredible, but I would argue that she brings more entertainment value as a judge than as a host, plus how can you call Heidi a host & not give some credit to Tim Gunn? That leaves (as the survivor fanatics call him) Jiffy Pop, who SHOULD win this hands down. Somewhere along Survivor’s 16? 17? Seasons Probst started to give the contestants hell. He’ll call you out at tribal council about something happened back at camp. CAREFUL! If you roll your eyes while one of your tribes mates is talking he’ll call on you next. He has been brutal to those that have quit the game and even makes the occasional snide remark. Probst is everything a good host should be. He brings something indispensible to the show without trying to make himself the center of attention (I’m looking at you Seacrest).
Who Should be on this list: If we booted Howie you’d either need to add The Amazing Race’s Phil (who I don’t think really brings anything to the show except for some amusing facial gestures) and my new favorite Cat Deely. Cat is the host of “So You Think You Can Dance”. So by now you know I’m obsessed with this show but Cat rules. She often tries to defend contestants to the judges, consoles them after an ugly review and was recently seen getting down on her hands and knees (in a designer dress!) and putting Chelsie’s toe back into her show AND I can feel her empathy for the contestants. I think she really has a bond with the dancers & often says/does what I’d do if I was on the stage.
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series
30 Rock Alec Baldwin as Jack Donaghy
Monk Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk
Pushing Daisies Lee Pace as Ned
The Office Steve Carell as Michael Scott
Two And A Half Men Charlie Sheen as Charlie Harper
Thoughts on the nominees: Love Baldwin, pleasantly surprised about Lee Pace. Sooooooo over Tony Shaloub and Steve Carell. I don’t watch Two & a Half Men but people love it.
Who Should be on this list: Zachary Levi (Chuck). Obviously if the show is named after you, you’ve got to be strong. Levi’s Chuck is simultaneously silly, awkward & bold as he tries to deal with this new life that has been thrust upon him. One of my top shows from 2007 and Levi was a big reason why.
Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series
Boston Legal James Spader as Alan Shore
Breaking Bad Bryan Cranston as Walt White
Dexter Michael C. Hall as Dexter Morgan
House Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House
In Treatment Gabriel Byrne as Paul
Mad Men Jon Hamm as Don Draper
Thoughts on the nominees: So Hugh Laurie consistently does a good job, but I don’t think this year was any different than years past, although I guess I can’t gripe when he hasn’t won yet. I didn’t watch Breaking Bad, but I loved Bryan Cranston in Malcolm in the Middle and I don’t think he ever got nominated for that. The final three nominees I can’t fairly comment on as I haven’t seen those shows either…although who watches Dexter loves the show & Michael C. Hall (but I still love him from Six Feet Under).
Who Should be on this list: Kylie Chandler has been stellar as Coach Eric Taylor. This year the Taylor’s faced new adversity with the new job, baby & Julie acting like a big hussy. Coach has been robbed! Again I’ll also say that The Wire should have gotten some love in this category too.
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series
30 Rock Tina Fey as Liz Lemon
Samantha Who? Christina Applegate as Samantha Newly
The New Adventures Of Old Christine Julia Louis-Dreyfus as Christine Campbell
Ugly Betty America Ferrera as Betty Suarez
Weeds Mary-Louise Parker as Nancy Botwin
Thoughts on the nominees: I watch 3 of the 5 shows. Christina Applegate is simply charming in Samantha Who? and Mary Louise Parker rocks as Nancy Botwin, but I’m going with Fey who has improved immensely from last year & is the heart and soul of 30 Rock.
Who Should be on this list: I think it is interesting that none of the women of Wisteria Lane made it this year. I would have expected to see Bree. I also would have liked a little love for Men In Trees. Anne Heche was perfect as the delightful Marin Frist. For the love of God you cancelled her show, at least give the woman an Emmy nomination!!!
Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series
Brothers & Sisters Sally Field as Nora Holden-Walker
Damages Glenn Close as Patty Hewes
Law & Order: Special Victims Unit Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson
Saving Grace Holly Hunter as Grace Hanadarko
The Closer Kyra Sedgwick as Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson
Thoughts on the nominees: Four of the five women here are bonafide movie stars. I think sometimes the name catches the Emmy voter’s eye more than the performance and really I’m only thinking of Holly Hunter here. Everyone else has tremendous buzz about their performances.
Who Should be on this list: I would have liked to see Connie Britton from FNL. When she slapped Julie I cheered out loud.
Outstanding Reality-competition Program
American Idol
Dancing With The Stars
Project Runway
The Amazing Race
Thoughts on the nominees: These are the most “respectable” of the genre. Runway was (say it with me) Fierce last year!
Who Should be on this list: I limit my reality intake, the only other shows I watch that would be classified as reality would be Deadliest Catch & So You Think You Can Dance. And actually, Deadliest Catch wouldn’t qualify since it isn’t a competition program.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series
Entourage Jeremy Piven as Ari Gold
Entourage Kevin Dillon as Johnny Drama
How I Met Your Mother Neil Patrick Harris as Barney Stinson
The Office Rainn Wilson as Dwight Schrute
Two And A Half Men Jon Cryer as Alan Harper
Thoughts on the nominees: Although I think Piven & Dillon are great, Entourage had a lackluster season. Rainn Wilson is still amusing on The Office & how can I say anything bad about Duckie? But hells yeah Neil Patrick Harris!
Who Should be on this list: The one glaring omission in my eyes is Chi McBride. He brings so much to Pushing Daisies. I almost think that the show would be too saccharine without him.
Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series
Boston Legal William Shatner as Denny Crane
Damages Ted Danson as Arthur Frobisher
Damages Zeljko Ivanek as Ray Fiske
Lost Michael Emerson as Ben
Mad Men John Slattery as Roger Sterling
Thoughts on the nominees: Aside from Shatner (who I’m so bored with) I think this is a pretty decent list. As I’ve said, I watched neither Damages nor Mad Men, but both shows received a lot of buzz. Ben Rules!
Who Should be on this list: Kevin from Brothers & Sisters. He had some great storylines this year & some awesome lines. I nearly fell out of my chair when Justin confessed to Kevin that he had feelings for Rebecca. Plus, the proposal to Scotty was amazing. It was so heartfelt, I think I may have shed a tear.
Riggins, FNL. I love Riggins. How can you not? The bad boy with the heart of gold that just smolders on the screen. I don’t know if he is the best actor on FNL, but I know I always remember his scenes.
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy Series
Pushing Daisies Kristin Chenoweth as Olive Snook
Samantha Who? Jean Smart as Regina Newly
Saturday Night Live Amy Poehler, Performer
Two And A Half Holland Taylor as Evelyn Harper
Ugly Betty Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater
Thoughts on the nominees: A decent list. I’m pulling for Chenoweth.
Who Should be on this list: Jennifer Esposito, Samantha Who. Esposito’s Andrea is fantastically shallow, self centered and catty; but in a good way. She’s the constant reminder of what “Bad Sam” was.
Dana Delaney, Desperate Housewives. DH was infinitely better this year and a lot of the credit goes to Katherine’s arrival on Wisteria Lane. From clashing with Bree to the resolution of her mystery, Delaney was increbile.
Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series
Boston Legal Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt
Brothers & Sisters Rachel Griffiths as Sarah Walker-Whedon
Grey's Anatomy Chandra Wilson as Dr. Miranda Bailey
Grey's Anatomy Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang
In Treatment Dianne Wiest as Dr. Gina Toll
Thoughts on the nominees: Sandra Oh? Really? But Cristina was so whiny & boring this year. Sure she had a few stand out scenes but for the most part, Blah. I don’t watch Boston Legal or In Treatment and I think Chandra Wilson & Rachel Griffiths have both been consistently strong.
Who Should be on this list: I should just add a disclaimer that although I am watching this show, I am not up to the most recent season. That being said, Mary McDonnell (President Roslin) and Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck) have been consistently tremendous. I can’t imagine that the quality of either actress’ work has declined. Give some love to the Sci-Fi channel!
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