Emmy Chatter: The Postmortem

Now that the dust has settled, sort of, on the Emmy nominations Ryan and I sit down to discuss the oddest (and greatest) things about the nominees. I'm feeling particularly annoyed with the nominees, even if they aren't as bad as I initially thought.


Andrew: So, it's been what, a week, since the Emmy nominees came out. Any things pops out at you now that it's all sunk in?

Ryan: The fact that even with some insane and unthinkable snubs, it's a solid year of nominees.

Andrew: And yeah, I agree that despite my initial resentments the list is pretty solid but some of those snubs still have me searing. And that's because as good as some of the nominees are, they're really quite safe.

Ryan: So safe. Even the shockers weren't shocking really and in fact are quite boring.

Andrew: That's it, you know? I mean, sure it's surprising that Modern Family gets all four men in...but it's not THAT big of a shock, you know? It's surprising, but it's surprising because it's so unoriginal.

Ryan: It's only shocking because Neil Patrick Harris got snubbed in the category. All four of those men would've made it in anyways and Chris Colfer, but damnit Jon Cryer? Really? And I'm not even mentioning Nick Offerman. I really thought it was his year especially with the show finally getting a Comedy Series nod (yay!).

Andrew: Both of the supporting actor categories give me a headache. And I think they're the key to seeing who wins the series category. Obviously, love for Modern Family is voluminous (don't even get me started on the threeunnecessary nods for directing). And the fact that Boardwalk Empire couldn't secure one nod for Supporting Actor probably means Mad Men gets it again.

Ryan: Possibly, but look how loved The Good Wife is! Most of its adult cast was nominated and then some.

Andrew: I know, but seriously Josh Charles? Ugh.

Ryan: It's not exactly a Matthew Morrison nomination, but I agree a bit. Then again he has been around for awhile. He's likable enough in a show they obviously love.

Andrew: I can't stand him or the character. You loathe Will Schuester (abhorrent of you, I might add) I loathe Will Gardner.

Ryan: Well there you go. But speaking of Shuester, they saw the light didn't they? And no Lea Michele? But they dominated Guest Actress like whoa. Dot Marie Jones is my single favorite Emmy nomination this year.

Andrew: Do people really loathe Lea Michele? I get them being happy she's not nominated because Rachel is semi lead, semi supporting. But do they actual think she's a terrible actor?

Ryan: I have no idea what industry people feel about her. All I know is... people love Jane Lynch and Chris Colfer. I actually feel sorry for her a bit because people probably dump a lot of unnecessary hate on her. That category, Best Actress in Comedy, provided a lot of the surprises for me. No Lea or Toni? Martha Plimpton gets in. Melissa McCarthy?! Love her, but that really was a bit of shock to me.

Andrew: I have nothing to say about that...at least no real information. It's random, McCarthy did supreme work on Gilmore Girls and Samantha Who but Mike and Molly really does look ghastly.

Ryan: It really does. Tried to sit through one episode after her nomination, and no, couldn't finish it.

Andrew: The snubs in Lead Actress were CRAZY, though. No Toni AND no Kyra. I was so surprised after not hearing Kyra I think I missed all the other nominees.

Ryan: Now THAT one really was random. I just don't get it. Maybe the pro-Marguilies camp got her kicked out for stealing her award last year. I'm half joking.

Andrew: And the fact that they actually nominated Mariska Hargitay is just...well, it's just weird. I mean I still am in shock over that.

Ryan: Yeah, she must know secrets of certain people.

Andrew: The Toni snub hurt because she's brilliant and it's the final season...but the show is cancelled and doesn't have many viewers......and people are weird about the comedic/drama thing. Because notice they go for traditional comedy in the form of Plimpton and McCarthy...which I think is pure tosh.

Ryan: Well I'm one of those people weird about the comedic/drama thing, but Toni would damn still appear in my ballot.

Andrew: But I just can't explain Kyra's snub.

Ryan: My love for them as actresses is overcoming any negative feelings I have. And actually Plimpton deserves this spot. She's HILARIOUS.

Andrew: Well, sight unseen I can't say.

Ryan: Speaking of sight unseen, my big gamble on predicting Shameless in the big categories didn't exactly pan out. But Justified... yeah.

Andrew: Glad Olyphant's nominated, but since I'm almost sure Michael C. Hall (or him) have zero chance of winning I've tuned out. Michael C. will never win an Emmy.


Ryan: Last year was his best shot. Even if Buscemi didn't have this award lock and loaded, the love for Mad Men would probably give Hamm a step up. Also Hugh Laurie made it in. We both suck.

Andrew: No, we both rock...we held strong and hoped for a better tomorrow (or today?) It's not our faults Emmy voters are AWFUL and ignored Bill Paxton!!!!

Ryan: My nominee was William H. Macy, but I wouldn't have wanted him to be nominated if Emmy Rossum couldn't have. I actually thought Sean Bean would've been.

Andrew: I do need to watch Game of Thrones. I love Bean in The Lord of the Rings.

Ryan: You should. But next season isn't until Spring 2012 so you have plenty of time to catch 10 episodes. I'm a bit miffed that Emilia Clarke didn't breakthrough. But she's a new face, young. Maybe next year.

Andrew: And they stuck to the same old group for Supporting Actress No Sevigny, no Big Love send-off. Ugh.

Ryan: Yeah, they completely missed the boat on that show. But their lame predictability meant we both went 11 of 12 in the supporting actress categories.

Andrew: I know, yay for being correct...I guess?

Ryan: Well we couldn't say we were shocked at least.

Andrew: True. Any significant mentions or snubs you want to wrap up with? That trio of nods for Modern Family’s directing is really getting to me.

Ryan: Yay for Friday Night Lights. Two leads and the show gets a farewell Drama Series nod. How sweet, and speaking of Directing, it's really funny that in a year where they ignored Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother still got its highest one-year nomination tally (5 nominations) including a Directing nod!

Andrew: I want to be happy for it, but I really don't care for Friday Night Lights. I want to, so bad, but nothing. The NPH snub saddened, I was hoping that maybe he could be the winner of split votes and finally win that freakin' Emmy! Instead, I suppose Colfer will get it...and I really don't want that to happen.

Ryan: Better than Cryer to me.

Andrew: Yes, but what ISN'T better than Cryer.

Ryan: Johnny Lee Miller getting snubbed. Ugh.

Andrew: More weirdness and not even a directing nod for the show...randomness. No love for The Big C other than Linney and that surprise nod for Elba

Ryan: I'm happy for him now that I've seen the first season of Luther, which he also got nominated for!

Andrew: Yeah, when they love you they love you. I'm looking forward to when the actors submit their episodes; races have been lost because of poor submissions. I think Julianna Margulies lost last year not only because Kyra was wickedly overdue, but because her submission was awful.

Ryan: I will have to keep a lookout then.

Andrew: So, to end the conversation. Your favourite acting nominee, your least favourite acting nominee and why.

Ryan: My favorite acting nominee, as I said before, is Dot Marie Jones. Her character could've been really mishandled, but she infused so much heart in so little scenes that she really made it her own. Plus she's not as flashy (or traditionally pretty) so her nomination is just surprising all around.

Andrew: I do like her...and I'm glad Glee gets to rule something.

Ryan: My least favorite nominee... ugh, I have to pick one?

Andrew: I'll give you time...My favourite acting nominee...
Poehler. Sure, she's been nominated before but Leslie is made of win so her second consecutive nod makes up for any badness. My worse, Hargitay. She's evil, with a capital E.

Ryan: I didn't know evilness was a legitimate reason, but yay!

Andrew: It is.

Ryan: Okay, my least favorite is Johnny Galecki. Not only did he take the spot from most likely Joel McHale, but I just plain don't think he deserved it THIS year. In fact The Big Bang Theory love was a bit annoying because it was most obviously the show's weakest year and the only thing that saved it were the ladies and they didn't get any nods. It all just rubbed me the wrong way. Really, Parsons and the lady make that show.

Andrew: That's another show I can't bear to watch. It just annoys me. But here's to hoping that come Emmy night the winners make up for it...crossing my fingers for wins for Stiles, Carrell, Panjabi and the likes. Let's see what happens

Ryan: I'm hoping for the best in all categories. Which means I'll be sorely disappointed.
       
What were your favourite inclusions? Which snubs hurt you most?

Emmy Chatter: Series

Ryan’s and I conversations about Emmy have come to an end and in preparation for the imminent reading of the nomination-list tomorrow we speculate on the potential nominees.
      
Ryan: Okay ready!

Andrew: Invert that to ready-okay, and we have the beginning of a Bring it On cheer.

Ryan: Awesome, oh wow, like totally freak me out, I mean, right on. The Toros sure are #1!

Andrew: So are the potential comedy nods totally awesome?

Ryan: I don't know about awesome, but I don't think they'll be any big shockers a la a Community or a Cougar Town nomination. And actually to make it ridiculously easy for myself I just looked at my other nominations throughout the past few chats we've had and tallied it up.

Andrew: I don't know, but I could see some big shocks happening. Well, not big but you know.

Ryan: And the top 6 are my show nominations... and it sort of worked out.

Andrew: Emmy isn't Oscar. They don't always nominate those with the most nomination. Didn't True Blood get like 1 other nomination other than Best Drama last year? (Although I fear I'm getting ahead of myself.)

Ryan: Oh, yes on True Blood, so my system isn't perfect, but at least it lines up with my predictions at least giving them some sort of logic (which again is not the Emmy way really). But in any case, we have some locks surely.

Andrew: Four locks, I would presume...although I'm still thinking that there could be a massive shock and Glee gets snubbed.

Ryan: See that WOULD be a massive shock if that were to happen. It'd go along with my random Matt Morrison snub, but I still predicted it to be nominated everywhere else.

Andrew: Of course, as much as Glee is not my in MY top 6 I love it like I love a wayward child - so I don't want that to happen.

Ryan: And even though they are fickle, they are not THAT fickle. They can't ignore how big the show still is in terms of public awareness/buzz.

Andrew: And, as you said - like heroin when it's good it gets you high.

Ryan: Right, so the other locks though seem to be fairly safe especially since they've all won before.

Andrew: Well, The Office has never won but I say that it's a lock.

Ryan: It won in 2006.

Andrew: I honestly forgot that. I kept thinking that the show and Carrell had never won.

Ryan: I didn't know it either until I checked Wikipedia right before our chat! But yeah, since its win it's never NOT been nominated and with it being its the last season... it won't suddenly find itself not in the running.

Andrew: Did you just say this is the last season of The Office?

Ryan: Whoa. Yeah. How... random.

Andrew: Random, and dangerous...if that show gets cancelled this is on you!

Ryan: Ha! But yeah, random Freudian slip maybe. But really with Carrell gone, it really does feel like it though.

Andrew: So, the new shows fighting for a potential nod: ShowTime darling (and its biggest premiere) The Big C; SAG nominated cast Betty White’s Hot in Cleveland and Raising Hope

Ryan: The first two seem to be duking it out. Their main lead is almost guaranteed a nomination so they have that going for them.

Andrew: True. I say The Big C gets the edge because it's most likely going to pick up a writing or directing nod.

Ryan: Yeah and it's not like it'll be a big breakthrough for it to be nominated. Weeds in 2009 and Nurse Jackie in 2010 paved its way. What's weird is why United States of Tara has never been nominated.

Andrew: Diablo Cody hatred, perhaps?

Ryan: Well she's divisive, but who knows?

Andrew: Indeed.

Ryan: Any show, other than Community and Cougar Town, you wish could be honoured? For me, those are the two really. I mean I love How I Met Your Mother and all, but I'm okay with it not being nominated. Wait, there's one show I WOULD LOVE to get nominated, and it's not even a sure thing so I don't know why I didn't mention it. I think it's because I'm hoping it's a lock for a nomination...

Andrew: Are you talking about a particular government office?

Ryan: With a particularly charming blonde lead? YES.

Andrew: If any show gets a breakthrough nod, it could be that...which I could see taking the spot that went to Nurse Jackie last year...

Ryan: It's just really sad that possibly the best sitcom on TV right now needs to "breakthrough" to get a nomination.

Andrew: Yes, it is. It really should be shoo-in...but Emmy voters scare me (re: Two and A Half Men...but that's out right?)

Ryan: Thank goodness. They had the decency to not submit themselves this year.

Andrew: THANK GOODNESS, indeed. So, predictions?


Ryan: My predictions:
30 Rock
The Big C
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
Parks and Recreation

Andrew: My predictions:
30 Rock
The Big C
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
Parks and Recreation

Andrew: Yup, yet again we have the same group...but it's pretty solid. 30 Rock is the least deserving for me ...but they had some brilliant episodes this past season.

Ryan: It is a solid list and I think it's more because I can't see any other shows nominated?

Andrew: Which probably means we're wrong.

Ryan: I mean sure Hot in Cleveland, Raising Hope, Nurse Jackie, and even How I Met Your Mother, but probably not. And yeah, we're SO wrong.

Andrew: Things get a whole lot more interesting in drama.

Ryan: Maybe. We'll see. I have about 4 locks, 1 most likely, and a wildcard.

Andrew: I really can't see Mad Men winning again.

Ryan: Who knows? But yeah it really all depends on how much they love Boardwalk Empire aka the shiny new HBO epic kid on the block.

Andrew: (Which just happens to be made of brilliance.)

Ryan: It's not TV, after all, it's HBO.

Andrew: So, Boardwalk Empire and Mad Men are going to head-to-head...those two male centred dramas...does that mean Alicia Florrick of The Good Wife can sidle in and shock us all?

Ryan: With a win, highly unlikely, but a nomination is pretty lock. It's the one show from broadcast network that has any chance at all really. The closest would be Friday Night Lights, for its final season. And even then a) not big enough or seen enough andit's technically a Direct TV show vs. an NBC show.

Andrew: And I think the category is WAY too stacked for FNL.

Ryan: Most definitely.

Andrew: Dexter I want to say is a lock, but I'm worried that people are tiring of it - sadly.

Ryan: I think it's still a lock though. They, probably, still feel really bad about not honouring Michael C. Hall last year and this season was great at least when it came to Johnny Lee Miller and Julia Stiles.

Andrew: If they felt bad they'd have f%%%ing gave him the statue!!!! (That was for dramatic effect, of course)

Ryan: Of course. In terms of new shows that could breakthrough we have Game of Thrones, The Killing, The Walking Dead, and Shameless. Am I missing anything? Any of them have a chance?

Andrew: And if they go absolutely crazy, which they won't The Borgias. In Treatment was cancelled and in a way, I could see it getting some love at least more than FNL.

Ryan: I haven't seen it, but I felt it was a tough sell of a show. Yes, it's got some love from the acting branch, but the show sort of lends itself to that kind of nomination. But for the whole show? Not sure.

Andrew: It's never been nominated, which I find odd but it seems made for Emmy love.

Ryan: Yeah, if it was going to be nominated, it'd be for its first season or whenever Gabriel Byrne was nominated. Then again one could say the same thing for Friday Night Lights. I'd like to think though that last year's duo-acting nomination could be a sign of (too late?) momentum. But really, probably not.

Andrew: It's on the cusp; if there were - say - eight nods maybe...

Ryan: Weird, it’s my eight pick as well.

Andrew: That IS weirdness. Shall I predict?

Ryan: Go right ahead.

Andrew: I predict:
Boardwalk Empire
Game of Thrones (as last year's True Blood)
The Good Wife
The Killing
Mad Men,
True Blood (as last year's Lost)

Ryan: Hmm. True Blood as last year's Lost? I don't get that analogy. Lost had multiple nominations and they were honouring it for the whole series.

Andrew: Well, year, but they always like an oddball fantasy nod...this year is lacking that.

Ryan: Well that's why they have Game of Thrones. Speaking of... My predictions:
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Game of Thrones
The Good Wife
Mad Men,
Shameless

Andrew: We both go in for some new blood. We shall see what ensues.

Ryan: Thrones is my most likely, Shameless is my wildcard, and the rest are my locks. Though if there was anything like last year's True Blood, I'd have think it'd be for The Walking Dead.
The Emmys do love them their AMC the past few years.

Andrew: Which I considered, but I opted for the actual True Blood. Now, I'm nervous wondering how right we were.

Ryan: Just for completes sake... Justified has a chance because they're pushing the show hardcore and critics love it... and then there's my off-the-wall Hail Mary pass for Fringe.

Andrew: I should probably put out a final mention for Big Love...just because. But it shall not happen.

Ryan: It's all about putting it out there. You never know. In fact, hey Emmy how about the retroactive love for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, you damn bastards.

Andrew: Ha. We'll see...we'll see...Nothing to do now, but wait.

The Emmy nominees are being announced tomorrow morning by Melissa McCarthy and Joshua Jackson (heavy on the alliterative names, apparently).

Previously: Guest Actors and Actresses / Writing and Directing for Comedy / Writing and Directing for Drama / Supporting Actors / Lead Actors / Supporting Actresses / Lead Actresses
        
We’ll be back to give our thoughts on the nominees and make predictions when they’re out, but for now – who are you hoping gets nominated?

Encore Emmy Ballot: Comedies (Pt. 2)

Two more days until the actual Emmy nominees are announced, so I need to get my actual Emmy ballot in before they're disqualified. Bear with me, and let me pretend I have a say. So, back with my ballot - part two of the comedy. (go see Part One: Drama, Part One: Comedy)

OUTSTANDING WRITING
 Nominees
Cougar Town / Ryan Koh & Sam Laybourne for “Lost Children”
Nurse Jackie / Ellen Fairey for “Orchids and Salami”
Modern Family Abraham Higginbotham for “Regrets Only”
The Office / Mindy Kaling for “Classy Christmas”
Parks and Recreation / Amy Poehler for “The Fight”
Parks and Recreation / Katie Dippold for “Indianapolis”

Nurse Jackie is excellently written, even if I figure that the actual Emmy's will ignore it. “Orchids and Salami” is sort of a standout episode, writing wise at least. It mixes all those witticisms of the show with some astute, if subtle, pop culture references. And, it cashes in on how good the main cast are together, which is something that “Lost Children” does brilliantly. The madness of the cul-de-sac crew playing their childish games was great, but it was Ellie and Bobby's TV show Beef and Bubbles which got the biggest laughs. As much as I love B. J. Novak I have to give props to Mindy Kaling for being the best writer on The Office. Her episodes always manage to recall that great ensemble nature that makes the show so good and the return of Holly is worthy of mention.  “Regrets Only” does some interesting thing with the flashback motif and stands out as my favourite episode of the show, this season. Then Parks and Recreation - “The Fight” has that hilarious drunken gag and “Indianapolis” has Leslie's gag about being dumped. And those are just two examples of how brilliant this show is.
Runners-Up: The Big C for “Pilot” / / Modern Family for “Caught in the Act” / Nurse Jackie “Mitten” / Entourage for “Stunted” / Episodes for “Episode Two” / Glee for “Original Song”


OUTSTANDING DIRECTING
Nominees:
Cougar Town / Michael McDonald for “Lost Children”
Entourage / David Nutter for “Lose Yourself”
Modern Family Dean Parisot for “Regrets Only”
Nurse Jackie / Tristram Shapeero for “Rat Falls”
The Office / Rainn Wilson for “Classy Christmas”
Parks and Recreation / Randall Einhorn for “The Fight”

The finale wasn’t the best episode of the last season of Entourage, but it was more than skilfully directed. As the walls started crumbling around Vince it was interesting how it was the direction and not the writing which ended up being the effective way in which it was showed. The choices from Cougar Town and Modern Family both exist as my favourite things on both shows this past season. The former is brilliant because it sees the appearance of the entire gang in one place being ridiculously childish. The time flies by and it makes the potentially tougher issues develop in such a natural, comedic way. The latter is great because it’s one of those episodes where the three arcs are balanced so well not only because of the script, but because of how they’re showed to us. For, Nurse Jackie just the image of that rat falling on Zoey’s lunch makes it worthy of consideration. Both, The Office and Parks and Recreation have episodes featuring celebrations, the first for Christmas and the second for Tom’s club. The latter wins just for that drunken montage.

Runners-Up: Modern Family for “Halloween” / Parks and Recreation for “Harvest Festival”/ 30 Rock for “Christmas Attack Zone / The Big C for “Pilot” / Cougar Town for “Walls” / Glee for “Furt” / The Office for “Garage Sale”


OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTOR
Nominees:
Alec Baldwin in 30 Rock for “Everything Sunny All the Time Always”
Ty Burrell in Modern Family for “Mother Tucker”
Steve Carell in The Office for “Garage Sale”
Matt LeBlanc in Episodes for “Episode Two”
Stephen Mangan in Episodes for “Episode One”
Jeremy Piven in Entourage for “Porn Scenes from an Italian Restaurant”
   
I was back and forth on where to categorise LeBlanc, but I decided I’d lodge him here. Sure, he’s the least impressive of the six nominees, but he IS hilarious on Episodes, hardly the MVP but well balanced and subtle enough to be garishly caricature-like. Mangan works well opposite him, but even better opposite Greig who plays his wife. Carrell and Baldwin are both default nominees, it seems, but both had great seasons. One gained a wife, one gained one – then lost her. But, it’s all about Piven and Burrell for me. Curiously, both men submitted themselves in the supporting category but it’s outstanding Lead Actors I think of when I see them in top form. One’s bathetic, the other’s a bit of a bastard but both manage to be interegrated with their co-stars and still be the best-in-shows without hogging the camera. Goodness.

Runners-Up: John Krasinski in The Office /  Adrian Grenier in Entourage / Kevin Connolly in Entourage /  Matthew Morrison in Glee / Joel McHale in Community
         
OUTSTANDING LEAD ACTRESS
Nominees:
Courteney Cox in Cougar Town “You Don’t Know How It Feels”
Edie Falco in Nurse Jackie for “Game On”
Laura Linney in The Big C for “Pilot”
Tamsien Greig” in Episodes for “Episode Two”
Lea Michele in Glee for “Comeback”
Amy Poehler in Parks & Recreation for “Eagleton”
For me, it’s a generally weak field but I like each of these six well enough to consider them seriously. It’s an even split, though, between the incomparable and the good. Cox, Michele and Falco are at the bottom, if only because they’re shows both work best as ensembles for me. Even though Lea is the MVP for her show the writers aren’t as dedicated to making her lead it, she still succeeds for the most part though. It’s the converse thing with Falco and Cox, the writers want it to be their shows, but they keep getting derailed by the far more interesting (and dare I say, outperformed?) by her supporting cast. Greig is phenomenal in Episodes. True, she can’t touch the top 2 but she plays excellently. It’s wrong to call Linney’s Cathy a revelation, we know she’s brilliant. When she nails those scenes on The Big C, I still can’t help but feel like I’m seeing her be brilliant for the first time and it’s sort of the same thing with Poehler who’s grown over the past three years into the finest female lead on television for me.
Runners-Up: Tina Fey in 30 Rock / Marcia Cross in Desperate Housewives

OUTSTANDING COMEDY
Nominees:
The Big C
Cougar Town
Entourage
Episodes
Nurse Jackie
Parks & Recreation
    
I think this is an eclectic bunch. Episodes and Entourage are probably the ones that least people would consider mentioning, the former because few have started watching and the latter because few have continued watching. They both had good seasons, both examining the difficulty of show business but in different beats. The two showtime series are next, both focusing on a woman but with good ensembles to back them up. For the first two seasons Nurse Jackie felt decidedly more dramatic, but it’s found its comedic bone and worked it well in season 3. And, sure, The Big C has a main character stricken with cancer but it’s never mawkish and rarely overdramatic – always consistently humorous, even if morbidly so. Cougar Town managed to find itself, then top itself continuously in its sophomore season becoming ABC’s best show and…thenParks and Recreation. It’s in a class of its own, really.

Runners-Up: Modern Family / The Office / Glee /Community
           
What would your choices look like?

Emmy Chatter: Writing and Directing (Comedy)

Most persons don't deign to predict the writing and directing categories, but we're extra special so we took a look. Ryan and I are back with more Emmy predictions. (Previously: Guest Players, Writing and Directing for Drama, Lead Actors, Supporting Actors). So, look out below for more on your favourite comedies - Glee, Modern Family, The Office, 30 Rock (but not in that order).
           
Andrew: So...writing and directing...are we ready?

Ryan: Sounds good. Where to begin?

Andrew: Well, can I preface with saying I find the predictions for writing and directing for a comedy way more difficult?

Ryan: Well since I find predicting for writing/direction difficult in general, as I mentioned before, this was nearly impossible. So yeah. Especially since you kind of know MAYBE which shows to focus on, because Emmy always pick those shows and yet you see all these other submissions that are SO good, but probably have no chance.

Andrew: Yup...on to the writing first I guess. In the case of full disclosure, I'm giving you the WGA nods. Modern Family “Earthquake”, The Office “Wuphf.com” / 30 Rock “When It Rains It Pours”. The rest are ineligible. I just like to see what WGA are interested in. Of course, this doesn't mean these will be nominated.
            
Ryan: Of course not. Certainly The Office will have a few more choices now.

Andrew: Definitely. Where to begin?

Ryan: Well I was going to say... The Office.

Andrew: Sure....but I have no idea which to bet on for that. This last half of the season had some supremely written episodes.

Ryan: I know. The way I see it, they have three episodes... all dealing with Michael's departure. "Garage Sale" with the proposal, "Michael's Last Dundies," and of course Carrell's final episode "Good-Bye Michael". That last episode is a good bet, but "Garage Sale" was so expertly done.

Andrew: I think that the first and last are great more because of the direction, and I kind of feel that they'll want to remember Kaling's writing so I'm thinking the Dundies will be i...even if I wish that they'd submitted Kaling's work on “Classy Christmas”.

Ryan: Yeah. I actually thought that Dundies episode wasn't as strong as the others, but oh well. I see your reasoning and it makes sense. But we'll see. So... Glee?

Andrew: So we can be assured that The Office will get at least one...

Ryan: Most definitely.

Andrew: ...now Glee I can see it getting it, and then again I can see it not. They've only submitted three episodes, and for me one towers above the rest.

Ryan: Good of them to only submit three episodes, but honouring Glee for its writing is... oh man. I don't want to be mean. Which episode seems best to you?

Andrew: I'd have loved if they'd submitted “Furt” or “Never Been Kissed or “Original Song” which I think had the strongest writing but of the three I think “The Substitute” is the best. Gwyneth works a la Kristin in “The Rhodes Not Taken” She interacts with cast, the episode has Sue being well written, has Schue interacting well with Sue and Gwynnie. And has Teri being useful.
            
Ryan: Thanks for recapping since other than Gwyneth, I couldn't remember much of the episode, which is coincidentally airing as we speak. I want to be cynical and say they may gravitate towards “Born This Way” since it's a Very Special Episode.

Andrew: “Born This Way” has some excellently written parts, for example Emma's bit about being a ginger was hilariously written but then there are those awful bits like Quinn's portion. Vomit. But, I don't know what they like Glee for...
          
Ryan: Yeah. For all we know they're off the Glee train.

Andrew: Indeed. They SHOULD be off the 30 Rock train too. Right?

Ryan: You'd think so, but even with a less-than-stellar season the show gave some nice submissions. Their "100" and "When It Rains, It Pours" could make it in.

Andrew: I hated the 100.

Ryan: I should clarify... so did I.

Andrew: The best of the lot, for me, is “Queen of Jordan”...but that probably won't make it.

Ryan: God, that was hilarious. Who knows it very well could. Okay, so another big favourite for them... Modern Family. Thoughts?

Andrew: Yet another show with a slew of potential nods

Ryan: Well “Earthquake” has a good chance, WGA nominated and all, but they have LOTS of choices.

Andrew: This is another show which submitted a number of potential bids, but I don't think all are excellent. The episode I think that was best done isn't there (saving that for a surprise when I reveal MY nominees this week.)
         
Ryan: Of course.

Andrew: I think “Caught in the Act” and “Earthquake” are the logical choices...but, episodes like “The Kiss” or “The Musical Man” had fine reviews.

Ryan: I think so too. I think "Manny Get Your Gun" has a chance as well. Like The Office, the show will get nominated for something. So sadly, I feel like the episodes and shows we mentioned are it in terms of what they might nominate, but WOW so many episodes they are missing.

Andrew: We've got shows like United States of Tara and Nurse Jackie which could be remembered, or the pilots for Raising Hope and The Big C...or Parks and Recreation (which has Poehler getting a potential bid).

Ryan: Exactly. For United States of Tara, the finale was great. And don't even ask me to pick a favourite episode from Parks and Recreation.


Andrew: Okay, I'm going to go first here.
Predictions:
30 Rock for “100”
The Big C for “Pilot”
Modern Family for “Caught in the Act”
The Office for “Goodbye Michael”
Parks and Recreation for “The Fight”

Ryan: Predictions:
30 Rock for “When It Rains it Pours”
Modern Family for “Caught in the Act”
Modern Family for “Earthquake”
The Office for “Goodbye, Michael”
Parks and Recreation for “Lil’ Sebastian”

Andrew: Quite ballsy of you not nominating Tina Fey.

Ryan: I know. I don't know what's wrong with me. There's probably no way they'd not nominate Tina Fey, but again Community did it better in "Paradigms of Human Memory!" Community deserves some love.

Andrew: Ha. So true. So, directing. DGA nods, Entourage for “Lose Yourself” (finale) / Modern Family “Halloween” / 30 Rock “Live Show”. Those 3 are eligible. But, let's start with Glee. They submitted more than in writing...and infinitely better. (Ryan Murphy was nominated at the DGA for “The Power of Madonna”, back when the show was brilliant).

Ryan: "The Sue Sylvester Shuffle" will get attention definitely.

Andrew: Yeah, I think “Sue Sylvester Shuffle” is a threat because it's gaudy and looks over-directed which is what some people think "good" directing is.

Ryan: That's my thoughts exactly. But then "Special Education" and "Original Song" are the Regionals/Sectionals episodes.

Andrew: Logically, “Duets” and “Furt” should be the frontrunners.

Ryan: Logically. With them, it's rarely about that though.

Andrew: And “The Substitute” is always a threat because Murphy directed it.

Ryan: So it could be any number. Though I feel they'll at most only get 2 nominations.

Andrew: At most or at least?

Ryan: Well they have other shows to consider. Jumping to 30 Rock... I think "Live Show" is a lock.

Andrew: Really? Ick. Hated it. Over, the 100?

Ryan: I think so. At least because it was such a big deal. It's gaudy and looks over-directed.

Andrew: Ha. I'm quotable! Bill Condon is a big name and he directs The Big C opener, I think he's a threat.

Ryan: Yeah, he's in my longlist-shortlist. And speaking of name directors... The Office has some of its cast working double-time.

Andrew: “Goodbye Michael” nis probably the lock here, though I'd love for Rainn to get in for the Christmas episode.

Ryan: No doubt. I thought I had more to share in regards to The Office, but I don’t.

Andrew: Modern Family?

Ryan: I know "Halloween" was DGA-nominated, but I think their strongest bet is "See You Next Fall." I don't get why they didn't submit that for Writing.

Andrew: Really? I didn't like “See You Next Fall”. And, strangely, despite the theatrics “Halloween” doesn't feel overdone.

Ryan: So we're just disagreeing all over the place tonight. That's great.

Andrew: Yay for diversity.

Ryan: Haha. Well Raising Hope has its pilot, but I love the title of their other submission "Don't Vote For This Episode." I didn't see the episode, but if I was a voter, I'd watch it.

Andrew: Ha. I get you. I sort of think Entourage should be considered. Not only because of DGA, I think this last season was its best yet.

Ryan: As a non-watcher, I'll take your word for it. Which episode(s)?

Andrew: I figure Lose Yourself, the finale.

Ryan: Parks and Recreation or Community? Will they get any love?

Andrew: The former for “The Fight” and the latter for “A Fistful of Paintballs”?

Ryan: Community submitted its Paintball finale, which doesn't compare to the original, but still something to behold on a sitcom.

Andrew: So, predictions?

Ryan: Okay, predictions:
30 Rock “Live Show”
The Big C “Pilot”
Glee “Sue Sylvester Shuffle”
Modern Family “See You Next Fall”
The Office “Goodbye Michael”
        
Andrew: My gleeful choices.
The Big C “Pilot”
Glee “The Substitute”
Glee “Sue Sylvester Shuffle”
The Office “Goodbye Michael”
Modern Family “Halloween”

Ryan: And thus ends probably the least exciting topic we'll talk about. Next, actresses and Shows!
         
He's so mean isn't he? It could be a strong list of nominees depending on what the Emmy's decide to go for. But what will they go for? What do you think?

Emmy Chatter: Supporting Actors

In theory, I think the supporting actor category at the Emmy's should be an eclectic bunch, but you never know when Emmy is concerned. They often have a penchant to go for the infinitely safe and forget some good stuff. Ryan and I are back to discuss the potential nominees.
           
Ryan: Okay, segue to supporting characters...

Andrew: Well, we were talking last time about random selections so let's pick up there. Before we do... I heard Harry Shum Jr. (of Glee) didn't submit because his agent thought it would be silly to do so. Apparently, you have to pay to submit yourself.
         
Ryan: Wow, really?

Andrew: This, of course, begs the questions… Do some of these actors submitting honestly expect that they have any chance?

Ryan: It really is quite mind-boggling. Sorry Chace Crawford, but as handsome as you are, the Emmys will not be voting for ANYONE on Gossip Girl.

Andrew: I understand someone from Gossip Girl submitting, but all Chace does is stand and look vacant.
       
Ryan: Well I didn't see any of his other male co-stars submit themselves, which is even funnier really.
      
Andrew: True, he's awful. So, comedy or drama first?

Ryan: I think we should stick with comedy first. We've done in that way for the others.
          
Andrew: Okay, well. I love the pickings, and it's a generally strong field. But, I'm sort of sad that none of the Cougar Town men (other than Grayson) submitted themselves... they probably had little chance, but they're hilarious (read: Dan Byrd)
           
Ryan: Very strong field, but yeah I wouldn't have minded if they all submitted themselves. At least it would've made sense to us!
     
Andrew: Exactly...so locks? I say resolutely that as far as LOCKED goes, it's NPH and Burrell
       
Ryan: I agree. Though as much as I love love love NPH, if there was someone in his show that deserves the nomination, it would be Jason Segel. Though NPH did well in his scenes with John Lithgow and with his much-loved Tony hosting duties still fresh on people's minds, yeah, he's locked.

Andrew: Really, NPH is the only reason I keep watching How I Met Your Mother.

Ryan: To a small extent, me too, but Segel did great work this season. But speaking of Burrell, what is the status of the rest of the men of Modern Family? I'm thinking they feel horrible for snubbing Ed O'Neill and will nominate him this year.

Can all the Modern Family gents make it in?

Andrew: Well, even though I think Stonestreet was a bit disappointing this season he's locked...it's the question of whether or not Jesse Tyler Ferguson or Ed O’Neill will make it. Personally (and I know they don't care) if they HAVE to nominate a second Modern Family guy alongside Burrell I think it should be Jesse...

Ryan: Personally, I'd actually pick Nolan Gould. Luke is so damn hilarious.

Andrew: Ha, he is...but we know Emmy hates children (unless they're Frankie Muniz, who DID deserve his nomination)

Ryan: Oh yeah, I have no illusions they'd ever nominate him or the other very talented and deserving children of that show, but they should. But speaking of locks, what of Golden Globe winner Chris Colfer?

Andrew: Ha, let's just cross that bridge now. I'm not a fan of Colfer as an actor, generally or this season in particular. I was rewatching some season one episodes and he was much more uninhibited back then, now it just seems a bit pretentious. (I love him when he's in the lighter registers a la "Duets" or the You smell homeless, Brett bit from "The Substitute" but overall, meh). But, yeah, he's probably in.

Ryan: Well the show is slowly turning into The Kurt Show as unfair as that may sound. For me, I actually have appreciated the character more, because I've paid more attention to the actor as his meteoric star has been on the rise. The kid is charming left and right, so as much a problem as Kurt the character; everyone is loving Chris the actor.

Andrew: Colfer is the type of actor who I think works best when he's a supplementing. He seems nice enough but damn it - that doesn't make him Emmy worthy!

 

 Ryan: Emmy worthy. Does that mean anything anymore? But that's a whole other conversation. What's also working on his favour is that his character is embroiled in a very topical storyline. Which is also why Max Adler probably submitted himself as well.

Andrew: Gah, we're back at ridiculous submissions. Max Adler, please make a case for what makes you worthy of me even considering you for a nomination?

Ryan: His case would be, like Colfer, he deftly handled a sensitive and topical storyline. You could argue how effective and truthful it is, but that is his argument. And sadly, you're not a voter.

Andrew: What really annoys, is that if an actor is on a streak and one year they miss it the Emmy's completely forget them. Jeremy Piven should at least be in discussions for a nod, but it's as if they've forgotten the show.

Ryan: Didn't he miss it because of the controversy over his Broadway stint?

Andrew: That was what, two years ago?

Ryan: Will this be similar to maybe what happens with Jon Cryer this year? Yes, he's not Charlie Sheen, but the show and Sheen did NOT submit themselves. That's got to affect his chances.

Andrew: Hopefully Cryer's out. When he won that Emmy......weirdness.

Ryan: That was NPH's Emmy. I'm still mad.

Andrew: I understand. So, we've touched on the Modern Family men...briefly touched on Entourage...you do know which giant supporting male ensemble we're missing, right?

Ryan: There's actually two shows I still want to talk about. Though only one with any real hopes of nominations. The one that doesn't is Community.

Andrew: Ah, yes...that.

Ryan: In a perfect world, Danny Pudi and Don Glover would be nominated. Together.

Andrew: I'm not big on Pudi, but Glover at least deserves consideration.

Ryan: Together, they are golden though. But how about that other show?

Andrew: Well, Offerman is at least close to a nomination. But, I'm floored that Adam Scott isn't coming up in more conversations.

Ryan: He definitely has the best chance out of all the guys. I wished Adam Scott would make it in, but playing the straight man doesn't really get the awards. Hopefully the growing love for Parks and Recreation will bring him into the fold. He more than deserves it.

Andrew: So, drumroll please...make your predictions.
Ryan: My predictions:
Ty Burrell Modern Family
Chris Colfer Glee
Neil Patrick Harris How I Met Your Mother
Ed O'Neill Modern Family
Nick Offerman Parks and Recreation
Eric Stonestreet Modern Family
     
Andrew: Okay, here goes:
Ty Burrell Modern Family
Chris Colfer Glee
Neil Patrick Harris How I Met Your Mother
Nick Offerman Parks and Recreation
Oliver Platt The Big C
Eric Stonestreet Modern Family
Yup, O'Neill snubbed. I'm a mad man.

Ryan: Oliver Platt is an actor's actor. So not too crazy.

Andrew: He's like nicer version of Paul Giamati to me.

Ryan: Ha! That should be on his business card. Should be interesting, though relatedly... John Corbett? Keir Gilchrist? Anyone from Weeds?

Andrew: Ugh, first off Corbett should have submitted in the lead category and holy shit can't they give United States of Tara some goddamn love.

Ryan: If there's a gay kid spot on that list, it needs to go to Keir Gilchrist. Sorry, Chris.

Andrew: I know, I'm not even a big fan of Marshall as character but Gilchrist is a fine actor and as far as grieving gays go (oooh, I am one mean person) Gilchrist > Colfer

Ryan: Let it all out. Though I fear, the drama discussion is going to be less fun.

Andrew: No freakin' way. No discussion headlined by Alan Cumming is allowed to be anything less than smashing.

Ryan: Pretty genius of him to submit himself in Guest Actor last yr, get nominated, and now he has a step up over the rest of the field really.

Andrew: I know, he is so so so so so so so so so so so (X100) awesome!

Ryan: I mean I'm not calling him a lock or anything, because who knows, but I'd love for him to get nominated. He stole every scene he was in.

Andrew: What about Noth or Charles (or even Czuchry). I think they have chances, in that order.

Ryan: Charles and Czuchry won't be nominated, but I can see Noth get in as well. They like him.

Andrew: They didn’t give him a nod for Sex and the City, though, even though he'd gotten a Globe nod.

Ryan: Maybe I was thinking of the Globes then, which is a different beast. Still he has name recognition that Charles has a bit, but definitely not Czuchry.

Andrew: (I know, not Czuchry but allow me to dream about him and Panjabi getting it on at the Emmys)

Ryan: What do you think they did after she won last year? Also I practically screamed when she won last year. I was delirious. Similar to when Chenoweth won.

Andrew: "What do you think they did after she won last year?" (Evil grin.) Don't make me answer that. But, really, Archie’s SO nice in person, it's impossible not to love her. She even has the power to derail a conversation on SUPPORTING ACTORS. Kalinda Sharma is all powerful.

Ryan: Yes, yes she is. So let's talk about Boardwalk Empire. Or actually you talk about it since I don't watch it. There's buzz for... Michael Pitt?

Andrew: Ugh, Pitt is so not a supporting actor. But, I don't blame him for submitting there, he's not a name actor. Think of the duo of Daniel Day Lewis and DiCaprio in Gangs of New York. But, Buscemi is not as good as DDL in that, and Pitt is better than DiCaprio’s Amsterdam (although he does have the same mannerisms). Two leads, right?

Ryan: Oh definitely. But I guess that's why he's getting buzz then.

Andrew: He's in, but I'm thinking that Michael Shannon who is FREAKY crazy on it is more than a potential nod, too. Can I give you a spoiler?

Ryan: Yeah, go ahead. I have a horrible memory.

Andrew: There's an episode where he baptises a man to death. I'm not kidding. CRAZY!

Ryan: Wow. That's an image.

Andrew: Okay, let's just talk about the white elephant...John Slattery.

Ryan: The white-haired elephant. Sure, he's probably in even though did he do anything of note last season?

Andrew: I know. I mean, from season 1 to 3 Roger was my favourite character I was touting him all year round but he doesn't deserve to be there this season. Kartheiser would be so much more deserving (he was great this past season).

Ryan: I would agree with that, but I'd be shocked if he makes it in.

Andrew: You watch Justified and Game of ThroneS. Any word on potential nods?

Ryan: Peter Dinklage is amaze-balls. If they watch Game of Thrones, he would be a lock. And he definitely has buzz from critics. (Whatever that means.)

Andrew: Ha. Whatever that means indeed.

Ryan: The only reason why he wouldn't be nominated would be vote splitting, but I think most Game of Thrones fans know he's the MVP of the cast. At least when it comes to the guys.

Andrew: I'm not being facetious – I know they won't be nominated but in a perfect world someone from True Blood (read: Kwanten, Trammell) would be in.

Ryan: Denis O'Hare would have my vote for sure! It's a pity he didn't submit himself as Guest Actor.

Andrew: I know he's being "honest" but I hate he didn't submit there, too.

Ryan: Then there's John Noble in Fringe. The media/critics/whoever is pushing for him (and the show) hard. I'm hoping it happens. I mean Lost got traction here, too.

Andrew: They're pushing Sexton from The Killing, but with less alacrity. Probably won't happen, though.

Ryan: It's funny you mention Sexton since I wanted to ask you what his chances are. I saw the first 3 episodes and I thought he deserves it, but I don’t know what has transpired since.

Andrew: He deserves to be considered at the least but not as much as Kinnaman and Campbell. Still, Emmy's probably won't remember any of them.

Ryan: Interesting. Okay, you show your hands first.

Andrew: I predict:
Alan Cumming The Good Wife
Chris Noth The Good Wife
Michael Pitt Boardwalk Empire
Michael Shannon Boardwalk Empire
John Slattery Mad Men
Hmm, no idea for a sixth.
I say Braugher (Men of a Certain Age. Just to be racially conscious, they love him and he was nominated last year.

Ryan: My crazy, crazy predictions:
Alan Cumming The Good Wife
Peter Dinklage Game of Thrones
John Noble Fringe
Michael Pitt Boardwalk Empire
Brent Sexton The Killing
John Slattery Mad Men
Though I'm guessing 1, maybe 2, of these will actually make it in. Oh well. I'm giving the Emmys way too much credit it seems.

Andrew: You never know, right?

Ryan: Exactly.
           
How crazy are Ryan's predictions? Will Boardwalk Empire thrive? Are we bad for hating on Colfer? Any love for Gilchrist? What are you predictions?