The Seven Ages of Man: Double Feature Theatre

All the world’s a stage…it’s only one of the gazillion or so quotes that Shakespeare is noted for. The thing is, people remember the beginning and forget that the monologue is actually about the seven ages of man. Marc of Go See Talk is hosting a blog-a-thon which has a brilliant idea – imagine yourself to be a theatre owner, what would a week of double features at our theatre look like? He’s given us the opportunity make up our own rules and so, I dedicate my seven days to Shakespeare’s seven ages of man…with a twist…each day showing a classic and a contemporary film.
             

Monday: The Second Childhood

I’ve inverted the ages so that we begin with the end. Instead of carrying the audience from beginning to end we’ll begin with the close and reverse, and what better film to kick it off with than The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. It’s all about the body going in one direction, and the mind in another. It’s not about second childhood in the most typical sense, but for a vast portion of the film the boyish Benjamin is trapped in an old man’s body. It will double with On Golden Pond Katharine Hepburn and Henry Fonda’s Oscar winning film. It’s a true ode to the beauty of growing old with someone you love.

Tuesday: The Pantaloon

What is a pantaloon, you ask – essentially he’s an aging buffoon? It’s not quite old age, but it’s getting there. This double feature features films which hinge on their men – Hopkins in a Merchant Ivory film, and Hulce and Abraham in the Forman epic. Hopkins butler isn’t quite a buffoon, but he acts it at times and Salieri ends the film well on the way to madness. The films are only a decade apart, but for me Amadeus is undoubtedly a classic and no one will do contemporary period films as well as Merchant/Ivory.

Wednesday: The Justice

The age where man bequeaths justice…Judgment from Nuremberg is a fine docudrama on the Nuremberg trials and I can’t have a day of Kate Hepburn without a day of Spencer Tracy (although it’s Maximillian Schell and Judy Garland who really floor me). I could have gone with a number of modern legal dramas, but to cheer you up after the sadness of Nuremberg we turn to My Cousin Vinny. Pesci’s barrister is unorthodox, but he and Mona Lisa Vito will fight for justice.

Thursday: The Soldier

There are so many films on war to choose from, especially since even those not about war often have it as a back-story but in the end the choices were not that difficult to make. The Messenger doesn’t take place on the battlefield, but I find it to be a provocative look at war and when paired up with From Here to Eternity it only becomes more interesting.

Friday: The Lover

It’s ridiculous for me to use Shakespeare as a paradigm and not have a Shakespearean flick, thus it’s a no-brainer that Zefferilli’s lush Romeo and Juliet is the one that I’m choosing. It’ll be paired up with the equally LUSH Bright Star and perhaps you’ll be depressed after this one-two of dying heros, but c’est la vie. My theatre, my rules.

Saturday: The Schoolboy

Perhaps, Lindsay Lohan and James Dean don’t have much in common but who can say no to a double whammy of Mean Girls and Rebel without a Cause. Both of them have protagonists dealing with new schools and both manage a knack for the zeitgeist without being overwrought.

Sunday: The Infant

For obvious reasons movies about babies are difficult to pull off…they don’t act. And I must admit when I saw that we needed three films for the final day, I got worried. But, I’m a boss at sidling out of sticky situations. I’ll begin with Rosemary’s Baby, follow it up with Children of Men and close with the guilty pleasure Look Who’s Talking. and, perhaps, only one is explicitly about infancy, but you know you want to see all

Go check out what's going on at The Mad Hatter's theatre who I first saw the blog-a-thon on....

           

Which days would you be coming to the theatre?

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?

Emmy Chatter: Supporting Actresses

We started off with the nominees and ended up talking about my hatred for Betty White and the bipolar nature of Glee... and Ryan and I are back with Emmy predictions, the last group of potential acting nominees - the supporting women. The actual nominees are scheduled to be revealed on Thursday, here's what happened when we sat down to discuss the group.
   
Andrew: So, we saved the supporting women for laugh and it's not mistake. I think the field for supporting actresses in both categories is pretty stacked and thought there are some potential nominees I don't care for I think Emmy will choose wisely.

Ryan: I agree. I mean I actually didn't find it hard to narrow down to the 6 or so I think the Emmy would go for, but you can definitely do another list of 6 and still have great performances. With that said, I don't think the Emmys will go for too much new blood for Comedy.

Andrew: So odd you say that because the comedy bunch is the weaker of the two. And, I have to think that it's because Betty White's the frontrunner. I apologise to all concerned parties, but I am not a fan of her comedic work.

Ryan: I do love her, but there CAN be too much Betty White. And I'm totally giving away my picks early, but oddly enough she's the ONLY new blood I see making it in... and saying Betty White is new anything is hilarious.

Andrew: I don't watch the show, but if the show makes a killing maybe Wendie Mallick could make it in. I know I shouldn't knock White when I've not seen the show....but I always find her doing the same smart aleck-old woman shtick

Ryan: Which people love.

Andrew: Phyllis Somerville of The Big C does a fine job with the same shtick...but with more heart.

Ryan: I actually have only seen the premiere episode of Hot in Cleveland and it's just not my type of show even though I love all the women involved. I have no idea how much love the Emmys will give that show. I'm actually afraid.

Andrew: I'm worried it could be a Two and a Half Men situation, but maybe it's a good show.

Ryan: Maybe. We'll see. Now for a random jump... Glee. I love Jane Lynch, but this wasn't her season. Most episodes where she didn't make an appearance were good. Or "good" in Glee terms.

Andrew: But when she was good she was brilliant. I could list of three episodes I think she's phenomenal in – “Furt”, “The Substitute”, “Funeral”...in that order.

Ryan: So true and it's hard to not like her, the actress, not the character.

Andrew: But, I get you on how she's been a bit underwhelming at times. At least she still has things to do, poor Jayma was awesome last season and had nothing to do this year.

Ryan: Which is crazy because they could've mined so much from her OCD-ness and deciding over two guys, etc. But speaking of Glee ladies, Naya Rivera and Heather Morris brought me SO MUCH joy this season.

Andrew: But only in small bits for me. That's the thing about Glee the characters created are great but it's the follow through that's worrisome.

Ryan: I won't disagree with that point. I still love them though.

Andrew: Imagine what more conversations with Rachel and Santana could be like? Or Brittany and Finn?

Ryan: I don't think I'd want to sit in a room where Finn and Brittany are having a conversation.

Andrew: They'd have some cute and dumb children.

Ryan: Haha. Still, I was much more into the Santana/Brittany storyline than I was with Kurt/Blaine at times. So there's that. So it's weird that I predict Chris/Darren to be nominated and not those two. It's just... how it is I guess.

Andrew: Rivera and Morris have brilliant chemistry, but I hated that “Sexy” episode. I mean, Santana always seemed to voluminously interested in both guys and girls (remember how possessive of Puck she was?) so that "I'm in love with Brit thing just seemed odd.

Ryan: It's definitely a sharp turn for the character, but since then I think they've committed. Hopefully no more sharp turns. HAHA, with this show though? HA.

Andrew: Slippery slope.

Ryan: Let's talk about another show! You pick!

Andrew: Well, do we even need to TALK about Modern Family? Sure I'm all for Bowen>Vergara, but they're both in.

Ryan: I'm actually the opposite (but barely since I love them both).

Andrew: I haven't met anyone who loved Bowen...so, not surprised.

Ryan: Well any actresses you WISH could get in? How about those Community ladies?


Andrew: I like Alison Brie, but there are so many ladies I love more - the duos from Cougar Town and Parks and Recreation and United States of Tara and the trio from Nurse Jackie would all be worthy nominees.

Ryan: Busy Phillips and Christa Miller. Ugh. I'd die if happiness if they'd get nominated.

Andrew: I'm not even going to try to hope. Lost causes.

Ryan: If they are so in love with Jim Parson's Sheldon Cooper in Big Bang Theory then they might love Mayim Bialik who essentially played a female version of the character. And she's funnier at times. Plus she's Blossom! But won't happen.

Andrew: What WILL happen. Predict, sonny. (Yup, I just called you sonny.)

Ryan: Wait! I wasn't done spewing random things.

Andrew: Sorry, lad. (I'm feeling so fatherly today.)
           
Ryan: Like this is Vanessa William's first eligible year for Desperate Housewives. They may not like the show any more but... Vanessa Williams.

Andrew: Vanessa Williams is the season's MVP so I'd have no problem with her getting a nod. She's woefully underused, but there were a few episodes where she and the series' second in command (Cross) were going at it. It was EXCELLENT comedy.

Ryan: And finally... Amy Ryan. If this year the Emmy goes wild for Steve Carrell and The Office... anything can happen. Though she was foolish not to submit herself in Guest Actress.

Andrew: I know. Denis O'Hare, I don't agree with his submission, but I get it. Amy is in, what...seven episodes? Phenomenal in all but ... I don't know. And she wasn't nominated on her last tries for the show...

Ryan: I know! It was almost an easy Emmy nomination with the sentiment surrounding the show. Anyways, my predictions.
Julie Bowen Modern Family
Jane Krakowski 30 Rock,
Jane Lynch Glee
Sofia Vergara Modern Family
Betty White Hot in Cleveland
Kristen Wiig Saturday Night Live
We didn't talk about Wiig, but she's this summer's movie sweetheart. That might matter.

Andrew: Seeing Bridesmaids tomorrow...I don't have a problem with her or SNL, but it's unfair to have them be allowed to submit in the acting categories...it just doesn't make any sense and robs some other actors a chance for recognition. And isn't it weird how Jane K has turned into a default nominee? Wish she'd have won by now, but the category is so packed so often.

Ryan: And I think she had a very good season. As for SNL, I think only a few years ago they had their own separate category? Maybe? I don't know.

Andrew: Okay: I predict
Julie Bowen Modern Family
Jane Krakowski 30 Rock,
Jane Lynch Glee
Sofia Vergara Modern Family
Betty White Hot in Cleveland
Kristen Wiig Saturday Night Live

Andrew: Oy, we have the same nominees.

Ryan: Wow. So unexpected.

Andrew: This is lame.

Ryan: Ha. That's the thing about this category, I could probably come up with a list of 6 other names that'd be just as awesome and definitely more exciting.

Andrew: DAMN YOU, Emmy (as Marlene Dietrich in Witness For the Prosecution). I know, there are some great women who won't be recognised. In case you didn't realise, I'm preparing for the drama category with theatrics.

Ryan: I felt it. But speaking of the drama category, I'm thinking they'll be more new blood here. Maybe it's just wishful thinking on my part though.

Andrew: Why do I think I know who you're speaking of...hmm...anyhow...last year's winner Panjabi is obviously back.

Ryan: Yeah, most definitely. She won't win again, but she's definitely back.

Andrew: See how professional I'm being..? "Panjabi"

Ryan: Professionalism is overrated.

Andrew: But, Kalinda is not. I actually think she's a serious threat for a second win.

Ryan: Well I wouldn't hate it! I'd love it in fact, but for someone who wasn't a household name (she is now a bit) to repeat? That'd be amazing. Will Christine Baranski join her?

Andrew: It's possible, based on goodwill for the show. And Diane was brilliant in some episodes, everything leading up the Derek Bond firing... She's phenomenal in “VIP Treatment” and “9 Hours”, both of which are submitted for writing and directing...

Ryan: She's like the Jane Lynch of this category except she didn't win last year. She had meatier stuff last year.

Andrew: I know, I'm still surprised she didn't win last year. Panjabi is better this year than last, and Baranski was better last season than this. But, she has an Emmy and she's so good-natured I'm sure she hardly grudges Archie the win.

Ryan: Oh God, yeah. That cast is sunshine and rainbows off-camera. I refuse to believe in anything different.

Andrew: So do, I. The chemistry shows. Since, we're talking about a show with chemistry... isn't it a bummer than Grey’s Anatomy is being ignored since Sandra Oh should be at least considered for her work this past season?

Ryan: Yeah, she was great. And who knows they might. And I know they don't look at episodes yet this time around, but Sara Ramirez has a great one in the musical episode. It wasn't a perfect episode, but she was fantastic in it.

Andrew: And Ramirez has been on fire this season.

Ryan: Oh thank God you agree too. There are way too many Callie-haters out there.

Andrew: Chandra Wilson has been a bit ignored, and Callie has turned into a character that's essential. For me, the episode after the musical was her high-point.

Ryan: Dealing with it all, yeah. Perfect segue to another Shonda Rimes show... Now I don't watch Private Practice anymore but I saw a few episodes dealing with the rape/abuse of one of the women played by Kadee Strickland. Just wonderfully acted by her.


Andrew: I used to watch for Audra, but Kadee stepped up this season...but I wonder if the show is on their radar because s1/s2 had some great work by Audra and Kate Walsh and that was when everyone loved Shonda...so, I don't know?

Ryan: Yeah, it's definitely not on their radar, but I at least wanted give her props in our chat. She deserves at least that.

Andrew: She does, she's a fine actress. And she has one of the nicest Southern accents I've ever heard,

Ryan: Now neither of us watch Justified, but apparently Margo Martindale is the critics' pick. The love is deafening. And I love her, so I'm good. She was great in Dexter.

Andrew: The love is loud, but I'm always iffy about that critical love thing.

Ryan: Well the show seems to be doing hardcore campaigning, so who knows?

Andrew: Indeed, and remember how everyone was shocked that Panjabi was even nominated maybe Martindale can make it.

Ryan: If she does, I think she might win it. Like Panjabi incidentally! But that's thinking way too much ahead.

Andrew: It's a possibility. Then there's Hendricks, who just won the critics’ choice.

Ryan: She tied with Margo Martindale.

Andrew: I still don't LOVE Mad Men but Christina was easily the season's MVP for me.

Ryan: I'd probably agree with you if it was LAST season, but I think Moss really stepped up this season. With that said, Hendricks would be my 2nd MVP. And it helps her Jones and Moss are duking it out in the Lead Actress category.

Andrew: True. Two news shows could make a supreme killing.

Ryan: Reading my mind again, but go ahead.

Andrew: Forbes for The Killing and Kelly MacDonald for Boardwalk Empire. Either would be worthy of nominations or a win.

Ryan: I wish I had seen more of their performances! I mean Forbes killed me during those first three episodes of The Killing I saw. And she's always great to me. And I'm expecting a billion nominations for Boardwalk Empire with one of them going to Kelly MacDonald...

Andrew: MacDonald is the opposite, starts off a bit underwhelming but by halfway through she does some excellent emoting. And a billion nominations...That would be interesting...

Ryan: That reminds me of another actress that may have a chance depending on how the Emmys like the show... Emilia Clarke in Game of Thrones. Not sure I'd call her the MVP of that show, but she's up there, especially towards the second half of the season. And the last scene of the season, a scene critics, fan, and everyone really, just absolutely LOVED. And it's ALL Emilia Clarke.

Andrew: Hmm. Ready for me to predict?

Ryan: Go ahead!

Andrew: Here goes:
Archie Panjabi The Good Wife
Kelly MacDonald Boardwalk Empire
Michelle Forbes The Killing
Christina Hendricks Mad Men
See how much I'm mulling over?
I say Martingale gets snubbed and
Sandra Oh Grey’s Anatomy and Christine Baranski The Good Wife make it in.

Ryan: Great. Of course I also say that top 4:
Archie Panjabi The Good Wife
Kelly MacDonald Boardwalk Empire
Michelle Forbes The Killing
Christina Hendricks Mad Men
But I'm going to risk it on a few new blood on shows that the Emmys may or may not love:
Margo Martindale Justified
Emilia Clarke Game of Thrones
 I'm sure you didn't see that coming.

Andrew: Anything could happen. I think this is continuously one of the toughest categories to predict.

Ryan: Well last year... Sharon Gless for Burn Notice. Where did that come from?

Andrew: They love Sharon Gless. You know that.

Ryan: I know. I know. But Burn Notice! How random!

Andrew: Especially since Anwar is/was much more deserving

Ryan: I don't watch the show, but sure. Oh and I wanted to end our convo by bringing up Amy Ryan again. She submitted herself here too for her work in In Treatment.

Andrew: Yeah, along with Debra Winger.

Ryan: I think 2-3 years ago, they'd be in.

Andrew: I think either could be a surprise, Winger more likely.

Ryan: And though she is NOT going to be nominated, how amazing would it be if they actually honoured Kristin Bauer van Straten? Oh man.

Andrew: Ha. I love KBvS, but she's never in enough episodes.

Ryan: Or in enough scenes. They seem to be doing a bit better this season SO FAR. Keep it up, True Blood.

Andrew: About to watch the episode.

Ryan: I thought you watched it last night! Or was that Weeds?

Andrew: What did I watch last night...oh, The Big C.

Ryan: That's it?

Andrew: Well, I also watched some old episodes of Damages....but nothing new.

Ryan: Gotcha. I finished watching S1 of Luther. So good.

Andrew: GAH,I didn't talk about Chloe Sevigny. If anyone is looking at the show Sevigny should be considered...

Ryan: Totally. No argument here.

Andrew: And it's the last season, with surprises rampant it could happen.

Ryan: But as you said before, Emmy hasn't noticed her before.

Andrew: Indeed. Quelle dommage.
         
Are you as in love with the small screen's supporting women as we are? Who'd you nominate?

Emmy Chatter: Lead Actresses

...there's always a woman...so, we're on to the Lead Actress predictions. The field looks good, but it seems a bit simple predicting who Emmy is going to fall for. Ryan and I are back with more predictions....
             

Andrew: Lead actress is always interesting because, women on TV are usually given opportunity to do much.

Ryan: Except in comedy apparently. Because wow, was that submission list short.

Andrew: That's actually what I was coming to, because my shortlist for comedy (and my own personal ballot) is horrendously short.

Ryan: And that's even including those Showtime shows that aren't really comedies! I mean it was easy enough to narrow down my list, but wow, that's crazy.

Andrew: Even though there are rarely repeat winnners for lead actress in a comedy, the nominees are often fairly predictable.

Ryan: Which again makes it easy to predict, but not as much fun.

Andrew: It's really a case of five actors who're assured nods and one who's probably going to get in, I think.

Ryan: Yeah, I think it's all about who we think that last person will be. Looking forward to seeing your picks, but before we reveal so quickly... Showtime should make a big showing, no? Two of the most recent winners + newcomer and Emmy beloved Laura Linney. They're guaranteed 3 spots right there.

Andrew: Yeah, and I don't mind. For me, United States of Tara is the one that's least funny and it's still funny enough to not be a straight drama (even if I called it a drama in my own personal ballot). So, I'm fine with the showtime ladies getting love.

Ryan: For me, I would be happy nominating them in Drama, so it's not about me not wanting to nominate them. I just feel for non-Showtime ladies that aren't really asked or get the opportunity to do something such as the Bryce storyline in United States of Tara.

Andrew: The reason I'm essentially fine with it is because I see it as as best performance in a comedy, not funniest performance. Some comedies have actors who have the straight roles (people love Colfer, but his humour is not what they love) or some dramas have comic relief (Alan Cumming in The Good Wife). So, overall, I'm fine with it.

Ryan: I've started to come around to it, but it still bugs me. In any case, thoughts on the Showtime odd-woman out (possibly) Mary Louise Parker?

Andrew: I have not watched Weeds in years so I'm neither here nor there on that.

Ryan: Well after getting nominated 3x in a row, they skipped her last year. Death knell. And she didn't really offer up anything new last year, except for perhaps the finale.

Andrew: Shame that Courteney Cox might have zero chance of getting in.

Ryan: You read my mind. I was just going to ask you if there was somebody you wanted to make it in that won't. She's my pick, too.

Andrew: But, I'm really okay with who I THINK will make it. Care to go first with your predictions?

Ryan: Predictions:

Toni Collette United States of Tara

Edie Falco Nurse Jackie

Tina Fey 30 Rock

Laura Linney The Big C

Lea Michele Glee

Amy Poehler Parks and Recreation

Andrew: My predictions:

Toni Collette United States of Tara

Edie Falco Nurse Jackie

Tina Fey 30 Rock

Laura Linney The Big C

Lea Michele Glee

Amy Poehler Parks and Recreation

Yup, we've got the same bunch.

Ryan: I actually picked Martha Plimpton over Lea Michele, but I just changed my mind last minute. Predictable indeed.

Andrew: I actually don't mind Lea getting in...it's predictable, but I think the lineup is golden. I want Lea to be nominated not just because I like her but she manages to overcome some harrowing bits at time.

Ryan: It is, but other than Collette and Poehler, I'm OKAY with a few surprises in the mix.

Andrew: Who knows, maybe Plimpton could make it in - what with The Good Wife / Company goodwill.

Ryan: Though I feel that if she does, Poehler will be punished. Which is just all kinds of wrong.

Andrew: But, Andrew: Really, Poehler getting snubbed...that would be J$O%TJ$Y^O^#$J%OTJ%YOR!!!!!!!

Ryan: I'd throw something at the TV, because the whole medium would become literally useless at that point if that were to happen.

Andrew: That would be horrific. We'd get Robert, Jose, Luke, Nathaniel and a slew of others to protest. I'd fly out illegally if I must.

Ryan: That'd be beautiful. So since we're being all melodramatic now, let's jump to Drama!

Andrew: Do you watch The Closer?

Ryan: I do not.

Andrew: One of my favourite procedurals on air, Kyra's the defending winner so I warrant that she'll back for her seventh nomination...along with the love of your life...

Ryan: She's hardly the love of my life.

Andrew: Tut, tut, tut. Don't make me pound my gavel.

Ryan: I do enjoy Julianna Marguilies performance though so yeah she's in.

Though to be honest, I'm much more in love with one Elisabeth Moss who upgraded to Lead after submitting and getting nominated for Supporting last year.

Andrew: Well, she's been nominated in lead before so she's more than just a contender. I've never watched a season of Sons of Anarchy but Katey Segal is flirting with chances of a first time Emmy nomination after her Golden Globe win.

Ryan: It all depends on what they think about the show I think. It'd be a great story if she and Ed O'Neill were to both be nominated this year.

Andrew: Umm why (he asks embarrassedly.)

Ryan: Both starred in Married with Children back in the 80s? 90s? The decades are starting to blur. I'm old.

Andrew: (PS. Was Married with Children the one with Christina Applegate?)

Ryan: Yup. Back to Mad Men for a second, it's so weird January Jones didn't category hop like Moss. She belongs in Best Supporting.

Andrew: I know. It sort of sucks for January because the writers don't know what to do with her, and she's done fine good work this past season but then, supporting actress is even more packed and she’s sort of half-and-half. If they go batshit for Mad Men...you never know.

Ryan: It definitely is, but I think she'd have a good showing there too. Oh well. Speaking of lead-supporting roles, I know you don't watch it but it's also weird for Lena Headey to submit herself here rather than supporting for Game of Thrones.

Andrew: Whereas I'm more willing to bet on Chandler being nominated, I'm not as certain that Connie Britton is in.

Ryan: Well when you're saddled with a non-starter storyline like Epyck or however you spell her name, yeah Britton didn't have much to do.

Andrew: Hahahaha. (*Applause*)

Ryan: (I'm here all night!) Any thoughts on Sally Field and Jeanne Tripplehorn for their last seasons? Field is a former winner while they don't know Tripplehorn exists.

Andrew: Field. Brothers and Sisters was so weak and Big Love was so strong. Even though Sevigny will always be MVP in the latter Barb had a powerful year, but you're right. They don't know she exists...and they hardly care for the show.

Ryan: And speaking of non-existent show and performance, I'm clinically depressed knowing that Anna Torv's exception work on Fringe will 100% be ignored.

Andrew: I'm actually sad that Anna Paquin will be ignored, Globe win in 2010 and all.

Ryan: Yeah, but at least she has been recognized somewhere. Torv is getting much love from critics, but that's not the same.

Andrew: I'm praying that Mariska Harigaty doesn't make it back. It's so weird how they'll keep nominating her, but after her win Patricia Arquette was virtually ignored for Medium.

Ryan: Hargitay is such a perennial favourite though and it helps that her show will give her a gut wrenching episode here and there for her to submit.

Andrew: But the nominees are based on overall seasons, they don't submit episodes until they're actually nominated (or shortlisted). Still. aaargh.

Ryan: Well that's even more confusing then. WHY DO THEY KEEP nominating her then?

Andrew: I DON'T KNOW...but, let's ignore her. And finally, 3 lawmakers in series premieres: Dana Delaney Body of Proof, Kathy Bates Harry's Law and Mireille Enos The Killing.

Ryan: Enos if they appreciate that kind of quiet performance. Bates if they go for name recognition.

Andrew: Having seen only three episodes, what did you think of Enos?

Ryan: I think I need to see more. She didn't get to do much, at least relatively. Plus I'm still trying to get used to her as someone who isn't a

polygamist's wife.

Andrew: Episode 11 (Missing) takes a break from the case and she's brilliant in it.

Ryan: And if being a movie star helps in the Comedy section (see above for Linney), thoughts on Oscar winner Melissa Leo's chances? Don't watch her show though.

Andrew: She didn't get love last year, but I'm wondering if The Fighter love AND Mildred Pierce love could help her.

             

Ryan: Well she wasn't an Oscar winner last year, was she?

Andrew: True. So, ready for me to p-p-predictions (pretending I'm wrapping, don't ask). RAPPING. Good lord, Andrew.

Ryan: Nice. I'll wait to see your picks.

Andrew: Random order:

Julianna Margulies The Good Wife

Kyra Sedgwick The Closer

Elizabeth Moss Mad Men

Mireille Enos The Killing

Mariska Hargitay Law and Order SVU

January Jones Mad Men as a surprise inclusion

Ryan: VERY interesting. My predictions:

Connie Britton Friday Night Lights

Mariska Hargitay Law and Order: SVU

Julianna Margulies The Good Wife

Elisabeth Moss Mad Men

Emmy Rossum Shamless

Kyra Sedgwick The Closer

Ryan: And I just realize we didn't talk about young Emmy Rossum.

Andrew: That's what happen you don't watch quality shows Andrew (head to table).

Ryan: I think she has a good chance, if they watch the show.

Andrew: Is Shameless really that much of a threat?

Ryan: Only if they watch the show.

Andrew: What's it about?

Ryan: A group of kids with a drunk dad and an absentee mom, trying to raise themselves as lower middle class family in... Chicago? Detroit? Whatever. Rossum plays the oldest child and acts as the mom to the rest. It's a remake of a British show.

Andrew: I guess I should give that a watch sometime. Added to Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead.

Ryan: She gets to be fun, fierce, sad, angry, sexy, everything.

Andrew: oooooh, oooooh before I go or forget...did you watch the preview for Smash?

Ryan: If by preview, you mean that long-ish trailer that NBC showed the TV crix a few weeks back... then yeah. If it's something new they released recently... no?

Andrew: I don't know. Saw it on you-tube (it's like 5 minutes long). Did you like it? I have a feeling it could seriously bomb, but I watched it like ten times.
                
Ryan: LOVED IT. Glee for adults... with brains.
           
Andrew: and by ten times, I mean 50.
            
Ryan: It's one of my favorite new fall show preview. Probably second to Awake. You should see that.

Andrew: I'll get on that. Are there any shows premiering this summer that I should keep an eye on?
Ryan: I honestly don't know. Only thing I can think of is Torchwood: Miracle Day.

Andrew: Cool.

Ryan: Oh and there's this new show, Wilfred, starring Elijah Wood. Heard it was supposed to be good.

Andrew: Ah, yeah - that I've got to check up on. (A/N: Reviews coming tonight.)

Ryan: I didn't mean to make that rhyme.

Andrew: Ha. Now I'm thinking of Pushing Daisies, I was watching "Girth" earlier, the Halloween episode where the narrator was rhyming.

Ryan: Aw. Miss that show. My DVDs are circulating around my friends so I can't immediately re-watch.

Andrew: Did you see the preview of KC in Good Christian Belles?

Ryan: Yeah. I don't know. I mean it could be okay, but doesn't feel like the type of show I'd be into.

Andrew: It seems a bit drab, but I shall watch for Kristin. So weird seeing her being mean.

Ryan: BTW I'm pretty sure I saw most of the new fall shows previews. I made that a priority a few weeks back. Yeah, I'd totally check it out for KC. Hope it surprises.
           
Who are you hoping is going to get a Best Actress nomination?