Review: Crazy, Stupid, Love

When his wife (Julianne Moore) announces at dinner that she has had an affair and wants a divorce, Cal (Steve Carell) begins his new life as a pathetic single whose only had sex with one person in his entire life. After a couple of nights in a bar, a good-looking ladies man named Jacob(Ryan Gosling) offers to help Cal rebuild his image and get in with the ladies. One night Jacob meets Hanna (Emma Stone), a recent law school graduate, who rejects him, then questions her current relationship. Meanwhile Cal and Emily's son falls in love with his babysitter, and as they begin their new dating lives (including some extended cameos from Kevin Bacon and Marisa Tomei) they began to see just how complicated and well, crazy and stupid love can be, and just how complicated the webs of relationships we weave truly are.

Crazy, Stupid, Love is a refreshing romantic comedy, with some nice twists, and some truly exceptional performances. Steve Carell is the master at playing the broken down dad/husband (see Dan in Real Life), and this time also deftly combines his comedic talents which creates a great lead performance. Ryan Gosling is a fantastic actor, but I had not realized just how great of a comedic performance he can turn out. He is suave, and hilarious throughout the entire film. While I would have loved to have seen more of them both Julianne Moore and Emma Stone give stellar outings, particularly Stone, who continues to prove that she is becoming a comedic superstar who is natural and effervescent every second she graces the screen. While only on screen probably 15 minutes, Marisa Tomei also proves that she can be funny, and while her performance was short, it was definitely memorable.

That being said, I wasn't completely crazy over some of the subplots, especially since many of them were rushed to the finish line. Nor was I completely crazy about some of the more stale cliche moments that, while not frequent, still look like blemishes on what was otherwise a great project. Furthermore, the aftermath of the climax is just a few scenes too long, and kind of makes the otherwise really good conclusion have a somewhat rough landing.

That being said, the pros far outweigh the cons, and Crazy, Stupid, Love manages to be a light and funny film that is a wonderful summer movie, and acts as a great showcase for a group of talented actors, who seem to be having a great time. I think audiences will feel the same way.

Grade: B+

Oscar Potential: Probably not, but definitely some Golden Globe love.

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Picture

July Predictions
The Artist
The Descendants

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close

The Ides of March

J. Edgar

Midnight in Paris

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

The Tree of Life

War Horse

Young Adult

Other Contenders - Hugo, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Moneyball, The Iron Lady, Albert Nobbs, We Bought a Zoo, A Dangerous Method, Martha Marcy May Marlene, Beginners, Super 8, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, The Adventures of Tintin: Secret of the Unicorn, Carnage, Contagion, Shame, The Rum Diary, We Need to Talk About Kevin, Take This Waltz, My Week With Marilyn, W.E., Win Win

Commentary - There are so many films that have yet to be seen, that this list is really an exercise in futility. That being said, I'll at least take a stab at it. War Horse from Steven Spielberg looks to be an epic historical film which could be an Academy gold mine. As could J.Edgar, with its stunning cast, but Clint has struck out recently, so it needs to be really good. The Ides of March looks a lot like Michael Clayton, and with Clooney and his team behind it, it definitely has a shot. Alexander Payne and Stephen Daldry films do well with the Academy, but we need to know more about the quality of The Descendants and Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. From the trailer, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy looks like it could at least be interesting, but once again, some reviews will help determine its possibility. The Artist could be the indie film hit, as well as a foreign representative, but we need to know how it will play with American audiences and a broader consensus of film critics. Finally, I am going with two first half hits, Midnight in Paris and The Tree of Life, but both films need to have longevity and The Tree of Life might not play well with the Academy. I didn't put Girl with the Dragon Tattoo because it looks to dirty and dark, and Hugo's trailer makes it look more like The Polar Express than an Academy Award winning Scorsese film. Of the other contenders, watch out for Moneyball, The Help, A Dangerous Method, and We Need to Talk About Kevin.

Carnage to Open New York Film Festival on September 30th

While it will be a few weeks before we know the full list of films slated for the 49th New York Film Festival, we do know that Roman Polanski's highly anticipated adaptation of God of Carnage, simply titled Carnage this time around, will open the festival come September 30th. I have been cautious to put this film into too many categories, as I am not sure how it will play considering Polanski's status as a child molester and law evader. But with this cast and prime release date I think that Carnage could become a player, at least in the acting categories, considering it has three Academy Award winners and another Academy Award nominee.

2011 ALMA Awards: Nominees

Favorite Movie Actor
Antonio Banderas – You Will Meet A Tall Dark Stranger
Demián Bichir – A Better Life
Bobby Cannavale – Win Win
Michael Peña – Battle: Los Angeles
Danny Trejo – Machete

Favorite Movie Actress – Drama/Adventure
Jessica Alba – Machete
Penelope Cruz – Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
Rosario Dawson – Unstoppable
Michelle Rodriguez – Battle: Los Angeles
Zoë Saldana – Takers

Favorite Movie Actress – Comedy/Musical
Christina Aguilera – Burlesque
Eva Mendes – The Other Guys
Alexa Vega – From Prada to Nada
Cameron Diaz – Bad Teacher
Selena Gomez – Monte Carlo

Favorite TV Series
CSI: Miami
Desperate Housewives
Modern Family
Wizards of Waverly Place

Favorite TV Reality, Variety, or Comedy Personality or Act
Christina Aguilera – The Voice
George Lopez – Lopez Tonight
Jennifer Lopez – American Idol
Mario Lopez – Mario Lopez: Saved By the Baby
Cesar Millan – Dog Whisperer With Cesar Millan

Favorite TV Actor – Leading Role
Ricardo Chavira – Desperate Housewives
Ian Gomez – Cougar Town
Joshua Gomez – Chuck
James Roday – Psych
Adam Rodriguez – CSI: Miami

Favorite TV Actor – Supporting Role
Oscar Nuñez – The Office
Rico Rodriguez – Modern Family
Michael Trevino – The Vampire Diaries
Tristan Wilds – 90210
David Zayas – Dexter

Favorite TV Actress – Leading Role in a Drama
Cote de Pablo – NCIS
Eva LaRue – CSI: Miami
Francia Raisa – The Secret Life of the American Teenager
Sara Ramirez – Grey’s Anatomy
Sara Shahi – Fairly Legal

Favorite TV Actress – Leading Role in a Comedy
Selena Gomez – Wizards of Waverly Place
Victoria Justice – Victorious
Demi Lovato – Sonny With a Chance
Naya Rivera – Glee
Sofía Vergara – Modern Family

Favorite TV Actress – Supporting Role
Maria Canals-Barrera – Wizards of Waverly Place
Constance Marie – Switched At Birth
Aubrey Plaza – Parks and Recreation
Sarah Ramos – Parenthood
Lauren Vélez – Dexter

Favorite Male Music Artist
Taio Cruz
Enrique Iglesias
Bruno Mars
Ricky Martin
Pitbull

Favorite Female Music Artist
Christina Aguilera
Selena Gomez
Jennifer Lopez
Naya Rivera
Shakira

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Director

July Predictions
George Clooney "The Ides of March"
Stephen Daldry "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"
Alexander Payne "The Descendants"
Steven Spielberg "War Horse"
Jason Reitman "Young Adult",

Other Contenders - Clint Eastwood "J. Edgar", David Fincher "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo", Martin Scorsese "Hugo", Terrence Malick "The Tree of Life", David Cronenberg "A Dangerous Method", Phyllida Lloyd "The Iron Lady", Lynne Ramsey "We Need to Talk About Kevin", Tomas Alfredson "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy", Michel Hazanaviscius "The Artist", Tate Taylor "The Help", David Yates "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2", Bennett Miller "Moneyball", J. J. Abrams "Super 8", Woody Allen "Midnight in Paris", Roman Polanski "Carnage", Cameron Crowe "We Bought a Zoo", Steven Soderbergh "Contagion", Lone Scherfig "One Day"

Commentary - With all this talented involved, this could be an interesting year. Lots of former winners like David Fincher, Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, Roman Polanski, and Soderbergh all are not currently on my predictions list, but could easily come in a take a spot, as could plenty of first time nominees and previous nominees. Steven Spielberg as won two of these and War Horse could be an Academy gold mine, and at least guarantee a nomination. The Ides of March trailer looks promising, and Clooney has proven himself apt at political representations, and with that cast, it could be a dark horse winner. I also think that The Descendants could be big, as Alexander Payne usually does a good job, and with Clooney attached, it could be an awards magnet. Jason Reitman has gotten two consecutive Best Director nominations, and I think Young Adult could be great, earning him his third in a row. Finally, I am going with Stephen Daldry for one very good reason. He has made three full-length feature films and has received an Oscar nod for all three of them.

2011 Venice Film Festival Line Up

Looks like another great lineup, and a lot of the same titles from Toronto are appearing here as well. Plus a lot of international flavor to check out as well.

Competition
“The Ides of March,” George Clooney (U.S.) - Opening Night Film
“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy,” Tomas Alfredson (Italy)
“Wuthering Heights,” Andrea Arnold (U.K.)
“Texas Killing Fields,” Ami Canaan Mann (U.S.)
“A Dangerous Method,” David Cronenberg (Germany, Canada)
“4:44 Last Day on Earth,” Abel Ferrara (U.S.)
“Killer Joe,” William Friedkin (U.S.)
“The Exchange,” Eran Kolirin (Israel, Germany)
“Alps,” Yorgos Lamthimos (Greece)
“Shame,” Steve McQueen (U.K.)
“Carnage,” Roman Polanski (France, Germany, Spain, Poland)
“Chicken With Plums,” Marjane Satrapi, Vincent Paronnaud (France, Belgium, Germany)
“A Burning Hot Summer,” Philippe Garrel (France)
“A Simple Life,” Ann Hui (China, HK)
“Faust,” Aleksander Sokurov (Russia)
“Dark Horse,” Todd Solondz (U.S.)
“Himizu,” Sion Sono (Japan)
“Seediq Bale,” Wei Desheng (Taiwan)
“Quando la Notte,” Cristina Comencini (Italy)
“Terraferma,” Emanuele Crialese (Italy)
“L’Ultimo Terrestre,” Gipi (Italy)

Out of Competition
“Damsels in Distress,” Whit Stillman (U.S.) - Closing Night Film of Festival
“Vivan las Antipodas!” Victor Kossakovsky (Germany, Arg, Neth, Chile, Russia) - Out of Competition Opening Night Film
“La folie Almayer,” Chantal Akerman (Belgium, France)
“The Moth Diaries,” Mary Harron (Canada, Ireland)
“W.E.,” Madonna (U.K.)
“Il villaggio di cartone,” Ermanno Olmi (Italy)
“Wilde Salome,” Al Pacino (U.S.)
“Contagion,” Steven Soderbergh (U.S.)
“The Sorcerer and the White Snake,” Tony Ching Siu-tung (China, HK)
“Giochi d’estate,” Rolando Colla (Switzerland, Italy)
“La Desintegration,” Philippe Faucon (Belgium)
“Alois Nebel,” Tomas Lunak (Czech Rep., Germany)
“Eva,” Kike Maillo (Spain, France)
“Scossa,” Francesco Maselli, Carlo Lizzani, Ugo Gregoretti, Nino Russo (Italy)
“La Cle des chanps,” Claude Nuridsany, Marie Perennou (France)
“Tormented,” Takashi Shimizu (Japan)
“Marco Bellocchio, Venezia 2011,” Pietro Marcello (Italy)
“La Meditazione di Hayez,” Mario Martone (Italy)
“Tahrir 2011,” Tamer Ezzat, Ahmad Abdalla, Ayten Amin, Amr Salama (Egypt)
“The End,” Collective Abounabbara (Syria)
“Vanguard,” Collective Abounabbara (Syria)
“Evolution (Megaplex 3D),” Marco Brambilla (U.S)

The Ides of March Trailer

I think this film could be right up my alley, as I love political thrillers, I'm also already rethinking some of my acting predictions, as I think that there are plenty of meaty performances to go around, all from top notch Academy recognized actors. Either way, here is the trailer. It opens at TIFF and then October 7th.

State of the Race - July Predictions: Technical Categories

Best Art Direction

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II

Hugo

J. Edgar

Sherlock Holmes: A Game Shadows

War Horse

Other Contenders - Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, A Dangerous Method, Jane Eyre, The Tree of Life, Captain America: The First Avenger, Anonymous, Albert Nobbs, The Iron Lady, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Cowboys & Aliens, The Artist, The Raven, The Help

Best Cinematography
The Artist
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II
Hugo
The Tree of Life
War Horse

Other Contenders - Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, J. Edgar, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Moneyball, Super 8, X-Men: First Class, A Dangerous Method, Captain America, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Albert Nobbs, The Ides of March, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, Cowboys & Aliens, Melancholia, Thor, The Descendants

Best Costume Design
The Artist
Albert Nobbs
J. Edgar
Jane Eyre
War Horse

Other Contenders - Hugo, Immortals, Anonymous, Coriolanus, A Dangerous Method, X-Men: First Class, W.E., My Week with Marilyn, The Iron Lady, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II, The Eye of the Storm, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, The Help, The Raven, The Conspirator, Midnight in Paris

Best Film Editing
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
The Ides of March
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
War Horse

Other Contenders - J. Edgar, Super 8, Hugo, The Artist, The Descendants, The Tree of Life, Moneyball, We Bought a Zoo, Carnage, Contagion, The Help, The Iron Lady, W.E., Young Adult

Best Makeup
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part II
The Iron Lady
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Other Contenders - A Dangerous Method, Albert Nobbs, Green Latern, Anonymous, Hugo, The Artist, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, War Horse, J. Edgar, My Week With Marilyn, The Help, Coriolanus, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Super, Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows, Immortals

Best Sound Mixing
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
Super 8
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
War Horse

Other Contender - Captain America: The First Avenger, Green Latern, X-Men: First Class, The Tree of Life, Hanna, Rango, Cars 2, Hugo, The Artist, J. Edgar, Battle: Los Angeles, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, Anonymous

Best Sound Editing

The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Super 8

Transformers: Dark of the Moon 
War Horse

Other Contender - Happy Feet 2, Cars 2, Cowboys & Aliens, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, Hugo, Captain America: The First Avenger, The Tree of Life

Best Visual Effects

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

Hugo

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Super 8

Transformers: Dark of the Moon

Other Contenders - Captain America: The First Avenger, X-Men: First Class, Cowboys & Aliens, The Tree of Life, Rise of the Planet of the Apes, Green Lantern, Immortals, Anonymous, Thor, The Adventures of Tintin: The Secret of the Unicorn 

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Animated Feature

July Predictions
Happy Feet 2
Kung Fu Panda 2
Rango

Other Contenders - Rio, The Adventures of Tintin, Arthur Christmas, Winnie the Pooh, Puss in Boots, Cars 2, Gnomeo and Juliet, The Lion of Judah, The Rabbi's Cat, Chico & Rita

Commentary - Wow, this year is so weak for animation, especially with Cars 2 completely bombing. Unless a late bloomer comes in and steals the scene, a less-than-stellar winner will most likely emerge. We also don't know yet how many nominees there will be. My guess is only three this year, so at this point that is what I'm going with. But the rules have changed and some of these need distribution before they can be eligible. Kung Fu Panda 2 and Rango got pretty good reviews as well as good box office, so although they don't compare to previous nominees, they both look to be good shops. In the last slot I am currently going with the sequel to a previous winner in this category Happy Feet 2. I personally didn't like the first one, but apparently the Academy did, so whose to say the second won't at least get a nomination? If The Adventures of Tin Tin is eligible (which could go either way), and is good, then it could be a dark horse contender. Also Winnie the Pooh may be light and short, but its gotten pretty good reviews, and it tugs at the heartstrings, which may sway some voters its way.

2011 Emmy Episode Submissions

BEST DRAMA SERIES
Boardwalk Empire - "Boardwalk Empire", "Anastasia", "Nighs in Ballygran", "Family Limitaion", "Paris Green", "Return to Normalcy"

Dexter - "Circle Us", "Take It!", "Teenage Wasteland", "In the Beginning", "Hop a Freighter", "The Big One"

Friday Night Lights - "Fracture", "Gut Check", "Don't Go", "The March", "Texas Whatever", "Always"

Game of Thrones - "Winter is Coming", "The Kingsroad", "A Golden Crown", "You Win or You Die", "Baelor", "Fire and Blood"

The Good Wife - "Double Jeopardy", "VIP Treatment", "Nine Hours", "Real Deal", "Great Firewall", "In Sickness"

Mad Men - "Public Relations", "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword", "Waldorf Stories", "The Suitcase", "The Beautiful Girls", "Blowin Smoke"

BEST COMEDY SERIES
The Big Bang Theory - "The Herb Garden Germination", "The 21-Second Excitation", "The Justice League Recombination", "The Engagement Reaction", "The Love Car Displacement", "The Agreement Dissection"

Glee - "Audition", "Silly Love Songs", "Original Song", "The Substitute", "Duets", "Never Been Kissed"

Modern Family - "Old Wagon", "Someone to Watch Over Lily", "Mother's Day", "Caught in the Act", "Manny, Get Your Gun", "The Kiss"

The Office - "Andy's Place", "China", "PDA", "Threat Level Midnight", "Garage Sale", "Good-Bye Michael"

Parks & Recreation - "Flu Season", "Ron and Tammy: Part Two", "Fancy Party", "Harvest Festival", "The Fight", "Li'l Sebastian"

30 Rock - "When It Rains, It Pours", "Live Show (West Coast)", "Reaganing", "Double-Edged Sword", "Operation Righteous Cowboy Lightning", "TGS Hates Women"

BEST DRAMA ACTOR:
Steve Buscemi ("Boardwalk Empire") - "Return to Normalcy"
Kyle Chandler ("Friday Night Lights") - "Always"
Michael C. Hall ("Dexter") - "Teenage Wasteland"
Jon Hamm ("Mad Men") - "The Suitcase"
Hugh Laurie ("House") - "After Hours"
Timothy Olyphant ("Justified") - "Reckoning"

BEST DRAMA ACTRESS:
Kathy Bates ("Harry's Law") - "Innocent Man"
Connie Britton ("Friday Night Lights") - "Always"
Mireille Enos ("The Killing") - "Missing"
Mariska Hargitay ("Law and Order: Special Victims Unit") - "Rescue"
Julianna Margulies ("The Good Wife") - "In Sickness"
Elisabeth Moss ("Mad Men") - "The Suitcase"

BEST DRAMA SUPPORTING ACTOR:
Andre Braugher ("Men of a Certain Age") - "Let the Sunshine In"
Josh Charles ("The Good Wife") - "Closing Arguments"
Alan Cumming ("The Good Wife") - "Silver Bullet"
Peter Dinklage ("Game of Thrones") - "Baelor"
Walton Goggins ("Justified") - "The I of the Storm"
John Slattery ("Mad Men") - "Hands and Knees"

BEST DRAMA SUPPORTING ACTRESS:
Christine Baranski ("The Good Wife") - "Silver Bullet"
Michelle Forbes ("The Killing") - "Pilot"
Christina Hendricks ("Mad Men") - "The Summer Man"
Kelly Macdonald ("Boardwalk Empire") - "Family Limitation"
Margo Martindale ("Justified") - "Brother's Keeper"
Archie Panjabi ("The Good Wife") - "Getting Off"

BEST DRAMA GUEST ACTOR:
Beau Bridges ("Brothers and Sisters") - "Brody"
Jeremy Davies ("Justified") - "Reckoning"
Bruce Dern ("Big Love") - "D.I.V.O.R.C.E."
Michael J. Fox ("The Good Wife") - "Real Deal"
Paul McCrane ("Harry's Law") - "With Friends Like These"
Robert Morse ("Mad Men") - "Blowing Smoke"

BEST DRAMA GUEST ACTRESS:
Cara Buono ("Mad Men") - "Chinese Wall"
Joan Cusack ("Shameless") - "Frank Gallagher: Loving Husband, Devoted Father"
Loretta Devine ("Grey's Anatomy") - "This Is How We Do It"
Randee Heller ("Mad Men") - "The Beautiful Girls"
Mary McDonnell ("The Closer") - "Help Wanted"
Julia Stiles ("Dexter") - "In the Beginning"
Alfre Woodard ("True Blood") - "Night on the Sun"

BEST COMEDY ACTOR:
Alec Baldwin ("30 Rock") - "Respawn"
Steve Carell ("The Office") - "Good-Bye Michael"
Louis C.K. ("Louie") - "Bully"
Johnny Galecki ("The Big Bang Theory") - "The Benefactor Factor"
Matt LeBlanc ("Episodes") - "Episode Seven"
Jim Parsons ("The Big Bang Theory") - "The Agreement Dissection"

BEST COMEDY ACTRESS:
Edie Falco ("Nurse Jackie") - "Rat Falls"
Tina Fey ("30 Rock") - "Double-Edged Sword"
Laura Linney ("The Big C") - "Pilot"
Melissa McCarthy ("Mike and Molly") - "First Date"
Martha Plimpton ("Raising Hope") - "Say Cheese"
Amy Poehler ("Parks and Recreation") - "Flu Season"

BEST COMEDY SUPPORTING ACTOR:
Ty Burrell ("Modern Family") - "Good Cop, Bad Dog"
Chris Colfer ("Glee") - "Grilled Cheesus"
Jon Cryer ("Two and a Half Men") - "The Immortal Mr. Billy Joel"
Jesse Tyler Ferguson ("Modern Family") - "Halloween"
Ed O'Neill ("Modern Family") - "The Kiss"
Eric Stonestreet ("Modern Family") - "Mother's Day"

BEST COMEDY SUPPORTING ACTRESS:
Julie Bowen ("Modern Family") - "Strangers on a Treadmill"
Jane Krakowski ("30 Rock") - "Queen of Jordan"
Jane Lynch ("Glee") - "Funeral"
Sofia Vergara ("Modern Family") - "Slow Down Your Neighbors"
Betty White ("Hot in Cleveland") - "Free Elka"
Kristen Wiig ("Saturday Night Live") - "Host: Jane Lynch"

BEST COMEDY GUEST ACTOR:
Will Arnett ("30 Rock") - "Plan B"
Matt Damon ("30 Rock") - "Double-Edged Sword"
Idris Elba ("The Big C") - "Blue-Eyed Iris"
Zach Galifianakis ("Saturday Night Live") - "Host: Zach Galifianakis"
Nathan Lane ("Modern Family") - "Boys' Night"
Justin Timberlake ("Saturday Night Live") - "Host: Justin Timberlake"

BEST COMEDY GUEST ACTRESS:
Elizabeth Banks ("30 Rock") - "Double-Edged Sword"
Kristin Chenoweth ("Glee") - "Rumours"
Tina Fey ("Saturday Night Live") - "Host: Tina Fey"
Dot-Marie Jones ("Glee") - "Never Been Kissed"
Cloris Leachman ("Raising Hope") - "Don't Vote for This Episode"
Gwyneth Paltrow ("Glee") - "The Substitute"

2011 Toronto International Film Festival Lineup

This festival has become one of the most important stops and debut centers for films hoping for Oscar contention, and if you look at this year's lineup, it seems as if this reputation will continue. Here is a list of the films that are coming to TIFF in September.

Galas

Albert Nobbs
Butter
A Dangerous Method
A Happy Event
The Ides of March
The Lady
Moneyball
Peace, Love, & Misunderstanding
Take this Waltz
W.E.

Special Presentations

11 Flowers
50/50
360
The Artist
Americano
Anonymous
A Better Life
Burning Man
Chicken with Plums
Coriolanus
Countdown
Dark Horse
The Deep Blue Sea
The Descendants
Drive
Elles
The Eye of the Storm
Friends With Kids
Habemus Papam
Headhunters
Hick
The Hunter
Jeff, Who Lives at Home
Killer Joe
Like Crazy
Machine Gun Preacher
Martha Marcy May Marlene
Melancholia
The Oranges
Pearl Jam Twenty
Rampart
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
Shame
A Simple Life
The Skin I Live In
Take Shelter
Ten Year
Trishna
Twixt
Tyrannosaur
We Need to Talk About Kevin
Where Do We Go Now?
Woman in the Fifth

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Original Screenplay

July Predictions
Woody Allen "Midnight in Paris"
Dustin Lance Black "J. Edgar"
Diablo Cody "Young Adult"
Michel Hazanavicius "The Artist"
Abi Morgan "The Iron Lady"

Other Contenders -

Jeff Nichols "Take Shelter", Mike Mills "Beginners", Terrence Malick "The Tree of Life", Sean Durkin "Martha Marcy May Marlene", Drake Doremus and Ben York Jones "Like Crazy", Scott Z. Burns "Contagion", Dan Fogelman "Crazy Stupid Love", Thomas McCarthy and Joe Tibani "Win Win", J.J. Abrams "Super 8", Annie Mumolo and Kristen Wiig "Bridesmaids", Steve McQueen and Abi Morgan "Shame", Sarah Polley "Take This Waltz", Lars von Trier "Melancholia",

Commentary - This is a race with much less contention that its Adapted counterpart, and if some of these films turn out not to be good, it may be a stretch to get to five suitable nominees. That being said, at this moment it is pretty much wide open. Once contender which weekly solidifies itself, particularly in this category is Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris. It is popular, well-reviewed, and its Woody Allen, who has been nominated and won this category many many times. Dustin Lance Black has shown his ability to write historical films with his Academy Award winning script for Milk, so there is a good chance, if J. Edgar is good, that he returns to the fold. Another former winner is Diablo Cody. Normally I wouldn't actually include her (I mean seriously, Jennifer's Body?), but with her teaming up with Jason Reitman again, it could be the perfect formula for Oscar gold. I am not sure at all about The Iron Lady, and feel that it may all come down simply to Streep. But if it is overall a great film, then its screenplay is certaintly in contention. Finally I am going out on a limb with The Artist, which could be the big foreign contender this year, and may surprise a lot of people by racking up some nominations. First half films like Bridesmaids, The Tree of Life, Win Win, and Beginners all deserve recognition, and are definitely still alive in this category, but need to rely on smart Oscar campaigns to survive the onslaught in the latter part of the year.

Moneyball Poster

I am starting to think this could be a really good movie. I like the poster, its teasing and simplistic.





State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Adapted Screenplay

July Predictions
Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon, and Jim Rash "The Descendants"
Eric Roth "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"
George Clooney and Grant Heslov "The Ides of March"
Aaron Sorkin and Steve Zaillan "Moneyball",
Richard Curtis and Lee Hall "War Horse"

Other Contenders - Steve Zaillan "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo", Roman Polanski and Yasmina Reza "Carnage", Cameron Crowe and Aline Brosh McKenna "We Bought a Zoo", Bridget O'Connor and Peter Straughan "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy", John Logan "Hugo", Christopher Hampton "A Dangerous Method", John Bannville and Glenn Close "Albert Nobbs", Adrian Hodges "My Week With Marilyn", Rory Kinnear and Lynne Ramsey "We Need to Talk About Kevin", David Nicholls "One Day", Steve Kloves "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2", Tate Taylor "The Help",

Commentary - There is a good chance that not one of these predicted five gets in, but for now, they look like they are at least top contenders. War Horse looks to be an Oscar vehicle for Spielberg, and if it adapts well to the screen it will get some recogintion. Alexander Payne has already won this award, so even though Jim Taylor is not with him this time, if The Descendants is good, he is definitely a contender. Eric Roth is also a winner, and I have learned that you never doubt the Oscar machine that is Stephen Daldry. The Ides of March also looks great, and with Clooney and Heslov behind it, it could easily grab a spot. In the last slot I am going with a lighter fair featuring last year's winner Aaron Sorkin and the power of Steve Zaillan, but we need to see and hear more about Moneyball before that pick sticks. This is a heavy category and if you look at the Other Contenders, you see that there are plenty of awesome contenders which could easily get in including, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Carnage, We Bought a Zoo, Hugo, TTSS, Harry Potter, The Help, We Need to Talk About Kevin, Albert Nobbs, A Dangerous Method, and plenty others.

2011 MTV VMA Nominees

Here are the nominees for the 2011 VMAs:

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Tyler, The Creator, "Yonkers"
Katy Perry, "Firework"
Bruno Mars, "Grenade"
Beastie Boys, "Make Some Noise"

BEST FEMALE VIDEO

Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Katy Perry, "Firework"
Beyonce, "Run The World (Girls)"
Nicki Minaj, "Super Bass"
Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"

BEST MALE VIDEO

Cee Lo Green, "F*** You"
Eminem feat. Rihanna, "Love The Way You Lie"
Bruno Mars, "Grenade"
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi, "All Of The Lights"
Justin Bieber, "U Smile"

BEST HIP HOP VIDEO

Lil Wayne feat. Cory Gunz, "6’7’"
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi, "All Of The Lights"
Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes, "Look At Me Now"
Nicki Minaj, "Super Bass"
Lupe Fiasco, "The Show Goes On"

BEST NEW ARTIST

Foster The People, "Pumped Up Kicks"
Wiz Khalifa, "Black and Yellow"
Tyler, The Creator, "Yonkers"
Big Sean feat. Chris Brown, "My Last"
Kreayshawn, "Gucci Gucci"

BEST POP VIDEO

Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Bruno Mars, "Grenade"
NE-YO, Nayer & Afrojack, "Give Me Everything"
Katy Perry, "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)"
Britney Spears, "Till The World Ends"

BEST ROCK VIDEO

The Black Keys, "Howlin For You"
Foo Fighters, "Walk"
Foster The People, "Pumped Up Kicks"
Mumford & Sons, "The Cave"
Cage The Elephant, "Shake Me Down"

BEST COLLABORATION

Pitbull feat. NE-YO, Nayer & Afrojack, Give Me Everything
Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes, "Look At Me Now"
Rihanna & Kid Cudi, "All Of The Lights"
Katy Perry feat. Kanye West, "E.T."
Nicki Minaj feat. Drake, "Moment 4 Life"

BEST ART DIRECTION

Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Katy Perry, "Firework"
Lady Gaga, "Judas"
Kanye West, "Power"
Death Cab For Cutie, "You Are A Tourist"

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

Beyonce, "Run The World (Girls)"
Britney Spears, "Till The World Ends"
Lady Gaga, "Judas"
Bruno Mars, "The Lazy Song"
LMFAO feat. Lauren Bennett & GoonRock, "Party Rock Anthem"

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Beyonce, "Run The World (Girls)"
Eminem feat. Rihanna, "Love The Way You Lie"
Katy Perry, "Teenage Dream"
Thirty Seconds To Mars, "Hurricane"

BEST DIRECTION

Beastie Boys, "Make Some Noise"
Katy Perry feat. Kanye West, "E.T."
Thirty Seconds To Mars, "Hurricane"
Eminem feat. Rihanna, "Love The Way You Lie"
Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"

BEST EDITING

Katy Perry feat. Kanye West, "E.T."
Thirty Seconds To Mars, "Hurricane"
Adele, "Rolling In The Deep"
Kanye West feat. Rihanna & Kid Cudi, "All Of The Lights"
Manchester Orchestra, "Simple Math"

BEST SFX (SPECIAL EFFECTS)

Manchester Orchestra, "Simple Math"
Katy Perry feat. Kanye West, "E.T."
Kanye West, "Power"
Linkin Park, "Waiting For The End"
Chromeo, "Don’t Turn The Lights On"

Contagion Poster

Vague, yet intriguing, I am either going to love Contagion, or its going to be an overwrought mess. Either way, I'm in for now. Here is the poster:

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Actor

My Predictions
George Clooney "The Descendants"
Leonardo Dicaprio "J. Edgar"
Jean Dujardin "The Artist"
Michael Fassbender "A Dangerous Method"
Gary Oldman "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy"

Other Contenders - Brad Pitt "Moneyball" or "The Tree of Life", Tom Hanks "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close", Michael Shannon "Take Shelter", Jeremy Irvine "War Horse", Daniel Radcliffe "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2", Ryan Gosling "The Ides of March", Matt Damon "We Bought a Zoo", Patrick Wilson "Yound Adult", Anton Yelchin "Like Crazy", Sean Penn "This Must Be the Place", Johnny Depp "The Rum Diary", Paul Giamatti "Win Win", Woody Harrelson "Rampart", Brendan Gleeson "The Guard", Ewan McGregor "Beginners"

Commentary - This one has a lot of big names that will need to be sorted through. George Clooney and Leonardo Dicaprio return to the race with two big buzzed projects. The Descendant's trailer is okay, and Eastwood has not hit the mark in a couple of years though so neither is safe. A Dangerous Method's trailer is also a little eh? but I really hope that Michael Fassbender is good enough to get some recognition, which is long overdue. The trailer however for Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, looks great, and Gary Oldman, who has been flirting with Academy recognition might finally score a nod. In my last slot I am going with a film festival favorite, and a foreign contender in Jean Dujardin. We'll have to see how American audiences respond, but he could get an Oscar nod ala Marion Cotillard a couple of years ago. However, if you look at the other contenders there are so many big names like Ryan Gosling, Paul Giamatti, Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Tom Hanks, and others, so this race is far from over.

Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2

It has been thirteen years since Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone hit bookshelves in the United States. In the last thirteen years the Harry Potter saga has gotten kids to read again, and its film versions have impeccably adapted J.K. Rowling's thrilling vision, as well as brought generations within families together for all to share. For example, this afternoon I went to the theatre, the 21 year old, with my 53 year old mom, and my 74 and 76 year old grandparents, and all of us were able to sit back, slip on our 3-D glasses, and watch our favorite characters just one last time. And if that is not magic, I don't know what is.

I had been avoiding seeing the film, as I was afraid it would all end too soon, or that for some reason I would be disappointed at its outcome. Well, disappointed was definitely not one of the emotions I was feeling, if anything far from it. I was overwhelmed, and I cried and cheered and as the final frame faded away I couldn't help but smile. And that is a true testament to David Yates, Streve Kloves, and the entire cast, that truly put together a wonderful film  that has everything we could hoped for. They truly did save the best for last.

The story starts off exactly where the last began, as Harry, Hermoine, and Ron set off to Gringotts to take on the next Horcrux. Their journey then takes them to Hogsmeade, and eventually Hogwarts, where all of those who had been in hiding come out with the alert that Harry is there, to defend the school they love, and protect Harry long enough so that he can finally defeat Voldemort once and for all. In the midst of the epic final battle, Harry discovers the truth about Severus Snape, sees people that he loves die, and fights to the death to defend his friends, his family, and all those who have spent the last seven years doing the same for him. I won't give away the rest of the plot for two reasons: 1) most of you have already seen it, so there's no point, 2) or there are people out there who haven't, and why give away the spoils.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 is an emotional and thrilling action adventure masterpiece, that deftly combines the quiet moments of reflection with the action packed battles. This is because David Yates and Steve Kloves have respected Rowling's work, while also making proper changes and cutting out parts so that it fits perfectly on the screen. Most importantly, the previously mentioned balance was probably my biggest complaint about the last two films. There were too many talking scenes and not enough action. But for those who shared my complaint, have no worries. Yates and Kloves never skimp on the emotional moments, but provided enough action and magical happenings to satisfy us all.

But the real magic doesn't come from Yates' ability to conquer impossible material and turn it into something amazing, or the fantastic technical elements, all of which are Oscar worthy. The real magic lies in the characters that Rowling, and this stunning set of Great Britain's finest, created. The supporting players do their part, especially Maggie Smith, Ralph Fiennes, Alan Rickman, and Helena Bonham Carter. But like Part 1, the real weight is carried by our three main protagonists, and each in their own right has matured as an actor, and they have all grown into powerful and talented adults. Rupert Grint and Emma Watson both prove they can hold their own, and I stand firm in my belief that Watson is a young talent that will be one not to miss in years to come. But the real surprise here is Radcliffe. He has been great as Harry, but always seemed to not be as good as his co-stars. But this time around he has really grown into his character, and proved, finally, that he can nail the dramatic moments with poise and emotion.

I know a lot of you are thinking, with this kind of praise, can the film finally bring the series Oscar glory? It currently has better reviews and a better grade than Inception, which won four awards last year. And knowing this is the last film, and knowing how good it is, I think the Academy may finally give the series the credit it deserves. If it doesn't, then at least legions of fans will ensure that at least it is a huge box office success.

Now, no film is perfect, except maybe The Godfather, and at first I was slightly perturbed by the way Yates chose to end the battle. But after thinking about it for a couple of hours, I think Yates knew exactly what he was doing, and in the end it comes down to simply Harry vs. Voldemort, Good vs. Evil, as it should be, so my frustration has quickly evaporated. So in the end, the hardest part about seeing this film was saying goodbye. And the epilogue scene that Rowling created and Yates brought to life was simply pitch perfect. It was quiet and happy, and most importantly, for one last time, our heroes stood side by side to tell us all goodbye. And I think I speak for an entire world when I say, they truly will be missed.

Grade: A

Oscar Potential: Picture, Director (Yates), Supporting Actor (Fiennes), Art Direction, Cinematography, Adapted Screenplay, Sound Mixing, Sound Editing, Film Editing, Visual Effects, Makeup.

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Actress

July Predictions
Glenn Close "Albert Nobbs"
Elizabeth Olsen "Martha Marcy May Marlene"
Meryl Streep "The Iron Lady"
Tilda Swinton "We Need to Talk About Kevin"
Michelle Williams "My Week With Marilyn"

Other Contenders - Charlize Theron "Young Adult", Rooney Mara "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo", Kirsten Dunst "Melancholia", Anne Hathaway "One Day", Rachel Weisz "The Whistleblower", Charlotte Rampling "The Eye of the Storm", Jodie Foster "Carnage", Kristen Wiig "Bridesmaids", Juliette Binoche "Certified Copy", Michelle Williams "Take This Waltz", Emma Stone "The Help", Mia Wasikowska "Jane Eyre", Felicity Jones "Like Crazy", Vera Farmiga "Higher Ground", Rachel Harris "Natural Selection", Maria Bello "Beautiful Boy", Rachel McAdams "Midnight in Paris", Andrea Riseborough "W.E."

Commentary - A lot of people are predicting that two veterans could once again have their heyday with two buzzed performances, and at this moment, I am apt to go along with their theory. Both Glenn Close and Meryl Streep have some baity performances (one is playing Margaret Thatcher, the other a man), and both are overdue (one for an Oscar, and one for a third). So expect both to play well with the Academy and be top contenders for the prize. A lot of people are doubting the performance of Michelle Williams as Marilyn Monroe, but she defied the odds last year and got and nod, and hell, she's playing Monroe, a legend. My guess is that if the film is decent, plus her other roles in Meeks Cutoff and Take This Waltz, she is going to have a lot of options this year, and a lot of support overall for another nomination. The last two slots I am giving to film festival favorites. There are some great contenders right below them, namely Charlize Theron and Rooney Mara, but neither of their performances have been seen. So instead I am going with two praised performances, which will only make it if their films get the proper distribution, and audiences are willing to sit through tough movies. Of course I am talking about Academy Award Winner Tilda Swinton, who has been snubbed in recent years since her win, and Elizabeth Olsen, whose performance has made people forget about her older sisters, and pushed her into the discussion for her first Oscar nomination.

State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Supporting Actor

July Predictions
Jim Broadbent "The Iron Lady"
Albert Brooks "Drive"
Philip Seymour Hoffman "The Ides of March" or "Moneyball"
Ezra Miller "We Need to Talk About Kevin"
Christopher Plummer "Beginners"

Other Contenders - Paul Giamatti "The Ides of March", Kenneth Branagh "My Week With Marilyn", Neils Arestrup "War Horse", Christoph Waltz "Carnage", Ben Kingsley "Hugo", Brad Pitt "The Tree of Life", Ralph Fiennes "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2", Viggo Mortensen "A Dangerous Method", Alan Rickman "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2", Armie Hammer "J. Edgar", Hunter McKracken "The Tree of Life", Thomas Haden Church "We Bought a Zoo", Laurence Fishburne "Contagion", Josh Lucas "J. Edgar", Geoffrey Rush "The Eye of the Storm", Jude Law "Contagion", Sean Penn "The Tree of Life", Kyle Chandler "Super 8"

Commentary - This one, like all of them, is still up in the air, but there are definitely some frontrunners. Christopher Plummer is an acting legend, and after finally getting his first nomination two years ago, it looks like he could once again be on the Oscar radar with his role in Beginners. The question is can he sustain his buzz all the way to the end? Normally I would say no, but being Christopher Plummer and all, I feel like if anyone can, he can. From there, there are a lot of guesses. Ezra Miller was a scene stealer in City Island last year, and the reviews for him in We Need to Talk About Kevin, and each year the Oscars look for some new blood, but the film is apparently going to be hard to watch. Philip Seymour Hoffman is a regular in this category and has two buzzed projects, so at least one is guaranteed to put him in the running. The Iron Lady maybe all about Meryl, but if it gets a lot of praise then Jim Broadbent, a former winner in this category, has a good chance of getting in. The last spot for now goes to an already praised, over the top performance of the previously nominated Albert Brooks in the new thriller Drive.

The State of the Race - July Predictions: Best Supporting Actress

July Predictions
Sandra Bullock "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close"
Viola Davis "The Help"
Kiera Knightley "A Dangerous Method"
Vanessa Redgrave "Coriolanus"
Kate Winslet "Carnage"

Other Contenders - Octavia Spencer "The Help", Marisa Tomei "The Ides of March", Judi Dench "My Week with Marilyn" or "J. Edgar", Naomi Watts "J. Edgar", Carey Mulligan "Shame", Janet McTeer "Albert Nobbs", Judy Davis "The Eyes of the Storm", Shailene Woodley "The Descendants", Andrea Riseborough "W.E.", Mia Wasikowska "Albert Nobbs", Emily Watson "War Horse", Melissa McCarthy "Bridesmaids", Amy Ryan "Win Win", Patricia Clarkson "One Day", Elizabeth Banks "Welcome to People", Marion Cotillard "Midnight in Paris", Kathy Bates "Midnight in Paris", Chloe Moretz "Hugo", Jessica Chastain "The Tree of Life"

Commentary - Remember, it is only July, and this race is still wide open. But that doesn't mean that some contenders haven't already emerged as definite contenders. For the first time in many years, previous winner and acting legend Vanessa Redgrave is getting rave reviews for Ralph Fiennes' Coriolanus. However, the film could flop with larger audiences, and overall it seems that its good, but a lot of praise is on Redgrave alone, which means the film could fade in the backgroud. But then again, shes Vanessa Redgrave, so nothing is impossible. Viola Davis is also getting a lot of pre-release buzz for The Help, but once again, the quality of the movie could either help or hurt her. From the okay trailer of A Dangerous Method, Kiera Knightley's performance looks baity and could be the standout of Cronenberg's latest. The last two slots, at this point, are mere speculation. I am going with two recent winners, Kate Winslet and Sandra Bullock, as their projects are pure Oscar bait, and the Academy clearly likes both. But if you take a gander at the rest of the Other Contenders, you will see this is a tight race with lots of talent and baity roles, so the season still has lots of miles left on its tires.

The Dark Knight Rises Teaser Trailer

I am seeing Harry Potter either tomorrow or Wednesday, and I know most of you already have. But for those who haven't here is the teaser trailer for The Dark Knight Rises. It is dark and deceiving, so all I can say is, we'll have to wait and see.

Top 100 Films of the Last 50 Years (1960-2010): Part V

I took a break from this series because of all the Emmy hype. But now that the dust has settled for a while, here we go again!

60. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) - To this day, The Shawshank Redemption remains the number one rated film on IMDB.com. In the great year of 1994, it did not manage to win any Academy Awards, but it will forever be cemented in our hearts as one of the most touching and emotional films that ever did grace the silver screen. Because the subtle, yet comforting performances of Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman were so convincing, the chemistry they bring to the screen as their friendship grows is unlike any we have ever scene. It didn't hurt that the film was sharply written, shot well, and had some interesting and talented supporting players including Gil Bellows, William Sadler, and Bob Gunton. While it may not be number one on this list, it definitely earns its spots as one of the best.

59. City of God (2002) - Fernando Meirelles rightfully earned a Best Director nomination, and if there had been any mercy this visceral and gritty drama about the drug world of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, would have gotten a nod for the big prize as well (particularly over Master and Commander and Seabiscuit). And while it didn't get the nod, the recognition of Meirelles was definitely deserved. His treatment of diverting stories, capturing the plight and violence of a third world slum, and creating engaging characters, was nothing less than stunning. City of God is raw and emotional, and should be studied in film school for its beautiful cinematography, and its belief that sometimes simply shooting reality can be the most effective portrayal.

58. Beauty and the Beast (1991) - It truly is a tale as old as time, and like many Disney movies this classic tale was impeccably retold with just a dash of stunning fantasy, breath-taking music, and a tale of love and heartbreak quite like any other. There is a reason that in over eight decades of Academy Awards ceremonies that this particular effort was the only one to be nominated for Best Picture until 2009. Beauty and the Beast may appeal to kids with its humor, action sequences, and shoe-shining happy ending. But this tale of love is so much deeper than a kids fantasy. It is a deep and emotional film about good vs. evil, and seeing those we love for who they truly are, beyond their exterior. These messages of acceptance and finding true love are what truly make this tale resonate far beyond its own glossy exterior.

57. Federico Fellini's 8 1/2 (1963) - In 2009, Rob Marshall took an incredibly talented cast, a stunning set of songs, and some mean looking sets, and completely destroyed such a promising film on paper with a muddled script that reduced talented actresses to cameos. But in 1963, an incredible Italian director by the name of Federico Fellini, originiated this story about Guido, a film director who utilizes the women in his life to not only save his movie, but his marriage as well. Unlike Rob Marshall however, Fellini's tale was impeccably written, beautifully flowing like an Italian opera, or the Italian countryside as you drive through it. More importantly, it shows how artists sometimes can become completely consumed by their works, and that even good men sometimes go a stray. With stunning performances, beautiful cinematography, and a storyline that cuts nothing short, 8 1/2 shows us in the modern times how entertaining movies can be done right.

56. Mean Streets (1973) - Don't get me wrong, Scorsese has grown so much as a director since this second outing. But in 1973, Mean Streets set the tone for what has become one of the most successful careers in Hollywood. Yes, the script at times was a little too long, and it had its moments of boredom, but when it hits the high notes, you completely forget about its flaws. It is raw and emotional, and Robert DeNiro, Harvey Keitel, and others bring their A-game to this top-notch crime thriller. It is also chocked full of popular music of the time, and is beautifully shot. But it is its engaging story about success, family, and love, mixed up with some classic Scorsese moments of violence and shock, make this one that was not only a perfect followup to the first two Godfathers, but the beginning of a career that has changed the face of cinema.

55. Se7en (1995) - This still remains one of the creepiest, scariest, and most shocking films ever created, and also one of the best. David Fincher has branched out in recent years with more traditional dramas like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and The Social Network, but before that he was the master of the unusual, and his brilliant direction, combined with the taut and mesmerizing script by Andrew Kevin Walker, made Se7en an instant cult classic that still maintains its reputation to this very day. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, along with the rest of the cast including Gwyneth Paltrow, R. Lee Ermey, Kevin Spacey, and others, become completely absorbed into their characters, and go along for Fincher's wild and frightening ride, as did wel all.

54. Rocky (1976) - I still think that Network should have won Best Picture in 1976, but it was an incredible year for film, and I can't blame that Academy for being caught up in the passion and feel-good story that made the original Rocky an instant American classic. So many films (including a hundred Rocky sequels) have borrowed the classic sports drama formula that was, in many ways, establised by Rocky. It shows us the struggle we all face to reach our goals, the pain and hardwork that must happen in order for us to overcome life's difficulties, and more importantly, the triumph and pride we feel when we finally reach the stars of our hopes and dreams. And while it had its imperfections, you can't help but feel the same emotions as Stallone's Rocky as he goes through them on the screen. And sometimes that it is the best feeling you can have in a movie theater.

53. Sideways (2004) - In 2004, a little film known as Sideways expertly delved into the perils of depression, and the no so pretty side of human relationships. On a whirlwind last hurrah for two buddies, they become involved with two women, drink a ton of wine, and most importantly take a look at their sideways lives. Sideways was darkly funny, with richly drawn characters, implicit metaphors, and stunning performances. Jim Taylor and Alexander Payne's script is sharp and deftly balances humorous moments with more dramatic ones. Furthermore, a stellar cast led by Paul Giamatii, at cranky perfection. My personal favorite however was in fact Virginia Madsen, whose ethereal and emotional performance is so subtle and sublime, you may not notice how incredible it is until long after your viewing.

52. Hannah and Her Sisters (1986) - This twisted family tale of love and betrayal, was surprisingly funny, poignantly dramatic, and one of Woody Allen's best efforts. Channeling his inner Robert Altman, Allen expertly balances not only the comedic and dramatic moments, as well as juggling the intertwining relationships of three sisters. But some of the really incredible parts of this film were its actors, especially Diane Wiest and Michael Caine, who won Academy Awards for their honest portrayals. But they weren't the only ones though, as Mia Farrow, Carrie Fisher, Max Von Sydow, Woody Allen, Lewis Black, and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss all add their own special talents to this all-star cast that truly captures the irony, drama, and humor of Allen's magnificent story.

51. Broadcast News (1987) - Like Allen, James L. Brooks has made of career out of life-defining comedies, that have as many nice dramatic moments as they do funny ones. And while Terms of Endearment won Brooks his Oscar, Broadcast News can hold its own as one of his classic films. The sparkling and competitive chemistry between the characters, and the sharp script by Brooks himself make this film a jammed packed entertaining firecracker of a movie that stays with you long after its viewing. Of particular interest are the sizzling performances of William Hurt, Albert Brooks, Holly Hunter, and others such as Joan Cusack and Jack Nicholson, make this a film that not only is well-done, but also makes social commentary on the power and sensationalism of the media that is still important today.

Emmy Nominations Analysis: TV Movie/Reality/Variety

Here is the second half of my Emmy nomination analysis, for the remaining big categories:

Best TV Movie/Miniseries
My jaw dropped when I heard The Kennedys announced as a nominee. It dropped even further when I realized it got 10 overall nominations. I know most people thought it was dumped by networks because it was so politically charged, which is probably true. But there could be a more important reason. It simply was not that good. With the exception of a few fine performances, it was uneven, not particualarly well-written, and borderline soap opera. Then Pillars of the Earth got in as well, a shocking twist considering it too was not as well done as other contenders such as Upstairs, Downstairs, Carlos, The Sunset Limited, Luther, and a whole host of others. But really this race comes down to the other four, and in my opinion, Mildred Pierce, with its stunning load of nominations, looks like it could be unbeatable.

Best Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Greg Kinnear and Barry Pepper weren't bad in The Kennedys, but there performances pale in comparison to those of Tommy Lee Jones and Samuel L. Jackson in The Sunset Limited. At least the other four nominees are truly award worthy. While my personal favorite in Laurence Fishburne may be a long shot, I think all four can legitimately win. I used to think that Edgar Ramirez was a lock for a win, but after Carlos was snubbed in the big category, I now wonder if William Hurt, Academy Award winner, and the lead of the highly nominated To Big To Fail could be the real contender for the prize.

Best Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Well at least Katie Holmes didn't get in as well. This category went exactly as I predicted, which makes me happy, as these are five truly deserving performances. I do think its interesting that so many people predicted Hayley Atwell for Pillars of the Earth, and yet the series got in, but she didn't. Just an interesting twist of fate I guess. This category is a wash in terms of the win, because who in their right mind is going to vote against Kate Winslet? The answer is plenty of people, but for many voters, the previous question is their motto in this race.

Best Supporting Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Wilkinson was the one actor who I thought had a shot at getting in, so his inclusion was not surprising, although I did not include him in my predictions. The real surprise here is that the wonderful Brian F. O'Byrne for Mildred Pierce got in along with his co-star Guy Pearce. I loved his performance, but thought that he was simply up against too many big names. When you look at this category it is tough to pick a winner. Many will go for Pearce, and rightfully so. But I actually think we should watch out for James Woods. His character was great, and I think he could be a dark horse.

Best Supporting Actress in TV Movie/Miniseries
If you want to know the real power of Mildred Pierce look no further than this category where it got three nominations. Two were expected, but I am thrilled that Mare Winningham also got in, which was truly deserved. But they will be going up against two acting legends in Maggie Smith and Eileen Atkins, who are both Emmy winners, and both really great this year. If I had to pick right now, I would go with either Smith or maybe Wood for the win.

Best Variety Series
So Conan gets a little wink and a nod from the Emmys. Not surprising, but a nice little tribute. The real shock here is that the Late Show was bumped and that Jimmy Fallon took its spot. I personally don't like either that much, but a little change-up in this category is always nice. The Daily Show sure looks to continue its streak, but SNL managed to get the most nominations of any of these, and the Colbert Report has been lurking in the background for years, so who knows?

Best Reality Show - Competition
So two dancing shows got in this year, but Survivor finally does not outlast the competition and is snubbed. The Amazing Race won for years and years, and then Top Chef took home the prize last year. Both are definitely in the running, as is a rejuviant American Idol.

Best Reality Show
I think this comes down to Kathy Griffin versus Deadliest Catch. Still mad Pawn Stars didn't get in, but beyond those previously mentioned two, I really don't see any of the others winning, especially with Intervention now gone, although watch out for the very popular Hoarders to be a dark horse.

Best Reality Host
Well, Well Cat Deeley finally took out Heidi Klum for a coveted spot. That being said, I have absolutely no idea who will win. Jeff Probst has been the awards only winner, but with Survivor not making the cut for the program category I wonder if his stranglehold is gone. So who gets in? Seacrest could finally win, but so could Bergeron or Keoghan. I'm also disappointed that Padma Lakshmi didn't get in, but I guess two female hosts would have been too much (hint the sarcasm).

Emmy Predictions: First Predictions

Here is my first knne-jerk predictions for the Emmy Awards. These will probably change a lot between now and then, and I will provide a more in depth look at each category as we get closer to the big night.

Best Drama Series - Mad Men
Best Comedy Series - Modern Family
Best Actor in a Drama Series - Jon Hamm "Mad Men"
Best Actress in a Drama Series - Elisabeth Moss "Mad Men"
Best Actor in a Comedy Series - Steve Carrell "The Office"
Best Actress in a Comedy Series - Laura Linney "The Big C"
Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series - John Slattery "Mad Men"
Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series - Archie Panjabi "The Good Wife"
Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series - Chris Colfer "Glee"
Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series - Betty White "Hot in Cleveland"
Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series - Michael J. Fox "The Good Wife"
Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series - Joan Cusack "Shameless"
Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series - Nathan Lane "Modern Family"
Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series - Gwyneth Paltrow "Glee"
Best TV Movie/Miniseries - Mildred Pierce
Best Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries - Edgar Ramirez "Carlos"
Best Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries - Kate Winslet "Mildred Pierce"
Best Supporting Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries - James Woods "To Big To Fail"
Best Supporting Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries - Evan Rachel Wood "Mildred Pierce"
Best Variety Series - The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Best Variety Special - Lady Gaga Presents The Monster Ball Tour
Best Reality Show Competition - American Idol
Best Reality - Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List
Best Reality Host - Jeff Probst "Survivor"
Best Writing for a Drama Series - Matthew Weiner "Mad Men - The Suitcase"
Best Writing for a Comedy Series - Steve Levitan and Jeffrey Richman "Modern Family - Caught in the Act"
Best Writing for a TV Movie/Miniseries - Todd Haynes and Jon Raymond "Mildred Pierce"
Best Writing for a Variety Series - The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
Best Writing for a Variety Special - A Night of Too Many Stars: An Overlooked Benefit for Autism Education
Best Directing for a Drama Series - Martin Scorsese "Boardwalk Empire"
Best Directing for a Comedy Series - Michael Alan Spiller "Modern Family - Halloween"
Best Directing for a TV Movie/Miniseries - Todd Haynes "Mildred Pierce"
Best Directing for a Variety Series -  Chuck O'Neil "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart"
Best Directing for a Variety Special - Glenn Weiss "64th Annual Tony Awards"

Hugo Trailer

I love Martin Scorsese. But this looks more like The Polar Express than Raging Bull. A little to family toned for him. This might be a miss for the great. Either way, here is the trailer:

Okay so the damn trailer think won't upload, so here is the link to AwardsDaily:

 http://www.awardsdaily.com/2011/07/trailer-for-martin-scorseses-epic-adventure-hugo/

Emmy Nomination Analysis

Overall, there are of course some horrible snubs for shows like Parenthood, Community, and Fringe, and some lingering nominees like Cryer and Hargitay who just won't go away. That being said, these are a pretty good set of nominees. I would like to mention a personal favorite, Loretta Devine who got a deserving nod for her role on the rejuviant Grey's Anatomy this season. Here is a look at the main categories:

Best Drama Series
This category came out exactly as I predicted, which to be honest is shocking. I think the most interesting part is the amount of love for Justified and The Killing, yet neither got in, meaning most likely they were in the 7th and 8th slots. I still think it comes down between Mad Men and The Good Wife, although, the fact that the Emmys went after Friday Night Lights, in its emotional final season makes me believe it could be a dark horse. Of course that could just be wishful thinking. In terms of other series, outings like Fringe, True Blood (a nominee last year), Parenthood, and Treme were completely left out of the major categories. This is disappointing, but considering some of the terrible Emmy years in the past, I am satisfied with the current six.

Best Comedy Series
Well, I'm glad the Emmys did not go for the obvious ploy of Hot in Cleveland (I actually like the show, it has its funny moments, but definitely not worthy of an Emmy). That being said, the inclusions of The Big Bang Theory and Parks & Recreation were completely awesome. Last year's nominee Nurse Jackie had a less than stellar season, and subsequently was not nominated. Many people were mad that Community was snubbed (The only one of the NBC big Thursday four to be snubbed), but maybe, like Parks and Recreation, this is a show that needs to grow on the Emmys for a couple of years before it starts making an impact. In terms of the win, I think Modern Family has it in the bag, with Glee, The Office, and 30 Rock bringing up the win, although the other two are just as in this. Basically it is Modern Family vs. The field.

Best Actor in a Drama Series
The first five nominees to be announced were standard and expected. Hugh Laurie, Steve Buscemi, Kyle Chandler, Michael C. Hall, and Jon Hamm were all expected, and to be honest very well deserved nominations. Everyone thought though that the Emmy favorite and scene stealer William H. Macy would get the final nod. Instead, a surprise came our way, and Timothy Olyphant got his first Emmy nomination. Justified may have missed the Series nod, but this was a great nod for the series. I think Hamm will finally win the award, but if nostalgia is high Kyle Chandler could surprise us all with a win.

Best Actress in a Drama Series
Kyra Sedgwick is awesome, and she won last year, but was amazingly snubbed for even a nomination. Who would have thought that Mariska Hargitay would outlast her? That being said, the rest of the nominees weren't exactly shocking. Some may be surprised by Kathy Bates inclusion, but her name alone was enough for a nod. I had underestimated The Killing, but Enos getting in is not a shock. In the end I think it comes down to Moss, Britton, and Margulies, who were all expected to get in. I am saddened that Katey Segal was excluded, again, from an Emmy nod, but I think the Academy is not a fan of Sons of Anarchy, because even shoo-in Hal Holbrook was snubbed in the Guest Actor category. I am also sad that Lauren Graham was once again snubbed, as was Anna Torv, but Britton and Margulies getting in was enough for me. Let's just hope one of the less than stellar nominees doesn't surprise us with a win.

Best Actor in a Comedy Series
This category was the most shocking and the most incredible set of nominees I have ever seen. The standards, Baldwin, Carrell, and Parsons, but from there it was jaw-dropping and thrilling. First, Johnny Galecki rode the Big Bang Theory wave and was nominated against his co-star an amazing surprise. Then, two small, critical shows that did not seem like Emmy bait got their nominees in. Of course I'm talking about Louis C.K. and Matt Leblanc, two great performances that deserved the recognition they got. I still think that the sentiment about Carrell's departure from The Office will be enough to give him a long overdue Emmy award.

Best Actress in a Comedy Series
I figured when Melissa McCarthy was announced as the presenter of the nominations, that there was a good chance she would be nominated (I still though Jackson would be snubbed). This theory stems from previous picks, like the year that Chandra Wilson and Jim Parson each announced the other's nomination. And like clockwork the amazing McCarthy, a truly funny actress, who is getting Oscar buzz for her scene-stealing role in Bridemaids, got her first Emmy nomination, one long overdue from her Gilmore Girls days. There were of course the standards like Laura Linney, Amy Poehler, Tina Fey, and Edie Falco, who were all deserving. But then another surprise, the wonderful Martha Plimpton, got her second Emmy nomination for the well done Raising Hope. Toni Collette and Lea Michele were not nominated again, one due to lack of interest, and the other due to the fact that she is but one in a large outstanding class. Either way I was thrilled with the nominations, and think it comes down to Linney v. Poehler for the win.

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
I was so happy to see three names on this list. First, the great Josh Charles who has put in years of quality work into many different television programs, was finally rewarded. Then Peter Dinklage, the true star of Game of Thrones got a surprise and welcomed nod. Then my jaw dropped when I saw Walton Goggins, a way overdue nomination that made my heart skip a beat. I hope he wins, over and over again. The other nominees were well deserved and no real surprise including Alan Cumming, John Slattery, and Andre Braugher. My guess is that Slattery will have a slam dunk episode, but do not count out Charles, Braugher, or of course Goggins.

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Once again, I was doing back flips after seeing the nominees for this category. While I would have loved one of the Parenthood or Greys Anatomy girls to get some love, I cannot complain with these nominees. Two awesome performers from The Good Wife got in, with Panjabi looking like a good contender for a second, less surprising win. As expected, names like Michelle Forbes, Christina Hendricks, and Kelly MacDonald also populated the list. And then I saw it, like a light from an angel. Margo Martindale, a hard working actress for many years, got an Emmy nomination. And with her submission, she may be a tough cookie to beat.

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Damn that Jon Cryer. With this nod, the Academy is giving him a wink and a nod that he is good to go. Then Neil Patrick Harris, Nick Offerman, and Oliver Platt don't get in because of him. If he wins, I might break my TV. With that out of the way, I don't want to hamper my spirits about the other five deserving nominees. Chris Colfer may not be the funniest actor, but he is a talented kid who adds incredible depth to Glee. Finally, all four Modern Family guys get in. This is unprecendented, and exciting. Most importantly, long snubbed Ed O'Neill FINALLY gets a nomination. All I have to say is this....THANK GOD!!! I think Burrell and Colfer are the two showiest characters with the best submissions for the win.

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
No surprises here, the six that I, and most people predicted got in. Its between Lynch and White for the win, although Bowen might be a dark horse.

2011 Emmy Nominations

An analysis of the nominations, plus first predictions will be here soon. For now here are the nominations, with the rest being at http://www.emmys.com/

Best Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Game of Thrones
The Good Wife
Mad Men

Best Comedy Series
The Big Bang Theory
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
Parks & Recreation
30 Rock

Best Actor in a Drama Series
Jon Hamm, Mad Men
Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
Hugh Laurie, House
Timothy Olyphant, Justified.

Best Actress in a Drama Series
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men
Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU
Kathy Bates, Harry’s Law
Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights
Mireille Enos, The Killing

Best Actor in a Comedy Series
Steve Carell, The Office
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Jim Parsons, Big Bang Theory
Matt LeBlanc, Episodes,
Louis C.K. Louie
Johnny Galecki, Big Bang Theory

Best Actress in a Comedy Series
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation
Laura Linney, The Big C
Martha Plimpton, Raising Hope
Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Andre Braugher, Men of a Certain Age
John Slattery, Mad Men
Alan Cumming, The Good Wife
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Josh Charlies, The Good Wife
Walton Goggins, Justified

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Kelly MacDonald "Boardwalk Empire"
Christina Hendricks "Mad Men"
Michelle Forbes "The Killing"
Archie Panjabi "The Good Wife"
Margo Martindale "Justified"
Christine Baranski "The Good Wife"

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Ty Burrell, Modern Family
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family
Ed O’Neill, Modern Family
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men
Chris Colfer, Glee

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Julie Bowen, Modern Family
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family
Jane Lynch, Glee
Betty White, Hot in Cleveland
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live
Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock

Best Reality Competition Program
So You Think You Can Dance
Top Chef
The Amazing Race
American Idol,
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway

Best Reality Show
Hoarders
Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List
Antiques Roadshow
Deadliest Catch
Mythbusters
Undercover Boss

Best Variety Series
The Colbert Report,
Late Night with Jimmy Fallon,
Saturday Night Live,
Conan,
Real Time with Bill Maher,
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart

Best Variety Special
Carrie Fisher In Wishful Drinking
Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On
Lady Gaga The Monster Ball Tour
The Kennedy Center Honors
The Pee-Wee Herman Show on Broadway

Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Bruce Dern "Big Love"
Robert Morse "Mad Men"
Jeremy Davies "Justified"
Beau Bridges "Brothers & Sisters"
Paul McCrane "Harry's Law"
Michael J. Fox "The Good Wife"

Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Alfre Woodard "True Blood"
Loretta Devine "Grey's Anatomy"
Randee Heller "Mad Men"
Cara Buono "Mad Men"
Joan Cusack "Shameless"
Julia Stiles "Dexter"
Mary McDonnell "The Closer"

Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
Idris Elba "The Big C"
Will Arnett "30 Rock"
Zach Galifianakis "SNL"
Matt Damon "30 Rock"
Nathan Lane "Modern Family"
Justin Timberlake "SNL"

Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series
Dot-Marie Jones "Glee"
Kristin Chenoweth "Glee"
Gwyneth Paltrow "Glee"
Cloris Leachman "Raising Hope"
Elizabeth Banks "30 Rock"
Tina Fey "SNL"

Best TV Movie/Miniseries
Downton Abbey
Mildred Pierce
Cinema Verite
The Kennedys
To Big to Fail
The Pillars of the Earth

Best Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Barry Pepper "The Kennedys"
Greg Kinnear "The Kennedys"
Edgar Ramirez "Carlos"
William Hurt "To Big to Fail"
Idris Elba "Luther"
Laurence Fishburne "Thurgood"

Best Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Elizabeth McGovern "Downton Abbey"
Kate Winslet "Mildred Pierce"
Diane Lane "Cinema Verite"
Taraji P. Henson "Taken From Me"
Jean Marsh "Upstairs, Downstairs"

Best Supporting Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Guy Pearce "Mildred Pierce"
Brian F. O'Byrne "Mildred Pierce"
Tom Wilkinson "The Kennedys"
Paul Giamatti "To Big To Fail"
James Woods "Too Big to Fail"

Best Supporting Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Evan Rachel Wood "Mildred Pierce"
Mare Winningham "Mildred Pierce"
Melissa Leo "Mildred Pierce"
Maggie Smith "Downton Abbey"
Eileen Atkins "Upstairs, Downstairs"

Contagion Trailer

Steven Soderbergh's supposed last film is Contagion. It looks more like a nice popcorn thriller, and less like Oscar bait, although the cast looks fantastic. Some already think it gives too much away, but I don't think Soderbergh would be stupid enough to give away as much as we think he is. There has got to be a real twist lingering. Anyway, here are is the trailer:

Emmy Nomination Predictions: Final Prediction List

Best Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Game of Thrones
The Good Wife
Mad Men

Best Comedy Series
Glee
Hot In Cleveland
Modern Family
The Office
Parks & Recreation
30 Rock

Best Actor in a Drama Series
Steve Buscemi "Boardwalk Empire"
Kyle Chandler "Friday Night Lights"
Michael C. Hall "Dexter"
Jon Hamm "Mad Men"
Hugh Laurie "House"
William H. Macy "Shameless"

Best Actress in a Drama Series
Connie Britton "Friday Night Lights"
Mariska Hargitay "Law & Order: SVU"
Julianna Margulies "The Good Wife"
Elisabeth Moss "Mad Men"
Kyra Sedgwick "The Closer"
Katey Segal "Sons of Anarchy"

Best Actor in a Comedy Series
Alec Baldwin "30 Rock"
Steve Carrell "The Office"
Rob Lowe "Parks & Recreation"
Joel McHale "Community"
Matthew Morrison "Glee"
Jim Parsons "The Big Bang Theory"

Best Actress in a Comedy Series
Toni Collette "The United States of Tara"
Edie Falco "Nurse Jackie"
Tina Fey "30 Rock"
Laura Linney "The Big C"
Lea Michele "Glee"
Amy Poehler "Parks & Recreation"

Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series
Andre Braugher "Men of A Certain Age"
Josh Charles "The Good Wife"
Alan Cumming "The Good Wife"
Michael Pitt "Boardwalk Empire"
Michael Shannon "Boardwalk Empire"
John Slattery "Mad Men"

Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series
Christine Baranski "The Good Wife"
Sharon Gless "Burn Notice"
Christina Hendricks "Mad Men"
Kelly MacDonald "Boardwalk Empire"
Margo Martindale "Justified"
Archie Panjabi "The Good Wife"

Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Ty Burrell "Modern Family"
Chris Colfer "Glee"
Jesse Tyler Ferguson "Modern Family"
Neil Patrick Harris "How I Met Your Mother"
Ed O'Neill "Modern Family"
Eric Stonestreet "Modern Family"

Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series
Julie Bowen "Modern Family"
Jane Krakowski "30 Rock"
Jane Lynch "Glee"
Sofia Vergara "Modern Family"
Betty White "Hot in Cleveland"
Kristen Wiig "SNL"

Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series
Bruce Dern "Big Love"
Michael J. Fox "The Good Wife"
Hal Holbrook "Sons of Anarchy"
Jeremy Irons "Law & Order: SVU"
Robert Morse "Mad Men"
Bob Newhart "NCIS"

Best Guest Actress in a Drama Series
Shohreh Aghdashloo "Law & Order: SVU"
Ellen Burstyn "Big Love"
Joan Cusack "Shameless"
Debra Messing "Law & Order: SVU"
Gretchen Mol "Boardwalk Empire"
Julia Stiles "Dexter"

Best Guest Actor in a Comedy Series
Tim Conway "Hot in Cleveland"
Nathan Lane "Modern Family"
John Lithgow "How I Met Your Mother"
Carl Reiner "Hot in Cleveland"
John Slattery "30 Rock"
Justin Timberlake "SNL"

Best Guest Actress in a Comedy Series
Carol Burnett "Glee"
Tina Fey "30 Rock"
Cloris Leachman "Raising Hope"
Gwyneth Paltrow "Glee"
Amy Poehler "SNL"
Elaine Stritch "30 Rock"

Best TV Movie/Miniseries
Carlos
Cinema Verite
Downtown Abbey
Mildred Pierce
Too Big To Fail
Upstairs, Downstairs

Best Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Idris Elba "Luther"
William Hurt "Too Big to Fail"
Samuel L. Jackson "The Sunset Limited"
Tommy Lee Jones "The Sunset Limited"
Edgar Ramirez "Carlos"

Best Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Taraji P. Henson "Taken From Me"
Diane Lane "Cinema Verite"
Jean Marsh "Upstairs, Downstairs"
Elizabeth McGovern "Downtown Abbey"
Kate Winslet "Mildred Pierce"

Best Supporting Actor in a TV Movie/Miniseries
James Gandolfini "Cinema Verite"
Paul Giamatti "Too Big to Fail"
Guy Pearce "Mildred Pierce"
Tim Robbins "Cinema Verite"
James Woods "To Big To Fail"

Best Supporting Actress in a TV Movie/Miniseries
Eileen Atkins "Upstairs, Downstairs"
Melissa Leo "Mildred Pierce"
Maggie Smith "Upstairs, Downstairs"
Betty White "The Lost Valentine"
Rachel Evan Wood "Mildred Pierce"

Best Variety Series
The Colbert Report
Conan
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
The Late Show with David Letterman
Real Time with Bill Maher
Saturday Night Live

Best Reality Show - Competition
The Amazing Race
Americal Idol
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway
Survivor
Top Chef

Best Reality Show
Deadliest Catch
Dirty Jobs
Intervention
Kathy Griffin My Life on the D-List
Mythbusters
Pawnstars

Best Reality Host
Tom Bergeron "Dancing With the Stars"
Phil Keoghan "The Amazing Race"
Padma Lakshmi "Top Chef"
Jeff Probst "Survivor"
Ryan Seacrest "American Idol"

Best Variety Special
Ricky Gervais: Out of England 2
Kathy Griffin: 50 & Not Pregnant
The 2010 Kennedy Center Honors
Jimmy Kimmel Live: After the Academy Awards
Lady Gaga Presents: The Monster Ball Tour
Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On