Reviewing the 2007 Emmy Nominations

Of all the major awards shows, the Emmys have become the one that are the most head scratching. Perhaps it is because television has grown from a competition among three networks thirty years ago to one where several cable powerhouses compete with the five major networks for a share of the prize. With the sheer volume of shows out there, it isn't possible to watch everyone, much less give a reasoned critique of most after watching just one or two episodes. So every year we get a list of nominations that catch a few deserving shows, and snare in several questionable choices. 2007 is no exception. The following is my critique of this year's nominees in several categories, most major, some obscure.

Directing for a Drama Series: "Battlestar Galactica: Exodus, Part 2," Sci-Fi Channel; "Boston Legal: Son of the Defender," ABC; "Friday Night Lights: Pilot," NBC; "Heroes: Genesis," NBC; "Lost: Through the Looking Glass," ABC; "The Sopranos: Kennedy and Heidi," HBO; "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip: Pilot," NBC.

Not sure what Emmy was thinking when it left out the Soprano's brilliant last episode, "Made in America". The most talked about episode of one of the greatest shows on TV was just that because of David Chase's direction. The last scene alone should have won him an Emmy. Whether you hated it, loved it, or just scratched your head, you have to admit that it made an impression. Surely non-Drama "Boston Legal" or the incredibly disappointing "Studio 60" could have vacated a space for it.

Will win: The Sopranos: Kennedy and Heidi
Should win: The Sopranos: Made in America

Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Ricky Gervais, "Extras," HBO; Tony Shalhoub, "Monk," USA; Steve Carell, "The Office," NBC; Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock," NBC; Charlie Sheen, "Two and a Half Men," CBS.

Here's hoping Tony Shaloub doesn't act like a "thoughtless little pig" and win for a Monk over the richly deserving Alec Baldwin. Baldwin is a great comedic actor and he's brilliant on 30 Rock. He deserves it.

Will win: Alec Baldwin (but only because people hate Kim Basinger)
Should win: Alec Baldwin