HBO
Think back on the greatness that was the old HBO. They had "The Sopranos." "The Wire." "Curb Your Enthusiasm." "Deadwood." "Sex and the City." "Rome." Some of these are not only many of my favorite shows; they're all some of the best shows ever made. And now, zilch. I mean, who in the world is watching the misery that is "Tell Me You Love Me"?! I'd really almost prefer a root canal. It's terrible that my favorite thing they're bringing back is the fun-but-fluffy "Flight of the Conchords."
Then I read one of my favorite TV critics Tim Goodman's live blog of the HBO press conference at the recent Television Critics Association press tour, where networks trot out their fall season to guys like Tim. He's been feeling as disgusted as the rest of us with HBO's lineup lately (except for maybe Generation Kill about soldiers in Iraq). So what did HBO have to say for itself?
For one, Richard Plepler, co-president and Michael Lombardo, president of the HBO programming group, recognize that they're depressing us all to death. "We've noticed that as well." "I hope a year from now we're not talking about somber programming." But all we have to look forard to is "Little Britain USA," which is a US take on the hilarious BBC sketch comedy show, a Ricky Gervais standup special and "True Blood," Alan Ball's possibly-cool vampire drama. But doesn't that feel a little thin to you all?
For those of you who still feel like good TV is worth paying for, make sure you invest in a little Showtime. These guys are truly rocking the premium channel space. I'm a huge fan of "Dexter," "The Tudors," "Californication" and "This American Life." Plus, Sho just picked up "Inside the NFL" (yeah, I'm kind of a football fan). And while I haven't been up on "Weeds," I've heard incredible things.
So, HBO, I'm sad you're not kicking butt these days, but at least I have a surrogate that'll keep my TiVo warm until you get back on your feet. Now, get out there and make me a Sopranos and Deadwood movie!
Are you also feeling let down by HBO? If so, what are you watching these days instead? Have you sought out the awesomeness of Showtime like me? Tell us what you're watching.
