Unless you dumped your subscription in disgust, or to just save a few bucks, you may have noticed that HBO is worth watching again.
There was a time, of course, when it seemed that the pay-cable titan could do no wrong. The hits kept coming and so did the buzz. And in the process, TV’s bar was jacked up several notches.
But then HBO sort of lost its way. And when it came to water-cooler mojo, it often found itself outdone by arch-rival Showtime and even basic cable outlets like FX and AMC. The critics naturally pounced.
“Two years ago we were feeling beat up,” HBO executive Quentin Schaffer admitted in front of a horde of journalists at a summer press tour. “Now we’re feeling upbeat.” So what’s hot and what’s not at that storied premium cable channel? Check it.
‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (FIVE BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
With the new season launching on Sept. 20, the chatter is about the much-anticipated reunion of the entire “Seinfeld” cast, to be played out over five episodes.
‘Big Love’ (FOUR BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
The show achieved new creative heights in its third season and has received an Emmy nomination for best drama.
More Top Picks Cat Trees
‘Entourage’ (TWO BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
Will this dramedy about a bunch of bros making their way in Hollywood ever get old? Apparently not.
‘Hung’ (ONE BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
The show is all about below-the-waist jokes about its well-endowed lead character.
‘Flight of the Conchords’ (FOUR BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
The cult favorite also was honored with its first Emmy nomination for top comedy.
‘True Blood’ (FIVE BUZZ BARS OUT OF FIVE)
Alan Ball’s vampire drama has become the network’s most popular show in its second season, attracting more than 10 million viewers per week on a cumulative basis.
– – –
DID YOU KNOW?
HBO nabbed a leading 99 nominations last month when Emmy contenders were announced. For more TV trivia, check out RedEye guru Curt Wagner’s blog at redeyechicago.com/showpatrol. It’s always on.