Being in the industry, people tend to roll their eyes with regards to any awards show. They are normally too big and too robotic. There’s far more hoopla to the dress than content, and whoever you think wins generally wins. Shows in their final year of eligibility generally win big, and you are stuck looking at the tv or the stage, with a permanent stare. The 2015 Primetime Emmys were no different, but with a few caveats. Yes, we have had some shows that get credit for what’s important — their final year of fighting, but we even have some well-deserved and long-awaited surprises. A-listers used to never touch television, it became a legitimate actor’s graveyard. This still sounds true at times (Rest in Peace Robin Williams, but The Crazy Ones was terrible), but that has changed a lot over the last few years. Becoming a celebrity does not just require guest stars or features anymore. This year alone, Viola Davis (How to Get Away with Murder) and Richard Jenkins (Olive Kitteridge) took home the top honors, while in the midst of wildly successful film careers. Television has changed, and nobody is more grateful than Netflix.
It’s at all times interesting to note how Netflix has been floundering for so long at an idea that nobody has ever thought of; the death of the tv network. Now, places like HBO and Showtime have at all times been niche, but television has taken the plunge with regards to live content. Providers like Netflix and Hulu understand that, fueling binge-watching marathons and memes urging you to “Netflix and Chill.” This year has been huge for the online streaming provider with Amazon and Netflix amongst the different nominees. Jeffrey Tambor extended his winning streak with Transparent, his surprise hit from Amazon, while Bloodline dominated Netflix’s now-monumental nominations. The industry has flipped a switch, and now shows that are available all directly can be viewed as prime time. This is an interesting era.
Of course, it was the final year of the Mad Men fight, and that I virtually thought they would win every category. Not too fast. We all forget that Game of Thrones had a bombastic year, and yes it was possibly the best season yet. From Dinklage winning Best Supporting to the headline jewel of the night, Best Drama Series, Game of Thrones shows its strengths. However, where it all counts, Jon Hamm gets his due. If you have been an avid Man-holic for the past few years, you know the show slowed down between seasons 5-7 (at least its first half). That changed this year. Unlike many favourite shows that just tie up loose ends or leave you in the dark (literally), Mad Men ends as they should; with Don making the throw. Jon Hamm’s Don Draper thrives on so much, yet does little, letting his co-stars and story shine, yet still keeping us smiling as the series concludes. Hamm got this one, just like he got every show in his somewhat young career. This goes for Viola, becoming the first African-American woman to win the Best Actress award at the Primetime Emmys. The ferocity of his character and the charm that he portrayed in every role was finally awarded.
For once, I enjoyed the awards ceremony. I’m leaving hoping for a better job and a more consistent stream of surprises for next year. Let’s hope they bring back Andy Samberg. Oh, with Tracy Morgan back, I actually wanted to see if she got someone pregnant after the party. We miss you Tracy!
