Twelfth Day of TV Christmas- Twelve Eps of Gangsters

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Twelfth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the twelfth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...twelve eps of gangsters, eleven family members, ten weeks a fighting, nine flashes sideways, eight minutes breathless, seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

So this is it, Christmas morning. And how better to celebrate than with the final day of TV Christmas. Earning recognition today for its performance in 2010 is HBO's Boardwalk Empire. The complaints that I have heard about the series are that it was slow, confusing and there were too many characters. My response to that is that the two shows that are currently thought of as the two best dramas in the past decade, The Wire and Mad Men, started out much more guilty of that. I literally couldn't keep going with The Wire after four eps because it was so slow. With Mad Men I never stopped, but I wasn't enjoying it the pace was so slow. The first season of Boardwalk was not anything like those. It is a slower pace than some other shows, but it definitely kept my interest throughout. I got excited to see what Nucky, Jimmy, and the crew were going to be up to form week to week. A great start to what should be an epic series over the next half a decade.

Eleventh Day of TV Christmas- Eleven Family Members

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Eleventh Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the eleventh day of Christmas my tv gave to me...eleven family members, ten weeks a fighting, nine flashes sideways, eight minutes breathless, seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

Since the days of TGIF there has not been a family sitcom that has gotten me excited. By the end of 2009, and then throughout 2010, ABC's Modern Family has changed that. The eleven members of the Pritchett family tree - that's Jay, Gloria, Manny, Phil, Claire, Haley, Alex, Luke, Cam, Mitchell, and Lilly - have earned a spot in the best of 2010. The mockumentary style is nothing new after watching The Office for many years now, but the people at Modern Family have managed to make it work magically once again. As has been said many times before, the numerous dynamics that can be created with this large group make for new hilarious situations every episode. Whether it was Cam and Gloria at the Mexican restaurant, Manny and Claire chatting about kids, or Phil and Jay trying to get along, the strange relationships that make up this modern family have proven to be one of the funniest shows on television.

Tenth Day of TV Christmas- Ten Weeks a Fighting

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Tenth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the tenth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...ten weeks a fighting, nine flashes sideways, eight minutes breathless, seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

After struggling through the most recent season of Survivor it has become more and more obvious how great Big Brother is. The ten weeks of arguing, game playing, and back stabbing we were witness to in 2010 are definitely worthy of recognition. Unlike Survivor, Big Bro doesn't depend on its cast to have a good season. The Nicaragua version of Survivor has failed mostly because there were no interesting contestants, but over the past few seasons of Big Brother, there have been times where I found nobody compelling and still really enjoyed the season. 2010 was highlighted by a Guido and a couple of juice heads, and I'm not talking about Jersey Shore. Enzo, Hayden and Lane, or the Brigade as they liked to call themselves, created an unstoppable alliance at the very beginning of Big Brother, and stayed strong until the final three. It truly was one of, if not the best alliance I've witnessed on reality tv. Congrats to the three of them, Hayden for winning, and CBS for continuing to put on a great show three days a week every summer.

Ninth Day of TV Christmas- Nine Flashes Sideways

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Ninth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the ninth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...nine flashes sideways, eight minutes breathless, seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

It has been over half a year since Lost aired its series finale, and my love for the show, the final season, and the finale itself has not changed. The season did everything I could have asked of it. Was it as good as say seasons four or five? Maybe not, but it was so much more epic. Every episode I watched, I knew everything was that much more important. Kate's last ep, Hugo's last ep, the deaths of many main characters. There are many people out there who complained about it for God knows why, but the final season of Lost and especially the finale worked like gangbusters. They hit every emotional note I needed, and answered or failed to answer anything I cared or didn't care about. As much as people hated on "Across the Sea," it, along with "Ab Aeterno" answered everything I needed on Lost. As the 2010 version of Lost went along, we watched as nine of our favorite characters flashed "sideways" as we called them, into a purgatory like world. These sideways flashes were ruined for some once the big reveal came around, but I enjoyed them more once I realized what was going on. All in all it will continue to be my favorite television show of all time.

Eighth Day of TV Christmas- Eight Minutes Breathless

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Eighth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the eighth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...eight minutes breathless, seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

I really had no place to put it, but Breaking Bad needed to be recognized for its outstanding performance in 2010. The episode titled "One Minute" was filled in tv time by multiple minutes of excitement, hence the "eight minutes breathless." Watching as our boy Hank hung on for dear life as the crazy Mexican brothers attempted to murder him horror movie style, was absolute brilliance. Not only was the ending to that episode so great, but looking back on it, the entire season was fantastic. At the time I didn't think that great of it, but after watching how disappointing some of my other favorite shows have been, Breaking Bad needs to receive credit for showing up to play this year. Other than "Fly", which some critics are touting as a great episode but in reality was God awful, every ep brought excitement and drama. It won't be back until this summer, so we have to wait a while to get Walter, Jesse and the gang back in our lives.

Survivor Finale- This One's For The Boy

Spoiler alert...Below are a few thoughts on last night's finale of Survivor: Nicaragua. So watch the ep and reunion show, toot your own horn for being smart, then read what I have to say.

Let's start with the first immunity challenge. Fabio won his second straight after starting way behind, but it was Probst's terrible running commentary that had me excited. T-time, who has never watched Survivor, immediately commented on how awful Probst was after only 45 minutes of action. I was never more proud of him. At the first tribal Jeffrey was up to his normal antics as he led the contestants with his prodding questions. Pretty soon we're going to get to a point where Probst is saying things like, "I've been following the cameraman around and this is what Sash has been saying about you behind your back."

So after Dan went home on a four to one vote, the finale four contestants did the old "rights of passage" deal. This is one of my favorite parts of Survivor because it is so darn awkward when they have to say something about each of the contestants that they previously voted out. Every time it is something like, "oh this person was a good competitor," or "this person was fun." Give me a break. How about when they got to Shannon, Sash speaks out and says, "this dude was a real a hole!" That would have been awesome.

We get to the next and final immunity challenge and it is Fabio's stack of coins that begins to wobble first. He gets his act together long enough to take down his third straight immunity challenge and guarantee himself a spot in the final tribal council. What I don't get is why he has all of the power. If he wanted to vote out Holly, and got Sash to go along with him, why couldn't Holly and Chase have voted for Sash and forced a tie? I mean maybe in the end, they all wanted Holly gone, but it doesn't explain why they make it seem like Fabio had absolutely all of the power. It's not whatever he says goes at that point. But what he said did go, and Holly left on a 3-1 vote.

So then we have the final tribal, where none of the three contestants embarrassed themselves by being God awful at explaining why they should win, but no one really did a good job at convincing anybody either. If I had gone into that final chat with an idea of who I wanted to vote for, there's no way it would have changed after their answers.

Although I hated Chase so much before this event, why on Earth would he ever chosen Marty for the question of who won the "dumber than a bag of hammers" award? You could easily pick one of the other two people you're fighting against, and instead you choose someone who could be voting for or against you? Chase had no chance of getting Marty's vote anyway, but still a really dumb move.

Between Jane, Dan, and maybe a couple others, I got really mad. You are there to ask questions so that you can make a better decision on who should win, not air your grievances. This isn't a Festivus dinner.

Did that crying gag win Fabio some votes? I'm not sure, but he definitely got some of the jury members in an emotional state just before it was time to cast their votes.

And in the end it was 5 votes for Fabio, 4 for Chase, and 0 for Sash. Once again, the best strategic player went down the tubes, and like Russell last season, got absolutely no votes. What is wrong with this game when you can't back stab your way to the final and still get a couple of votes. It wasn't like Sash was a jerk the whole time, he just broke a bunch of alliances and back stabbed. I will never get why Chase got four votes and Sash got zero. Who likes Chase?

Speaking of ridiculous popularity. How does anyone watching this show like Jane? When Probst referred to her as a popular contestant I got extremely angry that Jeff and CBS don't understand what people like. When I later found out that she not only won the fan vote for favorite player, but won it by the largest margin ever, I absolutely lost it. Jane was one of my least favorite Survivor players ever, and definitely the worst of this season. The lesson to be learned here is that people of America have terrible taste. I guess this is why I don't like most people.

Fantasy Scores

Brigade Grenades

Sash- W14 (92), W15 (106), Votes (-4)= 194
Chase- W14 (92), Votes (-4), W15 (106)= 194
Dan- Votes (-16)= -16
Jill
Jane
Finale= 372 Total= 2028

Studio Flow CEO

Shannon
Fabio- W14 (92), Im (40), W15 (106), Win (121)= 359
Kelly P
Jimmy T
NaOnka
Finale= 359 Total= 1200

The Full Schilling

Jimmy J
Benry
Kelly B
Alina
Holly- W14 (92), Votes (-12)= 80
Finale= 80 Total= 823

Power Bottoms

Brenda
Marty
Tyrone
Yve
Wendy
Total= 188

Seventh Day of TV Christmas- Seven Kids a Studying

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Seventh Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the seventh day of Christmas my tv gave to me...seven kids a studying, six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

All I want for my seventh day of Christmas is Jeffrey, Troy, Pierce, Annie, Abed, Britta...and even Shirley; the seven kids from our favorite Greendale Community College study group. Community is the next series to earn the recognition for its performance in 2010. Although the start to its second season has been a bit disappointing, you can't argue that the second half of last year's first season was absolutely fantastic. All of these community collegers, besides Shirley at times, has been awesome. Between the mafia/chicken strips episode and the paint ball episode, they concocted two of the funniest half hours on television in 2010. While they have pretty much failed to recreate these epic moments with attempts like the astronaut and zombie eps, they still make me laugh on a regular basis, and that's all I can ask for.

Sixth Day of TV Christmas- Six Deads a Walking

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Sixth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the sixth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...six deads a walking, five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

On day six of this TV Christmas season, we at the Pool recognize AMC's The Walking Dead. After absolutely bombing with Rubicon as the stations first attempt to add to its dynamic duo of Mad Men and Breaking Bad, they came through in spades with The Walking Dead. It was only a six episode first season, hence the "six deads a walking," but it was fantastic. From the start, this series had me hooked. The pilot was riveting, and the quality maintained throughout. Although Alan Sepinwall blatantly disagrees, I believe the short first season was a blessing in disguise. They were able to get their story across without any filler. As much as I would have loved to seen a 12 episode season, each of these six eps packed a punch, and I think we were better off because of it. The finale, in which the gang of Zombie killers came into the CDC building and then fled it, was a perfect example of where they could have dragged it out but didn't. Sepinwall wanted that episode to be extended to a about three or four eps. Really? You wanted them to sit around that cave for three episodes...doing what? They celebrated, they learned how the zombies are re-born, they got sad, and then the building blew up. All of which were done succinctly and beautifully. It was a great first season and I am definitely looking forward to the second.

Fifth Day of TV Christmas- Five Deeeaaad Rapiiiiiists

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Fifth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the fifth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...five deeeaaad rapiiiiists, four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

Today's series to earn a spot in the best of 2010 song is Dexter. After a fantastic fourth season guest starring John Lithgow, which got me started on the Dexter train, they really backed it up with a great season five. There weren't as many chilling moments like we saw from the Lithgow/Michael C. Hall dynamic a year ago, but Julia Stiles brought all kinds of greatness to the show. Maybe it's my Stiles bias - I have definitely had a thing for her since my strange Down to You phase - but I thought she was fantastic as the leading guest star. Her relationship with Dexter created a whole new side to Dexter that we never got to see while he was with Rita, and we got to see him with a partner for at least half of a season. This year's big bad, Johnny Lee Miller's Jordan Chase, was also great. He and his four rapist buddies from childhood got got by the end of the season, and it was fun watching each of them react so differently to Dexter's madness.

Friday Night Lights 507- Gone Missing

Spoiler alert...Below are a few thoughts on this week's episode of Friday Night Lights, "Perfect Record". So watch the ep, protect your high school's football field from intruders for a while, then read what I have to say.

My least favorite thing about writing for TV Fanatic is that I hardly have time to blog about many of the other shows that I watch. With Sons over, and Chuck, One Tree Hill and the NBC comedies on winter break, I am free to get back to what I used to love doing on this blog...finding a couple random things from a given episode that got me fired up, and explaining what I loved or hated about them.

As good as Friday Night Lights is at dramatic moments and character stories, the series is almost as bad at continuity problems and holes out of left field. My gripe for this week is the situation with the good old Dillon Panthers. Now is it possible that J.D. McCoy could have been injured or transferred to another school? Sure. I do not think that was the story they were going for, but I'll buy it. The fact that they jumped right into this game with the Panthers and all of a sudden they have an African-American quarterback threw me through a loop. If J.D. is hurt or left, this should have been a bigger part of the plot. This kid was a huge antagonist in the past, and you just breeze past it. I know that you want to get as much Ormond Howard in every episode as possible - a point I'll get to next - but the Panther/Lion rivalry has to be more important than this episode portrayed. Hmmmm, where was Wade? You know the coach that the town of Dillon was up in arms over getting him in as the coach? Oh he's just not the coach anymore. Gone with J.D. And our old buddy Mac is the coach now?!?! How does this coaching change get glanced over? Who is watching this show and just says, "oh Mac is the coach now. Wade's gone. J.D. isn't playing. This isn't a big deal at all."?

Now back to the part of this week's FNL that wasn't making my brain all kooky. Cress Williams has just been killing it as Vince's dad, Ormond. This week was no different as he has quickly taken on the role of Cam Newton's father. I love it when television imitates life. That's how the saying goes right? He's definitely up to his old tricks, as he has Mrs. Howard falling for him again, Vince actually liking him, and putting Coach Taylor in his place. This is his boy! He'll do things the way he wants! And if he takes gifts from coaches and then tells Vince he has to go to Auburn, so be it! I'm sure this will only end badly for my man Ormond, but it's currently a fabulous ride. Coach Eric Taylor will probably get the last laugh, but if Cress Williams tells him how thing is going to go down one more time, I might lose it from how studly he is.

Friday Night Lights is off for a while and will return to finish its fifth and final season January 5 on DirecTV's 101 Network.

Fourth Day of TV Christmas- Four Ad Partners

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Fourth Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the fourth day of Christmas my tv gave to me...four ad partners, three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

So the fourth show to receive praise for its performance during 2010, although it probably has been written about too much already by me, is AMC's Mad Men. Maybe it is because I was able to over-analyze the series on a weekly basis this year, but Mad Men went from a show that I watched and knew was quality television, to a show that I loved and enjoyed almost as much as anything on tv. My feeling is that Mad Men, like many serialized dramas, has the ability to get better and better as time goes on. Because the characters become that much more in depth as the years go by, their actions are that much more important to the viewer as each and every episode comes on. This year was full of changes. From Don's metamorphosis, to the new Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce trying to stay alive, things were different in 1960s New York. How long can this ride take us? I'm not sure, but I'll be there every step of the way, and so should you.

Survivor Week 13- Carolina In Jane's Mind

Spoiler alert...Below are a few thoughts on last night's episode of Survivor: Nicaragua. So watch the ep, do not show your ass back in North Carolina, then read what I have to say.

This is always the funniest episode of the season. The fact that these people cry hysterically because they're seeing their family members is ridiculously funny to me. I understand that they are enduring some awful elements out here in the wild, but Fabio saying that he only sees his mom twice a year isn't a good excuse. You should be more used to it if you only see your mom twice a year. Being away from your family for 30 days is no excuse to cry like a little baby. I moved away to Tennessee in July - half way across the country - did not see my parents for a four month period, but did I cry upon seeing them for the first time at Thanksgiving? No, because I'm not an idiot. I will continue to laugh at these people as they cry at the mere thought at seeing a family member come out of those woods.

Chase is both an a hole and an idiot. For the second straight week he promised someone he would take them on a reward if he won, and then didn't. I am all for backstabbing as a part of Survivor - a point I will get to in a little bit - but this is completely unnecessary. There is no reason for Chase to make these promises, to Sash last week and Fabio last night, and then go back on his word to bring Holly. First of all, just don't make that promise. Secondly, don't take Holly every time! You're already in good with her, how about getting on the good side of someone else in the tribe? You might gain yourself a couple of votes come final council. Chase is an idiot.

Sash- "This gives us the best chance to make it to the final three...and that should be our focus."

Chase- "I don't wanna write Jane's name down. I wanna keep Jane around 'til the final four and then beat her at the final four."

Here we have further proof of Chase's idiocy. You want to? That is great reasoning pal. What is the difference between bringing her to the final four and getting rid of her now? Well the difference is that if she wins immunity at final four, she makes it to final council and wins the jury vote (something I'm not so sure would have happen after many should have realized what a jerk she is). Then to add cruelty to stupidity, he throws Sash and Holly under the bus by telling Jane that they want to vote her out...right in front of everybody! What a complete jerk.

Jane- "I've not stabbed anybody in the back this whole game."

How many times a Survivor contest has uttered a quote like this, I do not know. Every time it is said, I get angry. This is Survivor Jane. If you came into it thinking no one was going to back stab or lie, you have some serious issues. Stating that you have not back stabbed this entire game, doesn't prove that you were a better player, or a nicer person. All it proves is that your style of play didn't work this time around. It worked for J.T. a few seasons ago, but it didn't work with this group. Back stabbing is a part of this game, and if you are going to throw a fit when that happens, you don't belong. The tribe has spoken.

Jane did end up leaving last night, even though Probst did his best to keep her around. I'm not going to complain all day about my problems with Probst doing this, but I will vent about the contestants not taking his un-warranted advice. Not only were Fabio, Dan, and Jane too dumb to think about Probst's idea to join up and vote for Holly, but once he gave it to them they were too dumb to use it! If it were a three-three tie and somehow Holly went home, you are now 3-2 against Chase and Sash. Who knows what could have happened, but I don't see Fabio making it to the end unless he continues to win immunity.

Finale is Sunday. And I'm predicting Holly comes out victorious. This prediction and other thoughts of mine came up at this week's Survivor Round Table over at TV Fanatic.

Fantasy Scores

Brigade Grenades

Sash- W13 (79), Votes (-4)= 75
Chase- W13 (79), Reward (10)= 89
Dan- W13 (79)= 79
Jill
Jane- Votes (-20)= -20
Week 13= 223 Total= 1656

Studio Flow CEO

Shannon
Fabio- W13 (79), Im (20)= 99
Kelly P
Jimmy T
NaOnka
Week 13= 99 Total= 841

The Full Schilling

Jimmy J
Benry
Kelly B
Alina
Holly- W13 (79)= 79
Week 13= 79 Total= 743

Power Bottoms

Brenda
Marty
Tyrone
Yve
Wendy
Total= 188

Third Day of TV Christmas- Three Jo Bros

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Third Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the third day of Christmas my tv gave to me...three Jo Bros, two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

The third show to earned accolades for 2010 is our second straight canceled series. Jonas concluded its second season during the year, and the bros decided to stop the show for what I'm sure are a ton of good reasons. In between the first and second seasons, Joe, Nick and Kevin changed locations, changed the tone of the show, and even changed the title. At first I was worried that tonal change, from a complete slapstick to a more melo-dramatic comedy, was going to be a problem. Although Jonas LA wasn't as funny as the first season, it was not any worse by season's end. The ridiculous drama they brought week in and week out put it up there with the likes of Mackenzie Falls for most drama on television. At the end of the day, I've grown to be a bit too obsessed with these brothers. Maybe it's because I have two brothers myself, and wish that we could in fact be the Jo Bros. Or maybe it's because they are just that awesome, that they deserve to be idolized by one and all. I will continue to listen to their music, and follow whatever projects they move on to in the future.

Second Day of TV Christmas- Two Terriers

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the Second Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the second day of Christmas my tv gave to me...two Terriers, and a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

The second show receiving credit for outstanding performance in 2010 is Terriers. The two private investigators of FX's Terriers, Donal Logue's Hank and Michael Raymond-James's Britt, really did burst onto the scene as a couple of dudes that were easy to root for. Sure it has since been canceled for lack of ratings, but that's not to say that it was not a terrific 13 episodes all on its own. Critics loved this thing, proven by Alan Sepinwall, Mo Ryan and Ryan McGee tweeting that we should be watching Terriers every Wednesday like clockwork. I wasn't as in love with the series as McGee, who placed it number one in his 10 Best of '10, but it definitely was in my top 12 of the year. Best of all was that they ended the thing in fantastic fashion. I'm sure they knew that a second season was in jeopardy, so they left things open. The arc of season one was summed up, and there was potential for a new journey from our favorite PIs. But unlike some other season finales, there wasn't too much anticipation for a second season premiere, that I got angry the show was canceled. Sad that it is not continuing? Of course. But happy with how it came together. There's nothing wrong with a solid 13 episode series done well.

First Day of TV Christmas- A Paper Boss In Scranton, PA

In a new tradition here at the Pool, as both a way of summing up the year in television and celebrating the holidays, we will be releasing the first Twelve Days of TV Christmas series leading up to the day where I hope to receive multiple DVD box sets of my favorite shows. Whereas the Poolies celebrate the best television of the season by a number of voters, the Twelve Days of Christmas is my attempt at giving credit to the top series of the year by me and only me. Having said that, a couple of my favorite shows have been left off the list for a multitude of reasons. In the case of Chuck and Justified, it's mostly because I couldn't fit them into a numbered slot as well as some others. With Sons or Always Sunny, I just wasn't as happy with their respective seasons in 2010. So without further ado, here is the First Day of TV Christmas. Feel free to sing along.

On the first day of Christmas my tv gave to me...a paper boss in Scranton, PA.

The first show earning recognition for its performance in 2010 is The Office. For as much complaining people have done about the show recently, especially the lame critics, The Office still provides as many or more laughs than any show on television. Especially at the end of the year here, the beginning of this seventh season has been fantastic. They have really gotten back to the formula that works; a lot of Michael Scott being obnoxious and hilarious, Dwight and Jim at each others' throats, and quality one-liners from the rest of the outstanding cast of characters. Will things change once Steve Carrell leaves for good at the end of the season? Absolutely. But for now, everyone should enjoy the ride as Michael Scott makes you laugh time and time again.

The Office 711 Review- Classing It Up

Dwight- "In the end, the greatest snowball isn't a snowball at all...it's fear. Merry Christmas."

Holly- "You guys, it wasn't my fault!"

Kevin- "Oh nothing is ever your fault! Just like when you ate those maple candies that you brought for us!"

Michael- "The name is Bond...Santa Bond. I'll have an eggnog, shaken not stirred."

The Office always attempts to go big for Christmas, and although this week's one-hour episode didn't live up to some of the holiday extravaganzas - most notably the famous Yankee Swap - "Classy Christmas" still had plenty of laughs, dramatic stakes, and questions of the future to keep me entertained throughout.

Instead of the main focus being how Michael was going to ruin Christmas this time, the episode centered mostly on the return of... Holly Flax! And what a glorious return it was as she and Michael went blow for blow on western references, wise guy references, and finally huggy monsters. Why would Jim have put a stop to such a hilarious interaction?

To read the rest of my review of last night's one hour The Office, head over to TV Fanatic.

The Office 711 - "Classy Christmas"
Review
Recap
Quotes

30 Rock 510 Review- Two Black Swan(n)s

Liz [to Avery]: I was going to bring dessert tomorrow, so are there any foods that are making you nauseous lately? Please don't say a half sleeve of Oreos.

This was a really fun and almost heartwarming holiday - oh, sorry, Jack, I mean Christmas - episode of 30 Rock. Like the title states, "Christmas Attack Zone" was mainly focused on Jack's plan to attack his own mother on December 25.

Like I said last week, I enjoy stories about Jack's father issues more than those about his mother issues because I cannot stand Colleen Donaghy. But at least she did come through with one line this week, wanting the scholarship at Jack's graduation to go to "the other boy!"

To read the rest of my review of last night's episode of 30 Rock, head over to TV Fanatic.

30 Rock 510 - "Christmas Attack Zone"
Review
Recap
Quotes

Survivor Week 12- Benry-grets

Spoiler alert...Below are a few thoughts on last night's episode of Survivor: Nicaragua. So watch the ep, take two old ladies on a romantic couples massage, then read what I have to say.

People said it from the beginning, but it's worth stating again...This season of Survivor has been extremely disappointing. Now whether that is because it can't live up to the past two seasons of Russell goodness, like Bill Simmons argues, or just because this is as uninteresting of a group as they could find, it hasn't been exciting.

This week Sash was the swing vote and had some decisions to make. To me, the biggest decision of the episode was Chase choosing to bring Jane with him on the reward after he just told Sash that he deserved to go on a reward. Not a good way to get someone to side with you, but it ended up working out in your favor anyway...why I'm not sure.

Questions like these and more were brought up in the Survivor Round Table over at TV Fanatic.

Which alliance should Sash have gone with: Chanely (Chase, Jane and Holly) or Dudry (Dan, Jud and Benry)?

Dan: I would have gone with Dan, Fabio and Benry only because I can't stand either of the women, but he made the right move in choosing Chanely. Currently, they're all saying that they won't take Jane to the final three, so to have her as one of you four is a good thing. She should go before him if they play their cards right.

How does Sash get himself into the final three?

Dan: He continues to control this game. He may or may not be the one manipulating everyone's decisions, but he always seems to be the deciding factor on the vote, so I would give him the benefit of the doubt. He's been good enough in challenges to stay alive, but not so good that people are targeting him.

To check out the rest of this week's Round Table, head over TV Fanatic.

Is this fantasy season a complete joke? Not only are my team members refusing to be eliminated, but now they're winning challenges and not even earning a single vote? Stud show. There's no way I am losing at this point, so I'd really like to see Jane go home. Please fellas, sacrifice the good of the squad to get her out of there. She cried about the dead chicken!

Fantasy Scores

Brigade Grenades

Sash- W12 (67), Im (20)= 87
Chase- W12 (67), Reward (10)= 77
Dan- W12 (67)= 67
Jill
Jane- W12 (67)= 67
Week 12= 298 Total= 1433

Studio Flow CEO

Shannon
Fabio- W12 (67), Votes (-8)= 59
Kelly P
Jimmy T
NaOnka
Week 12= 59 Total= 742

The Full Schilling

Jimmy J
Benry- Votes (-16)= -16
Kelly B
Alina
Holly- W12 (67), Votes (-4)= 63
Week 12= 47 Total= 664

Power Bottoms

Brenda
Marty
Tyrone
Yve
Wendy
Total= 188

One Tree Hill 811 Review- Calm the Storm

Katie [to Quinn]- "Go on! Run in to the storm! But I'm your storm, and I'll find you."

It kind of came out of left field, but "Darkness on the Edge of Town" was a riveting episode of television. In it, the writers simplified the show, cutting out a slew of characters, and finished off the fall season with a bang. Simply put, this was a great way to end the year.

One Tree Hill has always been able to do wonderful things with epic moments when it wants to. Whether it was Lucas's car accident, Dan killing Keith, or the first car crash on the bridge, the OTH flare for the dramatic will always rope me in.

To read the rest of my review of last night's One Tree Hill, head over to TV Fanatic.

One Tree Hill 811 - "Darkness on the Edge of Town"
Review
Recap
Quotes

Holiday Poolies Watch- Action

I'm a little late on my first of the month timeline for these now bi-monthly Poolies Watch posts, but as the saying goes "better late than clever." That's not it? Well either way, the 2011 Poolies Ballots are six months away, which means the season is six months over. Here we'll take a look at how the awards are stacking up so far, with who's in, who's out, and who's awful. Next up are the action awards. As always, if you think a show or character deserves more credit, or any at all, feel free to leave a comment. You don't want to end up like Mags last year, trying to illegally write in Tom Haverford for the Arthur Spooner Award. Also spit any performances you've liked at me on Twitter via @quietpool.

The Sopranos Award

Seriously, is there anyone still into The Event? New Yorkers? Because I feel like this thing has fallen off quickly. I mean I’m still watching it, and enjoying it to some extent, but the boredom is killing me. I hesitate to replace it (or True Blood) with Hawaii Five-0 because the latter is a run-of-the-mill procedural, but I definitely look forward to Hawaii Five-0 more than The Event at this point. I really loved the three episodes of Sherlock’s first season (the first and third especially), but I don’t think that short of a run is going to be enough to get it in.

Definites
Chuck
Sons of Anarchy
Dexter

In For Now
Justified
Boardwalk Empire
Terriers
The Walking Dead
The Mentalist
The Event
True Blood

Outside Looking In
Hawaii Five-0
Sherlock
Human Target
Persons Unknown
No Ordinary Family
Covert Affairs
Nikita
Rubicon

The Frank Pembleton Award

Alex O'Loughlin on Hawaii Five-0

This is a category that is up for grabs my friends. With the two Losties that won the previous years for this Poolie relaxing somewhere on a tropical island, it’s time for somebody to take over as the top lead character in an action series. Morgan has been unsurprisingly hilarious this season of Chuck, but my other two definite have just as much of a shot at my number one vote. If Raylan Givens, and Justified overall, is anywhere as good as last season, I’m giving him the edge. Well so much for Scott Caan earning a nomination for two separate shows this year. He has not proven to be as good on Hawaii Five-0 as he was on Entourage, or even as good as his own partner on the new show. Alex O’Loughlin has been studding it up in the tropics thus far.

Definites
Jackson Teller- Sons of Anarchy
Raylan Givens- Justified
Morgan Grimes- Chuck

In For Now
Chuck Bartowski- Chuck
Patrick Jane- The Mentalist
Sherlock Holmes- Sherlock
Hank Dolworth- Terriers
Dexter Morgan- Dexter
Steve McGarrett- Hawaii Five-0
Britt Pollack- Terriers

Outside Looking In
Danny Williams- Hawaii Five-0
Eric Northman- True Blood
Jimmy Darmody- Boardwalk Empire
Rick Grimes- The Walking Dead
Christopher Chance- Human Target
Nucky Thompson- Boardwalk Empire

The Desmond Hume Award

Wayne Rigsby and Kimbal Cho

How did this category lose all of its luster? Most of these action shows have such gigantic ensemble casts, that no one gets enough screen time. That’s how. Although Opie, like the rest of his SAMCRO supporting cast, didn’t get that much time to strut his stuff, he is such an absolute stud that I’ve moved him into the definites. I would also have Boyd Crowder in that sub-section, except only the final two eps of season one of Justified count for this year’s Poolies. Once season two kicks off in February, he’ll be right up there with the big guns. I wanted to love Al Capone on Boardwalk Empire, and he might impress as the final episodes come in, but he has yet to do enough to earn a spot.

Definites
John Casey- Chuck
Opie Winston- Sons of Anarchy

In For Now
Boyd Crowder- Justified
Auggie Anderson- Covert Affairs
Kimbal Cho- The Mentalist
Joey Quinn- Dexter
Jimmy O’Phelan- Sons of Anarchy
Lester Patel- Chuck
Billy Blackham- Persons Unknown
Devon Woodcomb- Chuck

Outside Looking In
Bobby Munson- Sons of Anarchy
Al Capone- Boardwalk Empire
Russell Edgington- True Blood
Chibs Telford- Sons of Anarchy
Wayne Rigsby- The Mentalist
Vince Masuka- Dexter
Jeffrey Barnes- Chuck

The Samantha Marquez Award

Leila Buchanan and Sean Walker

What a weak group of ladies. Really? Leila from The Event and Katie from Terriers would be nominated if the season ended right now? What a joke. There isn't a single female character in Boardwalk Empire or The Walking Dead that I enjoy. If Sarah Walker doesn't go three for three come this June, I will be shocked.

Definites
Sarah Walker- Chuck
Deb Morgan- Dexter

In For Now
Ava Crowder- Justified
Annie Walker- Covert Affairs
Teresa Lisbon- The Mentalist
Luman Pierce- Dexter
Jessica Hamby- True Blood
Tara Knowles- Sons of Anarchy
Leila Buchanan- The Event
Katie Nichols- Terriers

Outside Looking In
Ellie Bartowski- Chuck
Winona Hawkins- Justified
Grace Van Pelt- The Mentalist
Kona Kalkua- Hawaii Five-0
Gemma Teller- Sons of Anarchy

The Teri Bauer Award

The Van Aldens

This list is riddled with True Blooders. What a terrible season you must have had, when neither Bill or Sookie were awful enough to be as bad as the four currently in the hunt for nominations. If I were to vote right now though, my number one slot would probably go to Van Alden from Boardwalk. This guys is the absolute worst, right? If I thought Rubicon deserved more than one nomination I'd put up the whole squad. Just garbage.

Definites
Tara Thornton- True Blood
Erika Taylor- Persons Unknown
Nelson Van Alden- Boardwalk Empire

In For Now
Moira- Persons Unknown
Franklin Mott- True Blood
Angel Batista- Dexter
Lucy Danziger- Boardwalk Empire
Liam O'Neill- Sons of Anarchy
Maria Laguerta- Dexter
Miles Fiedler- Rubicon

Outside Looking In
Talbot- True Blood
Liam Ulrich- Persons Unknown
Jesus Velasquez- True Blood
Margareet Schroeder- Boardwalk Empire
Kale Ingram- Rubicon

The “Through the Looking Glass” Award
Only half way through the season and we're already leaving great episodes off the table here. Honestly, because it will get left out of the series award, I'm pretty sure Sherlock's premiere is a definite here. No, “Chuck vs. the First Fight”, no Dexter, no Boardwalk, no Terriers. Can I lengthen this to 10 nominees, but leave drama and comedy at five? No, but I should.

In For Now
Breaking Bad- “Full Measure” - 313
Justified- “Bulletville” - 113
The Walking Dead- “Days Gone By” - 101
Sherlock- “A Study In Pink” - 101
Sons of Anarchy- “NS” - 313

Holiday Poolies Watch- Comedy

I'm a little late on my first of the month timeline for these now bi-monthly Poolies Watch posts, but as the saying goes "better late than clever." That's not it? Well either way, the 2011 Poolies Ballots are six months away, which means the season is six months over. Here we'll take a look at how the awards are stacking up so far, with who's in, who's out, and who's awful. Next up are the comedy awards. As always, if you think a show or character deserves more credit, or any at all, feel free to leave a comment. You don't want to end up like Mags last year, trying to illegally write in Tom Haverford for the Arthur Spooner Award. Also spit any performances you've liked at me on Twitter via @quietpool.

The Seinfeld Award

I guess I have seen the error in my ways. It is either that, or I’ve just given into the criticism of Jack and T-time for not being all about The League. Although not in my trifecta of definites, it should feel plenty secure with its current spot of a nomination. The HBO comedies and Sonny, on the other hand, should be worried, because once Curb and Parks & Rec come back, who knows what will happen. I have also given in to the hype of Cougar Town, which is much better (and different) than it was at the start of its first season.

Definites
The Office
Community
Modern Family

In For Now
It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia
30 Rock
The League
Bored to Death
Eastbound and Down
Sonny With a Chance
Cougar Town

Outside Looking In
Big Lake
Rules of Engagement
Party Down
Hannah Montana
South Park
Wizards of Waverly Place
Family Guy
Better With You

The Cory Matthews Award

Kenny Powers

Here is where I see a problem. After Winger and Dwight, I have no idea who deserves to be in out of the next nine. No one from Always Sunny or The League has stood out from each other so far. I could even throw Pete into the mix for guys from The League. Kenny Powers is a great character, but he didn’t really have that great of a season. Add the fact that there were only seven episodes of Eastbound, and he could be in danger. Also, I don’t laugh that much at anything Jack Donaghy does, but he is such a staple of 30 Rock, that I would have a tough time leaving him off.

Definites
Michael Scott- The Office
Chris Henkel- Big Lake
Phil Dunphy- Modern Family

In For Now
Jeff Winger- Community
Dwight Schrute- The Office
Dennis Reynolds- It’s Always Sunny
Jack Donaghy- 30 Rock
Kenny Powers- Eastbound and Down
Jonathan Ames- Bored to Death
Cameron Tucker- Modern Family

Outside Looking In
Andre Nowzik- The League
Charlie Kelly- It’s Always Sunny
Kevin MacArthur- The League
Mac- It’s Always Sunny
Justin Russo- Wizards of Waverly Place
Jay Pritchett- Modern Family

The Arthur Spooner Award

Jeff, Troy and Pierce on Community

We have a pretty top heavy category here, starting with two dudes who have made quite a few leaps. Troy Barnes has quickly become one of the funniest characters on tv. Are you allowed to love both Troy and Abed? Because now that I am a Troy guy, I’m slowly becoming less and less of an Abed lover. Similarly, Taco MacArthur has been absolutely hilarious on this season of The League, and is line for a vote from me this summer. The bottom of the category gets tricky, as I don’t think Manny has done enough so far to merit a nomination, but neither has anyone else below him. Ryan Howard’s few moments on The Office have been great, but I’m sure he’ll get knocked out as the season goes on.

Definites
Tracy Jordan- 30 Rock
Troy Barnes- Community
Taco MacArthur- The League
Pierce Hawthorne- Community
Frank Reynolds- It’s Always Sunny

In For Now
Luke Dunphy- Modern Family
Ray Hueston- Bored to Death
Adam Rhodes- Rules of Engagement
Ryan Howard- The Office
Manny Delgado- Modern Family

Outside Looking In
George Christopher- Bored to Death
Abed Nadir- Community
Robby Ray Stewart- Hannah Montana
Kevin Malone- The Office
Max Russo- Wizards of Waverly Place
Andy Bernard- The Office
Ben Coles- Better With You

The Phoebe Buffay Award

Jenna Maroney

There was only a single change since the Fall Poolies Watch. Jenna Maroney switched in for Claire Dunphy. That is in no way a knock on Claire, because she’s having a great season, but Jenna has been stellar up until this most recent episode. I really like Laurie Keller of Cougar Town, but realize I am the only one watching it, so I might not waste a nomination on her. Erin Hannon, after winning a year ago, has continued with great performances so far in season seven.

Definites
Sonny Munroe- Sonny With a Chance
Alex Russo- Wizards of Waverly Place
Miley Stewart- Hannah Montana

In For Now
Lilly Truscott- Hannah Montana
Erin Hannon- The Office
Dee Reynolds- It’s Always Sunny
Casey Klein- Party Down
Jenna Maroney- 30 Rock
Annie Edison- Community
Gloria Delgado Pritchett- Modern Family

Outside Looking In
Laurie Keller- Cougar Town
Claire Dunphy- Modern Family
Liz Lemon- 30 Rock
Pam Halpert- The Office
Mia Putney- Better With You
Haley Dunphy- Modern Family
Britta Perry- Community

The Lily Finnerty Award

Louie

The other day I thought my whole world caved in. I don’t believe in a lot of things in this world, but I believed that Lydia Dunfree was one of the worst characters on television. Then after T-time finished his marathon on Party Down season two, he tells me that she was his favorite person on the show. What?!?! Did I miss something, or has he? Critics sure did love Louie, and while I thought some of the moments were decent, I couldn’t stand Louie as a character. He probably won’t make the final cut, but I thought he deserved some credit for being the worst this time around.

Definites
Lydia Dunfree- Party Down
Gabe Lewis- The Office
Josh Franklin- Big Lake
Zora Lancaster- Sonny With a Chance

In For Now
Zeke Bearkerman- Wizards of Waverly Place
Ellie Torres- Cougar Town
PJ Duncan- Good Luck Charlie
Stevie Janowski- Eastbound and Down
Timmy- Rules of Engagement
Louie- Louie

Outside Looking In
Toby Flenderson- The Office
Nico Harris- Sonny With a Chance
Travis Cobb- Cougar Town
Rodney Ruxin- The League
Mitchell Pritchett- Modern Family
Meredith Palmer- The Office

The “The Dealership” Award
Leave it to the Disney shows to have a couple of fantastic episodes per season. They will have a few clunkers in there, but once or twice a year you get gems like “He Could Be the One” or “Falling For the Falls.” Although Community, Modern Family, The League, and others are having great seasons, no single episode from those series has stood out thus far.

In For Now
Sonny With a Chance- “Falling For the Falls” – 210-211
Hannah Montana- “I’ll Always Remember You” – 409
Bored to Death- “Escape From the Castle” – 207
Party Down- “Company Picnic” – 207
The Office- “Andy’s Play” – 703