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David Bianculli
On Emmys and Oz
Variety, June
6, 2001
David
Bianculli [New York Daily News TV critic] doesn't go out on a limb
when it comes to his favorite shows, but his list, which includes
"Oz" and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," brings up a valid criticism
directed at Emmy voters: They don't take many risks.
"These shows are extremely popular within the industry, among the
public and with critics," he says, "but when it comes to the
individual performances, they never get noticed."
Bianculli's five-star recommendations aren't the safe bets voters
usually honor. Instead, he would focus on a group of killers,
rapists and thieves.
"Lee Tergesen and Christopher Meloni ("Oz") are two of the most
watchable, menacing characters on television. 'The Sopranos' is the
cable show for performance nods, but voters should really consider
'Oz.' It's completely driven by powerful people every episode, and
the cast is extremely deep. J.K. Simmons is always terrific, and
Rita Moreno was great."
Bianculli is also on Emmy's case about never having recognized Sarah
Michelle Gellar ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer"). "A show that
consistently takes risks is made even better by Gellar's flawless
execution," he says. "She's the biggest reason why it has become so
popular."
Bianculli's other selections include James Marsters ("Buffy"),
Annabella Sciorra (guest star on "The Sopranos") and George Segal
("Just Shoot Me").
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