Due to the writers' strike, which began last November, certain changes happened to entertainment. Part of the problem, I believe, comes from not understanding compromise. Writers want compensation for contributions. Fair enough. After all, actors onscreen rely on a script. Otherwise, how would they know what to say?
I can hear readers already. What about theater training? Improvisation uses games with rules. "Props", for example, has actors form teams and make as many uses out of a piece of equipment as possible. "Questions Only" is exactly what it says. The actors converse without using declarative sentences (harder than it sounds).
Television and movies are another ball game. The script is very specific, especially on those episodes where current events or themes play a role. Think about cop shows. Fiction? Of course. However, real life pokes its head in occasionally. Law and Order (Sam Waterson and company) is perhaps best known.
Production companies look out for the bottom line. Personally, I don't have a problem with actors making huge salaries. A popular character means someone watches next week.
Double the writers' paycheck? Definitely not. This would be an unreasonable request, which everyone knows. More people require payment than a handful of unhappies. So what they are asking is salaries which reflect changing technology. People purchase DVDs of favorite programs. Full episodes aired online still use a script.
Now, when award shows are canceled because writers are complaining, people pay attention. This is especially true for those first time nominees who have never given acceptance speeches.
NBC had Billy Bush and Nancy O'Dell announce winners live.
Best Picture Drama went to Atonement. This was its sole award. Best Actor Drama went to Daniel Day-Lewis for There Will Be Blood, followed by Julie Christie in Away From Her.
Best Picture Musical or Comedy went to Sweeney Todd. On the subject, could someone explain why Across the Universe and Charlie Wilson's War were in this category? Comedy is an odd fit.
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Article comments
1 - Luke
What's the big fuss about Mad Men and John Hamm? I just couldn't see it after forcing myself watching 5 episodes. Michael C. Hall and Dexter are definitly robbed. What a shame.
2 - Cass
Hugh Laurie has won the GG twice. Neither he nor Michael C. Hall have won the Emmy. After 5 excellent seasons of Six Feet Under and 2 knocking it out of the park as Dexter, Michael C. Hall doesn't have ONE single individual win, and a nomination isn't enough for those of us who have seen his work.
3 - Nancy
The poster is correct. Hugh Laurie has not won an Emmy YET!
I wanted Hugh to win because I ADORE him and LOVE him in HOUSE. I think he is an AMAZING actor and the best on TV right now.
If he gets an Emmy, I will be happy.
WE LOVE YOU, HUGH!!
4 - Chris Beaumont
"Best Picture Musical or Comedy went to Sweeney Todd. On the subject, could someone explain why Across the Universe and Charlie Wilson's War were in this category? Comedy is an odd fit."
Well, the category covers musicals and comedies and Across the Universe is easily a musical.As for Charlie, while there are strong dramatic elements it definitely can be categorized as a comedy.
5 - NancyGail
Hall is up for the SAG award, as in Laurie. So is James Spader, btw. For a character only around for two seasons, Dexter and award nods are impressive. Sometimes it takes a while for statuettes to come. (say sophmore year).
I'm just glad CBS decided to air episodes of Dexter! (finally get to see one)