It's Emmy season. It's time to commemorate the best shows on television and the teams that make them so captivating year in and year out. As television slowly takes over the way we consume motion picture, the Emmy's hold more weight will every passing year. Certain shows generate mass followings that rely on weekly episodes to get them through the week. They spark constant conversation about what's in store for the following week's episode or the pivotal characters. There's an element of suspense and longevity that feature films fail to capture. There's a magic to television and the Primetime Emmy's are the perfect opportunity to celebrate it. So as we gear up for yet another annual ceremony, here are the nominations for Oustanding Drama Series along with our predictions.
"Breaking Bad": The AMC original series has now been on air for five years. By the end of its first season, it had established itself as one of the most gripping and compelling series on television. With it's intricate and unique story of a chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin, it grabbed hold of its fans and never let go. "Breaking Bad" will be coming to a close this fall.
"Downton Abbey": The British period drama has been nominated for 31 Primetime Emmys in its history, taking home seven trophies. Its set in the Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey and depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the post-Edwardian era.
"Game of Thrones": The HBO series based on the book series by George R. R. Martin just wrapped up its third season and is barrelling into the Emmy Awards once again. It's cult-like following has become obsessed with its enthralling characters and fantasy themes. The entire book series has yet to be written, so prepare for another decade of "Game of Thrones" exuberance.
"Homeland": The American television series based on the Israeli series Hatufim stars Claire Danes, who's up for her own Emmy, and Damian Lewis. It's portrayal of the CIA shows the intense inner workings of the US government as it battle terrorism at home and abroad. The established relationships between the characters also contribute to the show's riveting and heart pumping drama.
"House of Cards": "House of Cards" is an American political drama series developed and produced by Beau Willimon. It is an adaptation of a previous BBC miniseries of the same name, which is based on the novel by Michael Dobbs. With an actor like Kevin Spacey at the realm, it's no wonder that the show has received nine Emmy nods.
"Mad Men": "Mad Men" is back at the Emmys. Since its debut, it's been a major contender at every Primetime Emmys ceremony. Rightfully so. The show sheds light on the dark undertones of working in the ad business back in 60s. It uses subtleties and ever evolving characters to capture its audience and keep them reeling for more. This year, the show has received 12 nominations.
Prediction: "Breaking Bad." There's nothing else like it. Its plot is unique and fresh. It's characters are so emotionally packed that you just can't stand to watch them, but you'd never dare look away in fear of missing a single moment of the unrelenting and riveting action. The series is coming to an end this fall and deserves, more than any other show, to go out on a high note.