The LA Times has been leaking the lists of finalists in major Emmy categories, and once again we're reminded that film fans aren't the only ones who get the opportunity to laugh, rant, and stare open-mouthed at award announcements. The worst oversight so far comes in the Supporting Actress in a Drama category,
which is missing Mia Wasikowska of In Treatment (assuming she doesn't show up in the Lead Actress category, which would be ridiculous and where she could never win). Matthew Gilbert of the Boston Globe sputters better than I could:
Almost every person I know who watched HBO's "In Treatment" rushed to single out this young actress for her work. Yes, Dianne Wiest was strong as the show's therapist's therapist, but Wasikowska was a revelation. Over the course of the season, she was shrill, childlike, cranky, broken, brave, wise, and triumphant. It was the most faceted performance I've seen on TV in a long time. Without her name, the category of supporting dramatic actress is a bit of a sham.
I agree, and I'm certain that In Treatment wouldn't be coming back next year for a second season if Wasikowska hadn't provided a template for how a character on this show can change in a lasting way and provide some narrative closure (as opposed to running around in psychoanalytic circles).
Another typical Emmy move comes in the Supporting Actor in a Drama category. It's nice to see Big Love get some recognition, but part-time cast member Bruce Dern is obviously here because he's a film veteran who's deigned to do television. Robert Sean Leonard of House is far more deserving, for holding his own against Hugh Laurie.