When “30 Rock” began its second season in 2007, Tina Fey called guest star Jerry Seinfeld “the J.D. Salinger of television.” He makes this one masterpiece, and then disappears completely from the industry; in this case, retreating to the world of stand-up comedy. So, when Seinfeld announces a new project, it’s bound to attract much attention. DreamWorks’s “Bee Movie” (2007), which Jerry Seinfeld co-wrote, produced and provided voice work, was a delight; a clever, strange, challenging film that ranks among DreamWorks best.
With the Vancouver 2010 Olympics now history, NBC is now back on its own for primetime programming. Of course, this week is a big step, since the network is retreating from failure, and returning to scripted shows in the 10PM time slot. However, NBC’s most critical mission will be to bring “The Tonight Show” back to #1 in late night. But, is that goal possible?
When NBC revived "Chuck" for a third season, I thought "Here's a broadcast network that actually knows what they're doing." Then the network announced that Jay Leno would be returning back to his 11:35 PM slot this coming spring. Forget the Winter Olympics. NBC's late night games are the most entertaining ones out there, if only to watch for their complete and utter stupidity. It's like watching network executives torch money with a flamethrower.
On Sunday night (1/10), NBC is giving viewers a late Christmas present, by bringing the spy-satire "Chuck" back for a third season. The most miraculous thing about this upcoming season is that it has been made at all. Back in May 2009, the 4th place NBC network was prepared to cancel the program along with a host of others, including "Kath & Kim," "Knight Rider," "My Own Worst Enemy" and the hideous "Lipstick Jungle." However, fans and critics voiced their complaints and the network listened by renewing the series.