[neverending]

I find it somewhat ironic Urge that you watch so many crappy movies and claim to like them, but you'll give short shrift to good TV. It took me a while to break down and watch Seinfeld, but I loved it once I did. There's a lot of satire there- especially the whole arc they did about Jerry & George creating a sitcom "about nothing" - affording them the opportunity to parody themselves.

Most sitcoms ARE garbage- clones of clones of clones. Mad About You was an exception, IMO. Every episode was a tiny jewel that ran like a one act play. Paul Reiser and Helen Hunt were the perfect New York couple and the supporting cast had some amazing suprises- Hank Azaria, Mel Brooks, Sid Caeser, Steven Wright, Carol Burnett... on and on.

I'm a fan of the Nighttime Drama as well- the extended run really affords actors an opportunity to delve into a character and create subtlety and depth the way a movie can't. It also affords writers a chance to delve into issues and take on topical subjects in a way that movies can't. I like Boston Legal for the same reasons you mention, though I'll admit I haven't watched since Rene Aberjonuos left.

NYPD Blue I loved for the same reason- Denis Franz created a singular character that was brilliant- a flawed, tragic hero. Another brillianr supporting cast.

ER did the same for me. Also tackled many important subjects. Same for St. Elsewhere and LA Law. Currently CSI (only the original, not the spinoffs) has a unique approach- combining a unique visual style with compelling characters and an emphasis on scientific puzzles. I could go on, but those are highlights for me.

I appreciate where you're coming from because I was a TV snob for years myself. Most TV is indeed crap- but so are most movies. The best TV is a joy and a revelation that can teach, inspire, involve and entertain. I don't hate it or love it any more or less than any other form of media. Every type of media has its strengths and weaknesses. Find the bright spots and ignore the rest.