Previously, On ...

My Top 10 movies list will have to wait until the very last minute, since I haven't seen probable contenders like 'Up in the Air.' So stay tuned on that one. In the meantime, I'll look back at the year in television, starting first with my Top 10 shows:

1. 'Battlestar Galactica'
The finale was flawed, yes, but ambitious and rich and tragic and beautiful at the same time. And it broke my heart. When I go back and watch the whole thing again, I have no doubt it will captivate me as much as the first time around.

2. 'Mad Men'
Third seasons are often where television series falter, when the initial ideas have run out of steam. But Matthew Weiner broke apart his toy and put it back together again to make a different and exciting new puzzle.

3. 'Lost'
At the end of last May's finale, when the screen flashed white and then "LOST Final Season 2010" came up, the rest of 2009 felt pointless. I equally dread and can't wait to see how it all ends.

4. 'Friday Night Lights'
Since I watched season 3 during its first-air run last fall, this is for season 4, which has "rebooted" the series in a graceful, compelling way. But really, I'm just grateful to have Coach and Mrs. Coach around for as long as NBC and/or DirecTV will allow it.

5. 'Skins'
Like 'FNL,' this show about high schoolers rebooted with a new cast of characters. And though it took me a couple of episodes to warm up to them, by the end of the season, I loved them dearly. If you've never heard of this British teen soap -- get thee to Bittorrent!

6. 'Modern Family'
Best new show of the year and genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. Also, produced one of the best lines all year: "WTF - Why the Face?" Just genius.

7. 'True Blood'
Hot Naked Eric. 'Nuff said.

8. 'Top Chef: Las Vegas'
The final four was set in stone from Day 1, and I was still riveted week to week. Hey, reality TV producers -- talent sells.

9. 'Big Love'
Even though this series features some of the best acting and writing on TV, I had to fight to get this on the "Best of the '00s" list at work. I guess, vampires are OK; polygamists not so much.

10. 'The Office'
Last spring's Michael Scott Paper Company arc was inspired; I only wish it had lasted a little longer.