It's an intriguing premise but one that comes off a bit strained in the opening hour and leaves you with the feeling that you have no idea where the show is going.

For at least the first two episodes, "Jericho'' works better than it should, and there are some striking moments and images.

The show doesn't look as if it will get too complex for its own good, the mystery has an internal logic that works and, best of all, there are moments... that suggest the creators are constructing some real flesh-and-blood characters.

The writing has picked up considerably since the pilot. But the real reason to try this show is the cast.

The characters are intelligent, complex people you quickly care about, even if -- this being a show about television -- they can be egotistical and self-centered.

If you stick with it, you will be rewarded with some of the most compelling, provocative drama ever produced for television.

"Justice" is slick, fast-paced and stylish, with enough twists to separate it from the glut of shows in its genre. But it's also one of the most extraordinarily cynical shows to come along in some time.

This is a series trying to be fresh but succeeding only in trading on the predictable cliches.

There's a depth, a richness to the series now that was only suggested [in the first season].

But as good as it is, it doesn't quite have the originality, unique perspective and subversive sense of humor that mark HBO's "The Sopranos'' (clearly something of a model), "Deadwood'' and "The Wire.''

As is the case of "Monk'' at its best, ["Psych"] isn't as much about the crime mysteries as it is a vehicle for lighthearted fun.

[It] comes up more than a bit short.

The finest purely American TV film to come along in some time.

Strangely engrossing.

It tries to be edgy but misses by a mile.

It doesn't work, largely because there's not enough wit from creator and star Louis C.K. to make the vulgarity anything more than an exercise in blue.

The series returns with its creative six-shooters blazing, its florid language and baroque manner of storytelling still gloriously riveting.

[Entourage] has gotten funnier, more human and more insightful with age.

"Ranch House" is the most ambitious of the "House" projects.

It is a great performance [by Mirren], strong enough that it overcomes the flaws of "Elizabeth I."

There's not a lot wrong about "Brian.'' But there's not a lot right about it, either.

The romantic comedy comes off as a rather charming, likable hour, thanks in large measure to a cast that gives it more than a bit of zip.

"Thief" is a worthy addition to [FX's] schedule.

It may be that in the long run, "Heist" proves to be something you can admire simply for its pure entertainment value. But right now, it's a show that looks good on the surface but is empty at the core.

There are some very funny lines and moments... Unfortunately, the good stuff isn't worth slogging through the rest of this sitcom.

Generally funny, sharply observant and smart in its use of the star and a good supporting cast.

Much of its strength comes from a group of actors so skilled that, like the ensemble on "The Sopranos," they draw us into the lives of their characters even if we don't initially want to go there.

The series has a familiar format, but the opening episode suggests it may have some real spark to it.