TVB 44th Anniversary Awards: My Voting Ballot

Although the nominations list was quite surprising, disappointing, and odd, I can't change anything about it.  That is why I've made my decision on who to support this year and have cast my votes on tvb.com!

Best Actor: Ruco Chan

After lots of discussion, debate, and "TVB politics", an obvious winner is yet to emerge.  Will it be Ruco, Kevin, Michael Tse, Steven, or Chilam?  Either way, I will always support Ruco.  He was not nominated for Most Improved Actor, so at least TVB also acknowledges he's extremely overqualified for the award.  I keep hope that he still does have a chance of winning Best Actor as he truly deserves it.  

Best Actress: Maggie Cheung

Although this role isn't too much of new territory for the incredibly versatile Maggie, it is the first role I've genuinely enjoyed her in since her comeback to TVB.  I can finally say welcome back, Maggie!

 Best Supporting Actor: Patrick Tang

Black horse candidates rule!  And even though Patrick has no chance of winning, I can still say I supported this surprisingly hilarious and adorable underrated actor.

 Best Supporting Actress: Sharon Chan

It was a tough choice between Sharon and Nancy.  I chose Sharon because after all her hard work these years without recognition, I think the time has finally come for her to shine!  

 My Favorite Male Actor: Ruco Chan/"Lau Sze Kit/Keith"

Need I once again state why I love this character (and Ruco) so much?

 My Favorite Female Character: "Wong Sze Fu/Kris"

Witty, intelligent, professional, and adorable.  My favorite character of Myolie's...her whole career!

 Most Improved Actor: Jazz Lam

Jazz used to be an over the top actor, and while he still exaggerates at times, he has toned it down and improved.  His role in "Ghetto Justice" could've been a huge miscast, yet he pulled off the role well.

 Most Improved Actress: Mandy Wong

With so much potential and true talent, nobody deserves to win more than Mandy.  She has proved her ability in both comedy and drama, while Sire Ma still struggles in emotional scenes.

 Best Drama: Ghetto Justice

Hands down the drama with the best and most refreshing script, characters, and acting all year.

TVB Weibo Popularity Award: Ruco Chan

Who did you think I was going to vote for?  After experiencing a huge increase in followers on Weibo and skyrocketing to the #1 position on tvb.com during the airing of "The Other Truth", Ruco will most likely take home this award.

Who's on your voting ballot?  Who do you support, and who do you think will win?  Share your opinion with me! :)

TVB 44th Anniversary Awards Nominations (TVB Interaction Picks)

I know I haven't updated in forever, but since Anniversary Awards are still my favorite time of year for TVB, I am coming out of hibernation!  Instead of making predictions this year, I will be making my own list of nominations.  These are my personal picks with minimal influence from predictions and gossip.  Most of these people will most likely not be nominated or have no chances of winning.  There is no set number of nominations, I nominated as many (or as little) as I thought deserved a nomination.   Note that there is some bias since these are my personal choices and I skipped many series this year.

Best Actor
Ruco Chan - The Other Truth
Joe Ma - Relic of an Emissary
Chilam Cheung - The Rippling Blossom
Roger Kwok - Wax and Wane

Ruco portrayed Keith with so much charisma and genuine emotion he should at lest be nominated and get into the top 5!  I'm not a fan of Laughing Gor and only watched 7 episodes of "Lives of Omission", so Michael Tse is not included.  Wayne gives a solid performance in "Forensic Heroes III", but it's not new territory for the versatile veteran actor who has already won this award twice.  My close friend noted that Joe's performance in "Relic" was superb yet underrated.  Although I did not watch the series, I don't want the underdog to go unnoticed!  While Chilam's performance and character was nothing extraordinary, he was cute and likable.  He is rumored to take home this award as an incentive/"bribe" from TVB so that he will agree to film "Triumph in the Skies II".  Roger's performance in "Wax and Wane" may not be anything new, but he portrays "Yee Chun" with so much charm and sincerity.  After seeing him in many lackluster comedic roles recently, it was refreshing to see him in a dramatic role that showed his emotional range and soft side.

Best Actress
Myolie Wu - Ghetto Justice
Maggie Cheung - Forensic Heroes III

If the male performances for this year weren't award worthy, the females were even less so.  My only choices are Myolie and Maggie.  Myolie was great as a witty and intelligent lawyer.  Maggie is very professional as "Dr. Chung" and pulls off the role of a pathologist very well.

Best Supporting Actor
Damien Lau - The Rippling Blossom
Derek Kwok - Wax and Wane
Patrick Tang - 7 Days in Life
Raymond Wong - The Other Truth

In a smaller role than he usually plays, Damien is surprisingly hilarious in the first comedic role I've ever seen of his!  He portrays the grumpiness and roughness of his character so well and had so much chemistry with Myolie and Chilam.  Derek Kwok consistently delivers as a solid supporting actor, and "Wax and Wane" is no exception.  Patrick isn't the best actor and "7 Days in Life" has sadly been long forgotten, but is my honorable mention.  He proved that he has great comedic timing.  I never expected him to be so genuinely cute and funny or have so much chemistry with Mimi Lo.  Raymond Wong did well in "The Other Truth" has the cool, rich boy and shared many cute scenes with Tavia (and this is a Ruco-Tavia fan speaking).

Best Supporting Actress
Kate Tsui - Lives of Omission
Mimi Lo - 7 Days in Love
Nancy Wu - Forensic Heroes III
Sharon Chan - Ghetto Justice

Despite not watching "Lives of Omission", I think Kate has improved so much as an actress.  Mimi Lo is hilarious and adorable in "7 Days" with Patrick!  They had so much chemistry and were very underrated.  "Eva" is unlike any other character Nancy has played and quite intriguing.  Sharon is the hot choice to win this year, and I support her.  Her performance may not have been spectacular, but she was likable and has been so hardworking in her career I'm willing to turn a blind eye to that.  Perhaps it's time for Sharon to finally shine!

My Favorite Male Character
Ruco Chan - The Other Truth, "Keith"
Roger Kwok - Wax and Wane, "Yee Chun"
Kevin Cheng - Ghetto Justice, "Law Ba"

Keith is righteous and professional, yet tries to push his limits and do whatever he can to establish justice.  Charming and sweet, yet rebellious.  A great example of a grey character!  Yee Chun was the classic tough-exterior, soft-exterior character, an archetype I never seem to get tired of.  He came off as serious and slightly cold but inside, had the deepest care and love for his family.  Law Ba is the hot favorite, and was indeed an entertaining and unique character.  However, Keith is still my favorite character of the year, with Yee Chun as a close second.

My Favorite Female Character
Myolie Wu - Ghetto Justice, "Kris"
Kate Tsui - Wax and Wane, "Peace"

I usually have countless female characters that I love, so the number this year is disappointing.  Kris is so professional and witty it's endearing.  Although Kate could've done a better job at her portrayal of Peace, the character was incredibly sweet and cute.  I loved how she was the only one that could get Yee Chun to open up!  The little notes she wrote for him were adorable.  With every note she wrote for him, he came closer to falling in love with her. :)

Most Improved Actor
Ruco Chan
Edwin Siu

I really don't think I need to keep restating my love, admiration, and respect for Ruco.  This award has his name written on it even though he's overqualified for the award considering how much experience he has.  When asked about winning any awards, he replied “Many people feel that I have a good chance in winning the Most Improved Actor Award. However, if the award title were changed to ‘Oldest Qualified Newcomer Award,’ then I have confidence to win!”  So cute, yet so true.  Edwin Siu seems to be getting promoting more lately, which he deserves.  He is cute and has a lively acting style different from other young actors, and I think he can groomed to become a leading actor over time.

Most Improved Actress
Mandy Wong

My one and only choice.  Mandy is rather plain looking, but puts so much effort into her performances, making her extremely likable.  Out of the new young actresses, I strongly believe she has the most potential.  TVB, give her bigger roles!

TVB Weibo Popularity 
Ruco Chan

Following his breakthrough and success from "The Other Truth", Ruco has finally received the recognition and fans he deserves.  He has been the #1 artiste on tvb.com for a while and has gained many more followers on Weibo since portraying Keith.

Lifetime Achievement
Liza Wang

At 64 years old, Liza still possesses the youthfulness and spirit of someone much younger.  She exceeds at everything she does and has been loyal to TVB for countless years.

Best Drama
Ghetto Justice

With the most original, creative, and solidly written script and characters for a TVB series in years, "Ghetto Justice" deserves to win hands down.  "7 Days in Life" is a honorable mention for its original and comedic storyline, but its lead characters were not executed well.  "The Other Truth" was a highlight only for Ruco/Keith, while the series itself was mediocre.  "Forensic Heroes III" is addictive and entertaining, but not outstanding.

"Gun Metal Grey" Review

Many people (including me) were fooled into believing TVB was waiting until the second half of 2010 to air the series actually worth watching.  We were proved wrong, as every appealing series either disappointed or was pushed back and thus ended up not airing in 2010 at all like "When Heaven Burns".  "Gun Metal Grey" on the other hand, shines like a diamond instead of rusty metal like the title suggests against the rest of the flops this year.

Cast and Characters

Nowadays, I'm not only looking out for individual cast performances, but outstanding performances as an ensemble as well.  A factor of the series is ruined for me if the cast does not work together as a whole.  Chemistry is a must, and amongst everyone, not just on-screen pairings.  If it's forced, it doesn't work.  Fortunately, the cast of "Gun Metal Grey" has no problem creating chemistry and a comfortable and fun atmosphere.  Everyone just clicked.

Although the drama's goal was to illustrate the shades of grey of humanity by showing a police officer who was neither good or bad, the result was another portrayal of a good but misunderstood person being provoked into turning evil.  Nevertheless, it was another interesting take on the familiar TVB concept and Felix Wong gave a fantastic performance as "Stone Sir".  He was kind and warm in the beginning, yet chilling and haunting when the bad in Stone emerged.  The character "Stone Sir" was an intriguing take on a cop loosing faith in the law and taking justice into their own hands using extreme means.  Felix made the transformation seem realistic and not at all forced.  When it comes to picking a comeback series/role, Felix managed to do a much better job than other veteran actors like Gallen Lo, Flora Chan, and Kenix Kwok. 

It's been so long since I've seen Michael Miu portray a role with so much charisma!  Although Michael is one of my favorite veteran actors, I haven't thoroughly enjoyed watching him in a drama since he played "Li Sir" in "The Academy".  "Mad Sir" is funny, clever, and Miu's best character in years.  He has not seemed this fitting or comfortable in a drama for a long time.  I loved watching Mad's sweet, cute, and unconventional ways of courting Kim (Jessica Hsuan).  

While I don't find Jessica Hsuan an exceptional actress, I like how her acting is so natural.  "Kim Hui" was a very likable and endearing character as the reporter who initially had a crush on Stone but eventually fell for Mad.  I have trouble thinking of another couple with such effortless and natural chemistry like Jessica and Michael.  They are a joy to watch together.  Their scenes are not only sweet, but hilariously adorable as well.  Besides for Michael, she also worked very well with her on-screen mother, played by Mimi Chu.

Vincent Wong has shown that he is a decent actor with a good amount of potential, but has received several bad and simply unlikable characters to play.  For the first time since his acting career has started, he gets to shine as "Carson Ko".  Carson is sweet, caring, loyal, and the perfect boyfriend.  I loved watching how persistent and sincere he was in courting "Ah Sze" (played by Nancy Wu). This was Vincent's long awaited breakthrough, and it is clear he put a lot of effort and heart into his performance.  His acting has also seemed to visibly improved since his first role, the annoying "Mark" in "War of In-Laws II".  Had TVB not completely neglected this series, I believe Vincent would've been promoted more and groomed into becoming a first supporting actor or second male lead.

"Ah Sze" was slightly irritating initially, but matured and became much more likable as the series went on.  Ah Sze was tough, clever, and known for going to the gym to punch her punching bags whenever she felt stressed, sad, or mad.  Her admiration for Mad was cute and different (since it was never actually a crush).  It was sweet watching the hard headed Ah Sze initially push Carson away, yet gradually becoming touched at his care for her and slowly returning his feelings.  Nancy Wu seemed very fitting for the role, and her top 5 nomination for "Best Supporting Actress" was deserved.

Grace Wong and Oscar Leung were both great additions to Mad's "A Team".  Grace was adorable with all her different hats and her crush on Carson.  Oscar was also funny, especially with how he was constantly sleepy and yawning all the time.  Mimi Chu was hilarious as Jessica's mother.  Patrick Tang wins my "Most Surprising Performance" with his creepy and haunting portrayal of the doctor suffering from dissociative identity disorder.  He has shown lots of improvement as an actor, but unfortunately continues to be disliked for simply not being handsome.

Thoughts on the Ending *SPOILERS*

Sometimes, killing off a character is necessary for the development of the other characters and the outcome of the plot resolution itself.  Although it makes us even more sad, the script writers usually choose the most beloved character for this purpose.  It results in a heavier and more heartfelt impact on the viewers.  In this case, the beloved character was Carson.  While I understood how Carson's death was necessary for Stone to reach the apex of what he had become (a murderer), I was annoyed that the audience was never able to see him properly buried and mourned by Mad, Ah Sze, and the rest of the A Team.  Given how important he was to them, it's not possible that he was never given a proper funeral.

Stone cuffing himself to Mad to symbolize that he realized all his wrongdoings and admitting defeat was very meaningful and creative.  Him realizing who had become felt too sudden.  It had become too late for his character to just "surrender".  Nevertheless, I applaud the script writers for the symbolism.  The scene felt powerful and successfully brought the series an end to its gripping climax.

Conclusion

TVB greatly neglected this anniversary series and opted to mass promote "No Regrets" and "Can't Buy Me Love" instead.  The biased company never gave it the recognition it deserved.  Thankfully, the fans discovered this gem themselves, making "Gun Metal Grey" one of the most talked about series online.  This is another thing that makes "Grey" exceptional.  Despite the major lack of promotion, it managed to become a success on its on.

"Gun Metal Grey" doesn't have an amazing script or incredibly original storyline.  The cases were watchable and interesting enough, but it is the cast that makes it the most memorable series of the year.  I enjoyed watching each cast member alone and even more so together.  They were what turned this average series into one of the best of 2010.  "Mad and Kim" and "Carson and Ah Sze" were also my favorite on-screen couples of the year while Mad and Carson were my favorite characters of the year.  I hope this talented and bright bunch get to collaborate again someday.  Overall, the cast, characters, chemistry, humor, sweet relationships, and action make it my favorite drama of 2010.

Rating: 4 stars

"7 Days in Life" Review

The end and beginning of the year is always the worst time for TVB because it is during this time that all the mediocre series are aired.  After months of being suffocated with bad series, TVB exhales its first breath of fresh air with "7 Days", a series about many different people getting quarantined into Wonderful Hotel for seven days after an outbreak of H1N1 (aka "Swine Flu") is reported there.

"7 Days" showed promise and potential since the series was first unveiled at the sales presentation last year.  Despite major cast and script changes, its potential did not go to waste.  Its storyline was new, different, and taken from a true event.  The humor is completely unlike TVB.  When you laugh, you laugh out loud.  If you're looking for a comedy, "7 Days" is right for you, although there are dramatic twists.

Perhaps one of the most anticipated things about the originally proposed series was its star-studded cast, which would've consisted of Bobby Au-Yeung, Yoyo Mung, Bowie Lam, Krystal Tin, Sammul Chan, Myolie Wu, and others.  Unfortunately, it was later announced there would be a new cast.  Fortunately, the new cast did a superb job although they did not boost the biggest names.  The supporting characters shined in their fun and lovable roles characters, eventually proving to be more entertaining than our two leads.

Patrick Tang and Mimi Lo, whose roles originally belonged to Sammul and Myolie, delivered the biggest surprise of all.  Appearance wise, the two initially seemed incompatible.  Patrick is older than Mimi, but still has a kid-like look while Mimi looks more mature.  From Mimi constantly referring to Patrick as "Fei Chai" to the two of them looking after the kidnapped kid (played by Coleman Tam), their interactions were hilarious and adorable.  I would've loved to see Sammul and Myolie pair up again (and still do), but Patrick and Mimi brought something fresh to the screen.  They are unexpectedly my first favorite couple of the year.

Lately, Bosco Wong seems to have been demoted to second lead roles.  This is best for him, because he is still not able to carry a series by himself.  While I doubt Bosco's versatility in portraying something besides a cop, he looks the part.  Other than that, Bosco needs to work on getting into his characters.

Joyce Cheng may not have been blessed with beauty or exceptional talent, but she works hard.  Her hard work pays off because she has improved since her "Off Pedder" days.  Joyce gave a decent performance and actually became quite endearing and fun to watch.  I hope she gets more diverse roles in the future (this is her second time playing a blundering reporter, and she's only been in two series!).  She and Bosco were cute as brother and sister like friends, so I'm glad it never developed into anything more than that.

Yuen Wah was comedic when it was called for.  Other than that, his character added an extra layer of mystery that kept things interesting.

Many of the minor characters contributed to the fun atmosphere of "7 Days".  Oceanne Zhu was cute and shows potential.  It was nice to see Koni Lui in a different role, although "Karen" was quite silly and naive.  Eric Li was hilarious as the mean manager who yelled at all his employees but constantly kissed up to his rich guests.

Unfortunately, the biggest drag of "7 Days" were the relationship between our two leads, played by Steven Ma and Sonija Kwok.  The premise of a couple who are both thiefs sounded fun, but TVB decided to go in a different direction and make their relationship as rocky as possible.  Mistake?  Yes.  "Calvin" and "Christy" were attempts to create complex characters that ended up backfiring.  In the end, they were a chore to watch.  It was an even bigger chore because they were our main characters.  I don't necessarily dislike Calvin and Christy, complicated love stories are not TVB's thing.

Steven Ma gives his all in portraying his first semi-villain/villain role.  He brought the coolness needed for the character and even brought out Calvin's arrogance.  While some scenes seem forced, I think it had more to do with my positive impression of Steven's real life character and his countless righteous roles from the past than his unconvincing performance.  An even bigger factor was Calvin's complex characterization, which ended up turning into inconsistent characterization.  The transition from an arrogant thief to a man dying from illness who just wanted to be with the one he loved was sudden and abrupt.

Christy was betrayed in love and decided to become a thief with Calvin to toughen up herself.  Unfortunately, she ends up falling in love with him resulting in some unfortunate events, misunderstandings, and more heartbreak.  Sonija is likable to watch, but I fail to see her as a good actress.  The way she speaks her lines still feels unnatural.  While she wore too much make up here, Sonija Kwok looked beautiful with her long curls and feminine wardrobe.

Like all TVB series these days, "7 Days" quality was not always consistent.  It hit a snag around the middle (focus on Steven and Sonija's drama), it quickly overcame it and became more addictive than ever.  Comedy, drama, romance, and even some mystery, "7 Days" has something to offer for everyone.  It is a joy to watch and by the end, you'll feel like the series flew by.

"7 Days in Life" is the best TVB series that's released since TVB's anniversary.  While it has some cliches we've come to expect from TVB, it is refreshing and the most original thing they've come up with since "You're Hired".  I definitely recommend it!

Rating: 4 stars

Back at Blogger :)

If you've stumbled on this page once again (How long has it been?  Half a year?) then I'm thrilled and relieved.  That means you've heard the announcement that TVB Interaction is returning to its roots and using the url tvbinteraction.blogspot.com again!  Phew, I'm so glad I never deleted this blog off Blogger or else I wouldn't be able to use this URL and have to import everything again!

Now I realize the layout I have up is still the same one from last year (Him & Mandy).  I will try to have a new one up soon.  In the meantime, please keep checking back and follow me on Twitter if you haven't already for updates. :)

TVB 43rd Anniversary Results + Comments

I know this post is almost a month late, sorry for the delay...



Best ActorFelix Wong, Gun Metal Grey
Moses Chan, Can't Buy Me Love
Raymond Lam, Mysteries of Love
Steven Ma, Ghost WriterWayne Lai, No Regrets
Yay for Wayne!  I was starting to expect that Steven would win, but Wayne winning again was a pleasant surprise.  It was hilarious when Sandra Ng presented this award.  Throwing the results aside, she went on to say it was a no brainer and that Lau Sing was of course the winner.  As everyone started cheering and hugging Wayne, Sandra screams "Wah, everyone believes me?"  TVB is so predictable I predicted every top 5 nominee correctly.

Best ActressCharmaine Sheh, Can't Buy Me Love
Linda Chung, Ghost Writer
Maggie Cheung, Beauty Knows No Pain

Sheren Tang, No RegretsTavia Yeung, Mysteries of Love

What a relief that TVB decides to be fair and give Sheren this award!  Very deserving.  Charmaine is a wonderful actress, but the role of Chiu Yeung did not do anything to showcase her acting any further.  It was extremely cute when Sheren told the presenter Dik Leung did not hand her the award yet.  What is up with Linda getting into the top 5 of every award she is nominated in?

Best Supporting ActorDominic Lam, A Fistful of Stances

Evergreen Mak, No RegretsPierre Ngo, No Regrets
Raymond Wong, No Regrets
Ron Ng, OL Supreme

After years of being a loyal supporting actor to TVB, Evergreen finally gets recognition.  Although I find "Fei Fan Gor" annoying, Evergreen never fails to deliver a solid performance.  I'm surprised Ron got into the top 5, but thrilled OL Supreme managed to achieve something at the awards. 

 

Best Supporting Actress

Elena Kong, Beauty Knows No Pain
Fala Chen, No RegretsKara Hui, A Fistful of Stances
Nancy Wu, Gun Metal Grey
Susanna Kwan, Can't Buy Me Love

While I still believe Fala was nominated (and won) for the wrong role, she is definitely deserving.  She's proved this year she can be versatile.  Her roles this year don't rely on her sexiness.  She's portrayed innocent, adorable, weak, and tough characters.  Without a doubt, Fala is the young TVB actress with the most potential. 

 

My Favorite Male CharacterKenneth Ma, Koo Yu Tong, A Fistful of Stances
Moses Chan, Kam Dor Luk, Can't Buy Me Love
Raymond Lam, Kingsley King, Mysteries of Love
Steven Ma, Chow Yung Kung, A Watchdog's Tale
Wayne Lai, Lau Sing, No Regrets

TVB might as well rename this the "Raymond Lam Award For Every Year He's Nominated For Best Actor But Doesn't Win".  Phew, what a mouthful.  However, it's true.  With the roles he's been getting lately, Raymond (Lam anyway) won't be winning Best Actor anytime soon.  What I hate about TVB is they feel the need to compensate artistes with an additional, more minor award when they are unable to give them the award they want.  This year, they do it again.  Kingsley King was a bore, and I had really been crossing my fingers that Kenneth would win.

My Favorite Female Character

Charmaine Sheh, Chiu Yeung, Can't Buy Me LoveLinda Chung, Ng Sei Tak, Can't Buy Me Love
Sheren Tang, Cheng Kau Miu, No Regrets
Tavia Yeung, Tsui Siu Lai, Mysteries of Love
Teresa Mo, Tsang Kiu, Someday

No surprise here once again.  The favorite character awards are quickly becoming the compensation awards.  I'm turning a blind eye to TVB on this one though, because I actually quite liked Chiu Yeung.  Charmaine really knows how to be adorable. :)

 

Most Improved ActorHim Law
Jazz Lam
Joel Chan
King Kong

Raymond Wong

Of course. :D

Most Improved ActressElaine Yiu
Mimi Lo
Natalie Tong
Selena Li
Skye Chan

Selena has once again lost out, but Natalie deserved it.  Her speech was touching, especially with how she started crying and dedicating her speech to her mother.

Best Professional Performance AwardMoses Chan
Technically, this is compensation.  However, I agree that Moses is very professional.



tvb.com's Popularity Award

Raymond Lam

No surprise here.

Best Drama

A Chip Off the Old Block
Can't Buy Me Love
Every Move You Make
No Regrets
The Mysteries of Love

I smell compensation.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Louise Lee

I guess we expected Lee Heung Kam to win?  Louise Lee is definitely younger than past winners.  Congrats to her though!

Congratulations to this year's winners!  Although they were rather predictable, (most) of the winners were deserving.  This is just a short post to share my brief thoughts so sorry for disappointing some of you guys.  I plan on writing a post on the fashions at awards show and some other posts soon.

TVB 43rd Anniversary Awards: My Predictions & Personal Picks

Best Actor in a Leading Role
Ron Ng - A Chip Off the Old Block
Roger Kwok -The Season of Fate
Kevin Cheng - A Fistful of Stances
Joe Ma - Suspects in Love
Raymond Lam - Mysteries of Love
Steven Ma - Ghost Writer
Kent Cheng - When Lanes Merge
Bobby Au-Yeung - A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Damian Lau - Growing Through Life
Bosco Wong - Growing Through Life
Moses Chan - Can't Buy Me Love
Bowie Lam - Every Move You Make
Wayne Lai - No Regrets
Felix Wong - Gun Metal Grey
Michael Miu - Gun Metal Grey

My Predicted Winner: Steven Ma
Although Steven's performance as Po Chung Ling in "Ghost Writer" was not a breakthrough, I think he deserves it the most.  He's a hardworking actor with a great personality that has been loyal to TVB for so long.  It's about time he's rewarded for that. 
My Predicted Top 5: Steven Ma, Wayne Lai, Felix Wong, Raymond Lam, and Moses Chan
While "Lau Sing" did not shine in "No Regrets", Wayne is of course strong competition.  With Felix's comeback to TVB and the whole controversy where TVB failed to promote "Gun Metal Grey" at the gala, the least TVB can do is give him his deserved top 5 nomination.  Raymond Lam and Moses Chan are givens.
My Pick: Steven Ma
See "My Prediction" above.
My Top 5 Picks: Steven Ma, Wayne Lai, Felix Wong, Michael Miu, and Moses Chan
Michael Miu finally gets a character that shows off the charming and humorous side of him!
Who was snubbed? Michael Tao for "Sister of Pearl", Kenneth Ma for "A Fistful of Stances", and Raymond Wong for "When Lanes Merge"
I can't believe Michael Tao wasn't nominated for his superb performance in "Sister of Pearl"!  I also can't believe that after all the praise Kenneth got for "A Fistful of Stances", the mediocre Kevin is the one nominated instead.  Poor Raymond Wong isn't recognized by TVB for his best performance of the year (and arguably of his whole career so far). 
Wrong Nom? Bowie Lam.
Should've nominated for his fantastic villain performance in "Sister of Pearl."  Then again, he was the overall lead in "Every Move You Make".

Best Actress in a Leading Role
Myolie Wu - A Chip Off the Old Block
Kate Tsui - The Beauty of the Game
Maggie Siu - A Watchdog's Tale
Michelle Yim - The Season of Fate
Liza Wang - OL Supreme
Ada Choi - Fly With Me
Tavia Yeung - Mysteries of Love
Linda Chung - Ghost Writer
Fala Chen - Ghost Writer
Louise Lee - Some Day
Teresa Mo - Some Day
Jessica Hsuan - A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Maggie Cheung - Beauty Knows No Pain
Charmaine Sheh - Can't Buy Me Love
Sheren Tang - No Regrets

My Prediction: Charmaine Sheh
It's unlikely (although there is still a chance) that Sheren will win Best Actress for the second year in a row. 
My Predicted Top 5: Charmaine Sheh, Sheren Tang, Tavia Yeung, Myolie Wu, and Michelle Yim
Regardless of how overrated I think "The Mysteries of Love" is, Tavia is almost sure to get into the top 5 due to TVB's excessive promotion for it.  (Their campaign was: "Look!  An all star cast with crappy writing! :P)  Myolie definitely deserves a top 5 nomination for portrayig "So Fung Nei" in "A Chip Off the Old Block".  Critically praised, it's the role that saved her TVB career.  I'm a bit nervous as the series aired so long ago and may be neglected and forgotten.  Being a veteran and contracted, Michelle may be the last nomination, but this could be anyone.
My Pick: Sheren Tang
Sheren's character in "No Regrets" is the complete opposite of hers in "Rosy Business", allowing her to once again showcase her versatility.  I don't think anyone else could make those vicious glares as convincing as Sheren!
My Top 5 Picks: Sheren Tang, Charmaine Sheh, Myolie Wu, Liza Wang, and Fala Chen
Liza's performance in "OL Supreme" may have not been absolutely fantastic, but I'm biased.  As the number one sister of TVB though, she may just get into the top 5.  Fala clearly out shined Linda in "Ghost Writer".  While it's too early for her to win, I wouldn't mind her getting some recognition.  Perhaps that's why TVB put her in this category when she should be put in supporting.
Who was snubbed? Christine Ng for "The Beauty of the Game"
Christine delivered a superb performance as the villain of "The Beauty of the Game".  It would've made more sense for her to have been nominated for Best Actress instead of Favorite Character.

Best Actor in a Supporting Role
John Chiang - A Chip Off the Old Block
Derek Kwok - The Season of Fate
Michael Tse - My Better Half
Ron Ng - OL Supreme
Dominic Lam - A Fistful of Stances
Kenny Wong - Fly With Me
Raymond Cho - Fly With Me
Joel Chan - Sister of Pearl
Kenneth Ma - Mysteries of Love
Johnson Lee - A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Louis Yuen - Can't Buy Me Love
Raymond Wong - No Regrets
Pierre Ngo - No Regrets
Evergreen Mak - No Regrets
Vincent Wong - Gun Metal Grey

My Prediction: Evergreen Mak
"Fei Fan Gor" has spiked Evergreen's popularity.  After years of being a solid supporting actor, he's finally getting some recognition.  This year, he's a hot favorite.  While I think Evergreen's a great actor, I just find "Fei Fan Gor" annoying.
My Predicted Top 5: Evergreen Mak, Raymond Wong, Pierre Ngo, Ron Ng, Dominic Lam
Raymond Wong has went from a prized supporting actor to one of TVB's newest leading young men, so TVB probably won't let him walk away without an award.  What a shame that he's nominated for his minor role in "No Regrets" yet he's getting no recognition for "When Lanes Merge".  Pierre's another strong contestant.  Although I generally don't like him, Dominic did a fantastic job of portraying the villain in "A Fistful of Stances".
My Pick: N/A
Honestly, I'm stuck.  As long as the winner is deserving, I won't mind too much.
My Top 5 Picks: Same as my predicted top 5.
Vincent should have been nominated for "Most Improved Actor" instead.  It's too early for him to be in this category, but he has improved.  I'm impressed how he has been able to hold his own position in "Gun Metal Grey" and not get out shined by Felix and Michael despite his lack of experience.
Who was snubbed? Chapman To for " OL Supreme"
Although his comedic acting style was exaggerated, something about Chapman's portrayl of the silly "Leven" was so fun and lovable.  How disappointing to see he was overlooked in this category.

Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Sharon Chan - The Beauty of the Game
Denise Ho - OL Supreme
Selena Li - A Fistful of Stances
Natalie Tong - A Fistful of Stances
Kara Hui - A Fistful of Stances
Queenie Chu - Fly With Me
Kiki Sheung - Sister of Pearl
Aimee Chan - Some Day
Kingdom Yuen - When Lanes Merge
Elaine Yiu - When Lanes Merge
Elena Kong - Beauty Knows No Pain
Toby Leung - Growing Through Life
Susanna Kwan - Can't Buy Me Love
Fala Chen - No Regrets
Nancy Wu - Gun Metal Grey

My Prediction: Fala Chen
Fala has delivered four great performances this year: "In the Eye of the Beholder", "Ghost Writer", "Can't Buy Me Love", and "No Regrets".  Her acting has improved so much and we've learned how naturally adorable she can be.  Out of all these performances though, "No Regrets" is probably her weakest one (and the most minor).
My Predicted Top 5: Fala Chen, Nancy Wu, Elena Kong, Selena Li, and Natalie Tong
Nancy's always a strong contestant!  Elena gained praise from netizens for her fabulous portrayal of "Angela Auntie" so I hope she makes it in.  She could be considered the "black horse".  Selena was so lovable in "A Fistful of Stances".  Natalie unexpectantly gained popularity with her portrayal of "Ah Ngan".
My Pick: Denise Ho
Denise Ho delivered the most refreshing and unique performance in a TVB series by a young actress in years.  She was simply hilarious.  Her different yet natural acting style is one that has probably never been seen before.  At the same time, Denise is the farthest thing from a contracted artiste.  Her portrayal of "Music" was also one of the most underrated of the year.  Her chances of even getting into the top 5?  Zip.
My Top 5 Picks: Fala Chen, Nancy Wu, Elena Kong, Selena Li, and Denise Ho
Natalie has improved, but her performance is still far from fantastic.  It's too early for her to win.
Who was snubbed? Susan Tse for "No Regrets", Teresa Lee for "My Better Half"
TVB must be so afraid of a non contracted artiste of winning again they didn't bother to even nominate the always splendid Susan, regardless of her amazing acting skills and versatility.  Teresa was hands down the best thing about the silly "My Better Half".   She was natural, hilarious, and adorable.  I'm impressed with Teresa's ability to be so naturally cute despite her age.
Wrong nom? Fala should've been nominated for "Can't Buy Me Love".

My Favorite Male TV Character
Ron Ng in A Chip Off the Old Block
Steven Ma in A Watchdog's Tale
Wong Cho Lam in Don Juan DeMercado
Chapman To in OL Supreme
Kevin Cheng in A Fistful of Stances
Him Law in Suspects in Love
Raymond Lam in Mysteries of Love
Tsui Wing in Some Day
Kent Cheng in When Lanes Merge
Raymond Wong in When Lanes Merge
Bobby Au-Yeung in A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Johnson Lee in A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Moses Chan in Can't Buy Me Love
Louis Yuen in Can't Buy Me Love
Wayne Lai in No Regrets

My Prediction: Raymond Lam
TVB can't give the prestigious TV King award to Raymond (at lesat I hope not), so they have to give him this award as "compensation".  Remember back in 2008?
My Predicted Top 5: Raymond Lam, Moses Chan, Wayne Lai, Raymond Wong, and Bobby Au-Yeung
Grand production male leads Moses and Wayne are sure to get in.  I'm crossing my fingers for Raymond Wong.  If he can't even get nominated for Best Actor, then he should at least get into the top 5 for Favorite Character.  "Turbo" experienced many changes and matured a lot through out "When Lanes Merge".  He was a dynamic character and Raymond W. did an impressive job portraying him. 
My Pick: Raymond Wong
My Top 5 Picks: Raymond Wong, Chapman To, Moses Chan, Wayne Lai, and Ron Ng
Of course I have to support the "OL Supreme" gang!  "Leven" and "KK" were both hilarious in their own separate ways. 
Who was snubbed? Michael Tao in "Sister of Pearl", Michael Miu in "Gun Metal Grey", Vincent Wong in "Gun Metal Grey"
TVB, you hate Michael Tao don't you?  Ouch, no love for the characters of "Gun Metal Grey" at all?  The charming and funny "Mad Sir" and the caring and thoughtful "Carson" are two of my favorite characters of the year.  What does TVB have against this production?

My Favorite Female TV Character
Myolie Wu in A Chip Off the Old Block
Christine Ng in The Beauty of the Game
Kitty Yuen in Don Juan DeMercado
Liza Wang in OL Supreme
Ada Choi in Fly With Me
Tavia Yeung in Mysteries of Love
Louise Lee in Some Day
Teresa Mo in Some Day
Joyce Tang in Beauty Knows No Pain
Charmaine Sheh in Can't Buy Me Love
Fala Chen in Can't Buy Me Love
Linda Chung in Can't Buy Me Love
Susanna Kwan in Can't Buy Me Love
Sheren Tang in No Regrets

My Prediction: Charmaine Sheh
I'm almost 100% sure Charmaine will win this.  I honestly don't mind, Chiu Yeung was cute and entertaining.  There are other people who should win, but Chiu Yeung winning isn't the worst thing that can happen on the night of the awards.
My Predicted Top 5: Charmaine Sheh, Sheren Tang, Tavia Yeung, Fala Chen, and Myolie Wu
Sheren, Tavia, and Fala are most likely to get in, Sheren for her new type of character, Tavia for the undeserved popularity of "Mysteries of Love", and Fala for her tough and adorable character.  Myolie deserves this as "So Fung Nei" was a joy to watch with her cunning, clever, and hilarious ways.  Will she make it into the top 5? 
My Pick: Fala Chen
My Top 5 Picks: Fala Chen, Charmaine Sheh, Myolie Wu, Liza Wang, Joyce Tang
Joyce was so cute as "Bibi" in "Beauty Knows No Pain"!
Who was snubbed? Denise Ho in "OL Supreme"
Sad face.

Most Improved Actor
Lam Tsz Sin - Don Juan DeMercado, My Better Half, A Fistful of Stances, Mysteries of Love, A Pillowcase of Mystery II
King Kong - OL Supreme, No Regrets, Super Trio Game Master
Joel Chan - Don Juan DeMercado, OL Supreme, In The Eye of the Beholder, Sister of Pearl, A Pillowcase of Mystery II
Raymond Wong - A Watchdog's Tale, Mysteries of Love, When Lanes Merge, Can't Buy Me Love, No Regrets
Him Law - Suspects in Love, Miss HK in India

My Prediction: Raymond Wong
Raymond is almost sure to win this, unless TVB wants to play with us and give it to King Kong instead.  If Raymond had been nominated for a better series, then I would support him for Best Supporting Actor and King Kong for this award.  Raymond's experience is beyond this category but that doesn't mean he doesn't deserve it.  I'm actually surprised at King Kong's comedic talent and I'm actually starting to love him.  He is unexpectedly hilarious and one of the reasons why I love watching the latest season of "Super Trio".  I like him more as a comedian and host as an actor though.
My Pick: Raymond Wong
Who was snubbed? Ruco Chan, Oscar Leung
I'm not even being biased, but I thought Ruco would be nominated for this award considering he's been in more series recently and is starting to get promoted.  However, I'm thinking that TVB is saving his nomination for next year as he will be a leading man then.  Oscar's acting continues to improve and after his most major role to date in "Season of Fate", people thought he'd be nominated (and even win) for sure.  Ever since SOF though, he's gone back to getting very minor roles.  If the overacting Lam Tsz Sin and Him who's only been in one unnoticed series this year could be nominated, I don't see why Oscar was left out.

Most Improved Actress
Selena Li - A Fistful of Stances, Can't Buy Me Love
Elaine Yiu - In the Eye of the Beholder, Ghost Writer, When Lanes Merge, Can't Buy Me Love
Natalie Tong - A Watchdog's Tale, A Fistful of Stances, The Comeback Clan
Skye Chan - Scoop, Yan Chai Charity Show 2010, Gala Spectacular 2010
Mimi Lo - The Beauty of the Game, The Season of Fate, Don Juan DeMercado, My Better Half, Jade Solid Gold

My Prediction: Selena Li or Natalie Tong
Maybe this will finally be Selena's year? *Crosses fingers*  She's been nominated year after year.  Natalie is likely to win, but I think Selena deserves it more.
My Pick: Selena Li
It's about time!  Elaine also improved lots this year.  Mimi's a great comedic actress, but her experience is beyond this award and she is rather overlooked.  What's Skye doing here?
Who was snubbed? Mandy Wong
Perhaps TVB still considers her a newcomer.  While she's talented, she is still relatively new.  Maybe next year?