3. Ultra-violence

Speaking of AMC, how visceral and crushingly dark are parts of "Breaking Bad"? How bloody is "Game of Thrones" and "Sons of Anarchy"? By the 34th throat-slit on Season 2 of HBO's "Boardwalk Empire" (pictured), it was clear there's a new standard of TV violence this year. "The Sopranos" now looks quaint.

December 20, 2011