I think I must be one of about 12 people in the country who are watching the HBO series The Wire. Which is a shame, really, because it's a really good show.
I don't normally watch cop shows, but I love this one. Sadly, the third season is about to end. Each season follows just one case. The plots are very intricate, and there are a lot of characters, so you really do have to pay attention. It's not a car-chase-fun-shoot-em-up kind of series (though I do enjoy a good action film as much as the next person).
What I love about this series is the intelligent writing, excellent acting, and the emphasis on plot and characterization rather than action. I also really appreciate the fact that each season ends. While there are still stories left to be told about these characters, there are no cliffhangers. I hate cliffhangers. Especially when you have to wait so long in between seasons on HBO.
As an added bonus there are a few gay characters. Omar, who's sort of a good/bad guy. And Kima, a detective, who's been having some relationship trouble with her girlfriend since the girlfriend had a baby.
Based on the coming attractions for next weeks season finale, Kima and her girlfriend make up in a BIG way.