When it comes to recognizing top-form television, the Golden Globes are often a bellwether. Last year, for example, a riveting new drama called "Homeland" figured prominently in the Globe nominations in January -- and then went on to sweep the Emmy Awards in September. The timing of the Globes means the voters -- members of the Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. -- are the first to weigh in after each new fall season, so their picks can be worth keeping an eye on.

Looking for the next "Homeland," we offer up some newcomers that stand a chance of breaking through to award recognition, with an assessment of their pros and cons by Los Angeles Times television critic Mary McNamara.