Show of the week: The Newsroom

In The West Wing, writer Aaron Sorkin showed us the politicians he thinks we deserve; in this new drama, he gives us idealized journalists. A fine Jeff Daniels provides the show’s magnetic center as a cynical news anchor who suddenly sheds his façade of affability; Emily Mortimer plays his former lover, who takes over producing his newscast just as an explosive story breaks. Despite tinges of bombast and melodrama, Sorkin’s script crackles with passion and wit; his characters talk the way we wish we could. Sam Waterston is delightful in a supporting role. Sunday, June 24, at 10 p.m., HBO

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