Cable's Hidden Gem

"I'm going to need an ambulance and a coroner." — Raylan Givens, "Justified"

FX made it's reputation with edgy shows. It's probably most famous for Ryan Murphy's weird plastic surgery tale, "Nip/Tuck," and for the Dennis Leary tribute to New York firefighters, "Rescue Me." Then there's always the gutty, gritty cop drama, "The Shield."

But for me, it's another of FX's shows that has me hooked. "Justified," based on a short story from Elmore Leonard, wraps up its third season tonight. And, through it's first 39 episodes, the show has fast become one of my favorites and is easily one of the best shows on television.

That may have seemed hard to believe when it premiered. It follows a quirky group of U.S. Marshalls as they battle hillbilly drug dealers and petty criminals in Kentucky. That doesn't exactly scream the basis of incredible television, but the production crew — headed by creator Graham Yost — and the actors have made it work.

There are three key elements that make it work.

First, there's the artful dialogue. My dad described it as the language of "Downton Abbey" applied to hillbillies. That about sums it up. But it's full of humor, intrigue, and fun. The show doesn't take itself too seriously, while at the same time creating something that is brilliant from an artistic standpoint.

Second, it's got great characters. Raylan Givens is the perfect lead for the show, but he's surrounded by wonderful, quirky characters. And the showrunners never fail to provide quality villains and guests to round out the arcs for each season, which keeps it fresh and hopping.

And finally, it's got great performances. Timothy Olyphant is excellent in the lead role, and deserves more recognition for his work. But just as great is Walton Goggins, who has kept Boyd Crowder from becoming a cliche and given body to a character you can't help but root for, at least a little.

So if you're looking for something fun, entertaining, and well-crafted, it's not too late to give "Justified" a look.