I don't like horse racing and I think dude ranches are horse slave plantations. I think horses look sad and don't want to walk around on the same trail everyday with some yanking, kicking dope on their backs.

Yet, I still loved "Luck" (9 p.m. Sunday, HBO) because it's the kind of series the network does so well: it's character-driven, detailed and takes you into a world rich with stories and meaning.
 

HBO announced today that they have ordered a new series starring Academy Award-winning actor Dustin Hoffman.

The series, titled "Luck," will be an inside look at the world of horse racing, examining owners, jockeys, gamblers, and gaming industry players. The pilot for "Luck" was directed by Michael Mann ("The Insider," "The Aviator"), and based on a script by David Milch ("NYPD Blue," "Deadwood").

The series will also star Dennis Farina, John Ortiz, Kevin Dunn, Richard Kind, Jason Gedrick, and Nick Nolte. Jill Hennessy will guest star.

Filming begins this fall at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.