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TV tips
November 16, 2009
This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Inside the Actors Studio’ 7 p.m., Bravo: Bon Jovi appears. The whole band. It’s official — the Actors Studio has officially run out of actors. I like Bon Jovi okay but, seriously, if I were Robert DeNiro, I would demand that James Lipton never air my episode again.
‘The Prisoner’ 7 p.m., AMC: Six, Two, 313, 11-12 … is this an AMC drama or ‘Monday Night Football?’ It’s a good thing this is just a miniseries, because it’s days are numbered.
‘Gossip Girl’ 8 p.m., The CW: Lady Gaga appears? Hmm … must be sweeps month.
Tuesday:
‘Merry Madagascar’ 7 p.m., NBC: The animated films’ characters jump into action when Carl Reiner’s Santa crashes onto their island. I hope Santa was just on a test run, NBC, because it’s not even Thanksgiving yet! On the plus side, my whole family is looking forward to NBC’s early December Valentine’s Day specials.
‘Ghost Lab’ 9 p.m., Discovery: Spooky stuff’s afoot in Waxahachie and Dallas.
Wednesday:
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Edward Norton and Elizabeth Banks? Yep, it’s sweeps month.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: The glee club is divided up again. Let’s see, first it was boys vs. girls, then minorities vs. non-minorities. Now they’ve been split into couples. Maybe next week Mr. Schuester will dissect them like frogs.
Thursday:
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: Walter’s craving milkshakes. Of course he is. That must mean his body’s not getting enough of something. Oh, I know — ratings!
‘30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Al Gore. Did I mention it’s sweeps month?
‘Family Armor’ 9 p.m., TLC: This show looks at a vehicle-bulletproofing business here in Texas. Now why would we possibly need bulletproofing down here?
Friday:
‘Medium’ 8 p.m., CBS: When Allison becomes light sensitive, she dons sunglasses that show her mysterious numbers. Hmm … maybe she’s watching ‘The Prisoner.’
‘Bartender Wars’ 9:30 p.m., FLN: I’m not sure exactly what this show is about, but if it’s some kind of competition, I predict that somebody will get served.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Pearl Jam jams. You’d Vedder be watching!
Sunday:
‘2009 American Music Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: Lady Gaga takes time off from guest-appearing on ‘Gossip Girl’ to join the 37th edition of this annual event. Will Taylor Swift repeat her CMA sweep? (It IS sweeps month!)
‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: Musical duo Hall and Oates have voice cameos. You know what month it is. I’m just sayin’.
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November 9, 2009
This week's TV picks
Trust me, ABC’s “V” is a lot more exciting than this photo makes it appear to be.
Monday:
‘How the Beatles Rocked the Kremlin’ 9 p.m., PBS: Let me hear your balalaikas ringing out — back in the USSR, Russian super fans are interviewed in an exploration of the Fab Four’s influence behind the Iron Curtain.
‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ 9:30 p.m., Food: Guy Fieri chows down at Texas barbecue joints in this tasty rerun.
Tuesday:
‘V’ 7 p.m., ABC: Okay, the set-up was good. Let’s hope Elizabeth Mitchell and company can continue to deliver.
‘Ghost Lab’ 9 p.m., Discovery: Does John Wilkes Booth haunt the Opera House in Granbury, Texas? Well, you can’t spell Booth without ‘boo.’
Wednesday:
‘43rd Annual CMA Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood perform and host. I hope this means that CMT gets to air ‘Cougar Town’.
‘15 Remarkable Celebrity Body Bouncebacks’ 7 p.m., E!: Famous folk drop pounds and get into shape. You know, it’s about time somebody started paying attention to celebrities’ physical attributes.
Thursday:
‘Real Housewives of Orange County’ 9 p.m., Bravo: New housewife alert! New housewife alert! Alexis Bellino joins the cast.
‘Gone Too Far’ 10 p.m., MTV: A 20-year-old San Antonio heroin and cocaine addict gets a second chance.
Friday:
‘Bang for Your Buck’ 9:30 p.m., HGTV: Austin outdoor living rooms worth $95,000 are toured. It’s Thanksgiving month, right? I’m thankful that the bathrooms remain indoors.
‘Bose Sound Innovations’ 11 p.m., QVC: I usually don’t like to highlight the shopping channels, but tonight is exactly one-month ‘til my birthday and y’all haven’t been getting the hint.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Willie Nelson and Asleep at the Wheel perform songs from 2009’s ‘Willie and the Wheel’.
‘Celebrity Ghost Stories’ 9 p.m., BIO: C. Thomas Howell has a spooky encounter in an abandoned hotel. I know, I know … you want to know what C. Thomas Howell is doing in an abandoned hotel. Hey — he’s C. Thomas Howell; he doesn’t have to answer to you.
Sunday:
‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ 7 p.m., ABC: Can David Duchovny help a leukemia survivor and her family rebuild their uninhabitable farmhouse? I want to believe.
‘Nature’ 7 p.m., PBS: The first year in the life of a humpback whale is chronicled. It’s so cute the first time they sit up by themselves, but burping them is really tough, mostly because of the hump.
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October 26, 2009
This week's TV picks
Nathan Fillion stars in “Castle.”
Monday:
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ 7 p.m., FOX: The top 20 dancers are introduced. That’s 40 feet, if my math is correct.
‘Castle’ 9 p.m., ABC: This show hops onto the vampire bandwagon when a victim wearing fake fangs is discovered in a cemetery with a stake through his heart.
Tuesday:
‘It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown’ 7 p.m., CBS: Charlie goes to a Halloween party, Snoopy battles the Red Baron and poor Linus waits in the pumpkin patch for the titular spirit in this holiday classic.
‘The Forgotten’ 9 p.m., ABC: It’s a dog. Yes, the show, but also a key canine character who keeps watch over an unidentified dead man’s grave.
Wednesday:
‘Monsters vs. Aliens: Mutant Pumpkins from Outer Space’ 7 p.m., NBC: This animated feature film spin-off finds the movie’s characters battling space aliens disguised as pumpkins.
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: I don’t know how it can be the first day of school when last week’s episode had a school-centric plot, but I don’t care as long this show keeps being laugh out loud funny.
Thursday:
‘The Office’ 8 p.m., NBC: Dundler Mifflin Scranton organizes a haunted house for community kids. As if that place isn’t normally scary enough (and like you’d let your kids anywhere near it).
‘The Austin Daytripper’ 9:30 p.m., PBS: Host Chet Garner and crew hit Shiner by way of Luling and Gonzales. Shiner’s his last stop? I think what we really want to see here is the ride back home.
Friday:
‘Ghost Whisperer’ 7 p.m., CBS: The headless horseman from Washington Irving’s ‘Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ comes to life. I’m starting to think I’d better go get our Halloween candy soon.
‘Ghost Adventures Live’ 7 p.m., TRAVEL: The gang spends 7 hours locked inside a West Virgina lunatic asylum. Yeah, Halloween candy.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Don’t blink or you’ll miss me in the audience for M. Ward’s awesome set. Also appearing: Okkervil River.
‘The Addams Family’ 2 p.m., WGN: Enjoy an 8-hour marathon of the creepy, mysterious, ooky, spooky family perfect for Halloween night.
Sunday:
‘Food Network Challenge’ 7 p.m., FOOD: Four designers create cakes based on ‘The Simpsons.’ Mmmmmm … cake. Voice of Lisa Simpson Yeardley Smith judges, and you know she’s a stickler.
‘Mad Men’ 9 p.m., AMC: Peggy’s taste in men proves questionable. Yeah, no kidding: first she hooks up with Pete Campbell and then, a few weeks ago, Duck Phillips. Who could she possibly be with now that would provoke this episode description —Achilles the maintenance man?
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October 19, 2009
This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Heroes’ 7 p.m., NBC: Who ya’ gonna’ call? Ernie Hudson, apparently. The once and future ‘Ghostbuster’ guest stars.
‘The Big Bang Theory’ 8:30 p.m., CBS: Hmm, it must be sci-fi guest star week. ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’s’ Wil Wheaton cameos in a showdown with Sheldon.
Tuesday:
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Okay, this is just getting creepy. Daphne Zuniga (‘Spaceballs’) returns as Jo Reynolds. Secrets, sex, blah blah blah.
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Martha Plimpton (‘Surface’, of course) guest stars as Alicia races against the clock to save three widows’ pensions. ‘Surface’ was a science fiction show, too.
Wednesday:
‘Extreme Competitions’ 7 p.m., TRAVEL: A mustache-growing competition is highlighted. No kidding. Mustache growing. I hope it’s ‘extreme’ mustache-growing. Is this a mini-series? Because I’m not sure how much ‘stache growing can happen in one night.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Sue displays her softer side? Which side is that, exactly? I thought even her deepest interior was gruff exterior.
Thursday:
’30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Will Arnett hanging with the Obama girls? I’m so in.
‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ 9 p.m., BRAVO: Season 2 finale. Aw, already?
Friday:
‘Brothers’ 7 p.m., FOX: Here we go again. E Street Band member Clarence Clemons (‘Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure’) appears as Coach sacks Chill and enlists Mike’s help with his football squad.
‘Lobstermen’ 9 p.m., DISCOVERY: Lobstermen! Half-men, half-lobster! Now there’s a scary — what? On a boat? With nets? Nevermind.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Singer-songwriter showcase! Andrew Bird and St. Vincent perform.
‘Surprise Inspection’ 9 p.m., TruTV: There’s no description for this show but, just in case, I’m gonna’ make sure everything here is in tip-top shape.
Sunday:
‘Werewolves: The Dark Survivors’ 8 p.m., ANIMAL: A faux documentary explores the lives and behaviors of werewolves. I don’t know about you, but I kinda’ prefer my faux documentaries to explore the practical joke Jim and Pam just played on Dwight.
‘Mad Men’ 9 p.m., AMC: Joan and Greg make plans for the future. Yay! More Joan! Boo! Joan and Greg have a future.
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October 12, 2009
This week's TV picks
Tina Fey and Alec Baldwin star on “30 Rock.”
Monday:
‘Dancing with the Stars’ 7 p.m., ABC: Tune in to see who’ll take over the reality competition’s dramatic narrative now that Tom DeLay is gone.
Tuesday:
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Alicia takes on her firm when she suspects jury tampering in a pharmaceutical company trial. Watch quickly before health care reform makes this storyline obsolete.
Wednesday:
‘Hank’ 7 p.m., ABC: Fraisier — I mean, um, Hank, takes a job working alongside his daughter at the mall. Sigh.
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Shelley Long (“Cheers”) guest stars on the best new comedy of the season.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: The club members are pitted against each other again? Didn’t that just happen last week? Is this a “Glee”-peat? Nope, this time Sue (Jane Lynch) is trying to spread dissent.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: Yikes! Somebody saw a murder in their vision of the future. Tune in to find out whom.
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Stefan and Damon continue to duke it out while the sheriff and mayor try to protect the citizens of Mystic Falls. Seriously, people, if you don’t like vampires, stay away from places called “Mystic Falls.”
‘30 Rock’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: Season 4 of NBC’s Tina Fey comedy begins with a show entitled “Season 4.”
Friday:
‘Ugly Betty’ 7 p.m., ABC: Betty, now an associate editor, clashes with her ex-boyfriend boss. Lynn Redgrave and Kristen Johnston guest star on this season 4 premiere.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Are you a Kenny Chesney fan? He’s crooning his greatest hits tonight.
‘Tailgate Warriors with Guy Fieri’ 8 p.m., FOOD: Y’all like to tailgate, right? The Food Network personality puts tailgaters from across the country through a game-day grub competition.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: The 20th edition of Halloween-themed “Treehouse of Horror” finds take-offs on zombies, Hitchcock and “Sweeney Todd.”
‘Sunday Night Football’ 7:15 p.m., NBC: Chicago at Atlanta. Go, Bears!
‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: Arianna Huffington guest stars.
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October 5, 2009
This week's TV picks
Pam and Jim get hitched on NBC’s ‘The Office’.
Monday:
‘Dancing With the Stars’ 7 p.m., ABC: What dance will Tom DeLay do tonight? And what will he wear? Who cares … all y’all want to do on the TV Blog is argue politics.
‘Gossip Girl’ 8 p.m., The CW: Film star Hilary Duff appears as a film star. Way to stretch those acting chops, Hilary.
Tuesday:
‘Dancing With the Stars: Results Show’ 8 p.m. ABC: Did Tom DeLay make it through? Will he be back next week? Does it matter? Isn’t the important question whether he’s God or the Devil?
‘The Forgotten’ 9 p.m., ABC: The name of this show is going to become its epitaph in about 3 weeks. Mark my words.
Wednesday:
‘The Middle’ 7:30 p.m., ABC: Sue tries out for the swim team. Trust me, any time Sue tries out for something, it’s a riot.
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Okay, this show is a big 2-for-2, so there’s no reason to suspect that tonight’s episode won’t be hilarious.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: What? The mass blackout somehow involves Nazis now? This show hurts my brain in a good way.
‘Community’ 7 p.m., NBC: This show moves to its 7 p.m. time slot with an episode involving Mr. Chang. Yay! Plus, since the ‘Saturday Night Live’ on Thursday thing is over, there’s a chance ‘Saturday Night Live’ on Saturdays will actually be funny. Win-win!
‘The Office’ 8 p.m., NBC: Jim and Pam get married (yawn) in this hour-long episode. Hey — at least they get their wedding taped for free.
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Bite, furtive glance, kiss, bite, bite, angst, fainting, angry outburst, kiss, bite.
Friday:
‘Most Terrifying Places in America 2’ 9 p.m., TRAVEL: Paranormal hot spots across the country are explored. Hmm … I didn’t know ghosts used wireless Internet.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: Ben Harper and the Relentless 7 perform.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: Bart becomes interested in something potentially dangerous, Marge attempts to get it banned, TV critic finds it more and more difficult to keep defending this show.
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September 28, 2009
This week's TV picks
Old Faithful erupts in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, as shown in Ken Burns six-part documentary series, “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea,” beginning Sunday, Sept. 27, at 7:00 p.m. EDT on PBS. (AP Photo/Florentine Films and WETA, Craig Mellish)
Tonight:
‘Lie to Me’ 8 p.m., FOX: Season 2 kicks off! A woman with multiple-personality disorder could be a witness or a killer. Hmm … that’s several times the usual number of lies to sift through.
Also premiering: ‘Trauma’ 8 p.m., NBC
‘The National Parks: America’s Best Idea’ 7 p.m., PBS: This episode covers the years 1890-1915 and the beginnings of a conservation movement led by the Sierra Club, the Audubon Society and Theodore Roosevelt. Additional episodes air Tuesday and Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Tuesday:
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Jane Mancini’s back! Josie Bissett returns to Melrose Place and immediately blackmails somebody. There’s a surprise.
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Julianna Margulies goes around the State’s Attorney to represent a stripper who claims she was raped.
Wednesday:
‘The Middle’ 7:30 p.m., ABC: Patricia Heaton stars in one of the fall’s best new comedies as a woman stuck in the middle: middle age, middle income, Middle America. It’s wacky, but sweet … like a twisted version of ‘The Wonder Years.’
Also premiering: ‘Hank’ 7 p.m., ABC
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: If there’s a less-qualified person than Phil to be giving anybody responsibility lessons, I’d like to meet him. But that’s just what he’s doing with son Luke. Meanwhile, Mitchell and Cameron take their baby to ‘Mommy and Me’ class.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Recent Emmy winner Kristin Chenoweth (‘Pushing Daisies’) tries to help Will up the Glee Club’s game.
Thursday:
‘Community’ 8:30 p.m., NBC: John Michael Higgins (‘Kath and Kim’) plays a quirky instructor who jeopardizes Winger’s plan for an easy A.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: A bomb blast in Philadelphia sends Olivia and Peter to Iraq. That must be one powerful bomb.
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: A suspect in the global blackout is tracked to Utah and Olivia meets the man from her vision.
Friday:
‘Til Death’ 7:30 p.m., FOX: The season 4 premiere finds Ally and Doug returning from Ecuador as man and wife.
Saturday:
‘Austin City Limits’ 7 p.m., PBS: The Dave Matthews Band kicks off season 35 of the popular concert series. Were you at the taping?
Sunday:
‘Three Rivers’ 8 p.m., CBS: The transplants drama underwent its own switcheroo when this episode — originally the second of the series — was swapped to run first.
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September 20, 2009
This week's TV picks
Seth Rogan guest stars as a personal fitness trainer on the season premiere of “The Simpsons.”
Monday:
‘House’ 7 p.m., FOX: Aw, nuts! The season 6 opener finds the good doctor held against his will in a psychiatric facility.
Other season premieres: ‘Heroes’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘How I Met Your Mother’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Accidentally on Purpose’ 7:30 p.m., CBS; ‘Two and a Half Men’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Big Bang Theory’ 8:30 p.m., CBS; ‘Castle’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: Miami’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Tuesday:
‘The Good Wife’ 9 p.m., CBS: Julianna Margulies returns to television as a lawyer (anybody remember ‘Canterbury’s Law’?) in one of the fall’s best new dramatic series. Margulies’ Alicia Florrick rejoins the workforce as a junior partner in a Chicago law firm when her corrupt politico husband is jailed.
Other season premieres: ‘NCIS’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Forgotten’ 9 p.m., ABC.
Wednesday:
‘Modern Family’ 8 p.m., ABC: Ed O’Neill is just one standout in the best new comedy of the season, a mockumentary-style, ensemble examination of an extended family with razor-sharp writing and hilarious performances all around.
Other season premieres: ‘Mercy’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘New Adventures of Old Christine’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Gary Unmarried’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Law and Order: Special Victims Unit’ 8 p.m., NBC; ‘Criminal Minds’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘Cougar Town’ 8:30 p.m., ABC; ‘Eastwick’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: NY’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Thursday:
‘Flash Forward’ 7 p.m., ABC: The entire population of Earth blacks out for just over 2 minutes, receiving a vision of each of their lives six months in the future in this gripping, trippy sci-fi ride. ‘Lost’ veterans Sonya Walger and Dominic Monaghan appear in this series, strongly influenced by that series.
Other season premieres: ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ 8 p.m., ABC; ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘The Mentalist’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Friday:
‘Dollhouse’ 8 p.m., FOX: Creator Joss Whedon wrote the second season premiere of his unconventional, critically-mixed sci-fi series which really picked up steam in the second half of it’s freshman year.
Other season premieres: ‘Brothers’ 7 p.m., FOX; ‘Law and Order’ 7 p.m., NBC; ‘Ghost Whisperer’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘Smallville’ 7 p.m., The CW; ‘Medium’ 8 p.m., CBS; ‘Num3ers’ 9 p.m., CBS.
Saturday:
‘Saturday Night Live’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Live from New York, the ubiquitous Megan Fox hosts the sketch comedy show’s 35th season opener with musical guest U2.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., FOX: Seth Rogen co-wrote and stars in the 21st season opener as a personal trainer who whips Homer into shape for his role in Comic Book Guy’s superhero film, ‘Everyman’.
Other season premieres: ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ 6 p.m., ABC; ‘Amazing Race 15’ 7 p.m., CBS; ‘The Cleveland Show’ 7:30 p.m., FOX; ‘Family Guy’ 8 p.m., FOX; ‘Desperate Housewives’ 8 p.m., ABC; ‘American Dad’ 8:30 p.m., FOX; ‘Brothers and Sisters’ 9 p.m., ABC; ‘Cold Case’ 9 p.m., CBS.
‘The National Parks: America’s Best Idea’ 7 p.m., PBS: Ken Burns’ history of America’s national parks begins in 1851 in California’s Yosemite Valley.
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September 17, 2009
Time Warner launches Hispanic programming package
Time Warner Cable has launched El Paquetazo, a Hispanic programming package that includes a basic service tier of channels (ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, Telemundo and Univision, among them) as well as “English Plus” programming from networks such as Animal Planet, CMT, ESPN, ESPN2, Food Network and Travel Channel, according to Multichannel News. It also offers Music Choice, video on demand and high-definition channels.
Information about the package, which was previously made available in Los Angeles and New York City, can be found on Time Warner’s El Paquetazo site. Warning: There a short, looping clip of borderline-offensive, stereotypical mariachi music, but there’s a button you can click to turn off the sound.
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September 13, 2009
This week's TV picks
FOX gets ‘Glee’ful on Wednesday nights.
Monday:
‘Jay Leno Show’ 9 p.m., NBC: Jay’s new, nightly prime time gig gets an easy launch tonight with first guest Jerry Seinfeld and little competition from the other networks, which are either airing movies or reruns. Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna perform.
Tuesday:
‘Biggest Loser’ 7 p.m., NBC: The peacock network’s fall rollout continues with a firefighter, a military wife and this show’s heaviest contestant ever among season 8’s 16 contestants.
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Prostitution! Career clawing! Secrets and intrigue! No, not a repeat!
Wednesday:
‘The Beautiful Life: TBL’ 8 p.m., The CW: From the mind of Ashton Kutcher (hee! I love saying that) comes a saga of backstabbing in the world of modeling. The CW may be trying to brand this show “TBL,” but I’m just calling it “Melrose Face.”
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Are y’all still watching this show? I’m already on the fence and Josh Groban’s appearance tonight might not help. The kids go behind Will’s back for a choreography coach while he’s busy with a new all-male a cappella group.
Thursday:
Comedy premieres 7-9 p.m., NBC: The funniest night in network comedy arrives with the season debuts of ‘Saturday Night Live Weekend Update Thursday’ (whew!) at 7 p.m.; ‘Parks and Recreation’ at 7:30 (okay, so not every NBC Thursday show is funny); ‘The Office’ at 8 p.m. and Joel McHale’s ‘Community’ at 8:30 p.m.
‘Survivor: Samoa’ 7 p.m., CBS: Are y’all still watching this show? Season 19 places the contestants in this South Pacific Island nation and, simultaneously, makes me feel really, really old.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: Season 2 pulls a ‘24’ by placing Olivia and the gang under Congressional scrutiny for their weird investigations (and lack of results). The mind-bending season 1 finale is kind of explained, and there’s a ‘don’t sneeze or you’ll miss it’ shout-out to ‘The X-Files’.
Friday:
‘2009 ALMA Awards’ 7 p.m., ABC: A tribute to Ricardo Montalban caps off the 14th annual American Latino Media Arts Awards honoring Hispanic achievement in movies, music, sports and television. Eva Longoria Parker and George Lopez host.
Saturday:
‘College Football: Texas Tech at Texas’ 7:07 p.m., ABC: It’s the Longhorns! And it’s not on pay-per-view! Tech won last year, but the Longhorns look to increase their all-time series-winning total to 44 tonight.
Sunday:
‘61st Primetime Emmy Awards’ 7 p.m., CBS: ’30 Rock’ and ‘Mad Men’ are the leading contenders in a ceremony that might actually be entertaining — ‘How I Met Your Mother’s’ Neil Patrick Harris, who was so good as emcee for The Tony Awards, hosts.
Pay cable series premieres, 8-9 p.m., HBOe: ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ finds Larry unhappily (surprise) living with Loretta in this episode featuring a great guest-star turn by Catherine O’Hara. ‘Bored to Death’ (8:30 p.m.) stars laconic Jason Schwartzman as a frustrated writer who moonlights, via Craigslist, as an ‘unlicensed private detective.’ Ted Danson and Zach Galifianakis co-star.
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September 8, 2009
Here's when your favorite shows return
Sure, the shiny, new shows get all the hype. But what about the old reliables? Our TV buddies who’ve been around for years or our conquering heroes, who beat the odds and made it back for a second or third season? Here’s an alphabetical list of series returning to network, basic cable and pay cable networks:
NETWORKS; BASIC CABLE
‘30 Rock’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Oct. 15
‘90210’ (The CW)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 8
‘American Dad’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘America’s Next Top Model’ (The CW)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Bones’ (FOX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Brothers & Sisters’ (ABC)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Castle’ (ABC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Cold Case’ (CBS)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Criminal Minds’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘CSI’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘CSI: Miami’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘CSI: NY’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Dancing With the Stars’ (ABC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Desperate Housewives’ (ABC)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Dollhouse’ (FOX)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Family Guy’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Friday Night Lights’ (DirecTV)
Returns: Wednesday, Oct. 28
‘Fringe’ (FOX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Gary Unmarried’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Ghost Whisperer’ (CBS)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Glee’ (FOX)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Gossip Girl’ (The CW)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (ABC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘Heroes’ (NBC)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘House’ (FOX)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘How I Met Your Mother’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ (FX)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Law & Order’ (NBC)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘Law & Order: SVU’ (NBC)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Lie to Me’ (FOX)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 28
‘Lincoln Heights’ (ABC Family)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Medium’ (CBS — new network)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘NCIS’ (CBS)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 22
‘New Adventures of Old Christine’ (CBS)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 23
‘Nip/Tuck’ (FX)
Returns: Wednesday, Oct. 14
‘Numb3rs’ (CBS)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘One Tree Hill’ (The CW)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 14
‘Parks and Recreation’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘Private Practice’ (ABC)
Returns: Thursday, Oct. 1
‘Smallville’ (The CW)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 25
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ (FOX)
Returns: Wednesday, Sept. 9
‘Sons of Anarchy’ (FX)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 8
‘Southland’ (NBC)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 23
‘Supernatural’ (The CW)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 10
‘Survivor: Samoa’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘The Big Bang Theory’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘The Biggest Loser’ (NBC)
Returns: Tuesday, Sept. 15
‘The Mentalist’ (CBS)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 24
‘The Office’ (NBC)
Returns: Thursday, Sept. 17
‘The Simpsons’ (FOX)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Til Death’ (FOX)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 2
‘Two and a Half Men’ (CBS)
Returns: Monday, Sept. 21
‘Ugly Betty’ (ABC)
Returns: Friday, Oct. 9
PAY CABLE
‘Californication’ (Showtime)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
‘Crash’ (Starz)
Returns: Friday, Sept. 18
‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (HBO)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 20
‘Dexter’ (Showtime)
Returns: Sunday, Sept. 27
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September 6, 2009
This week's TV picks
The pretty people of The CW’s “Melrose Place.”
Monday
‘Unwrapped’ 8 p.m., FOOD: Grab a cup of coffee and check out this discussion on donuts, including Krispy Kremes and Mrs. Baird’s. I don’t see anything about my precious Round Rock donuts here, but that’s okay — more for me!
Tuesday
‘Get Schooled: You Have The Right’ 7 p.m., TVLAND, COMEDY, SPIKE, BET, LOGO, NICK, MTV, MTV2, MTV3, MTV-U, VH1, CMT, CMTP: Whew! That’s a lot of networks for one program, but this one’s worth it. Kelly Clarkson and LeBron James discuss the importance of education to their success. Also covered is the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s “Get Schooled” initiative, developed with Viacom, which addresses problems in America’s public schools. Find more information at www.getschooled.com.
‘Melrose Place’ 8 p.m., The CW: Yay! The Fall TV season is officially here! Finally. Didn’t it seem like it was never going to arrive? It’s been a long, long summer. Oh, right … ‘Melrose Place’. Dead bodies. Sex. Laura Leighton. Trashy fun.
Wednesday
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ 7 p.m., FOX: 6th season premiere finds hopefuls showing the crazy legs in Boston.
‘America’s Next Top Model’ 7 p.m., The CW: ‘ANTM’ features a shorter season in it’s 13th year: each of the 14 contenders is under 5’7”.
‘Glee’ 8 p.m., FOX: Okay, so we all saw the premiere months ago. The much-hyped musical comedy’s season really kicks off tonight with the show’s second episode, featuring the glee club’s unexpectedly racy first public performance.
Thursday
‘Vampire Diaries’ 7 p.m., The CW: Did I mention that the Fall season is here? “Lost’s” Boone, Ian Somerhalder, plays the bad boy in this new-pernatural series about two Vampire brothers fighting over an orphaned high-schooler.
‘Fringe’ 8 p.m., FOX: In its new time slot, this repeat of the first season finale ends with the single most stunning and surprising camera shot of any entertainment series from last season, and sets up what should be a great sophomore effort.
‘I Was Bitten’ 9 p.m., Discovery: No, this doesn’t have anything to do with ‘The Vampire Diaries’. It’s actually, appropriately enough, a show about people who have been bitten by tigers, snakes and elephants. Man, I would not want to be bitten by an elephant — not only is that probably a huge chunk out of you, but I’ll bet the wound smells like peanuts.
Friday
‘Dog Whisperer’ 8 p.m., NGC: The host works with problematic dogs at an office. Hmm … I wonder if there’s a co-worker whisperer?
Saturday
‘Lightning Strikes’ 8 p.m., Syfy: A monster rides a lightning bolt to Earth and causes a lot of problems. I hope this isn’t a documentary.
Sunday
‘King of the Hill’ 7 p.m., FOX: Bye-bye Hank, Bobby and Peggy. There’s competition for Bobby’s hand to the homecoming dance in the finale of this venerable animated series set in fictional Arlen, Texas.
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August 30, 2009
This week's TV picks
Andy and Dwight keep each other company at the company picnic on “The Office.”
Monday:
‘CMA Music Festival: Country’s Night to Rock’ 7 p.m., ABC: Featured performers include Trace Adkins, Martina McBride, The Judds and Kid Rock. Everybody — sing along with me: ‘One of these things is not like the others …’
‘The Soup Presents’ 9 p.m., E!: This episode spotlights TV’s most dysfunctional couples, including Jon and Kate Gosselin, and Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa. Wow. I’m not sure which of those pairs should feel most insulted.
Tuesday:
‘Warehouse 13’ 8 p.m., Syfy: An artifact helps Claudia change a light bulb, which reminds me of a hundred old jokes.
‘Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Tonight Conan welcomes Norm MacDonald and Cheap Trick, two of my favorite things that won’t go away.
Wednesday:
‘Glee’ 7:58 p.m., FOX: In case you missed the hugely popular pilot episode of this new fall series, here’s your chance to catch up. It kinda’ goes downhill from here, but this episode’s a winner. Also, in case you skipped over the time, it starts at 7:58 p.m., so don’t miss the first two minutes.
‘Man vs. Wild’ 8 p.m., Discovery: Bear tests his survival skills in Texas’ Chihuahuan Desert. I hope he brings some Milk Bones.
Thursday:
‘The Office’ 8 p.m., NBC: The season 5 closer takes place at the Dunder Mifflin company picnic. In the midst of a fiercely competitive volleyball game, Michael has a sweet reunion with his former love, Holly.
Friday:
‘Making Over America with Trinny and Susannah’ 9 p.m., TLC: Apparently, in order to be a co-host on this makeover show (tonight working miracles on a frumpy Delaware innkeeper) you’ve got to have two n’s in the middle of your name.
‘Catch It Keep It’ 9 p.m., Science: An Xbox must be saved from flaming projectiles, a gasoline-soaked floor and a runaway car. Hmm. I just have to keep my teenage boy’s Xbox safe from soda cans, half-eaten Pop-Tarts and dirty socks.
Saturday:
‘Country Fried Home Videos’ 7 p.m., CMT: In one segment, a pigeon tricks a turtle. Hey, I’d like to sympathize, but anybody who doesn’t know how devious turtles can be just deserves what they get.
Sunday:
‘Amazing Wedding Cakes’ 9 p.m., WE: A bride wants her cake to match her dress. Somebody save me a piece of the train.
‘Reality Hell’ 9:30 p.m., E!: The title of this show is just redundant. That’s right; I went there. Seriously … is the fall season here yet?
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August 23, 2009
This week's TV picks
Eddie Murphy stars in “Bowfinger.”
Monday
‘The Closer’ 8 p.m., TNT: Kevin Bacon directed this episode, which hinges on a stabbing death perpetrated by a ninja. So it should only take you five steps to get to that episode of ‘Monk’ directed by Martin Scorsese.*
‘Property Virgin’ 7 p.m., HGTV: The search is on for a move-in ready home with a big yard in Austin. Big yard? Guess I’ll add this to the list of shows that didn’t film in my neighborhood.
Tuesday
‘Michael McDonald Q Sessions Live’ 8 p.m., QVC: Grammy-winning McDonald hawks his holiday CD, ‘This Christmas’. Hey, it’s never too early to — no, wait … it’s August, right? Okay, too early.
‘Flipping Out’ 9 p.m., Bravo: Business expansion goals lead a designer-and-remodeler to attend a client’s pajama party. Does that excuse really work?
Wednesday
‘Wipeout’ 7 p.m., ABC: Obstacles in tonight’s episode include Swinging Cereal Killer, Ballsy-Go-Round and Mesh Mosh Run. Incidentally, those are also the names of my three favorite rap artists.
‘Lottery Changed My Life’ 7 p.m., TLC: A Texas lottery winner spends millions on a tepee-themed motel. I’ll best the top floor rooms are really small and coney.
Thursday
‘Futurama’ 8 p.m., Comedy Central: The ha-ha network is airing, back-to-back-to-back-to-back, the four episodes that comprise the direct-to-video movie ‘The Beast with a Billion Backs’. Bonus: David Cross is the beast.
‘Monk’ 10 p.m., USA: In this rerun, guest Daniel Stern is wrapped up with a girl’s disappearance and a UFO sighting. I’m not sure, but I don’t think this is the Scorsese one I was talking about.
Friday
‘Bowfinger’ 7 p.m., ABC: Yet Eddie Murphy didn’t get an Oscar nod ‘til ‘Dreamgirls’.
Saturday
‘Mega Shark Versus Giant Octopus’ 8 p.m., Syfy: Lorenzo Lamas and Deborah Gibson star. They’re probably not, but it would be really cool if they played the titular characters.
‘The Serpent King’ 7 p.m., NGC: Snake freaks track the threatened venomous King Cobra into the jungles of India. It’s a shame they’re in trouble, because the Earth really can’t have too many gigantic, venomous snakes.
Sunday
‘Your Kid Ate What?’ 7 p.m., TLC: I don’t even care what they ate — I’m watching, because this show has the best title of the week.
*This is a joke. To the best of my knowledge, Martin Scorsese never directed an episode of “Monk.”
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August 16, 2009
This week's TV picks
Monday:
‘Cake Boss’ 9 p.m., TLC: A fireworks-themed cake is created, which really makes me nervous about the whole ‘blowing out the candles’ part.
‘Hoarders’ 9 p.m., A&E: This series profiles people with obsessive-hoarding disorder, including a woman who hoards food in two freezers and four refrigerators. Should I be worried that I plan to keep every single episode of this show, along with back-up copies, in big piles of VHS tapes?
Tuesday:
‘More to Love’ 9 p.m., Fox: A group date to a spa and one-on-one dates to a castle and a Moroccan restaurant help Luke cull the remaining ladies to six. Is it right for Fox to put this show on right after ‘Hell’s Kitchen’?
‘Nova scienceNow’ 8 p.m., PBS: Tour a Texas algae farm where researchers work to make biofuel from algae. I’ll be taping this show, too, to use in a future argument with my wife about why not cleaning the shower could actually turn out to be a shrewd investment.
Wednesday:
‘Extreme Collections’ 7 p.m., Travel: Tonight’s episode features collectors of shoes, tarantulas, Barbie dolls and body piercings. Watch out, people … it’s a short drive from collector to hoarder.
‘Survive This!’ 8:30 p.m., Cartoon Network: Sometimes the title of a show writes the mini-review all by itself.
‘Black Gold’ 9 p.m., TruTV: Season 2 of this series following Texas oilmen starts tonight.
Thursday:
‘Real Housewives of Atlanta’ 9 p.m., Bravo: The ladies unwind at a King Tut cocktail party. Seriously, King Tut. Somebody’s running out of party themes. And unwinding is never a good idea when there might be mummies around.
Friday:
‘Psych’ 9 p.m., USA: James Brolin guest stars when odd occurrences threaten to close an Old West tourist attraction.
‘A Haunting’ 9 p.m., ID: A strange aura and a shadowy figure plague a home in Tucson. Where’s James Brolin when you need him?
Saturday:
‘Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern’ 7 p.m., Travel: Andrew comes to Texas and checks out the NASA kitchens. He’s supposed to sample a nitrogen-frozen dessert, chocolate bacon and fried alligator. I’m thinking he’s spending some time outside of NASA, because only one of those items sounds remotely like space food. Although, really … chocolate bacon has gotta’ be good anywhere.
Sunday:
‘The Simpsons’ 7 p.m., Fox: Back-to-back reruns from 2009’s resurgent season feature Moe dating a woman he met in an online chat room and Lisa’s experience on anti-depressants. Some of her smiley-faced visions rank among the best visual gags this series has ever produced.
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August 9, 2009
This week's TV picks
Hey, ‘Mad’dicts … you’ve only got a week to go. AMC photo
Monday:
‘Great American Road Trip’ 7 p.m., NBC: The remaining families head for Vegas, where they take in a show by comic magicians Penn and Teller. Personally, I’d rather watch Penn and Teller than watch other people watching Penn and Teller, but you’ve got to take your Penn and Teller where you can get it.
‘Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien’ 10:30 p.m., NBC: Quick — somebody sound the ‘weird hair’ alarm! Conan and Lyle Lovett will be sharing the same stage at the same time!
Tuesday:
‘Playing for Change: Peace Through Music’ 10 p.m., PBS: A Grammy-winning producer creates a cool mash-up by recording local musicians covering the same tunes worldwide, then mixing their individual performances into one song.
Wednesday:
‘MLB Baseball: Phillies at Cubs’ 7 p.m., WGN America: Go, Cubs!
Thursday:
‘NFL Football Exhibition: Cowboys at Raiders’ 9 p.m., CBS: Go, Cowboys!
Friday:
‘Woodstock: Now & Then’ 8 p.m., VH1 Classic: Admit it … aren’t you really just interested in the ‘then’ part?
‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ 7 p.m., Disney: Justin asks a vampire girl to the prom and Alex is surprised when real zombies turn up at a zombie-themed dance. Meanwhile, my 11-year-old daughter memorizes every line spoken.
Saturday:
‘NFL Football Exhibition: Texans at Chiefs’ 7 p.m., CW: Go, Cubs!
‘It’s Me or the Dog’ 8 p.m., Animal Planet: Okay, I’ve never actually seen this show, in which an expert helps families with their unruly canine pets, but I’ll bet I bellow its title at my house about 50 times a day.
‘The Terminators’ 8 p.m., Syfy: What? You think this direct-to-video release in which humans battle earth-conquering cyborgs is a rip-off of James Cameron’s “Terminator” franchise? Really? Did you miss that “s” at the end of the title? Shame on you.
Sunday:
‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ 7 p.m., ABC: Connie Chung is tonight’s expert lifeline. Maybe the contestants should go with phone-a-friend.
‘Mad Men’ 9 p.m., AMC: Pete and Ken find themselves in an unexpected situation at Sterling-Cooper; Sal and Don head out on a business trip and blah, blah, blah who cares what happens? I’d spend the hour watching Betty wash the dishes! ‘Mad Men’ is back everybody! It’s finally back!*
*That reminds me: I’ll be hosting a premiere party for “Mad Men’s” new season at 7 p.m. Sunday, August 16. The party will be at the “Mad Men”-ish Belmont, 305 W 6th St. downtown. We’ll have trivia questions and raffle prizes, and the Belmont is creating a signature drink for the event! Dress up in your best ’60s inspired outfits and join us as we watch the great first episode of season 3.
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August 2, 2009
This week's TV picks
Discovery’s “Air Jaws” is a lot less cuddly than Disney’s hoops-shooting “Air Bud,” and he’d probably pop the basketball anyway.
Monday
‘Air Jaws: Sharks of South Africa’ 7 p.m., Discovery: Shark week started last night, so if you turn on Discovery any night this week you’re probably going to see sharks. The creatures profiled in this particular show leap out of the water, hunting seals. Also, 27 of them devour a whale carcass. Sharks are awesome.
‘Obsessed’ 9 p.m., A&E: An OCD-afflicted woman plucks out her eyebrows; another woman can’t stop picking at her skin; a TV critic compulsively checks what’s on other channels right now.
Tuesday
‘Paris Hilton’s My New BFF’ 9 p.m., MTV: Paris chooses one of two remaining hopefuls as her new BFF, which begs the question — what’s that final “F” for if she’s choosing a new one every year?
Wednesday
‘True Hollywood Story’ 9 p.m., E!: Farrah Fawcett gets the bio treatment and I reminisce about that poster I won at the school fair in middle school.
‘Make My Day’ 9:30 p.m., TV Land: This new hidden-camera series follows unsuspecting participants who are set up with the best day of their lives. I thought this show was following me last week when I went to get a Snickers bar from the vending machine and two fell out instead of one.
Thursday
‘So You Think You Can Dance’ 7 p.m., FOX: Season 5’s winner is announced.
‘World’s Wildest Vacation Videos’ 7:30 p.m., truTV: No program description was available but, just to be safe — I can totally explain that weekend in Myrtle Beach.
Friday
‘Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader’ 7 p.m., FOX: Tonight, general-knowledge grade-school questions are posed to a surfer who lost an arm to a shark. Okay, I know it’s Shark Week, but c’mon.
Saturday
‘George Lopez: Tall, Dark and Chicano’ 9 p.m., HBOe: Popular comic Lopez filmed this stand-up special in San Antonio.
‘Dirty Sexy Money’ 9 p.m., ABC: This is the series finale, so that means it’s your last chance to catch the Darlings (as in ‘not viewer darlings’).
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July 19, 2009
This week's TV picks
A screen shot from ABC’s ‘Dating in the Dark.’ Okay, not really.
I’m starting to realize that these are coming across more as ‘warnings’ than ‘picks.’ However you take them, here’s hoping they help:
Monday
‘The Bachelorette’ 7 p.m. ABC. The men tell all. Really? Have you seen this show? I think maybe they might want to hold some of it back. Just sayin’.
‘Dating in the Dark’ 9 p.m. ABC. I hate to keep picking on ABC, but this is a show — a television show, on television, a visual medium — in which contestants get acquainted in a completely dark room. Those are going to be some gripping visuals. Incidentally, if the room in question is 3 feet by 4 feet and is filled with hanging clothes and dusty boxes, I think I was on this show in high school.
Tuesday
‘Hell’s Kitchen’ 7 p.m. Fox. In the two-hour season opener, Satan (the lord of darkness) prepares a delightful crème brûlée. Just kidding. Sixteen new contestants form two teams and whip up signature dishes in an effort to win a head chef’s job at a future Olympics event site. I’ll bet the athletes don’t have to humiliate themselves like this.
Wednesday
‘Magic’s Biggest Secrets Finally Revealed’ (rerun) 10 p.m. CW. The CW is repeating this program because, you know — it’s always more fun to learn how a magic trick is done the second time around.
Thursday
‘How Do I Look?’ 8 p.m. Style. Not bad, really. Although, if I’m being honest, you could probably stand to lose a few, especially around the hips.
‘Crime 360’ 9 p.m. A&E. The description reads only, ‘Indianapolis.’ Hmm. ’Nuff said.
Friday
‘Ghost Adventures’ 8 p.m. Travel. Spooky stuff is going on at an English inn that was built over a pagan burial ground. Shocker. Look, I know the real estate is cheap, but c’mon … I wouldn’t even build a Halloween attraction over a burial ground.
Saturday
‘Animal Planet Dog Championships 2009’ 7 p.m. Animal Planet. Behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with owners and trainers at a competition featuring canines from all over the country. It’s like that ‘Best in Show’ movie without the snarky humor, which is why I will be watching ‘Best in Show.’
Sunday
‘Merlin’ 7 p.m. NBC. Morgana helps Merlin when he has to secretly return a druid boy to his people. I hope that’s not Morgana, that busty woman who used to interrupt baseball games by running out onto the fields and kissing the players. Remember her? On second thought, that might make all this medieval mumbo-jumbo more interesting.
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July 5, 2009
Compounds, cooks and cable guys: This week's TV picks
Smarter than a 5th grader? If he was, he probably wouldn’t be a Cubs fan. M. Spencer Green photo/Associated Press
Here are my TV picks for the upcoming week. I’ve done all the work, so program your DVR, sit back and relax:
Monday
‘The Bachelorette’ 7 p.m., KVUE: Jillian heads to Madrid with her final four suitors, including Austin musician Wes Hayden. Will booted Jake Pavelka from Dallas follow them across the ocean to try and mess things up for Wes again? Hey, he’s a commercial pilot … it could happen.
Tuesday
‘Warehouse 13’ 8 p.m., SciFi: Eddie McClintock and Joanne Kelly star as mismatched Secret Service agents in the debut of this X-Files-inspired dramedy with the world’s most annoying press kit. Seriously — it’s like one of those talking greeting cards and I can’t figure out how to make it stop.
Wednesday
‘Top Chef Masters’ 9 p.m., Bravo: Remember that time you told your buddy you could cook a better meal than he could with one hand tied behind your back? You could have been a television writer, because that’s what’s happening tonight. Also, they feed that guy from ‘Doogie Howser’ and ‘How I Met Your Mother.’
Thursday
‘Big Brother’ 7 p.m., KEYE: We meet the Season 11 houseguests, who are locked in the compound and face their first challenge: keeping Janet Reno out. That’s what happens when you lock yourself in a compound.
Friday
‘Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader’ 7 p.m., KTBC: Since the competitors include Larry the Cable Guy, I’m gonna go out on a limb and say ‘no.’
‘The Goode Family’ 7:30 p.m., KVUE: Gerald confronts a celebrity chef after eating supposedly meatless chili laced with chicken. I wonder if he offers to fight him with one hand tied behind his back?
Saturday
‘48 Hours Mystery’ 7 p.m., KEYE: No program description was available for this episode, but if I know network television they’ll figure out a way to work Michael Jackson into it.
Sunday
‘Dear Genevieve’ 7:30 p.m., HGTV: Dear Genevieve, we love you even though (or maybe because) you sound all stuffed up, like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
‘Meteor’ 8 p.m., KXAN: Reverend Jim from ‘Taxi’ discovers that a giant meteor named Kassandra is on a collision course with Earth. Jake from ‘The Bachelorette’ interferes with their rendezvous, trying to convince Kassandra that Earth is already seeing a meteor.
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June 28, 2009
Would ye like some TV picks?
Colin Morgan as Merlin. Nick Briggs photo/NBC
Who’s your TV buddy? Uh-huh. Once again I’ve scoured through hundreds of hours of upcoming television programming so you don’t have to. Here’s some interesting stuff coming up this week:
Monday, June 29
‘Secrets of the Founding Fathers’ 7pm, History Channel: The founding fathers’ connection with Freemasonry is explored. I’m hoping we might also finally learn what Thomas Jefferson was doing in the conservatory with the lead pipe.
Tuesday, June 30
‘America’s Got Talent’ 8pm, NBC: Nationwide auditions continue. After watching this show last week, I’m confused … is the title supposed to be ironic?
Wednesday, July 1
‘I Survived a Japanese Game Show’ 8pm, ABC: No specific program information was available for this episode. That’s probably just as well, because my Japanese is not good and the translation would probably be pretty messed up.
Thursday, July 2
‘Moments of Impact’ 8pm, Discovery Channel: In this reality series debut, a teenager’s pet lion attacks his friend. It’s okay, you can go back and read that again. Alright, are you back? Good. In related news, I am totally going to stop complaining about these little ants that keep crawling across my desk.
Friday, July 3
‘Don’t Tell the Bride’ 8pm, BBC America: A man hopes his bride-to-be will love the medieval-themed ceremony he planned. I hope he ditches the idea to replace the wedding rings with thumbscrews. Also, those custom vows that read, ‘Do you take this wench?’ might not go over so well.
Saturday, July 4
‘48 Hours Mystery’ 9pm, TLC: The 2001 murder of Kent Heitholt in Columbia, Missouri is investigated. There are lots of fireworks stands in Missouri, so there’s your 4th of July tie-in. Happy Independence Day!
‘Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular’ 9pm, CBS: Would I leave you hanging without a real 4th of July-related pick? No. Craig Ferguson hosts and Neil Diamond performs. I picture Diamond throwing his sequin-studded, jump suited arm around naturalized citizen Ferguson and singing, “he’s commmming to America,” but, oddly, I picture that fairly often.
Sunday, July 5
‘Merlin’ 7pm, NBC: Lancelot saves Merlin from a magical, winged creature, so Merlin talks him up to Arthur. I’m not sure if I’ll be sitting on my throne, munching on a turkey leg and watching this program, but I’ll bet that guy from ‘Don’t Tell the Bride’ never misses it.
‘Storm Stories’ 7pm, The Weather Channel: I keep checking, week after week, but they’re still not covering how my wife corrals us all into the bathtub and throws a mattress on top of us every time the wind gets strong enough that we can hear the chimes.
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June 21, 2009
Sharp dressed men and BFFs: here's what I'm watching this week
Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez star in “Princess Protection Program” on Disney Channel. Roman Francisco photo/Disney Channel
Hey, watch it! No, I mean it — there’s lots of stuff to watch this week. Look, you’ve got hundreds of channels and limited free time, right? Why waste precious hours clicking though channels, flipping through TV Guide (the Statesman’s ShowWorld is a good resource, though) or DVRing stuff you’ll never watch when I can do the heavy lifting for you? These may not be the best shows you’ll see all week, but you’ve got to start somewhere:
Monday, June 22
‘Iran and the West’ 8pm, National Geographic Channel: There’s something going on over there, right? I’ve been seeing this country’s name in a lot of headlines lately. Former U.S. and Iranian dignitaries tell us how we got to this point.
Tuesday, June 23
‘The Superstars’ 7pm, ABC: This show is like ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ except with running, jumping, kayaking and biking instead of dancing. It features some decent athletes paired with a bunch of stars that weren’t famous enough to take Speidi’s place on ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!’
Wednesday, June 24
‘I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!’ 7pm, NBC: Deja vu! The winner is announced on the season one finale. Of course, ‘winner’ is a relative term here.
Thursday, June 25
‘Penn & Teller: BS!’ 9pm, Showtime: The comic magicians kick off season 7 with a rousing examination of orgasms. Hopefully this description did not just make dozens of readers disappear.
Friday, June 26
‘Virtuality’ 7pm, FOX: The guys behind ‘Battlestar Galactica’ deliver a trippy new sci-fi thriller about astronauts leaving Earth on a 10-year mission. The crew interacts with the vessel’s virtual reality program, designed to help them deal with their confinement and lack of privacy. The premise serves as an allegory of sorts for our own media- and Internet-obsessed lives. Internet obsession? Me? Let’s just see what Google has to say about that! Peter Berg directs this show —a pilot, of sorts — and it stars Clea DuVall (Carnivale) who I would watch a still photo of for two hours.
‘Princess Protection Program’ 7pm, Disney Channel: Tween stars (and real-life BFFs!) Demi Lovato (‘Camp Rock’) and Selena Gomez (‘Wizards of Waverly Place’) star in Disney’s newest ‘this-will-be-your-kids’-obsession,’ a fish out of water tale destined to score royal ratings and a king’s ransom in merchandising. It debuts tonight, but you’ll see it 50 times this summer, after which you’ll probably want to assume an alias and go into hiding yourself.
Saturday, June 27
‘Storytellers: ZZ Top’ 9pm, VH1: The Texas trio perform their hits, including ‘Tush,’ ‘La Grange’ and ‘Sharp Dressed Man,’ so give them all your lovin’. C’mon, Penn & Teller just told you how.
Sunday, June 28
‘Hostile Makeover’ 7pm, Lifetime: A fashion reporter uses her style savvy to solve a crime involving a supermodel and death threats. Good alternate titles for this show would be ‘Murder, She Curled’ or ‘MattedLocks.’ Hmmm … I wonder if the Statesman’s own Marques Harper could utilize a blow dryer and some elegant cufflinks to help me find my missing pen?
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June 11, 2009
The new 'Real World'
MTV’s “The Real World” will film its 23rd season (23rd!) in Washington, D.C., this summer, the AP reports. The Washington “Real World” will air next year. In the mean time, Season 22 of the reality (well, reality-ish) show will premiere June 24. It’s set in Cancun.
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March 7, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Saturday Night Live: Just Commercials,” 7 p.m. on NBC — The never-ending sketch show has had its ups and downs, but the ad spoofs have remained, for the most part, dependably sharp. With everybody skipping commercials these days (thanks to DVRs), the future of such segments is iffy, so enjoy ‘em while you can.
“Breaking Bad,” 9 p.m. on AMC — It’s the second-season premiere. Bryan Cranston, best-known for his stint as the hopeless dad on “Malcolm in the Middle,” is brilliant as Walter White, a struggling high- school chemistry teacher with a handicapped teenage son and pregnant wife. The (bad) breaking point comes after White is diagnosed with terminal lung cancer and turns to making and dealing meth. Tragic and funny.
Monday
“Dancing With the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The two-hour opener for yet another installment features Belinda Carlisle, David Alan Grier, Jewel, Shawn Johnson, Lil’ Kim, Gilles Marini, Ty Murray, Steve-O, Nancy O’Dell, Denise Richards, Lawrence Taylor, Chuck Wicks, and Steve Wozniak. For those of us who enjoy hoofing, the show is a blast.
“Castle,” 9 p.m. on ABC — The premiere of a “Moonlighting” wannabe introduces mystery novelist Richard Castle (Nathan Fillion) and New York police detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic). The two are paired when a real-life killer starts copying scenes from Castle’s crime novels.
Tuesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — We get down to serious business tonight with the Top 12 finalists performing. It’s a two-hour installment, so set your DVRs accordingly.
“South Park,” 8:30 p.m. on Comedy Central — Why do I remember this episode? Not sure, except that I hurt myself laughing. In “Cartman’s Mom Is Still a Dirty Slut!” Cartman discovers his father’s true identity.
Wednesday
“The Chopping Block,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Chef/restaurateur Marco Pierre hosts a competition to start up a restaurant in Manhattan, home of thousands and thousands of restaurants. Four pairs of contestants have to do everything from designing the space to planning the menu to touting the opening. Could be fun.
“Damages,” 9 p.m. on FX — Uh oh. In the episode titled “Out Come the Skeletons,” the FBI’s investigation into Patty takes a “shocking turn,” according to the network. How much more shocking can the suspense-filled saga possibly be?
Thursday
“Roy Orbison & Friends: A Black and White Night,” 7 p.m. on PBS — The late Texas singer performed with Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, k.d. lang, Bonnie Raitt, Jennifer Warnes, Jackson Browne, Tom Waits and T-Bone Burnett in Los Angeles. It’s not new, but it’s still terrific.
“ER,” 9 p.m. — Rolling toward the Apr. 2 finale, Dr. Carter (Noah Wyle) gets a surprise visit from an old friend (Eriq La Salle as Dr. Peter Benton). The biggies just keep coming. Next week: George Clooney returns as Dr. Doug Ross.
Friday
“Friday Night Lights,” 8 p.m. on NBC — In an especially wrenching episode, Tyra comes face to face with the real Cash, and it’s not pretty.
Saturday
“You’re Welcome America: A Final Night with George W. Bush,” 8 p.m. on HBO — Will Ferrell’s take on the former president, honed on “Saturday Night Live,” went to Broadway last month to mixed reviews. Now you can decide with a live telecast of the play.
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February 28, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘Brothers & Sisters,’ 8 p.m. on ABC — In a two-hour episode, the Walker family has a baby and a near-death (or possibly actual death) experience. Photos on the Web site indicate Kitty’s husband, Sen. Robert McCallister, is felled by something. Heart attack? Assassin’s bullet? We know not.
‘Flight of the Conchords,’ 9 p.m. on HBO — Bret and Jemaine just keep getting funnier. The lads encounter the prime minister of New Zealand, and then Jemaine gets mixed up with an Art Garfunkel fanatic.
Monday
‘24,’ 7 p.m. on Fox — It’s two hours instead of one this night, so set your DVRs accordingly. Dubaku’s schemes look mild compared with the plans of Dubaku’s boss, General Juma. Agent Bauer and Agent Walker continue their high-wire act, teetering between love and loathing. Maybe we’ll learn the fate of President Taylor’s husband.
“Bachelor: Season Finale,” 7 p.m. on ABC — If you’re a fan of this show, this is the big reveal.
‘Rules of Engagement,’ 8:30 p.m. on CBS — If you liked this relationship sitcom before it was canceled last season, maybe you’ll like the spring’s revival. In the second season opener, Audrey promises not to divulge Russell’s secret love of Broadway musicals in exchange for free theater tickets.
Tuesday
‘American Idol,’ 7 p.m. on Fox — Austin’s Kendall Beard performs in tonight’s third group of 12 finalists. If she makes it, she’ll be in the top nine performers. And even if she doesn’t, she could have a shot at a spot in the Top 12 when the wild card “sing-off” takes place next week.
‘My Music: My Generation, The ’60s,’ 8:30 p.m. on PBS — Baby boomer alert. Relive your glory days of free love and fast music with a romp through the folk rock, rhythm and blues and pop hits from 1965 to ’69.
Wednesday
‘MonsterQuest,’ 8 p.m. on History Channel — If you haven’t discovered this creepy series, it’s time you did. Everybody needs a little ick and ew in their lives, right? Tonight, an urban legend came true during the 1930s when New York City workers find swarms of alligators living beneath the busy streets. Now modern herpetologists and explorers search for alligators in the sewers of New York.
‘Make Me a Supermodel,’ 9 p.m. on Bravo — The new batch of sweet (and sour) 16 aspiring models come to compete for the supermodel crown in New York. Hunky Tyson Beckford hosts.
Thursday
‘Ugly Betty,’ 7 p.m. on ABC — This usually charming little saga has been up and down this season, but it seems to be getting back on track. Betty isn’t as pathetic as she was, and Wilhelmina has re-sharpened her well-manicured claws. Plus, the romance between Betty’s father and his new girlfriend plays well.
‘CSI,’ 8 p.m. on CBS — William Petersen’s departure wasn’t fatal to this long-running crime show. In fact, it got a boost when Laurence Fishburne joined the cast as Dr. Raymond Langston. In this episode, Nick (George Eads) weaves together three murder cases that took place separately at a motel during one year.
Friday
‘20/20,’ 8 p.m. on ABC — Entertainers Siegfried and Roy perform at a charity gala and talk about their career and Roy’s recovery after that near-fatal tiger attack. The attack was caught on tape, but we hope it’s not replayed.
‘21 Sexiest Beach Bars,’ 8 p.m. on Travel — Getting ready for spring break? If so, check out this hour, which gallops through beachside watering holes around the world that cater to the hot-to-trot set.
Saturday
‘Dumb & Dumber,’ 8:30 p.m. on TBS — It’s the movie that launched a thousand seriously stupid flicks, but if you need to wind up the week with mindless fun, this might do the trick. Jim Carry and Jeff Daniels star as a couple of idiots chasing a girl across the country.
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February 21, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The 81st Academy Awards,” 7:30 p.m. on ABC — The ceremony is just the tip of the all-day, groaning iceberg. E! has fashion and celebrity stuff from 1 p.m until 7 p.m. And ABC has a half-hour “red carpet” show at 7 p.m., leading into the awards. But if you don’t want to overdose on Oscar, just tune in at 7:30 when host Hugh Jackman opens the show.
Monday
“A Class Apart,” 8 p.m. on PBS — “American Experience” presents this hour-long documentary about the landmark Hernandez vs. Texas civil rights case that challenged discrimination against Mexican-Americans.
“Fashion Police: The 2009 Academy Awards,” 9 p.m. on E! — Many of the top-notch celebs race into the Academy Awards at the last minute, bypassing all the red-carpet oglers. This snarky review of Sunday night’s Oscar fashions celebrates the highlights and disasters.
Tuesday
“State of the Union,” 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, CNN, MSNBC — President Obama, who has spent the past month juggling the economic crisis and about a dozen other pressing issues, goes before the joint houses of Congress tonight to deliver a status report … and possibly a pep talk.
“Nip/Tuck,” 9 p.m. on FX — If you haven’t caught your favorite plastic-surgery drama in a while, here’s where we are: Christian is still battling breast cancer and preparing for the worst, and Liz is preparing for a wedding.
Wednesday
“Criminal Minds,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Anyone who enjoys gruesome crime shows already knows about this one. Each week the writers try to top themselves with revolting murders and torture. Even cannibalism comes and goes. Tonight the FBI profilers hunt for a female serial killer who has been taking down powerful executives.
“When Weather Changed History,” 8 p.m. on The Weather Channel — OK, weather nerds, this one’s for you. And it’s pretty darn spectacular. “Super Outbreak” chronicles a 24-hour period in April 1974 when a toxic mix of hot and cold air in the South and Midwest spawned 148 tornadoes.
Thursday
“Kath & Kim,” 7:30 p.m. on NBC — My twentysomething son and his girlfriend talked me into giving this comedy another shot. I hated the pilot, but shows have been known to evolve, for better and for worse. The kids were right! The wacky mother-daughter duo are both ridiculous and hilarious.
“Docubloggers,” 7:30 p.m. on PBS — KLRU’s original series that turns over programming to local video and filmmakers tonight features a “Best of …” episode about the “wiener dog races” in Buda. Short legs, floppy ears, can’t lose.
Friday
“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Trying to keep up with this show, in the unhappy early-hour time slot on Fridays, is a challenge. But sometimes it’s worth the effort. Tonight Sarah tries to deal with a serious nightmare problem. She’s haunted, pure and simple, so she enters a clinic where even stranger things happen. Is Skynet using the clinic for brain-mapping?
Saturday
“Finding Neverland,” 7 p.m. on Oxygen — Looking for a good movie to watch at home? This is it. Johnny Depp is masterful as writer J.M. Barrie, the British author who penned “Peter Pan.” Kate Winslet plays the object of his affection, with Julie Christie and Dustin Hoffman rounding out the superb cast.
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February 14, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“King of the Hill,” 7:30 p.m. on Fox — Austinite Mike Judge’s final season of this animated sitcom is better than ever. In tonight’s episode, Hank accompanies his boss to the National Propane Gas Convention. Temptations ensue.
“Oliver Twist,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A “Masterpiece Classic” adaptation of Charles Dickens’s 1837 novel. The young orphan flees a cruel workhouse for the dirty streets of London, where he falls in with a nefarious gang. The shrewd Artful Dodger, menacing Fagin and vicious Bill Sikes lead Oliver deep into a criminal life.
Monday
“The Bachelor,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Fans of this dating show take note: We’re getting down to the wire. Single dad Jason takes the final three women on overnight dates in New Zealand, and one (sniff, sniff) is sent packing. Two hours of torture.
“Dogs 101,” 8 p.m. on Animal Planet — The hour-long show checks out past presidential dogs. Will this help the Obamas choose a First Pup for Sasha and Malia? Maybe.
Tuesday
“Frontline,” 8 p.m. on PBS — “Inside the Meltdown” examines factors that have led to our sorry economic state, the worst such crisis since the Great Depression. Gulp.
Wednesday
“Lie to Me,” 8 p.m. on Fox — I didn’t want to like this show, but I do. Tim Roth, as the human lie detector, is fantastic. The team tries to prevent the assassination of a South Korean ambassador at a state wedding. Love the real photos of alleged liars (we’ve seen Bill Clinton and George W. Bush, among others.)
“CSI: New York,” 9 p.m. on CBS — If you’re an analog-only viewer and haven’t hooked up your converter box, you may be out of luck tonight. KEYE made the DTV switch at midnight last night. But if you’re up and running: Stella and her date find themselves in the middle of a crime scene when the corpse of the mayor falls from the ceiling as balloons drop at a charity fundraiser.
“American Masters,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Actor Ron Rifkin narrates this look at director-choreographer Jerome Robbins, who transformed Broadway with shows such as “West Side Story’’ and “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Thursday
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Roy Spence, co-founder of Austin’s GSD&M Idea City, talks about launching the famous ad agency in 1971 with five enterprising friends.
“ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — The long road to a 15th season finale continues with yet another blast from the past. Dr. Carter (Noah Wyle) returns, presumably after wandering through the African wilderness all these years.
Friday
“13: Fear Is Real,” 8 p.m. on the CW — If you’ve been watching this under-the-radar reality show, this is the finale. If not, well, never mind. Tonight the remaining three contestants face the final “execution ceremony,” where one will survive and be awarded $66,666. Doesn’t seem like nearly enough money to go through such humiliation.
Saturday
“The Bridges of Madison County,” 7 p.m. on LMN — Yes, the 10-hanky romantic weeper from 1995 is sappy. So what? Memoirs tell a deceased woman’s children of her four-day affair in 1965 with a photographer on assignment. Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep will rip your heart right out of your chest.
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February 7, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The 51st Annual Grammy Awards,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The sometimes outrageous festivities in Los Angeles honor excellence in the recording industry. Katy Perry, Kenny Chesney, Coldplay, the Jonas Brothers, Jennifer Hudson, Carrie Underwood and Lil’ Wayne are among those who are scheduled to perform.
Monday
“Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show,” 7 p.m. on USA, continues at 8 p.m. on CNBC — The 133rd edition of the classy canine carnival opens in New York’s Madison Square Garden. The hound, terrier, non-sporting and herding groups compete tonight.
“American Experience: The Assassination of Abraham Lincoln,” 8 p.m. on PBS — The film takes a look at America’s first (and sadly not the last) assassinated president two months after Lincoln’s second inaugural address. “Fashion Police: The 2009 Grammy Awards,” 9 p.m. on E! — Celebrity fashion highlights, lowlights and disasters at the Grammys. Expect a nightmarish hoot, as always.
Tuesday
“Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show,” 7 to 10 p.m. on USA — The sporting, working and toy groups are judged, followed by that all-important best-in-show crowning. There may never be another champ like Uno, the Central Texas beagle who won last year, but we’ll be pulling for our favorite contender. Go pointers!
“Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Get in the mood for Saturday’s heart holiday with Charlie and the Peanuts gang.
Wednesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — We’re winnowing down to the Top 36 contenders tonight in a 2-hour episode from Hollywood.
“Top Chef,” 9 p.m. on Bravo — It’s the last supper, and the final five chefs go to extremes to impress the judges before the finale. Fire and maybe even a bit of brimstone.
Thursday
“The 40th NAACP Image Awards,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Halle Berry and Tyler Perry host a celebration of the accomplishments of African Americans working in music, TV, film and literature. Jennifer Hudson and Seal are scheduled to perform.
“Burn Notice,” 9 p.m. on USA — We sometimes forget this is on, but it is and it’s still very good. Tonight a federal agent returns to Miami to force Michael to hand over blackmail material, and the two enemies must work together during a bank robbery.
Friday
“Friday Night Lights,” 8 p.m. on NBC — It’s been two weeks since our last reminder. Tonight Cash’s dark side comes to light for a stunned Tyra, and Coach Taylor makes a painful decision in the quarterback war.
“O Brother, Where Art Thou?” 7 p.m. on WGN — George Clooney is hilarious in this 2000 Coen Brothers film about a lawman who tracks three escaped convicts in 1930s Mississippi. Allegedly based on Homer’s “The Odyssey,” but really, not so much.
Saturday
“Sleepless in Seattle,” 7 p.m. on Oxygen — Need a romantic movie for Valentine’s Day? This 1993 offering stars Meg Ryan as a Baltimore newswoman and Tom Hanks as a Seattle widower. The two are tricked into romance by the guy’s super-cute, motherless son.
“Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre,” 7 p.m. on History — Not feeling the love? Check out this documentary about the bloody Chicago bootlegging war of 1929, when Al Capone’s gang slaughtered seven of Bugs Moran’s gang. Pop some corn and enjoy.
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January 31, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Super Bowl Pre-Game Show,” 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on NBC — Exactly how much of Al Roker and Bob Costas can you take? If you can take a lot, check out the five-hour pre-kickoff hype. Stars and rockers and President Barack Obama abound.
“Super Bowl Game,” 5 p.m. on NBC — The Arizona Cardinals and the Pittsburgh Steelers butt helmets. The commercials, which are the reason about half the audience tunes in, are expected to be less spectacular this year. Thanks, bad economy.
Monday
“Chuck,” 7 p.m. on NBC — This is a 3-D episode, so don your glasses or be prepared to get queasy. Chuck foils a plan to kill an international rock star but gets in trouble when he spends a night out with the rocker.
“The Polio Crusade,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Based on University of Texas history professor David Oshinsky’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book “Polio: An American Story,” the film chronicles the largest public health experiment in American history. The polio epidemic terrified Americans for decades, affecting thousands of children. In 1954 hope emerged, and the Salk vaccine trials began.
Tuesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Finally, we’ve hit the Hollywood rounds, which means fewer of the painfully awful warblers and more of the ones we actually care about.
“Independent Lens,” 9 p.m. on PBS — “Adjust Your Color: The Truth of Petey Greene” looks at America’s first shock jock, Petey Greene, who didn’t hold anything back on his raw, uncensored radio and TV shows in the late 1960s and ’70s.
Wednesday
“Katie Couric’s All Access Grammy Special,” 8 p.m. on CBS — The Perky One interviews Justin Timberlake, Lil’ Wayne, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift in anticipation of the Feb. 8 Grammy Awards.
“George Carlin: The Mark Twain Prize,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A ceremony at the Kennedy Center salutes the achievements of the envelope-pushing comedian, satirist and author, who died a week after learning he would receive the 2008 Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. Timing, as they say in comedy, is everything.
Thursday
“American Originals: The Westminster Dog Show,” 8 p.m. on CNBC — Pooch lovers alert: Next week is the king of all dog shows (Feb. 9 and 10), and to get us in the mood, this is a look at the history of the famous canine extravaganza.
“ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — In the never-ending parade of former stars returning to the 15th and final season, William H. Macy revives his role as Dr. Morgenstern. The series conclusion comes April 2, and it’s not a huge secret that sometime between now and then, George Clooney will be back as Dr. Doug Ross, and Susan Sarandon will guest star with him.
Friday
“Jockeys,” 8 p.m. on Animal Planet — A new series that documents a group of riders and their mounts was filmed during 30 days and highlights the competitive nature of the racing biz. It’s good prep for the Kentucky Derby, coming in May.
Saturday
“In the Valley of Elah,” 7 p.m. on HBOZ ( Time Warner channel 706) — If you missed this 2007 Oscar-nominated film, don’t miss it on cable. Tommy Lee Jones will break your heart as a retired military investigator trying to find out what happened to his son, who disappeared after returning from the Iraq War. Written and directed by Paul Haggis, the movie also stars Charlize Theron, Susan Sarandon, Jason Patric, James Franco and Josh Brolin.
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January 26, 2009
'Ugly Betty' on hold
ABC has released a press release saying that it is yanking ‘Ugly Betty’ from Thursday’s schedule to make way for a new comedy block. Starting March 26, the new comedy “In the Motherhood” will kick off the network’s Thursday prime-time lineup, the Los Angeles Times says, followed by “Samantha Who?” with Christina Applegate. “Ugly Betty,” which stars America Ferrera as a plain Jane, has been sagging in the ratings lately. And ABC wants a hit in the lineup because it leads in to “Grey’s Anatomy.” In the press release, ABC said “Ugly Betty” would return to its previous schedule once the comedies had finished their runs, but it did not specify a date. In addition, the network announced that starting March 18, “Scrubs” will move to 8 p.m. Wednesdays, followed by the new comedy “Better Off Ted.”
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January 24, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The 15th Annual SAG Awards,” 7 p.m. on TNT and TBS — The Golden Globes are gone, the Oscars are still to come, but tonight a full flock of stars will turn out for the Screen Actors Guild Awards. The usual suspects are nominated: Sean Penn for “Milk,” Kate Winslet for “Revolutionary Road,” Jon Hamm for “Mad Men,” Kyra Sedgwick for “The Closer.” The good news is we don’t have to yawn through non-performance awards to get to the pretty people.
Monday
“American Experience,” at 8 p.m. on PBS — The focus is on Robert Oppenheimer, whose life and legacy are linked to America’s most famous top-secret (and deadly) initiative, the Manhattan Project. Bombs away.
“Trust Me,” 9 p.m. on TNT — A new comedy-drama set in the wacky world of advertising (amusing but not on the same planet as “Mad Men”), the fun focuses on long-time pals, art director Mason (Eric McCormack) and copy writer Conner (Tom Cavanaugh). Their friendship and work relationships are tested when Mason is promoted.
Tuesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — With the presidential inauguration in the history books, it’s time to get back to auditions. Wish we could leap-frog to the Hollywood performances. After seven of these episodes, the wannabes all start to look (and sound) alike. And “Idol” is on three nights this week!
“In Context: Cinderella,” 8 p.m. on PBS — KLRU brings opera to viewers in high-definition. In this production of the classic fairy tale by the Austin Lyric Opera, Cinderella is transported to the land of 1930’s Hollywood musicals.
Wednesday
“Life on Mars,” 9 p.m. on ABC — After an annoying break, the time-shifting crime drama returns. Jason O’Mara stars as a New York cop who gets hit by a car in 2008 and wakes up in 1973 with a grumpy boss (Harvey Keitel), a pretty colleague (Gretchen Mol) and a rule-bending fellow detective (Michael Imperioli). Imaginative scripts and terrific performances keep the time gimmick from getting old.
“Damages,” 9 p.m. on FX — Patty works to clear Daniel in his wife’s murder; Ellen and Tom go to West Virginia to gather information in the Big Case. This taut whodunit races along.
Thursday
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Former Texas Comptroller John Sharp talks about his political future, which will include a run for the U.S. Senate.
“Soundstage,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Blues giant B.B. King proves once and for all that the thrill is definitely not gone. Other performers on stage include Solange and Richie Sambora.
Friday
“Friday Night Lights,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Another good one … and we never get tired of reminding you to watch. Coach Taylor is pressured to make a QB change, which leaves Saracen in a funk.
Saturday
“The Super Bowl’s Greatest Commercials,” 7 p.m. on CBS — Looking ahead to tomorrow’s all-day Super Bowl Sunday, this is a showcase of what many people actually watch the pigskin parade for — the fabulous ads.
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January 17, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘We Are One,’ 6 p.m. on HBO — Almost-President Barack Obama kicks off inaugural activities with a concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. HBO has the rights but is making the two-hour show free to anyone with digital cable or satellite. It shows live at 1:30 p.m., and again at 6 and 10:30. Scheduled to appear: Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Bono, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Renée Fleming, Josh Groban, Herbie Hancock, Heather Headley, John Legend, Jennifer Nettles, John Mellencamp, Usher, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor, will.i.am and Stevie Wonder.
‘Big Love,’ 8 p.m. on HBO — Bill, Barb, Nicky and Margene are back and better than ever as our favorite polygamist family. This is one of those weird dramas that shouldn’t be enthralling (polygamy? seriously?) but definitely is. The season opener is a blast.
‘Flight of the Conchords,’ 9 p.m. on HBO — It’s Season 2 of the semi-reality comedy featuring the zany New Zealand comedy-folk duo, Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie.
‘United States of Tara,’ 9 p.m. on Showtime — Toni Collette stars as a housewife with four separate personalities, including a beer-swilling trucker, a gum-popping teen and a cookie-baking June Cleaver. It’s a comedy, but it pokes fun at dissociative identity disorder. Not comfy. Written by Diablo Cody (“Juno”), the half-hour does give Collette a chance to shine.
Monday
‘24,’ 8 p.m. on Fox — It’s lunch time in the new day-from-heck (noon to 1 p.m.), and Jack is on an anti-terrorist tear while his former FBI cohort Renee Walker struggles to control an out-of-control investigation.
Tuesday
‘Inauguration Day,’ 8 a.m. until — Broadcast (ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Univision) and cable networks (CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, BET, CSPAN) will carry the inauguration of Obama, including the swearing-in ceremony (10:30 a.m.) and parade. Most broadcasters also will have specials in prime time.
‘American Idol,’ 7 p.m. on Fox — The singing contest continues tonight and Wednesday night with more auditions.
Wednesday
‘Lost,’ 7 p.m. on ABC — The first hour explores questions that have been answered and those that remain concerning the island and its inhabitants. At 8 p.m., finally, the new season begins with a two-hour episode featuring discord among the Oceanic 6. Should they return to the island to save those left behind? Meanwhile, the survivors on the island are attacked by unknown forces.
‘Lie to Me,’ 8 p.m. on Fox — From the producers of “24,” this new drama stars Tim Roth as a crime-solver who can tell from body-language and spoken language when someone is flat-out telling a big one.
Thursday
‘Texas Monthly Talks,’ 7 p.m. on PBS — Texas House Speaker Joe Straus chats about the new legislative session.
‘Burn Notice,’ 9 p.m. on USA — A new season of the clever Miami comedy-drama begins. After narrowly escaping death, Michael decides to help a desperate father recover money from a medical scam artist. Jeffrey Donovan, Gabrielle Anwar and Bruce Campbell return to this sunny gallop.
Friday
‘Dr. Strangelove Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb,’ 7 p.m. on TCM — Stanley Kubrick directed the 1964 classic about an insane general who starts a process leading to nuclear holocaust that a war-room full of politicians and generals frantically try to stop. Peter Sellers and George C. Scott give spectacular performances.
Saturday
‘U.S. Championships: Ladies Free Program,’ 8 p.m. on NBC — Tiny sprites twirling on ice! The figure-skating championship is always packed with melodrama.
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January 10, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Golden Globe Awards,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Meaningless but fun, the first big awards of the season (“People’s Choice” doesn’t count) are handed out by the Hollywood Foreign Press. Expect Jack Nicholson or Jim Carrey to do something silly.
“24,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Jack is back and having another really bad day. Tony Almeida, previously dead, is back, too. A woman president (Cherry Jones) is in charge of the country, but Jack Bauer is fighting terror on his own terms — as usual. Two episodes air tonight, so set the DVR accordingly.
Monday
“24,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Another two hours of Jack’s bad day before the series settles into its regular one-hour schedule.
Tuesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The eighth season of the pop-singer competition begins with the usual batch of auditions. The judging trio of Simon, Randy and Paula is joined by a fourth — Kara DioGuardi, a songwriter-producer.
“Leverage,” 9 p.m. on TNT — Lots of people are liking TNT’s midseason drama starring Timothy Hutton. The series follows a team of thieves, hackers and grifters who act as modern-day Robin Hoods.
Wednesday
“Make ‘Em Laugh: The Funny Business of America,” 7 p.m. on PBS — The six-hour comedy epic showcases the people who have made us laugh over the years, from Charlie Chaplin to Joan Rivers. Hosted by Billy Crystal.
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — More early-audition warbling, which we’re assured will be less painful this season because talented types will get more screen time than excruciating types.
Thursday
“The Beast,” 9 p.m. on A&E — Patrick Swayze, who hoofed to fame in “Dirty Dancing,” is battling pancreatic cancer and starring in this dark new drama about a veteran FBI agent. The pilot is intriguing, but Swayze looks disturbingly gaunt.
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Lieut. Gov. David Dewhurst gives a preview of the 81st regular session of the Texas legislature.
Friday
“Friday Night Lights,” 8 p.m. on NBC — After a long absence (unless you’ve got DirecTV), the Dillon Panthers and their families and friends return. Lots happening: Smash and Street move on, and Tyra, Riggins, Lyla and Saracen begin their senior year. This third season of the Austin-based series is better than ever.
“Battlestar Galactica,” 9 p.m. on SciFi — New episodes begin tonight with an installment titled “Sometimes a Great Notion.”
Saturday
“Juno,” 7 p.m. on HBO — This little gem of a movie, starring Ellen Page, is truly must-see TV.
“Austin City Limits,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Grammy Award-winners the Foo Fighters rock the house.
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January 3, 2009
This week's TV highlights
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — New episodes return featuring the glamorous gals of Wisteria Lane. The biggest fun promises to be Bree locking horns with her gay son Andrew’s future mother-in-law. Meeeow.
“Superstars of Dance,” 8 p.m. on NBC — If you’ve been pining for some fancy dancing since “Dancing with the Stars” went off the air, NBC has this new hoofing competition, pitting teams from eight countries against one another.
“Masterpiece Classic: Tess of the D’Urbervilles,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A lovely adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s classic novel.
Monday
“Fiesta Bowl,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The University of Texas Longhorns bump helmets with Ohio State. It’s not for the national championship, but it’s a BCS bowl game, OK?
“The Story of India,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Michael Wood’s journey through the history of India chronicles the richness and diversity of its peoples, cultures and landscapes. A more lush-looking documentary you’ve never seen.
Tuesday
“Scrubs,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Back-to-back episodes launch the resurrection of this slapstick sitcom, which was axed by NBC last year. Zach Braff and his merry co-stars are up to their usual medical mischief.
“Nip/Tuck,” 9 p.m. on FX — Sean got knifed and left for dead by deranged Colleen (Sharon Gless) in last season’s cliffhanger. As the fifth season begins, he’s alive but emotionally woozy. Christian gets a bit of bad health news, too.
Wednesday
“Cyrano de Bergerac,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Kevin Kline stars as Cyrano in the play’s first return to Broadway since 1984.
“35th Annual People’s Choice Awards,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Queen Latifah hosts this public-opinion-determined award show, which always has an impressive turnout of nominees.
“Barbara Walters Special,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Babs gets the low-down on Houston’s own Patrick Swayze and his battle with cancer.
“Damages,” 9 p.m. on FX — The season opener finds Ellen (Rose Byrne) out for revenge against powerful Patty Hewes (Glenn Close), and Patty tackling a complicated murder case for a man from her past (William Hurt). Frobisher (Ted Danson), last seen left for dead in a field, has survived … at least for tonight’s episode.
Thursday
“BCS National Championship Game,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The one the Longhorns wanted but didn’t get. The Florida Gators take on the Oklahoma Sooners for the title of No. 1 in college football.
Friday
“Monk,” 8 p.m. on USA — New episodes return: Monk’s half-brother Jack Jr. breaks into Monk’s apartment and manipulates him into helping him beat a murder charge.
“Psych,” 9 p.m. on USA — New episodes here, too: Shawn uncovers a conspiracy that has something to do with the death of a sea lion. There’s always wackiness happening in this comedy-drama.
Saturday
“Golden Globe Awards Preview,” 8 p.m. on TV Guide — For those who just can’t wait, Joey Fatone hosts a look ahead to the first serious award show of the season. The Globes are handed out Sunday (Jan. 11) on NBC.
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December 27, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The Sound of Music,” 6 p.m. on ABC — Kids love it, and the music never gets old. A young nun becomes governess to Capt. Von Trapp’s seven children in Austria before World War II. The 1965 classic stars Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer and a bunch of adorable moppets.
“Nick News Special Edition,” 8 p.m. on Nickelodeon — Linda Ellerbee takes a look at the pros and cons of gender separation in public schools.
Monday
“Greatest Holiday Moments: Hilarious Home Video Countdown,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Christmas is over. Shouldn’t we be finished with all this stuff? And yet, there’s this, for those who just can’t move on. Note the word “hilarious” is in the title, not our description.
“Great Performances at the Met,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Baritone Gerald Finely plays J. Robert Oppenheimer in “Doctor Atomic,” director Penny Woolcock’s version of the creation of the atomic bomb. Sounds festive, no?
Tuesday
“31st Annual Kennedy Center Honors,” 8 p.m. on CBS — The Washington gala honors Morgan Freeman, George Jones, Barbra Streisand, Twyla Tharp, Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey. Beyoncé, Garth Brooks, Randy Travis and Denzel Washington are scheduled to appear; and newly revealed U.S. Senate wannabe Caroline Kennedy hosts.
“Eli Stone,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Watch it while you can, because this imaginative series won’t be around for long. In tonight’s new episode, Eli has a vision that causes him to question Nathan’s fiancée’s devotion, and then he comes out of his fog and defends a minister against discrimination.
Wednesday
“Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve,” 9 to 10 p.m., 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on ABC — Don’t be sad if you’re home on New Year’s Eve. (You’ll feel so much better than your hard-partying pals tomorrow.) Ryan Seacrest hosts the traditional countdown to the drop of the crystal ball in Times Square. The Jonas Brothers, Ne-Yo, Jesse McCartney, Natasha Bedingfield, Fall Out Boy, Solange and Robin Thicke will perform.
“New Year’s Eve With Carson Daly,” 9 p.m. on NBC — The countdown begins in Times Square with T.I., Katy Perry and Elton John scheduled to appear.
“New Year’s Eve Live,” 10 p.m. on Fox — Spike Feresten and Mark Thompson host this one, with performances by David Cook, Daughtry, Scott Weiland and Lynyrd Skynyrd and a 200-foot jump attempt by daredevil Robbie Knievel.
Thursday
“Rose Bowl Parade,” 10 a.m. on ABC and NBC — Smell the roses, see the floats!
“Rose Bowl,” 4 p.m. on NBC — The granddaddy of all bowl games features Penn State against USC.
“Orange Bowl,” 7:30 p.m. on Fox — It’s Cincinnati versus Virginia Tech.
Friday
“Cotton Bowl,” 1 p.m. on Fox — Texas Tech’s Red Raiders take on Mississippi.
“Sugar Bowl,” 7:15 p.m. on Fox — It’s Alabama and Utah this year.
Saturday
“NFL Football,” 3:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on NBC — An AFC or NFC wild card game. We know not which or who.
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December 6, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘House of Saddam,’ Parts 1 and 2, 8 p.m. HBO. A new four-part miniseries on the rise and fall of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein premieres, with Igal Naor (“Rendition,” “Munich”) in the title role. Shohreh Aghdashloo, who was great in “House of Sand and Fog,” plays his first wife, Sajida. Nobody does miniseries better than HBO.
‘Dexter,’ 8 p.m. Showtime. In the new episode `I Had a Dream,’ the quirky serial killer (Michael C. Hall) tries to figure out a way to get rid of his pesky, dangerous friend Miguel (Jimmy Smits, who steals almost every scene he’s in). If Dexter doesn’t do the dastardly deed, this show could end up being called “Miguel.”
Monday
‘Mystic River,’ 9 p.m. AMC. If you don’t believe Sean Penn is one of America’s greatest actors, go see “Milk” on the big screen this weekend and then watch this Oscar-winning performance in director Clint Eastwood’s drama about the death of a daughter.
Tuesday
‘Johnny Cash: A Man and his Vision,’ 10 p.m. KLRU. This special looks at the music legend’s variety series, “The Johnny Cash Show,” that aired from 1969 to 1971. During that time, Cash hosted such legends as Bob Dylan, Loretta Lynn, Ray Charles and Neil Young. Also at 9 p.m. Saturday.
Wednesday
‘High Noon,’ 9 p.m. TCM. Westerns don’t get any better than this. As a town marshal, Will Kane (Gary Cooper) finds out that a killer is coming for him at noon and that he’ll have to face him alone because no one is willing to help. Cooper won an Oscar for his stoic portrayal. From 1952. A must-see for any film buff.
‘The Rachel Maddow Show,’ 8 p.m. MSNBC. This edgy gal takes no prisoners when she delivers the news. And she’s quickly gaining a following, especially among young people. She’s the rising star of MSNBC.
Thursday
‘ER,’ 9 p.m. NBC. Sam, played by Linda Cardellini, wants to take Alex (Dominic James) off the ventilator. Meanwhile, Morris (Scott Grimes) gets an unexpected package from his dad. In its last season, this medical drama still manages to impress.
‘The Day the Earth Stood Still,’ 7 p.m. AMC. Chilling scenes. Excellent pacing. A fine performance from Patricia Neal. Can the new version of this 1951 classic be anywhere near as good? We’ll see when the new “Stood Still,” starring Keanu Reeves and Jennifer Connelly, opens Dec. 12. Meanwhile, savor the original.
Friday
‘My Music: My Generation - The 60s,’ 9 p.m. KLRU. See the essential folk rock, R&B and pop performances from the 1960s in the latest production of the “My Music” fundraising series. Saturday
‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes,’ 1 p.m. TCM. If winter ever truly arrives in Texas, it would be fun to curl up in bed and spend a lazy day watching Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell camp it up in this 1953 classic comedy. Great songs include “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.” Great dialogue from Monroe’s Lorelei Lee: “I can be smart when it’s important, but most men don’t like it.”
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November 29, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Celtic Women: The Greatest Journey,” 6 p.m. on PBS — The vocal ensemble performs holiday music as images of Ireland decorate the screen. Pretty to hear, pretty to see.
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — The Wisteria Lane gang struggles to recover from a deadly fire. There are hints that injuries from the fire may have happy consequences for Carlos and Gaby — which probably means Carlos regains his sight and Gaby will be forced to re-glamourize.
Monday
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” 7:30 p.m. on ABC — Boris Karloff narrates this 1966 animated tale of a gnarly curmudgeon and the sweet souls of Whoville.
Tuesday
“Panda Tales,” 7 p.m. on PBS — The story of San Diego’s giant panda cub Zhen Zhen and the zoo’s conservation efforts on behalf of a once dwindling species. The fuzzy fellows are aw-shucks cute.
“New York Earthquake,” 9 p.m. on Discovery — A terrifying what-if about the devastating effects a major earthquake would have on New York City.
Wednesday
“Three Tenors Christmas,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Taped in 1999, the special features José Carreras, Plácido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti performing popular Christmas songs and carols.
“Christmas in Rockefeller Center,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Beyoncé, Tony Bennett, Neil Boyd, the Jonas Brothers, Harry Connick Jr., David Cook, Rosie O’Donnell and the Broadway Kids, Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts and Solange Knowles are scheduled to perform at the 76th annual tree lighting celebration in New York.
“The Grammy Nominations Concert Live: Countdown to Music’s Biggest Night,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Grammy nominations are announced live, with scheduled performances by Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Foo Fighters, B.B. King, John Mayer and Taylor Swift.
Thursday
“Barbara Walters Presents: The 10 Most Fascinating People of 2008,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Among those whom Walters dubs “fascinating” are Will Smith, Tom Cruise, Tina Fey, Rush Limbaugh, Miley Cyrus and Olympic gold-medalist Michael Phelps.
“ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — In an episode with the holiday-themed title of “Let It Snow,” Alex and Sarah get into a nasty car accident, and Neela testifies in a lawsuit over a dead patient. Sounds jolly.
Friday
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Jim Carrey plays the green curmudgeon who hopes to quash Christmas in this big-screen version.
“Greatest Holiday Moments: TV & Film Countdown,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Highlights of cherished holiday specials, from “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’’ and “It’s a Wonderful Life’’ to ‘’Home Alone’’ and “A Christmas Story.’’
Saturday
“Dancing With Dogs,” 8 p.m. on Animal Planet — Dog-and-owner dance teams prepare to compete in the Animal Planet Cup. Think canine “Dancing with the Stars.”
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November 22, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘American Music Awards,’ 7 p.m. on ABC — Jimmy Kimmel hosts this made-for-TV awards show, with tonight’s scheduled performers including Christina Aguilera, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, Alicia Keys, Pink, Rihanna and Kanye West.
‘24: Redemption,’ 7 p.m. on Fox — Jack Bauer tries to save kids from being drafted into an African dictator’s bloodthirsty army. It’s a so-so interlude to hold fans over until the taut conspiracy series returns in January.
‘True Blood,’ 8 p.m. on HBO — In the first-season closer of Alan Ball’s weird vampire drama, Austin actor Mehcad Brooks plays Benedict “Eggs” Talley, a mellow fellow from the school of hard knocks. An Anderson High grad, Brooks’ credits include “Boston Public,” “Glory Road,” “In the Valley of Elah,” “Desperate Housewives” and “The Game.”
Monday
‘Boston Legal,’ 9 p.m. on ABC — Shirley’s intimate Thanksgiving dinner with Carl turns into a dysfunctional family affair when she invites Alan, Denny, Jerry, Katie, Edwin and his 6-year-old foster son. Last week’s preview looked outrageous.
Tuesday
‘Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,’ 7 p.m. on ABC — Kick that football, Charlie! We know he’ll miss it, but the Peanuts special marks the beginning of the holiday season.
‘Dancing with the Stars,’ 8 p.m. on ABC — One of the three remaining celebrities — Brooke Burke, Warren Sapp or Lance Bass — will take home the cheesy looking mirror ball.
‘The Shield,’ 9 p.m. on FX — The 90-minute series conclusion will wrap up years of corruption, violence and every bad deed you can think of. Will Vic Mackey live or die? Will we ever see another show this raw?
Wednesday
‘The White House: Behind Closed Doors,’ 8 p.m. on History — President and Mrs. George W. Bush invite viewers on a 90-minute televised tour of the White House; antiquary twins Leslie and Leigh Keno join the tour, offering insights.
‘Sons of Anarchy,’ 9 p.m. on FX — Season finale: In the wake of a tragedy, the club must re-evaluate its bonds of brotherhood. Charlie Hunnam, Ron Perlman, and Katey Sagal star in this edgy drama about a close-knit motorcycle club in Northern California.
Thursday
‘Texas vs. Texas A&M,’ 7 p.m. on ESPN — A prime-time pigskin outing of our favorite showdown, Longhorns vs. Aggies. I’m betting a lot of Texans will be planning their turkey gobbling accordingly.
‘Downtown,’ 8 p.m. on PBS — Learn how influences from live music venues such as the Vulcan Gas Co. and the Armadillo World Headquarters have become part of today’s Austin culture.
Friday
‘The Polar Express,’ 7 p.m. on ABC — The gorgeous 2004 animated telling of Chris Van Allsburg’s 1985 book. Tom Hanks voices the conductor.
Saturday
‘Charlie Wilson’s War,’ 7 p.m. on HBO — A hard-drinking, womanizing Texas congressman (Tom Hanks), a sexy socialite (Julia Roberts) and a CIA agent (Philip Seymour Hoffman) crusade for freedom fighters in Afghanistan. Very entertaining flick in spite of the bad Texas accents.
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November 15, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Nature,” 7 p.m. on PBS — A a special on the continent’s most recognizable aerial predator, the bald eagle. Loyal readers may recall that I had to watch a trainer feed mice chunks to a bald eagle last summer at a PBS press conference in Los Angeles. Let’s hope the show will be less gruesome.
“Masterpiece Contemporary: Filth,” 9:30 p.m. on PBS — An intriguing insider drama about British morality crusader Mary Whitehouse and her David-and-Goliath struggle with the BBC in the 1960s.
“Sunday Night Football,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Aren’t we glad KXAN and Time Warner finally kissed and made up? Tonight is the showdown between the Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Redskins that we might have missed.
Monday
“Chuck,” 7 p.m. on NBC — In my humble opinion, “Heroes” is sinking, but “Chuck” remains wonderfully entertaining. Light-hearted and clever with a top-notch cast and smart writing, the comedy-spy saga is a nice antidote to Blue Mondays.
“Thanksgiving,” 8 p.m. on Food Network — As we gather our recipes old and new, it never hurts to check in on what this superb cable channel has to offer.
Tuesday
“The Shield,” 9 p.m. on FX — We’re getting close, Vic Mackey fans. Next Tuesday (Nov. 25) is the series finale, and anybody who’s ever seen this Michael Chiklis cop show knows Vic is going to pay for his sins. This week’s episode sets up the last chapter, so it’s a don’t-miss installment.
“Dr. G: Medical Examiner,” 9 p.m. on TLC — If you find yourself grossed out by all the slicing and dicing on the “C.S.I.” franchise, keep in mind they’re fiction. This documentary series follows the dead-body adventures of a real cop doc searching for clues and scientific evidence.
Wednesday
“Top Chef,” 9 p.m. on Bravo — The new season launched last week, but it’s not too late to get wrapped up in this excellent reality cooking show. You never know what’s going to happen with the kitchen divas.
“NBA Basketball,” 7 p.m. on ESPN — It’s an all-Texas night of round-ball, with the Dallas Mavericks dribbling up against the Houston Rockets.
Thursday
“Life on Mars,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Yes, I remember writing a negative review of this show when it debuted in September. I thought it was too gimmicky, having a cop hit by a car and getting knocked from 2008 to the 1970s. But surprise-surprise! The stories are really good. Last week it was a smackdown between blacks and Puerto Ricans, with Whoopi Goldberg in a terrific guest role. The regular cast? Fabulous — Jason O’Mara, Harvey Keitel, Michael Imperioli and Gretchen Mol couldn’t be better.
Friday
“Ricky Gervais: Out of England,” 7:30 p.m. on HBO — The comedy genius who created and starred in the original British version of “The Office” performs at New York’s Madison Square Garden. This guy’s so funny it hurts.
Saturday
“Austin City Limits” 7 p.m. on PBS — KLRU brings Gnarls Barkley’s eccentric hip-hop and R&B sounds to the stage, followed by the psychedelic beat of Thievery Corporation’s new album “Radio Retaliation.”
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November 8, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — The five-year leap forward hasn’t hurt this wacky comedy one bit. In fact, the mysteries have gotten better. Tonight: Katherine’s secret is revealed; Susan learns shocking news about Jackson; and, best of all, Mrs. McCluskey uncovers stuff about creepy Dave.
“Masterpiece Theatre,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Oliver Dimsdale stars as Louis Trevelyan, an insecure and jealous husband, in this adaptation of Anthony Trollope¹s “He Knew He Was Right.”
Monday
“American Experience: The Crash of 1929,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Sound familiar? The film focuses on the stock-market crash of 1929, specifically the economic and psychological consequences.
“Boston Legal,” 9 p.m. on ABC — In the final season, creator David E. Kelley is letting loose with this wacky comedy-drama. Denny and Alan keep polishing their deep friendship, and Jerry, recently named a partner in the firm, keeps endearing himself to us. Tonight’s case is about abortion.
Tuesday
“The Mentalist,” 8 p.m. on CBS — One of the few new hits of the season, Simon Baker takes an intriguing character and makes him better. He plays a police consultant who is less a psychic than just a guy who really pays attention.
“Frontline,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Lee Atwater, the maestro of dirty politics, masterminded Republican victories until he was stricken with terminal brain cancer. Before his death at the age of 41, Atwater expressed remorse, but his impact, examined here, lingers.
“Extreme Trains,” 9 p.m. on History Channel — Each episode will tell the story of one train, starting tonight with a coal train that weighs more than 15,000 tons when it crosses the Allegheny Mountains transporting its cargo from mines to power plants. Coming soon: the speedy Amtrak Acela.
Wednesday
“The 42nd Annual Country Music Awards,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Hosted by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood, the show will feature performances by Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Rodney Atkins, Kellie Pickler and Keith Urban.
“Monarchy: The Royal Family at Work,” 7 p.m. on PBS — An inside look at the daily rituals and traditions of the House of Windsor. A royal nod from Queen Elizabeth gave producers rare access.
Thursday
“2008 Latin Grammys,” 7 p.m. on Univision — Live from Houston, it’s the annual festival of Latin music. Grammys are bestowed in numerous categories, but it’s the performances that make this show great.
“ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — In its 15th and final season, the medical drama has introduced a bunch of dull newcomers, but tonight’s episode brings an original back from the dead. In a flashback, Dr. Banfield (Angela Basset) remembers when Dr. Green, played by Anthony Edwards, treated her son.
Friday
“The Starter Wife,” 9 p.m. on USA — Debra Messing continues to soar in this Hollywood insider comedy-drama. We forget about this one sometimes because it’s buried on Friday nights, but it’s a keeper.
Saturday
“Accidental Friendship,” 8 p.m. on Hallmark Channel — Chandra Wilson (“Grey’s Anatomy”) plays an embittered homeless woman who strikes up an unlikely friendship with a female cop in Los Angeles. Drama ensues. As schmaltzy movies go, it’s pretty good.
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November 1, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Brotherhood,” 7 p.m. on Showtime — In the third season opener of this superb Rhode Island-produced drama about an Irish family divided along political and criminal lines, Tommy considers a risky career change and Michael becomes ever-more violent. Matriarch Rose faces fading health and a nightmare health-care system.
“Last Enemy,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A scientist, an aid worker and a desperate father unwittingly get caught up in a global mystery in the part five showing of this latest installment of “Masterpiece Contemporary.”
“The Unit,” 9 p.m. on CBS — After barely earning a renewal, the taut drama, starring Dennis Haysbert, has really begun to shine.
Monday
“Saturday Night Live Presidential Bash 2008,” 8 p.m. on NBC — We probably won’t see the real Sarah Palin make a live appearance on this traditional election special (presumably the governor will be campaigning somewhere), but the current campaign has been a bonanza for “SNL” and company. Tina Fey’s Palin likely will be all over the place, along with snippets from all the contenders dating back to the primaries.
Tuesday
“Election Night,” 7 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS and all cable news networks — It ain’t over ‘til it’s over, so we’ll just have to see how long it takes to wrap up the never-ending 2008 election season. Barack Obama or John McCain? House and Senate majorities for Democrats or Republicans? Look for lots of flashy “magic maps” and a preponderance of pundits.
Wednesday
“Medal of Honor,” 8 p.m. on PBS — America’s greatest heroes, the recipients of our country’s highest honor for military service, are profiled. Produced and directed by Roger Sherman, the 90-minute film traces the history of the Medal of Honor, from a profile of Sgt. Paul Smith, the first soldier to receive a Medal of Honor in the Iraq war, back to its creation during the Civil War.
“Law & Order,” 9 p.m. on NBC — The dependable old standby returns well ahead of its scheduled midseason arrival. In its 19th season, it’s just as good as ever, with terrific story-telling and fine acting. We could use a tad more Sam Waterston (he’s not as prominent as the district attorney as he was as a prosecutor), but that’s small potatoes.
Thursday
“C.S.I.,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Grissom asks Lady Heather, his lovely fetish friend from seasons prior, for help when the team investigates a case connected to the world of domination. Fans have long believed Grissom, who will depart before the end of this season, just might wind up taming the dreamy dominatrix.
“Soundstage,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Charismatic crooner Josh Groban dazzles 15,000 fans as he performs “Awake,” “You Are Loved,” and “Machine,” to name just a few.
Friday
“San Antonio Spurs vs. Miami Heat,” 7 p.m. on ESPN — Ready for some round-ball? NBA action tonight should be hot.
“Great Museums: Year of the Museum Specials,” 10 p.m. on PBS — Having post-World Series withdrawal? Take a look at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y.
Saturday
“Austin City Limits,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings perform classic soul and funk, followed by Carolyn Wonderland’s blend of rock, blues and soul.
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October 25, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Mad Men,” 9 p.m. on AMC — Jon Hamm, who stars as New York ad man Draper, shepherds the second season of Emmy’s best drama series to its conclusion. Only about 1.5 million U.S. viewers tune in weekly, compared with the 19 million-plus audience for last week’s “CSI.” But it’s a hit anyway and will return for a third season.
“Frontline,” 9 p.m. on PBS — In case you don’t know enough about the personal and political biographies of John McCain and Barack Obama, check out “The Choice: 2008.”
Monday
“Primal Fear,” 8 p.m. on History — Super-creepy. Take a look into what drives our deepest fears, such as being buried or burned alive and drowning. The program examines the science of how the body reacts to fear — a timely bit of info for this Halloween week.
Tuesday
“KXAN News,” 5, 6 and 10 p.m. — Leslie Rhode (formerly Leslie Cook) returns to Austin to anchor the local news with Robert Hadlock. Rhode has been anchoring in Washington, D.C., while her husband served in the Bush White House. She replaces Michelle Valles, who left KXAN in a contract dispute.
“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The popular animated special, based on the comic strip Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz, debuted on network TV in 1966, and it’s been eagerly anticipated every fall since.
“Ghosts on the Underground,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Take a journey through London’s public transport system from a chillingly unfamiliar perspective. You’ve never seen the tube quite like this.
Wednesday
“Barack Obama,” 7 p.m. on Fox, NBC and CBS — The Democratic candidate for president has bought a half-hour of prime time to make his final case for the Nov. 4 election. If Republican John McCain buys a chunk of prime, we’ll let you know that, too.
Thursday
“The Real Exorcist,” 6 p.m. on Sci-Fi — As the title suggests, this multi-part series takes a gander at people who perform religious rituals to rid people of demonic possession. No pea soup spewing here, but plenty of gruesome screaming.
“30 Rock,” 8:30 p.m. on NBC — At long last, its the third season opener of the most-talked about but least-watched sitcom on TV. Tina Fey plays Liz Lemon, not Sarah Palin, in this one, and she’s trying to adopt a baby.
Friday
“Poltergeist,” 6:30 p.m. on ABC Family — It’s h-e-e-e-e-ere! As you wait for the doorbell to ring and wee goblins to shout “Trick or treat,” check out this superb scary flick from 1982.
Saturday
“27 Dresses,” 7 p.m. on HBO — If you missed this fluffy little romantic comedy featuring “Grey’s Anatomy” star Katherine Heigl, it’s the perfect chick flick, especially if you’re home alone feeling sorry for yourself.
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October 18, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The Simpsons,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Football legend Joe Montana guest-voices as himself, dropping by a party to celebrate Lenny winning the lottery.
“Masterpiece Contemporary,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Stephen and Yasim join forces with a rogue agent to get to the bottom of a bio-weapons conspiracy in Part Three of “Last Enemy.”
“True Blood,” 8 p.m. on HBO — Weird is the word for this Alan Ball-created vampire series set in Louisiana. The series continues with an episode that finds Tara ordering up an exorcism to purge her mother of a demon and Jason going on a frantic search for more vampire juice.
“Mad Men,” 9 p.m. on AMC — Set those DVRs. Only two episodes remain in this season of the Emmy-winning period drama. Tonight, an old friend and Don reconnect, and Pete’s personal problems have a bad effect on a big account.
Monday
“Rita Rocks,” 7:30 p.m. on Lifetime — Nicole Sullivan (“MADtv”) stars in this new sitcom about a stressed-out wife and mother who tries to blow off steam by forming a garage band with a couple of friends.
“American Experience,” 8 p.m. on PBS — The documentary chronicles President Lyndon Johnson’s childhood of poverty, his rise to political power and his 1964 election victory.
Tuesday
“Scream 2008,” 8 p.m. on Spike — Another award show? Sure. This outrageous awards gala honors the best in horror, science fiction, fantasy and comics and has offbeat categories like “Most Memorable Mutilation.” “The Dark Knight” leads the nominations with 21 nods.
“Rookies,” 9 p.m. on A&E — A new reality series that follows a group of police-academy grads during their first few weeks on the street. This one is more like a documentary than a reality show, and it’s nicely done.
Wednesday
“The World Series,” 7 p.m. on Fox — It’s Major League Baseball’s biggie. First game is tonight.
“Stylista,” 8 p.m. on the CW — This new competition tries to channel “Project Runway” and “The Devil Wears Prada” as 11 hopefuls battle for an editorial position at Elle magazine. There’s a bit of a mean spirit to this one, but some reality fans like that.
“Austin City Limits,” 10 p.m. on PBS — Singer-songwriter Lyle Lovett performs with acclaimed tunesmiths John Hiatt, Guy Clark and Joe Ely. Rockin’ good fun.
Thursday
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — U.S. Senate candidate Rick Noreiga talks with host Evan Smith.
“BET Hip-Hop Awards,” 7 p.m. on BET — Top nominees Lil Wayne, Ludacris and Young Jeezy are among the scheduled performers at this edgy gala. Look for way-out-there fashion statements.
“Downtown,” 8 p.m. on PBS — It’s the season opener of this locally produced series exploring life in downtown Austin.
“In Context,” 8:30 p.m. on PBS — And it’s the season opener for another KLRU series, tonight featuring Berlin painter Edward B. Gordon, Austin singer Chrysta Bell and Mazatlan’s Delfos contemporary dance company.
Friday “Crusoe,” 8 p.m. on NBC — One of the last new series to premiere last week, this odd adventure brings back the classic shipwrecked guy with his good pal Friday … and a bunch of other folks. Pretty to look at, but fans of the English classic by Daniel Defoe likely will cringe.
Saturday
“D.L. Hughley Breaks the News,” 9 p.m. on CNN — Standup comic D.L. Hughley joins the serious cable network with a new show that plays funny with the news.
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October 11, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Sunday
‘Sarah Silverman,’ 9:30 p.m., Comedy Central — The new season of the acerbic comic is under way, and in this season’s episodes, she’ll discover marijuana and sue the entire country of Mongolia for rape. This gal is a mess.
‘Mad Men,’ 9 and 10 p.m., AMC — Don Draper (John Hamm) makes new friends on a trip to Los Angeles, while Peggy (Elisabeth Moss) becomes romantically inclined. The most addictive, nicotine-laden show on television.
Monday
‘My Own Worst Enemy,’ 9 p.m. on NBC — Christian Slater stars as Henry/Edward, a highly conflicted guy. One side of him is average; the other side is top-secret. It’s all related to his being part of a government spy program, and his life gets quite complicated. Alfre Woodard co-stars.
Tuesday
‘Eli Stone,’ 9 p.m. on ABC — Jonny Lee Miller is a charmer as a San Francisco lawyer who ‘sees things.’ And it’s good to see this show back on the air for a second season.
Wednesday
‘Atonement,’ 7:30 p.m. on HBO — This multiple Oscar nominee from 2007 focuses on a young woman who falsely accuses her sister’s lover of a crime. Keira Knightley, who can be seen in theaters in ‘The Duchess,’ stars in a tale based on the Ian McEwan novel.
Presidential Debate, 8 p.m., PBS, ABC, NBC, CBS — The third and final debate between Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain is held at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y.
Thursday
‘True Blood,’ 9 p.m., HBO — This Louisiana-based series about a young woman who can read people’s minds and her vampire boyfriend is one of the quirkiest ever. Created by Alan Ball of ‘Six Feet Under.’ If you haven’t given it a try, now might be the time. Oscar winner Anna Paquin stars.
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October 4, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — I know, I know. This was recommended last week, but that season opener was so divine that I think this season is shaping up to be a humdinger. Creepy new characters, odd twists on old characters and just the right mix of mystery, melodrama and outright comedy.
“Dexter,” 8 p.m. on Showtime — Boy, this comedy-drama about a serial killer is back with a vengeance. I forgot to highlight the season opener last Sunday, but I’ve seen tonight’s episode, and it’s never too late to point out the genius of this twisted, totally bizarre show. Michael C. Hall should have won an Emmy for making us cringe, gag, laugh and empathize with a guy who slices people to pieces.
Monday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Is 82-year-old Cloris Leachman going to be the token clunker kept in the competition way too long? Maybe. She’s funny and brazen, but seriously folks, the woman is not actually dancing. She’s being led around the floor in silly costumes and heavy makeup. Regardless, this is still one of the most engaging reality shows on the air.
“American Experience” at 8 p.m. on PBS — An interesting and inspiring look at the life of Jimmy Carter, former peanut farmer and governor of Georgia who captured the White House in 1976. While his presidency was not exactly a highlight of American history, Carter has gone on to do great things, from charity work to winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
Tuesday
“Presidential Debate,” 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, MSNBC, CNN, C-SPAN — This is the second showdown between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain. It’s a town-hall format, which should be more relaxed than the podium performance last time. Former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw moderates.
Wednesday
“Latinos ‘08,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A look at how candidates and advocacy groups are trying to attract this unpredictable group of voters. This is especially timely as we inch toward Nov. 4.
“Dirty Sexy Money,” 9 p.m. on ABC — This campy, “Dynasty”-style sudser got lost last season when it premiered. And then it disappeared with the writers’ strike. But the story of the filthy-rich Darling clan, with Donald Sutherland and Jill Clayburgh at the head of the family, is a terrific guilty pleasure. The top-notch cast includes Peter Krause and William Baldwin in juicy roles.
Thursday
“Texas Senatorial Debates,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Check out the candidates vying for U.S. Senate, including John Cornyn and Rick Noriega.
“C.S.I.,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Finally, the original and best of the franchise series begins its new season. Lots of action, including the demise of one character and hints of the departure of another. Plus gooey stuff under a microscope.
“Eleventh Hour,” 9 p.m. on CBS — The debut of a new and deeply confusing series about a biophysicist (Rufus Sewell) who helps out the government when weird things like cloning threaten our national security. Sci-fi buffs may enjoy. Me? Not so much.
Friday
“Spain … On the Road Again,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Gwyneth Paltrow, Mario Batali and Mark Bittman dig for shellfish in Galicia. Paltrow’s love of Spain and Spanish food blend nicely, and the Oscar-winner seems to be having a terrific time. She told “Entertainment Tonight” that she gained eight pounds filming this series.
Saturday
“Spider Man 2,” 7 p.m. on FX — This 2004 sequel is very bit as good as the original and makes for fun family fare.
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September 27, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Season opener: Five years since we last saw the residents of Wisteria Lane, Katherine and Bree are sparring business partners, Susan has a new romance, Gaby is the chunky mother of two and Lynette is wrangling teenage sons who have turned into hoodlums. Sounds good to me!
“Brothers & Sisters,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Season opener: Justin and Rebecca try to hide their romantic feelings; the Walker siblings try to reach a long-lost brother without mom Nora finding out; Kitty and Robert prepare to adopt a child; and Kevin’s legal career is on the ropes. Typical of the Walker family.
“The Simpsons,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Season opener: Homer winds up in jail after a scuffle at a parade, and Marge, clueless as usual, begins working at an erotic bakery.
“King of the Hill,” 7:30 p.m. on Fox — Season opener: Bill is diagnosed with diabetes and decides to spin around in a wheelchair he doesn’t need.
Monday
“Chuck,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Season opener: Chuck continues to stumble through his new duties as a spy and asks Sarah out on a first date. This fun, frothy newcomer was grounded by the writers’ strike soon after its debut. Let’s hope it reconnects this time.
“Life,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Season opener: Detectives Charlie and Dani pursue a serial killer who is stuffing bodies in trunks around Los Angeles.
Tuesday
“P.O.V. — “Critical Condition,” 8 p.m. on PBS — The struggles of four critically ill Americans showcase the nation’s growing health care crisis. Documentary filmmaker Roger Weisberg puts a personal touch on the staggering statistic that 47 million Americans live without health insurance. The four people illustrate the havoc bad health without health-care can wreak on jobs, homes and lives.
Wednesday
“Pushing Daisies,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Season opener: Chuck goes undercover at a honey-based cosmetics company after the spokes-model is stung to death. This was one of last season’s most charming and innovative series, a fairy-tale with humor and romance and a look unlike anything else on TV.
“Private Practice,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Season opener: Addison, who spun off “Grey’s Anatomy” last season, returns to her sunny practice in California to find that Naomi is concealing the group’s financial problems. Romance, angst and the occasional medical case will follow.
“Dirty Sexy Money,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Season opener: The most convoluted filthy-rich family saga since “Dallas” and “Dynasty” ruled. The Darlings are back, with priests and illegitimate sons and all kinds of shenanigans. A cool guilty pleasure.
Thursday
“Vice Presidential Debate,” 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, Fox News, PBS, CNN, MSNBC, C-SPAN — Assuming it actually happens (you never know these days), PBS’s Gwen Ifill will moderate the smackdown between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Sarah Palin. Topics foreign and domestic are fair game.
Friday
“The Ex List,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Elizabeth Reaser (Ava on “Grey’s Anatomy”) plays a young woman in search of true love (and marriage) who learns from a psychic that she has dated the guy she’s destined to wed. If she doesn’t find him within a year, she’ll be alone forever. Sounds worse than it is.
Saturday
“The Bodyguard,” 7 p.m. on Oxygen — Sappy and sweet, this 1992 chick flick starring Whitney Houston, back when she was gorgeous and promising, and Kevin Costner when he still could act, is oddly satisfying.
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September 20, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“60th Primetime Emmy Awards,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Hosted by five nominated reality show hosts, the big glitter-fest likely will nod and bow to innovative cable fare such as “Mad Men.”
“Sunday Night Football,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Hate Emmys? It’s the Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers.
Monday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The two-hour season opener introduces celeb hoofers Lance Bass, Toni Braxton, Brooke Burke, Rocco DiSpirito, Maurice Greene, Kim Kardashian, Cloris Leachman (82 years old!), Cody Linley, Susan Lucci, Misty May-Treanor, Ted McGinley, Jeffrey Ross and Warren Sapp.
“Heroes,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Countdown to the premiere comes first, followed at 8 p.m. by the season opener. Press material says “the identity of the shooter is revealed.” Truth or tease?
“CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. on CBS — Horatio was shot in the cliffhanger. Clearly he is not dead because (a) David Caruso is the star/executive producer and (b) the title of the episode is “Resurrection.” Was it an inside job?
Tuesday
“The Mentalist,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Aussie Simon Baker (“The Guardian”) stars as a fake psychic-turned-criminalist. Pretty darn good.
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Sara Gilbert guest stars as a rape victim.
“Debating Our Destiny II,” 10 p.m. on PBS — Jim Lehrer interviews former presidents and vice presidents about their debate experiences.
Wednesday
“Knight Rider,” 7 p.m. on NBC — It’s a Mustang now (not a TansAm), and newcomer Justin Bruening is the special car’s driver. (David Hasselhoff judges a talent show now, remember?). The pilot was never sent for review, which could be a bad sign.
Thursday
“Ugly Betty,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Betty makes a decision about what to do with her life, Ignacio gets a new job and Wilhelmina’s manipulations force Daniel into making changes. It’s busy season opener.
“Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. on ABC — A freak ice storm brings trauma patients to the hospital, where Meredith and Derek are discovering that “happily ever after’’ may not be.
“Survivor Gabon,” 7 p.m. on CBS — Yet another season in the wild.
“My Name Is Earl,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Back-to-back episodes usher in the new season, with Earl checking off his karma list again.
“The Office,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Staffers at Dunder-Mifflin become obsessed with their weight in the wake of corporate weight-loss initiatives. Pam’s off to art school, and Jim is pining.
“ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — The final season of this long-running drama begins with the aftermath of the cliffhanger explosion. This much we know: someone on staff will die.
“Los Lonely Boys Cottonfields and Crossroads,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Hector Galan directed this film about the San Angelo band that rocked its way to the top of America’s music charts.
Friday
“First Presidential Debate,” 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, C-SPAN — PBS anchor Jim Lehrer moderates the first of three throw-downs between Barack Obama and John McCain.
Saturday
“Chris Rock: Kill the Messenger,” 8 p.m. on HBO — A new concert film culled from stand-up performances in South Africa, New York and London. This is HBO, folks, so expect to hear Rock’s tough stuff. Not for kids.
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September 13, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘Desperate Housewives,’ 8 p.m. on ABC — It’s been a long time since we’ve visited Wisteria Lane, so you might need a reminder about what happened before the Sept. 28 season opener. (Sept. 21, the Emmy Awards are on ABC.) Tonight is a repeat of the shocking two-hour season finale from May, the one in which the main characters were catapulted five years into the future.
‘Entourage,’ 9 p.m. on HBO — Cleverly titled “Unlike a Virgin,” this episode trots out further evidence that Vince’s career is in trouble, but the best part is that Tony Bennett guest stars as himself.
Monday
‘Coco Chanel,’ 7 p.m. on Lifetime — If you missed it when it premiered during the political conventions, here’s another chance to see Shirley MacLaine chew up the scenery and the fabric as the famed French haute couturier.
‘The Closer,’ 8 p.m. on TNT — The season-ender is tonight, and maybe, just maybe, we’ll see Brenda say yes to an actual marriage, to go with her long-standing engagement. Thank yew!
‘Monday Night Football,’ 7:30 p.m. on ESPN — The Dallas Cowboys host the Philadelphia Eagles in what is always an angry grudge-filled pigskin contest.
Tuesday
‘House,’ 7 p.m. on Fox — The fifth season of this Emmy-nominated medical drama picks up a couple of months after the death of Wilson’s girlfriend. Still mourning and now feuding with the self-absorbed Dr. House (Hugh Laurie), Wilson resigns … for good?
‘Big Brother 10,’ 8 p.m. on CBS — The reality peep show finally comes to an end, after a summer of silly melodrama, with the announcement of the winner.
Wednesday
‘America’s Next Top Model,’ 7 p.m. on The CW — After the models undergo Tyra-mandated makeovers, some of the women bawl over their new looks. But then they go to Malibu for a swimsuit shoot and all is well.
‘America’s Got Talent,’ 7 p.m. on NBC — We’re down to the Top 10 contestants, for those who still manage to care. ‘The Gospel Music of Johnny Cash,’ 9 p.m. on PBS — Dan Rather hosts a look at the country music icon’s spiritual odyssey, featuring interviews and rare performances by the “man in black.”
Thursday
‘Smallville,’ 7 p.m. on The CW — Major changes are in store as the eighth season begins: Clark Kent moves to Metropolis to work for the Daily Planet, and Lex Luthor is gone. Bummer.
‘Supernatural,’ 8 p.m. on The CW — In the fourth season opener, Dean returns from hell with a touch of amnesia that renders him without memory of his adventure down under. Probably just as well.
Friday
‘Dog Whisperer,’ 8 p.m. on National Geographic — For his 100th episode, Cesar Millan reunites with more than 100 canines that were featured in the first four seasons.
‘Last Lecture,’ 9:30 p.m. on PBS — Before dying of cancer in July, Professor Randy Pausch gave an inspiring discussion of his life at Carnegie Mellon University. This is it, titled “Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams.”
Saturday
‘Outlaw Trail,’ 7 p.m. on PBS — A 90-minute musical celebration of the Wild West, this special includes Austin’s own Joe Ely, Buddy Jewell and Lee Roy Parnell.
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September 6, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“U.S. Open Tennis,” 3 p.m. on CBS — The men’s final is today. Another rematch between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer? We hope.
“Pavarotti: A Life in Seven Arias,” 6 p.m. Sunday on PBS — This doc examines the renowned tenor’s childhood, early career in Italian opera houses and rise to fame.
“True Blood,” 8 p.m. on HBO — Gruesome and funny, this new series is based on the Southern Vampire Mysteries books by Charlaine Harris and adapted for television by Alan Ball. Anna Paquin stars as a telepathic waitress who falls in love with a vampire (Stephen Moyer).
“MTV Video Music Awards,” 8 p.m. on MTV — Yep, Britney Spears is scheduled to reappear, but she won’t be performing after her previous big disaster. Instead, she’s scheduled “to open” the show, the network says.
Monday
“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The second season of the TV spinoff of the sci-fi movies begins tonight. After last season’s scary car explosion, John’s 16th birthday forces him to face his destiny.
“High School Musical: Get in the Picture,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The faculty announces the winner in the series’ finale. The lucky performer will star in a music video to be shown during the closing credits of “High School Musical 3: Senior Year,” coming next year.
Tuesday
“Fringe,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Smell that? It’s the beginning of the fall season, with tonight’s premiere of one of the most eagerly anticipated series. J.J. Abrams (“Lost,” “Alias”) created this sci-fi thriller that focuses on bio-terrorism and medical disasters. Australian newcomer Anna Torv stars, along with Joshua Jackson. The pilot is a disappointment, but the whiff of “The X-Files” smells pretty good.
“Privileged,” 8 p.m. on the CW — Another new series, this one is about a novice reporter who goes undercover for a New York magazine to expose lifestyles of the rich in Palm Beach society. The twentysomething woman hires on as a tutor for twin girls. Priorities will change.
“Fashion Rocks,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Beyoncé, Black Eyed Peas, Chris Brown, Kid Rock, Duffy, Fergie, Justin Timberlake, Lil’ Wayne, Keith Urban, Mariah Carey, Chris Cornell, OneRepublic and Rihanna are scheduled to perform at Radio City Music Hall for this eye-popping extravaganza. Denis Leary hosts.
Wednesday
“Do Not Disturb,” 8:30 p.m. on Fox — A new laughless sitcom about the manager of a chic New York hotel and the stereotypical staffers who surround him. Loud laughtrack accompanies lame jokes. Jerry O’Connell stars.
“Sons of Anarchy,” 9 p.m. on FX — I’m oddly drawn to this new drama that debuted last week and continues to excel this week. Ron Perlman and Katey Sagal are patriarch-matriarch of a motorcycle club with a culture of crime and violence; Charlie Hunnam shines as the club’s conflicted future leader. Adult content.
Thursday
“102 Minutes That Changed America,” 8 p.m. on History — On the anniversary of one of our darkest days, films, photos and recordings from rare archives chronicle the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on New York City’s World Trade Center.
Friday
“The 2008 ALMA Awards,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Eva Longoria Parker hosts the annual celebration of Latino achievement in movies, TV and music. Always a great show.
Saturday
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” 8 p.m. on Disney — Looking for a good family movie? Check out this 2005 adaptation of the Roald Dahl children’s classic, starring Johnny Depp as the wacky, fanciful candy-maker.
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August 30, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Mad Men,” 9 p.m. on AMC — After weeks of Olympics and politics, I’m way behind on one of my favorite shows. (You can catch up on the current season with a marathon starting at 4 p.m.) Tonight’s episode finds deals with the fall-out over the blown American Airlines deal.
Monday
“Republican Convention,” 7 to 10 p.m. on PBS, 9 to 10 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — On the Republicans’ first night in St. Paul, Minn., President Bush and Vice President Cheney will address the faithful. As always, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News and C-SPAN will be there, too.
“Prison Break,” 7 p.m. on Fox — In tonight’s fourth-season opener, Michael (Wentworth Miller) skulks around in Los Angeles in search of the evil folks he believes are responsible for Sara’s murder If you’ve seen the promos, however, you already know that Sara (with her head) is alive.
“Gossip Girl,” 7 p.m. on CW — Talk about guilty pleasures. This teen melodrama returns with even more heat among the lovely pleasure-seekers romping through private schools and clubs in New York. Just tell yourself, “It’s silly, but it’s OK to watch.”
“Raising the Bar,” 9 p.m. on TNT — Legendary producer Steven Bochco (“Hill Street Blues,” “NYPD Blue”) serves up a flashy-looking legal drama with a fine cast that includes Mark-Paul Gosselaar (with terrible hair), Gloria Reuben and Jane Kaczmarek. Sadly, the pilot is not up to Bochco’s usual genius.
Tuesday
“Republican Convention,” 7 to 10 p.m. on PBS, 9 to 10 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — At press time for this section of the newspaper, the featured speaker had not been confirmed.
“The Shield,” 9 p.m. on FX — This gritty crime drama begins its seventh and final season with Vic Mackey (Michael Chiklis) smoldering over a feud with Shane (Walton Goggins) and fretting over threats against his family. Smart money says Vic will pay for his sins (he killed a fellow cop in the pilot) when the show’s finale airs.
“90210,” 7 p.m. on CW — Is the new version of Aaron Spelling’s ‘90s teen sudser any good? Only the network and production team know for sure. CW declined to “spoil the premiere” by sending out screeners. If you loved the Beverly Hills gang before, maybe you’ll love the newcomers now.
Wednesday
“Republican Convention,” 7 to 10 p.m. on PBS, 9 to 10 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — The Republican vice presidential nominee, Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska, speaks tonight.
“Bones,” 7 p.m. on Fox — To launch its fourth season, Brennan and Booth head to London to assist in a murder investigation involving an American woman. Hanky-panky in Harrod’s? Maybe.
“Sons of Anarchy,” 9 p.m. on FX — This dark drama, set in the morally murky world of a California motorcycle club, does what FX series do best: presents characters that straddle the line between good and evil. Ron Perlman, Katey Sagal and hunky Aussie Charlie Hunnam star. Decidedly adult content and language.
Thursday
“Republican Convention,” 7 to 10 p.m. on PBS, 9 to 10 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — Sen. John McCain accepts his party’s nomination for president; balloons will fall.
Friday
“Stand Up to Cancer,” 7 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — Christina Applegate, who recently underwent a double mastectomy, is a headliner for this fundraiser for cancer research. Also scheduled to appear: Austin’s own Lance Armstrong, Jennifer Aniston, Meryl Streep, Forest Whitaker, David Cook and Scarlett Johansson.
Saturday
“U.S. Open Tennis,” 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 p.m. on CBS — The men’s semi-final action today, followed by the women’s final at night.
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August 23, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Beijing Olympics,” 6 p.m. on NBC — Whew! Seems longer than usual this time, doesn’t it? The Summer Games conclude tonight, after 17 days of excitement. The Beijing brass pass the baton to London, where the 2012 Olympics will be held.
“Z Rock,” 10:30 p.m. on IFC — A cross between reality and fiction, this 10-episode comedy follows brothers Paulie Z and David Z and their friend Joey as they struggle to find fame as the Brooklyn-based rock band Z02. The party-hardy guys play the kiddie birthday circuit to make ends meet. A slighter version of HBO’s “Flight of the Conchords.”
Monday
“Democratic National Convention,” 7 p.m. on PBS, 9 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — Big presidential politics, big-time speakers. Cable nets Fox News, CNN and MSNBC will be all over this four-day event this week in Denver, too. Tonight’s featured speaker is potential first lady Michelle Obama.
“U.S. Open Tennis Championship,” 6 p.m. on USA — The final grand slam event of the pro tennis season begins today. USA has early-round action all day (starting at 10 a.m.) and into the night.
“America’s Toughest Jobs,” 8 p.m. on NBC — From the producer of “Deadliest Catch” and “Ice Road Truckers,” this new reality show dares 13 men and women to abandon their regular jobs to compete in extreme employment — like driving an 18-wheeler around the Arctic Circle. Hays High School algebra teacher Sandy Gabriel is among the contestants.
Tuesday
“Democratic Convention,” 7 p.m. on PBS, 9 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — Following tonight’s keynote speaker, former Virginia Gov. Mark Warner, Sen. Hillary Clinton takes to the podium.
“The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency,” 9 p.m. on Oxygen — Hard-charging former supermodel Dickinson begins the fourth season of her reality show with a scary new rule: model wannabes have to live in her Hollywood Hills mansion during the competition.
Wednesday
“Democratic Convention,” 7 p.m. on PBS, 9 p.m. on ABC, CBS and NBC — Former President Bill Clinton speaks first, and he’s likely to upstage Obama’s veep choice.
“Taboo,” 9 p.m. on NGC — Freakish stuff given the classy treatment by National Geographic, this episode looks at “extreme healing” from around the world. Psychic surgery by a shaman, exorcisms … makes you sick just watching.
Thursday
“NFL Preseason Football,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The Dallas Cowboys take on the Minnesota Vikings in Big D. The real pigskin season is just around the corner. KEYE decided to preempt the final night of the Democratic Convention to carry the ‘Pokes.
“Democratic Convention,” 7 p.m. on PBS, 9 p.m. on ABC and NBC — Sen. Barack Obama accepts the nomination for president at the Denver Bronco’s 75,000-seat outdoor stadium. How will they drop the balloons from an open venue?
Friday
“Swingtown,” 9 p.m. on CBS — Roger and Susan plan a surprise party for Janet that sparks shocking revelations. This episode leads up to next Friday’s season finale, which will be part-conclusion and part-cliffhanger. CBS hasn’t ruled out a midseason return.
Saturday
“U.S. Open Tennis Championship,” 10 a.m. — All day and into the night, it’s third-round action.
“Austin City Limits,” 7 p.m. on PBS — The New Orleans Social Club celebrates the ravaged city’s musical history and culture.
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August 16, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Beijing Olympics,” 6 p.m. on NBC — Heading into the final week of competition, gymnastics, track and field (especially the women’s 100m) and women’s springboard diving highlight the coverage.
“Mad Men,” 9 p.m. on AMC — It’s still on, with spectacular new episodes, so if you’re tired of the Olympics, light up a cig and fantasize about advertising in the 1960s.
“Masterpiece Theatre,” 9:30 p.m. on PBS — On “The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard,” a supermarket manager and mother pokes at the political glass ceiling by running for prime minister.
Monday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Here’s what we’ve been waiting for (seriously): the trampoline final. How does one compete in bouncing? Also more individual gymnastics, men’s 400m hurdles and women’s beach volleyball semi-final.
“Documenting the Face of America,” 9 p.m. on PBS — A profile of a group of artists who changed the course of documentary photography in the 1930s and ‘40s.
Tuesday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC —The final night of individual event gymnastics. Boo hoo. Also tonight, the women’s 400m and the men’s 1500m races (Longhorn Leo Manzano should be a contender), men’s springboard diving and, new to the Olympics, BMX cycling.
“Nova,” 7 p.m. on PBS — A minute-by-minute account of the Hurricane Katrina disaster, exploring the human failures that compounded the natural nightmare. Sad and scary.
Wednesday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Stars of the completed gymnastics competition perform exhibition routines for our viewing pleasure. Track and field events heat up.
“Greatest American Dog,” 7 p.m. on CBS — We’re getting down to the tail-end of this canine competition, so pick your favorite and bark it up.
“NextWorld,” 7 p.m. on Discovery — Cars of the future may go faster than the speed of sound, morph from a streamlined roadster into a luxury sedan, and cruise over land and under water. But how much gas will they need?
Thursday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Track and field are the focus, but we can also look forward to former Longhorn diver Laura Wilkinson’s attempt at another gold on the 10m platform. She’s competing against a couple of Chinese divers half her age, but perfection is perfection. She can do it.
“Burn Notice,” 9 p.m. on USA — New episodes are winding down, but this summer espionage series is still one of the most entertaining shows on TV. Fast-paced, sunny and intriguing.
Friday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Men’s 10m platform diving again pits the Americans and the Chinese, and track and field events continue.
“NFL Preseason Football,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The Texas showdown features the Houston Texans and the Dallas Cowboys.
Saturday
“Beijing Olympics,” 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 6:30 to 11 p.m. on NBC — It’s the last full day of competition, so immerse yourself and enjoy the women’s basketball gold-medal game, rhythmic gymnastics, synchronized swimming, boxing, the men’s marathon and 800m race and the men’s 10m platform diving final.
“Madagascar,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Sick of sports? Zoo animals learn to survive in the wild after they wash ashore on an exotic island in this 2005 animated comedy featuring the voices of Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith and Sacha Baron Cohen.
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August 9, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Beijing Olympics,” 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on NBC — Whole lot of basketball (live, in the morning) and swimming (live, in the evening) going on today.
“Masterpiece Mystery,” 8 p.m. on PBS — We’re going to strive to find non-Olympics highlights this week, but it’s not easy. One thing we do know: The seventh season of “The Inspector Lynley Mysteries” begins tonight with Thomas Lynley (Nathaniel Parker) and his trusty partner Barbara Havers (Sharon Small) steeped in murder, abduction and more dark deeds.
Monday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — The men’s gymnastics final is tonight, and more pool action takes place live. “Muhammad Ali: Made in Miami,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Rare footage and interviews chronicle young Cassius Clay’s rise from humble beginnings to boxing legend.
“The Mole,” 9 p.m. on ABC — For those who care, the season finale is tonight, which means the lying- cheating winner will be revealed.
Tuesday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Gymnastics, swimming and beach volleyball are front and center tonight.
“Broken Trail,” 7 p.m. on AMC — This sweeping Western miniseries from 2006 stars Robert Duvall as a wise old cowpoke. It’s not “Lonesome Dove,” but it’s a good fix for those of us who love the genre.
Wednesday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Yes, more swimming, gymnastics and beach volleyball.
“Greatest American Dog,” 7 p.m. on CBS — If it weren’t for the clumsy, personality-challenged owners, none of the dogs would have been eliminated. But the poor critters are leashed to their humans and must suffer the consequences. Nevertheless, this is a fun contest.
Thursday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Gymnastics and beach volleyball, again. Are we tired of host Bob Costas yet? Maybe, but we’ve got many nights to go, so we’ll be patient with his extreme chipperness.
“NFL Preseason Football,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The hot-weather pigskin parade continues, with the Carolina Panthers and the Philadelphia Eagles sweating on the field.
Friday
“Beijing Olympics,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Back to the pool for live swimming contests, and then off to the beach for more volleyball.
“NFL Preseason Football,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Have you noticed that there’s not a lot on TV this week for non-sports fans? Tonight’s preseason game sends the Oakland Raiders to Tennessee to take on the Titans, so at least we can check on former Longhorn quarterback Vince Young.
Saturday
“Beijing Olympics,” 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. on NBC — Spain and the USA play basketball in the morning, swimming and the men’s 100m dash final in the evening. Who’s the fastest man alive? We’ll find out.
“Austin City Limits,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Ladysmith Black Mambazo showcases their rousing combination of South African and Christian gospel traditions.
“Men in Black,” 7 p.m. on TBS — Fun special effects and the chance to see Tommy Lee Jones as a comedy-action figure are the main draws to this 1997 movie … and, of course, the always charming Will Smith.
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August 2, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Apollo 13,” 7 p.m. on AMC — This 1995 true-life space saga, starring Tom Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, holds up beautifully.
“The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants,” 7 and 8:30 p.m. on Family — Check out America Ferrera before she became Ugly Betty. Totally adorable, even without the braces.
“NFL Preseason Hall of Fame Game,” 7 p.m. on NBC — It’s not real football season yet, but for pigskin maniacs, it’s an appetizer. The Indianapolis Colts take on the Washington Redskins.
Monday
“Teen Choice Awards,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Miley Cyrus hosts the kid-favorite awards honoring performers in music, TV, movies and sports. Prepare for squealing in your house if the Jonas Brothers show up.
“American Gladiators,” 7 p.m. on NBC — The season finale is tonight, for those who care.
“Nashville Star, 9 p.m. on NBC — Another season finale, as TV continues to wipe the summer reality slate clean.
Tuesday
“Inside the Koran,” 8 p.m. on NGC — This journey into the heart of the Islamic world presents a cross section of Muslims living according to their interpretations of the Quran. It examines the messages of peace and tolerance that seem to conflict with extremist acts of hatred and violence.
“P.O.V.,” 10 p.m. on PBS — The documentary takes a close look at the dark intensity and raw talent of the late country crooner Johnny Cash.
Wednesday
“Project Runway,” 8 p.m. on Bravo — Am I the only one disappointed by the current season? Seems way too rehearsed and camera-ready, but maybe it’ll get sharper as the competition moves along. I’ll keep the faith … for now.
“The Graduate,” 9 p.m. on TCM — If you’ve never seen this 1967 classic (or even if you have), do yourself a favor and enjoy. Dustin Hoffman plays a coming-of-age kid seduced by life and an older woman. It’s terrific.
Thursday
“So You Think You Can Dance,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The winning hoofer is crowned.
“NFL Preseason,” 7 p.m. on ESPN — More teasing for football fans. It doesn’t count, but the New Orleans Saints go up against the Arizona Cardinals. Labor Day weekend seems so far away …
“Hopkins 24/7,” 9 p.m. on ABC — The last installment of this riveting ABC News documentary series is tonight. We say goodbye to the dedicated medical folks and the patients they tended at Baltimore’s famed Johns Hopkins Hospital.
Friday
“The Olympics Opening Ceremony,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Fireworks, 15,000 Chinese performers and 10,000 athletes take center stage as the Beijing Summer Games officially come to order. Bob Costas is our host tonight and for the next 17 nights.
Saturday
“The Beijing Summer Olympics,” 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 to 11 p.m. on NBC — Let the sports begin! Time for total immersion.
“Transformers,” 7 p.m. on HBO — For those (poor souls) who can’t take the overdose of Olympics, check out this fabulous action-fantasy from last year starring Shia LaBeouf.
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July 26, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
SUNDAY
“Mad Men,” 9 p.m. on AMC — Finally, it’s the opener of Season 2. If you haven’t heard about this stylish, Emmy-nominated drama by now, you’ve been orbiting Mars. The 1960s period piece, set in a New York advertising agency, is THE buzz show on television. Smoking and midday drinking might make a comeback as a result, so don’t be left out of the new season.
“Headline Attacks,” 9 p.m. on Animal Planet — If stylish drama isn’t your thing (what’s wrong with you?), there’s plenty of blood and violence on this true-crime series featuring critters going after humans.
MONDAY
“History Detectives,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Is it possible that something survived the infamous Hindenburg explosion? The super-sleuths on this series investigate whether a palm-sized instrument panel might be an artifact from the dirigible that burned and crashed in 1937.
“Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” 7 p.m. on FX — Not a terrific movie, but if you want to be reminded how Angela Jolie and Brad Pitt became a kid-spawning couple, this 2005 offering is it. The two play spies out to assassinate each other. How romantic is that? Love and lust blossomed for real.
TUESDAY
“Secrets of the Dead,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Newly found remains of ancient women raise the question: Are these gals the mythical Amazons of Greek legend? We see dead people, and they’re intriguing.
“The Cleaner,” 9 p.m. on A&E — Benjamin Bratt’s new drama about an extreme interventionist (and former drug addict) has actually improved from the clunky pilot. In the dead of summer, it’s not a bad dalliance.
WEDNESDAY
“The Glenn Miller Story” and “The Benny Goodman Story,” 7 and 9 p.m. on TCM — These two flicks are fabulous movies with superb big-band music. “Glenn Miller” (1953) stars Jimmy Stewart as the legendary musician, and “Benny Goodman” (1955) features Steve Allen as the band leader in that one.
THURSDAY
“Last Comic Standing,” 7 p.m. on NBC — The chucklehead competition gets down to its finalists in tonight’s two-hour episode. Seems like too much prime time for the wannabe comics, but if amateur stand-up is your thing, this could be your night.
“Hopkins 24/7,” 9 p.m. on ABC — It’s the end of the road for the doctors and nurses of Baltimore’s famed Johns Hopkins Hospital. This documentary miniseries has played out more like a drama than a reality show, and it is arguably one of the best shows of summer. Maybe that’s because it came from ABC News instead of the “alternative series” folks who saddled us with “Wipeout.”
FRIDAY
“Monk,” 8 p.m. on USA — Emmy-nominated once again, Tony Shalhoub is having another fine season as the obsessive-compulsive detective.
“Psych,” 9 p.m. on USA — The two guys on this fast-paced comedy-drama are smokin’ in the show’s third season. James Roday plays a cop consultant who isn’t psychic but has everybody thinking he is, and Dulé Hill plays his reluctant sidekick. The dudes have great chemistry and seem to be having lots of fun.
SATURDAY
“Nanny McPhee,” 8 p.m. on ABC Family — Probably won’t go down in movie history as a kids’ classic, but this imaginative comedy, starring the always brilliant Emma Thompson, is a popcorn flick that’s good for family viewing on a hot Saturday night.
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July 18, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Sunday
“High School Musical: Get in the Picture,” 7 p.m. on ABC — A new reality show the just might be worth watching. Fresh-faced singers and dancers will compete for roles in the next edition of Disney’s wildly popular movie. Nick Lachey hosts.
“Mad Men Marathon,” 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on AMC — A week ahead of the new season premiere, AMC serves up all 12 of last season’s episodes of the fabulous 1960s drama set in a New York advertising agency. A whole day of Jon Hamm? Heaven.
Monday
“Batman Begins,” 4 p.m. on FX — You really ought to see the first in this superior superhero sequence before venturing out for “Dark Knight.” Both are near-masterpieces.
“Batman Tech,” 8 p.m. on History Channel — Batman has been dazzling the world with high-tech wizardry since the DC Comics debut in 1939. In this hourlong documentary, experts check out the Batcave and compare the Dark Knight’s gadgets to real technology.
Tuesday
“Deadliest Catch,” 8 p.m. on Discovery — It’s not really the final hour, but “The Final Hour” is the title of tonight’s episode of the most popular series on Discovery. As the captains wind up a particularly dangerous fishing expedition, ominous weather and human error threaten. If you’ve never caught this documentary show, it’s surprisingly suspenseful.
“South Park: Bigger, Longer, Uncut,” 7:30 p.m. on Showtime — Set aside the offensive factor, magnified in the movie version of the madly popular cartoon. It’s a musical! “Blame Canada!”
Wednesday
“Project Runway,” 7 p.m. on Bravo — Just in case you missed the season premiere last week, catch up with America’s favorite reality design show in its last spool-out before moving to Lifetime.
Thursday
“Camp Rock,” 6 p.m. on Disney — Singing teens and tweens are crawling all over TV these days, thanks in part to the “High School Musical” phenomenon. This Disney original movie is set at a rock camp.
Friday
“Training Day,” 7 p.m on Bravo — Denzel Washington is not afraid to shed his goody-two-shoes image in this intense 2001 police drama. Ethan Hawke also turns in one of his sharper performances.
Saturday
“American Soundtrack: Doo Wop’s Best on PBS,” 6 p.m. on PBS — A reunion show that revives highlights from “Doo-Wop 50,” “Doo-Wop 51” and “Rock, Rhythm, and Doo-Wop.”
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July 12, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Generation Kill,” 8 p.m. on HBO — Let’s stipulate that war is both terrifying and boring, and that this new seven-part miniseries accurately portrays both. But do you really want to watch a bunch of Marines spew foul language, wait around for something to happen and then and invade Iraq? Based on the 2004 book by Rolling Stone reporter Evan Wright, who was embedded in the First Reconnaissance Battalion’s “bravo company,” the dramatization can be riveting at times, but in the very long haul, it’s just a bit much.
“Miss Universe Pageant,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Hey, some diehards love beauty pageants, and this one can be super-cheesy and fun.
Monday
“The Closer,” 8 p.m. on TNT — Thank yew! It’s the new season of cable’s most popular drama. Brenda (Kyra Sedgwick) and her minions investigate a fire that killed four people and try to deal with a reporter attached to the squad for public relations purposes. The case, as usual, is secondary to the sly southern charm of Brenda.
“Saving Grace,” 9 p.m. on TNT — Hard-living, hard-charging Grace (Holly Hunter) chases down a subject on the FBI’s Most Wanted list and becomes a reluctant hero. Her angel tries to keep her grounded, but not successfully.
Tuesday
“The Cleaner,” 9 p.m. on A&E — No, it’s not a reality show about housekeeping. Benjamin Bratt stars in the new series about an “extreme interventionist,” a guy who kidnaps addicts to get them off drugs. The pilot is uneven but promising.
“P.O.V.,” 10 p.m. on PBS — A closer look at The Last Conquistador, a controversial bronze statue that divides El Paso along race and class lines.
“Big Brother,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Yet another season of voyeurism arrives, this one with a 75-year-old Texan mugging for the cameras. Apparently some people really like this stuff, so, you know, I’m just sayin’.
Wednesday
“Project Runway,” 8 p.m. Bravo — A new bunch of fashionistas compete for a big runway show during fashion week. Yes, Tim Gunn is still impeccable.
“So You Think You Can Dance,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The hoofers get down to the Top 10. Pray for no serious injuries during these high-energy performances.
Thursday
“Fear Itself,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Another creepy installment from this surprisingly good summer horror anthology: a young woman awakens in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. Mmmmm zombies.
“Jaws,” 7 p.m. on AMC — It wouldn’t be summer without the ultimate deadliest catch. The 1975 sea horror emptied beaches all over the world back then and still packs a punch today. Dum-DUM, dum-DUM, dum-DUM.
Friday
“Monk,” 8 p.m. on USA — In the new season opener, twitchy crime-solver Monk (Tony Shalhoub) buys a house that turns into a money pit when a handyman goes wild. Remember, Monk does not like disorder of any kind.
Saturday
“Brokeback Mountain,” 7 p.m. on Bravo — One of the most beautiful movies ever made, this 2005 love story boasts heartbreaking performances by Jake Gyllenhaal and the late Heath Ledger. Sigh … sniff.
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July 5, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“U.S. Olympic Trials,” 6 p.m. on NBC — Some of us can’t get enough, so swimming and track competitions continue as America’s teams for Beijing come together.
“Coming Home: When Parents Return From the Front,” 8 p.m. on Nickelodeon — Linda Ellerbee’s superb “Nick News” focuses on the expectations and reality facing children whose parents are coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan. Whether emotionally or physically challenged, these veterans have a profound and often scary impact on their kids.
“The Singing Office,” 8 p.m. on TLC — Ex-Spice Girl Mel B and ‘N Sync vet Joey Fatone crash ordinary workplaces to field teams of singers for a new competition. Maybe the heat’s getting to me, but this reality show sounds promising. Hope they pop into Whole Foods … those folks are always singing.
Monday
“The Bachelorette,” 7 p.m. on ABC — It’s the season finale. I’m not recommending, I’m just sayin’. If you’re a fan, this is the big reveal.
Tuesday
“P.O.V.: The Ballad of Esequiel Hernandez,” 10 p.m. on PBS — Austin filmmakers Kieran Fitzgerald and Brendan Fitzgerald present the story of the first American killed by U.S. military forces on native soil since the Kent State shootings in 1970. Narrated by Tommy Lee Jones, the film explores Hernandez’s death and aftermath. His parents and friends, the Marines on patrol and investigators discuss the shooting and the dangers of militarizing the border.
“AFI Life Achievement Award,” 8 p.m. on USA — Academy Award-winning director and actor Warren Beatty receives tributes and a big award with all of his big Hollywood buddies (hello, Jack Nicholson) in attendance.
Wednesday
“Click & Clack’s As the Wrench Turns,” 7 and 7:30 p.m. on KLRU — Tom and Ray Magliozzi of NPR’s “Car Talk” come to TV with a new animated series.
“Knocked Up,” 7 p.m. on HBO — Totally adorable comedy, directed by Judd Apatow and starring Katherine Heigl, was a blockbuster in 2007 and seems perfect for a summer evening.
Thursday
“Burn Notice,” 9 p.m. on USA — The Miami crime drama is back, and still fabulous. Michael (Jeffrey Donovan) is recruited by the people who “burned” him out of his life as a globe-trotting spy. His new handler wants him to help a computer tech grab data from a private security firm. Gabrielle Anwar returns as his trusty assistant, along with Bruce Campbell as the goofy best pal and Sharon Gless as his cig-puffing mom.
“The Works,” 8 p.m. on History — A new series promises lots of amazing factoids and insights into whatever. Tonight’s topic is garbage; next week it’s beer.
Friday
“Flashpoint,” 9 p.m. on CBS — Surprise! Another scripted drama debuts on CBS, following on the shag-a-delic heels of “Swingtown.” This one’s a crime drama about a strategic response unit in Toronto that rescues hostages and blow up bombs. Enrico Colantoni (“Veronica Mars,” “Just Shoot Me”) stars.
Saturday
“Thelma & Louise,” 7 p.m. on Bravo — the 1991 tough-gal adventure holds up well, with great performances by Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis.
“The Simpsons Movie,” 7:30 p.m. on HBO — Great family fun, a lovely expansion of the landmark Fox comedy.
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June 28, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“U.S. Olympic Trials,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Swimmers compete for spots on the team for Beijing. There’s no way multiple gold-medal-winner Michael Phelps, whose arm span appears to be half the length of a football field, won’t make a big splash.
“The Factory,” 9 p.m. on Spike TV — A semi-scripted sitcom about four working stiffs at a small-town factory. They see their jobs as a welcome break from the horrors of home. Much of it is sexist and politically incorrect, but you can’t help but laugh at some of it.
Monday
“Third World’s War,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Historian Niall Ferguson hosts the three-part series exploring the premise that wars are perpetual and perhaps unavoidable and makes the case for another massive conflict enveloping the world again in the 21st century. Depressing but provocative.
“All About Dung,” 8 p.m. on History — Come on, it’s intriguing, don’t you think? The network publicity department describes this as “a safari to investigate the historical, medical, scientific and evolutionary importance of excrement and what it reveals to researchers.” Oprah has done this topic, too, so how gross can it be?
Tuesday
“Nova,” 7 p.m. on PBS — In anticipation of Friday’s July Fourth celebrations, the science series takes an up-close look at how fireworks are made and set off. Mmmm … sparkles.
Wednesday
“Shear Genius,” 9 p.m. on Bravo — A short haircut challenge (not everybody has manes!) has the stylists creating sexy short styles on the gals from “Real Housewives of Orange County.’’ By the way, does host (and former “Charlie’s Angels” star) Jaclyn Smith ever have a bad hair day?
“Primetime Crime,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Like all the other network magazines, this one has adopted a “whodunit” genre. But compared to NBC’s “Dateline” and CBS’ “48 Hours,” it’s pretty classy.
Thursday
“Fear Itself,” 9 p.m. on NBC — The summer anthology series continues with a scary story about a rookie cop (Elisabeth Moss) who finds herself dealing with a deranged serial killer known as “The Eater.” Gulp.
Friday
“A Capitol Fourth,” 7 p.m. on PBS — No patience for heat and bugs on July 4? Check out the 90-minute gala from Washington, hosted by Jimmy Smits and featuring the National Symphony Orchestra, Huey Lewis, Taylor Hicks and Jerry Lee Lewis. You’ll be glad you have HD when the fiery kabooms erupt.
Other patriotic galas: “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular” (8 p.m. on NBC) from New York, and “Freedom Over Texas” (8 p.m. on KEYE) from Houston.
Saturday
“Wimbledon Ladies Final,” 8 a.m. on NBC — American women to root for? Maybe, but the tennis should be terrific anyway. Champagne and strawberries, anyone?
“Fantastic Four,” 8 p.m. on FX — If you’re sick of spending big bucks on all the comic-book movies out now, this 2005 flick is free … and fun.
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June 21, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Million Dollar Password,” 7 p.m. on CBS — Yep, the old game show returns with Regis Philbin now in the hosting seat and a bigger winning purse.
“Masterpiece/Mystery Theater,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Inspector Lewis sets forth on another magical, murderous mystery tour in “Whom the Gods Would Destroy.
Monday
“Modern Marvels,” 8 p.m. on History — The history of ice cream from gelato to frozen yogurt with trips to factories and a peek inside Ben & Jerry’s flavor innovations. Mmmmmmm.
Tuesday
“I Survived A Japanese Game Show,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Ten Americans compete in a Japanese game show, hoping to win $250,000 and not succumb to humiliation.
“30 Days,” 9 p.m. on FX — A mother who opposes same-sex parents spends a month with domestic partners and their four adopted sons. This should be good.
Wednesday
“AFI Life Achievement Award,” 8 p.m. on USA — Tribute is paid to Warren Beatty, hunky movie star, Oscar-winning director and late-blooming husband (to Annette Bening) and father.
Thursday
“Hopkins,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Behind the scenes at Baltimore’s prestigious Johns Hopkins Hospital. If you thought the fictional docs on “Grey’s Anatomy,” “House” and “ER” had a lot to contend with, wait until you check out these real lifers. Superb.
“Passport to Great Weekends,” 9:30 p.m. on Travel — A music-filled weekend in our very own Austin! Host Samantha Brown takes viewers on her personal tour; it might be interesting to see what an outsider designates as the best venues.
“Reno 911,” 9:30 p.m. on Comedy Central — New season, still funny. The wacky cops of Reno, Nev., continue their romp. Love the uniform short-shorts, don’t you?
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June 14, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The 62nd Annual Tony Awards,” 7 p.m. on CBS — Whoopi Goldberg takes her Oscar-hosting experience and spins it onto a celebration of theater. Among the familiar faces up for awards on Broadway this year are S. Epatha Merkerson (“Law & Order”) for “Come Back, Little Sheba” and Patrick Stewart (“Star Trek: The Next Generation”) for “Macbeth.”
“TV Land Awards,” 8 p.m. on TV Land — These smaller, newer awards celebrate the golden offerings of the small screen, with tributes this time to “Roseanne” and “The Golden Girls.” Vanessa Williams hosts.
Monday
“Weeds,” 9 p.m. on Showtime — The fourth season for America’s favorite pot-selling soccer mom opens tonight in the aftermath of Nancy (Mary-Louise Parker) setting fire to her home. Pulling up stakes, the family moves in with her late husband’s father (Albert Brooks) … near the Mexican border.
Tuesday “AFI’s 10 Top 10,” 7 p.m. on CBS — A list of lists that might prove amusing: the American Film Institute counts down the Top 10 films in 10 different genres. Mindless but fun.
“America’s Got Talent,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Do we? Have talent, that is? We’ll see when the new season arrives for this acts-in-a-blender competition gets underway. Judges returning are David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osbourne and the requisite Brit, Piers Morgan.
Wednesday
“Black Gold,” 9 p.m. on TruTV — From the creator of the wildly popular “Deadliest Catch,” this newcomer follows a tough group of guys working the oil fields of West Texas.
“I Love the ’70s, Volume 2,” 7 p.m. on VH1 — If you love the ’70s but can’t take the fake mustaches on “Swingtown,” this one’s for you. At least the 1970s had some good music.
Thursday
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — In honor of Juneteenth, host Evan Smith interviews Wallace Jefferson, the first African American on the Texas Supreme Court.
“Juneteenth Jamboree,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A celebration of the 143rd anniversary of slavery’s end. The program explains the history of blacks in Texas and profiles the namesake of the annual Alvin Patterson Battle of the Bands.
Friday
“Camp Rock,” 7 p.m. on Disney — Scorching-hot teen band the Jonas Brothers stars in this musical movie about a girl who attends a music camp and finds her true voice. (Repeats 7 p.m. Saturday on ABC, for those without cable.)
“The 35th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards,” 7 p.m. on ABC — “All My Children’s” Cameron Mathison and “The View’s” Sherri Shepherd serve as hosts of the soap-and-talk glamour-fest.
Saturday
“U.S. Olympics: Women’s Gymnastics Trials,” 7 p,m. on NBC — Take an early look at the muscular little pixies who will represent us in Beijing.
“The Parent Trap,” 7 p.m. on ABC Family — Before she got so wild and controversial, Lindsay Lohan did a nice job playing twins in this 1998 revival of the 1961 Disney movie.
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June 7, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
‘When We Left Earth: The NASA Missions,’ 8 p.m. on Discovery — This three-part documentary series, narrated by Gary Sinise, celebrates NASA’s 50th anniversary. Astronauts such as John Glenn and Neil Armstrong recall their historic space explorations, illustrated with archival footage transferred into stunning high-definition.
‘Law & Order: Criminal Intent,’ 8 p.m. on USA — The lone “Law & Order” dumped by NBC begins its new season on cable with Vince D’Onofrio reprising his offbeat cop role in the premiere. (Christopher Noth alternates the lead with D’Onofrio.)
‘Army Wives,’ 9 p.m. on Lifetime — Last season’s cliffhanger (a man walks into a bar and threatens to blow himself up) is resolved as this drama about soldiers’ spouses begins its second season.
Monday
‘Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired,’ 8 p.m. on HBO — The documentary takes a look at the turbulent life of the Polish-born, award-winning director of “Rosemary’s Baby” and “Chinatown,” including the murder of his pregnant wife Sharon Tate by Charles Manson’s minions and his conviction for having sex with a 13-year-old girl. It’s a fascinating and bizarre journey.
‘Nashville Star,’ 8 p.m. on NBC — After five seasons on USA cable network, the country-crooning competition begins its sixth season on broadcast TV with Billy Ray Cyrus hosting.
Tuesday
‘Frontline,’ 8 p.m. on PBS — In an episode titled “On Our Watch,” the documentary series profiles activists traveling through refugee camps in Darfur.
‘30 Days,’ 9 p.m. on FX — National Football League player Ray Crockett spends a month in a wheelchair to experience life like his former teammate Mike Utley, who was paralyzed in a 1991 game.
Wednesday
‘Celebrity Circus,’ 8:30 p.m. on NBC — The reality series presents C-listers like Christopher Knight and Rachel Hunter performing stunts under the Big Top.
Thursday
‘The A-List Awards,’ 9 p.m. on Bravo — D-lister Kathy Griffin hosts a celebration of the stars of fashion, design, food and pop culture.
‘Texas Monthly Talks,’ 7 p.m. on PBS — Editor/host Evan Smith chats up novelist Sarah Bird.
Friday
‘High School Musical 2,’ 7 p.m. on Disney — The phenom from last summer gets a replay.
Saturday
‘Dana Carvey: Squatting Monkeys Tell No Lies,’ 9 p.m. on HBO — Who knows if the former “Saturday Night Live” regular is still funny … I just like the title.
‘The Princess Diaries,’ 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on ABC Family — The 2001 movie, starring Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews, is the perfect girly-girl sleep-over fare for summer.
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May 31, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“In Plain Sight,” 9 p.m. on USA — It’s a new season for this smart crime drama starring Mary McCormack as a federal marshal working the federal witness protection beat. Assorted baddies make for big fun.
“2008 MTV Movie Awards,” 7 p.m. on MTV — Mike Myers hosts the tricked-out award show featuring offbeat categories such as “best kiss” and “best fight.”
“The Tudors,” 8 p.m. on Showtime — The second season finale shouldn’t hold out too many surprises, since most of us know the fate of Anne Boleyn. But we should be royally entertained anyway.
Monday
“The Mole,” 9 p.m. on ABC — After a four-year absence, the needlessly complicated reality competition returns. Think of “Amazing Race” with a traitor … and without the fabulous cinematography.
“Verminators,” 9 p.m. on Discovery — Hungry for a little gross-out fare? Check out the hunters of rats, roaches, bedbugs and all manner of nasty critters. Huge eeeew factor.
Tuesday
“30 Days,” 9 p.m. on FX — The third season opens for documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock’s innovative series. This time, the “Supersize Me” dude goes to work for a month as a coal miner in his native West Virginia.
“Independent Lens: Writ Writer,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Austin filmmaker Susanne Mason’s exploration of the life of jailhouse lawyer Fred Cruz and his battle to secure rights for Texas prisoners.
Wednesday
“MonsterQuest,” 8 p.m. on History — It’s summer … even the History Channel lightens up. This series checks out legendary monster sightings, from Bigfoot to Swamp Beast, using high-tech equipment and “eyewitness” accounts.
Thursday
“Swingtown,” 9 p.m. on CBS — A racy melodrama about couples in 1976 suburban Chicago who dabble in wife-swapping and group sex, the series gets the ‘70s look right, but the characters sort of defy explanation. An intriguing experiment nonetheless.
“Fear Itself,” 9 p.m. on NBC — If this horror anthology lives up to its first episode, it could be the must-see network show of summer. Jesse Plemons, our beloved Landry on “Friday Night Lights,” takes center stage for the opening episode as a creepy bad guy trapped in an old fort where all manner of nightmares await.
“NBA Finals,” 8 p.m. on ABC — It’s the first game of the final showdown of very tall men in very long shorts trying to toss a round ball into a round hoop.
Friday
“Live at Gotham,” 9 p.m. on Comedy Central — The third season of the comics’ showcase from New York’s famed Gotham Comedy Club arrives. Jeff Dunham hosts a slew of young (and not-so-young) standups competing for viewers’ guffaws.
Saturday
“Finding Nemo,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The fabulous animated fish story from 2003, featuring voices such as Ellen DeGeneres and Albert Brooks, makes for perfect family viewing on a hot summer night.
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May 24, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Recount,” 8 p.m. on HBO — With the 2008 presidential election shaping up to be as close as the 2000 showdown, might this be a cautionary tale? The exceedingly well-done docudrama takes us back to that nerve-wracking time when the U.S. presidency was hanging by a chad in Florida. The film tracks the frantic legal maneuvers in the two camps, with Kevin Spacey as Al Gore’s point man Ronald Klain and Tom Wilkinson as Bush advocate James Baker. A chilling time cleverly recreated.
“The National Memorial Day Concert,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Always stirring, this year’s annual tribute to American soldiers features Gladys Knight, Sarah Brightman, Denis Leary, Rodney Atkins, John Schneider, Charles Durning and former Secretary of State (and general) Colin Powell.
Monday
“The Andromeda Strain,” 8 p.m. on A&E — A four-hour remake of the 1971 feature film, this special-effects laden re-telling has Eric McCormack as a reporter tracking a mysterious plague that spreads after a satellite crashes in a small town in Utah. The cast also includes Benjamin Bratt, Andre Braugher, Viola Davis, Daniel Dae Kim, Christa Miller and Rick Schroder. (Concludes at 8 p.m. Tuesday.)
“So You Think You Can Dance,” 7 p.m. on Fox — A poor substitute for the much classier “Dancing with the Stars,” but for those having dance withdrawal, it’s better than nothing. (More on Wednesday and Thursday.)
Tuesday
“Frontline,” 8 p.m. on PBS — The superb documentary series investigates human smuggling from Mexico to the United States.
“48 Hours,” 9 p.m. on CBS — The Big Eye news team takes an oh-so-timely look at polygamy.
Wednesday
“NHL Stanley Cup Finals,” 7 p.m. on NBC — For those who care, the puck stops here.
“NBA Eastern Conference,” 7:30 p.m. on ESPN — The Celtics and the Pistons trade hoops.
“Men in Trees,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Recently canceled, the sweet little Alaska drama airs a new episode.
Thursday
“Lost,” 8 p.m. on ABC — After agonizing delays, partly due to the writers’ strike but also due to production delays, the two-hour fourth season finale airs tonight. The Oceanic Six allegedly find themselves closer to rescue as the confrontation between survivors and freighter people continues.
Friday
“2008 National Spelling Bee,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The final round, hosted by “Dancing with the Stars” emcee Tom Bergeron, showcases a bunch of very bright kids. Try to keep up. We dare you.
Saturday
“Scooby-Doo,” 7 p.m. on ABC Family — Freddie Prinze, Jr., and Sarah Michelle Gellar star in this 2002 comedy based on the old TV series. Kids will enjoy. Grownups? Not so much.
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May 17, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — In the two-hour season finale, Lynette is accused of child abuse (last week she slapped that devil’s spawn she inherited from her hubby), Susan and Mike coo over their new baby, Gaby bonds with her drug-dealing housemate and Katherine’s secrets finally spill. Is Edie really gone? We doubt it.
“Academy of Country Music Awards,” 7 p.m. on CBS — Live from Las Vegas, Reba McEntire hosts the ceremony. Kenny Chesney leads the nominations with 12, and he’s scheduled to perform.
Monday
“Gossip Girl,” 7 p.m. on CW — Secrets revealed, cliffhangers posed on this first-season finale. A guilty pleasure? You bet!
“House,” 8 p.m. on Fox — Grumpy Dr. House continues to battle murky memories of the bus crash in the series’ fourth season finale.
“The Bachelorette,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Austin’s “Bachelor” Brad Womack dumped her, but now DeAnna gets to choose from 25 hunky contenders in her new summer series.
Tuesday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 8 p.m. on ABC — A new champ is crowned, the ugly mirror ball is bestowed.
“NCIS,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The fifth season of Mark Harmon’s crime drama comes to a two-hour conclusion.
Wednesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Hearts have been broken, careers have been made. Tonight the Battle of the Davids concludes with the crowning of either Archuleta or Cook as the new Idol. Be patient. It’s going to take two hours for the confetti to fall.
“Boston Legal,” 9 p.m. on ABC — The fourth season finale, praise be to ABC, will not be the series finale, which was the sad speculation before the last-minute renewal. Denny and Alan bid goodbye (for the summer) with one more cigar and Scotch on the balcony. Oh, and they allegedly get accepted into the Coast Guard.
Thursday
“Ugly Betty,” , 7 p.m. on ABC — The parade of gorgeous, fabulous guest stars continues with Supermodel Naomi Campbell on the show’s second season finale.
“Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. — In the fourth season finale, Meredith and Derek ponder their status.
Friday
“Meerkat Manor,” 7, 8 and 9 p.m. on Animal Planet — If you missed some of the domestic dramas of these real-life rodents, back-to-back episodes will help you catch up. And if you’ve never seen them, well, these mini-mongoose critters are totally adorable.
Saturday
“Austin City Limits,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Superstars R.E.M. take to the stage in an episode filmed during South by Southwest in March.
“Titanic,” 7 p.m. on TBS — This 1997 blockbuster holds up well, from the gorgeous theme song to the amazing, ship-sinking special effects to the enduring love story. Sigh.
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May 10, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The Simpsons,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Talk about irreverent! This long-running comedy kills off Homer’s mom on Mother’s Day. I’m not making this up. Mona Simpson (voiced by Glenn Close) drops dead, setting off feelings of guilt (d’oh!) in Homer for not being a better son.
“Survivor: Micronesia,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The 16th incarnation (can you believe it?) of the bug-eating, back-stabbing reality show concludes with a two-hour finale. Lose weight and win $1 million dollars. Not a bad gig.
Monday
“American Gladiators,” 7 p.m. on NBC — I’m not likin’ … I’m just sayin.’ A new season of the rowdy, cult-fave game show hosted by Hulk Hogan and Laila Ali begins.
“House,” 8 p.m. on Fox — The first part of a two-part season finale finds the grumpy Dr. House involved in a nasty bus accident that leaves him with (what else?) amnesia.
“Dirty Jobs,” 8 p.m. on Discovery — The gross-out favorite of young (especially) and old alike, the episode checks out employment on a stinky turkey farm.
Tuesday
“Reaper,” 8 p.m. on CW — When Sam can’t keep an evil soul he caught from returning to earth, the Devil sends him to fix the “leak in hell.” So that’s the problem!
“Work Out,” 9 p.m. on Bravo — Ab straining, lung busting workouts accompanied by hysterical therapy sessions equal the strange world of uber-trainer Jackie’s fitness program. We prefer stretching and strolling, but it’s fun to watch others suffer.
Wednesday
“America’s Top Model,” 7 p.m. on CW — The three final contestants wreak havoc on a Cover Girl photo shoot. Tyra Banks will, after stirring up much hissing and weeping, crown the winner.
“Boston Legal,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Big-time Republican politicians ask wacky gun-toting Denny Crane to run for President. Doesn’t sound all that far-fetched to me.
Thursday
“My Name Is Earl,” 7 p.m. on NBC — In the hour-long season finale, Earl experiences turbulence in his marriage to Billie. (Did you know Earl was married? I didn’t. I lost track.)
“The Office,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Another hour-long season finale finds an upheaval in Dunder Mifflin’s human resources department. To wit: Toby’s outta there.
“Texas Monthly Talks,” 7 p.m. on PBS — Texas Monthly editor Evan Smith chats up music legend Lyle Lovett.
Friday
“Moonlight,” 8 p.m. on CBS — The season (and likely the series) finale finds the Los Angeles vampires hiding from investigators after one of their own kills a human.
“Numb3rs,” 9 p.m. on CBS — Yet another season finale. Doesn’t it seem like this thread-bare TV season is crashing early? We used to have fresh episodes until Memorial Day. No more.
Saturday
“Million Dollar Baby,” 7 p.m. on AMC — The Oscar-winning film boasts top performances by Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman. Depressing but fabulous.
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May 3, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Cranford,” 8 p.m. on PBS — The latest entry from “Masterpiece Theater” springs from the writings of Elizabeth Gaskell. Set in 1842, the three-part film (continues May 11 and May 18) chronicles life in a rural English town that’s teetering on the brink of major change. Oscar winner Judi Dench stars, along with Eileen Atkins and Imelda Staunton.
“Cold Case,” 7 p.m. on CBS — This superbly filmed but often overlooked crime drama airs its season finale tonight. Ending early without an early renewal commitment doesn’t bode well for the show’s future.
Monday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Will Latino hunk Cristian de la Fuente survive two dances? Or even one? Last week, you may recall, he popped a tendon in his bulging bicep. Fans voted him back anyway. We’ll see if he can do it.
“Independent Lens,” 10 p.m. on PBS — In honor of Cinco de Mayo, the series profiles the Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles, the first all-female mariachi band. Bravo!
Tuesday
Democratic Primary Results, 6 p.m. on CNN, Fox News and MSNBC — Once again the broadcast networks are ceding election coverage to cable news. And once again tonight’s primaries in North Carolina and Indiana could be decisive.
Wednesday
“American Masters,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A splendid bio-pic of legendary singer Marvin Gaye. Shot to death by his own father in 1984, Gaye’s music contributions may be well-known, but his battles with family violence, depression and drug addiction may not be. This is the full picture of a genius.
“Audition: Barbara Walters’ Journey,” 9 p.m. on ABC — The hour gallops through Walters’ long-running career, with side trips into her mostly private personal life. ABC anchor Charles Gibson hosts.
Thursday
“Beijing Olympic Stadium,” 8 p.m. on National Geographic Channel — Nicknamed the “Birds Nest,” this incredibly ambitious design comes from 42,000 pounds of steel and hundreds of tons of concrete. It’s the main venue for the Summer Olympics, which begin Aug. 8.
Friday
“True Hollywood Story Investigates: Cheerleading,” 7 p.m. on E! — Into every couch potato’s life a little cheese must fall. A two-hour doc on cheerleading culture, replete with back-stabbing and nail-biting, should fill the bill.
Saturday
“Braveheart,” 8:30 p.m. on HBO — If you can’t remember why Mel Gibson was once a major movie star, check out this spectacular historical saga about the crusading Scottish rebel William Wallace. Not only does Gibson star, he won the directing and best picture Oscars.
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April 26, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your TV viewing week.
Sunday
“Carrier,” 8 p.m. on KLRU — A total immersion in the high- stakes world of a nuclear aircraft carrier. The documentary (which continues Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 8 p.m.) tracks sailors and officers aboard the USS Nimitz as they navigate their private lives and the war on terror.
Monday
“House,” 8 p.m. on Fox — Back with new episodes, the grumpy doc suspects there’s something wrong with an emergency room patient who seems way too happy. Only Dr. House would diagnose a sunny disposition as an illness.
“The Paper,” 9:30 p.m. on MTV — If you haven’t discovered this little gem, check it out. When was the last time you saw a reality show about teens who are smart, ambitious and passionate about journalism? Never, right? Here’s your chance.
Tuesday
“Women’s Murder Club,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Angie Harmon’s freshman crime drama takes another shot at finding an audience. Based on James Patterson’s crime novels, this series, set in San Francisco, seemed promising in its fall debut but fell victim to bad scheduling and the writers’ strike. It’s worth checking.
“Law & Order: SVU,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Robin Williams guest stars in the show’s 200th episode. Not surprisingly, he plays a creepy guy who gets even creepier after he’s arrested and put on trial for a creepy crime.
Wednesday
“American Idol,” 8 p.m. on Fox — After last week’s elimination of Carly Smithson, with Syesha Mercado in the bottom two (and bumbling Brooke White and yawning Jason Castro safe), the suspense is chilling.
“Farmer Wants a Wife,” 8 p.m. on CW — I’m not necessarily recommending. I’m just sayin’ … Here’s a new reality series that’s basically “The Bachelor on a Farm.” Take it or leave it.
Thursday
“Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Dr. Addison Montgomery returns tonight, but it’s just temporary. Kate Walsh’s spinoff, “Private Practice,” has been renewed for next season. Friday:
“20/20,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Brit reporter Martin Bashir tends to focus on tabloid stories, but tonight he takes us on a lovely tour of the Sistine Chapel.
Saturday
“The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The perfect family movie. This 2005 adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ novel follows four adventurous youths on a magical trek from World War II era London into a world of mythical creatures.
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April 19, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Masterpiece Theatre: ‘My Boy Jack,’ ” 8 p.m. on PBS — Daniel Radcliffe, best-known as “Harry Potter,” stars as Rudyard Kipling’s teenage son, who goes missing in action during World War I.
“Sweet Nothing in My Ear,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Marlee Matlin, who is profoundly deaf and has stunned viewers with her graceful twirls on “Dancing with the Stars,” stars in this “Hallmark Hall of Fame” movie about a couple who disagree about the merits of a cochlear implant for their deaf son. Jeff Daniels plays the dad.
“Brothers & Sisters,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Back after the writers’ strike, the show picks up in the heat of Robert’s presidential campaign and the growing heat of Nora’s romance with Isaac. Look for surprises on both fronts.
Monday
“Gossip Girl,” 7 p.m. on CW — Blair tries to adjust to being un-cool (LOL!), and Serena tries to hide the mysteries of her life.
“Dirty Jobs,” 8 p.m. on Discovery — Mike Rowe, who loves to get his hands (and body) filthy, heads to Alaska to wallow in the goo of a fish processing ship. Smell-o-Vision.
Tuesday
Pennsylvania primary coverage, 5 p.m. on MSNBC, 6 p.m. on CNN, 7 p.m. on Fox News — The broadcast networks are ceding this bout between Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton to the cable networks. Fine by me.
Wednesday
“Law & Order,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Jesse L. Martin bows out as Detective Greene, and Anthony Anderson (“K-ville”) joins the squad. (Martin wasn’t fired; he’s returning to stage and big screen.)
Thursday
“Ugly Betty,” 7 p.m. on ABC — All new, at last! Betty’s plan to spend a romantic 24th birthday with Henry go awry, and Wilhelmina tries to spoil sister Renee’s romance with Daniel. We missed this sweet, campy show.
“Grey’s Anatomy,” 8 p.m. on ABC — Also back from the dead, the sexy surgeons of Seattle Grace are hooking up and splitting up again. For now, Meredith and Derek are split; Derek and Rose are together.
Friday
“Moonlight,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Mmmm … vampires are back. Mick wants to give up blood-sucking to become human, but love gets in the way.
Saturday
“Letters From Iwo Jima,” 7 p.m. on AMC — Clint Eastwood directed this deeply moving 2006 film about the Battle of Iwo Jima, told from the perspective of Japanese soldiers.
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April 12, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Masterpiece Theatre,” 7 pm. on PBS — Jane Austen’s “Sense and Sensibility” airs both parts of this two-part adaptation starring Hattie Morahan and Charity Wakefield as two sisters weighing their options among three ardent suitors.
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — At long last, the ladies of Wisteria Lane return with new complications and silly scenarios. Looks like this batch of episodes will be considerably lighter and campier than the cancer and tornado plot lines featured previously.
“Viva Hollywood!,” 9:30 p.m. on VH1 — A dozen desperately ambitious Latina wannabe stars share a house and compete for a role on a Telemundo telenovela. Possibly tacky enough to be fun, or possibly offensive. We’ll see. Host Maria Conchita Alonso moderates the backstabbing.
Monday
“2008 CMT Music Awards,” 7 p.m. on CMT — Billy Ray Cyrus and his wildly popular daughter Miley co-host the live telecast that anticipates performances by dozens of country crooners, including Tim McGraw and LeAnn Rimes.
“American Experience,” 9 p.m. on PBS — All-American writer Walt Whitman takes center stage in this two-hour profile.
Tuesday
“The Biggest Loser,” 7 p.m. on NBC — After weeks and weeks of diet and public torture (physical and emotional), the show staggers to its final episode. Is this a title you’d want on your resume, Biggest Loser?
“The Riches,” 9 p.m. on FX — The travelers continue to get into highly amusing hot water, so check ‘em out. Minnie Driver and Eddie Izzard have never been better.
Wednesday
“Presidential Debate,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Will there be fireworks or schmoozing between the two Democratic contenders? Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama lock horns once again (isn’t this their 200th such set-to?) in anticipation of the Pennsylvania primary on Apr. 22.
Thursday
NBC comedies, 7 to 9 p.m. — It may have lost its must-see luster, but NBC’s Thursday night sitcoms still produce the chuckles … and sometimes the bellylaughs. “My Name Is Earl” (7 p.m.), “30 Rock” (7:30 p.m.), “The Office” (8 p.m.) and “Scrubs” (8:30 p.m.) contrast nicely with all the gooey procedurals these days.
“Great Performances,” 8 p.m. on PBS — For great family fare, check out Prokofiev’s fanciful musical tale “Peter and the Wolf,” the animated version that won an Oscar not too long ago.
Friday
“Numb3rs,” 9 p.m. on CBS — Mostly this drama is just a crime saga with a pretty good cast, but for those who like complicated math and nerdy undertones, this is your show.
Saturday
“Spy Kids,” 8 pm. on Disney — Austin filmmaker Robert Rodriguez’s 2001 adventure is a terrific choice for family viewing on a Saturday night. USA Pageant,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Donny and Marie Osmond host the beauty contest in Las Vegas. And former Beatle bride Heather Mills will be one of the judges. Sounds campy.
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April 5, 2008
This week's TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Monk,” 7 p.m., “Psych,” 8 p.m. on NBC — From their placement on NBC, you’d think these two shows were brand new and red-hot. They’re both entertaining shows, but they’ve been around for a long time, and these episodes on NBC are reruns from USA.
“Egypt’s Ten Greatest Discoveries,” 7 p.m. on Discovery — Dr. Zahi Hawass, guardian of Egypt’s antiquities, and a team of leading archaeologists have selected the discoveries that help form our impression of ancient civilizaation, major battles to major construction to religion and magic.
Monday
March Madness, 8 p.m. on CBS — This is it: The final contest of the NCAA college basketball tournament.
“Emma,” 8 p.m. on KLRU2 — It’s not new, but this 1996 drama based on Jane Austen’s classic remains one of the best of “Masterpiece Theatre.” Kate Beckinsale stars as Emma Woodhouse, and Samantha Morton plays Harriet Smith. For those who either don’t care or are sick of college basketball.
Tuesday
“NCIS,” 7 p.m. on CBS — The Mark Harmon whodunit returns with new episodes.
“Boston Legal,” 9 p.m. on ABC — Alan Shore and Denny Crane renew their manly love affair after a strike-induced absence.
“Deadliest Catch,” 8 p.m. on Discovery — For reasons that remain mysterious, this docu-saga about the horrors of commercial fishing is one of the most riveting shows on cable. Go figure … and take a look.
Wednesday
“American Masters,” 9 p.m. on PBS — The compelling story of Zora Neale Hurston, one of the most successful and controversial writers of the Harlem Renaissance. This quintessential American folklorist is best-known for the 1937 novel “Their Eyes Were Watching God.”
Thursday
“30 Rock,” 7:30 p.m.; “The Offfce,” 8 p.m., “Scrubs,” 8:30 p.m. and “ER,” 9 p.m. on NBC — Finally, all of NBC’s lineup returns with new episodes tonight.
“The Masters,” 6 p.m. on Golf Channel (live) and 7 p.m. on ESPN (tape) — First-round action and highlights from August National that are sure to feature Tiger Woods on the hunt for yet another green jacket.
Friday
“Miss USA Pageant,” 8 p.m. on NBC — Donny and Marie Osmond host the beauty contest in Las Vegas. And former Beatle bride Heather Mills will be one of the judges. Sounds campy.
Saturday
“The Masters,” 2:30 p.m. on CBS — The granddaddy of all golf tournaments gets serious, gearing up for the Sunday crowning.
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March 29, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Cold Case,” 8 p.m. on CBS — This excellent but under-rated mystery drama, which bounces between then and now, returns with new episodes after a long absence due to the writers’ strike.
“The Capture of the Green River Killer,” 7 p.m. on LMN. The network’s first original miniseries (Part II airs 7 p.m. Monday) follows the true story of Detective Dave Reichert (Tom Cavanagh) as he tracks a serial killer who preyed on prostitutes and runaways in the Seattle area in the 1980s and ‘90s. Based on Reichert’s book “Chasing the Devil,” the gruesome saga is a well-crafted true-crime adventure.
“The Tudors,” 8 p.m. on Showtime — The second season of the sexiest portrayal ever of a British monarch arrives tonight.
Monday
“The Hills,” 9 p.m. on MTV — The pseudo-improvised reality series returned last week after a three-month hiatus, but it’s not too late to catch up. The show, which takes place among the young and beautiful Hollywood music and fashion wannabes, focuses on best friends Lauren and Heidi and their playboy love interests.
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — With clumsy magician Penn Jillette and wooden tennis pro Monica Seles gone, the celebrity competitors look pretty good this season.
Tuesday “Hell’s Kitchen,” 8 p.m. on Fox — Sadistic chef Gordon Ramsay cracks the whip over another batch of fledglings willing to subject themselves to his relentless abuse. Screaming, head-banging, fire … it’s all happening in Ramsay’s kitchen.
Wednesday
“Criminal Minds,” 8 p.m., and “CSI: NY,” 9 p.m. — Both crime dramas return with new episodes.
Thursday
“My Name Is Earl,” 7 p.m. on NBC — Earl succumbs to a fever-induced coma and drifts through strange scenarios, one of which includes a guest appearance by celebutant Paris Hilton. It’s an hourlong episode, so set your recorders accordingly.
“CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” 8 p.m., and “Without a Trace,” 9 p.m. — New post-strike episodes for both.
“Rock the Cradle,” 9 p.m. on MTV — A new reality series attempts to find out if kids of famous rockers have (any) talent.
Friday
“Battlestar Galactica, 9 p.m. on Sci Fi — The fourth and final season begins tonight.
Saturday
“March Madness,” all evening on CBS — This is semi-final action, so round-ballers will be super-excited.
“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” 7 p.m. on ABC — For non-sports fans looking for a good movie, this 2001 offering is superb.
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March 23, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The Sound of Music,” 6 p.m. on Family Channel — It wouldn’t be Easter without a repeat of this 1965 classic starring Julie Andrews and based on the true story of the warbling Von Trapp family.
“Women’s NCAA Basketball,” 6 p.m. on ESPN2 — The women’s version of March Madness hits the hoops.
Monday
“Canterbury’s Law,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Arguably the best new show of the spring season, this legal drama starring Julianna Margulies keeps getting better.
“CSI: Miami,” 9 p.m. on CBS — In the first new episode since the writers strike, David Caruso returns to pose, whip those sunglasses on and off and deliver his trademark sing-song, “What do we have here, Alex?”
Tuesday
“ ‘Til Death,” 8:30 p.m. on Fox — The downbeat comedy starring Brad Garrett and Joely Fisher as a ball-and-chain married couple searching for a spark returns with new episodes.
“Autism: The Musical,” 7 p.m. on HBO — This odd documentary follows five autistic children and their families over six months as the children write, rehearse and perform a full-length musical.
Wednesday
“Men in Trees,” 9 p.m. on ABC — New episodes of this Anne Heche comedy-drama continue with Marin and Jack returning from New York to find that Cash needs a kidney transplant. The episode is titled “A Tale of Two Kidneys.”
Thursday
“March Madness,” 6 p.m. on CBS — College basketball dribbles into the regional semi-finals tonight. Check the American-Statesman’s sports Web site for teams and times (http://www.statesman.com/sports/content/sports/ncaa/index.html).
“Figure Skating: World Championships,” 6:30 p.m. on ESPN2 — If you prefer ice to wood under foot, this is the place to be.
Friday
“March Madness,” 6 p.m. on CBS — College basketball regional semi-finals continue.
“Figure Skating: World Championships,” 6 p.m. on ESPN — More graceful turns by the world’s best.
Saturday
“March Madness,” 6 p.m. on CBS — College basketball’s regional tournament finals.
“The Godfather,” 7 p.m. on AMC — This is the 1972 original and best of Mario Puzo’s famed gangster chronicle, with Marlon Brando in the role of a lifetime.
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March 15, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming … so much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“John Adams,” 7 p.m. on HBO — Based on David McCullough’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book, this seven-hour miniseries takes an extraordinary look at the life of our second president. The story begins with the Boston Massacre, gallops through the American Revolution and concludes with his death on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Watching Paul Giamatti morph into the role takes a while to digest, but Laura Linney hits it out of the park as his wife, Abigail Adams, and Tom Wilkinson is magnificent as Ben Franklin. Back-to-back episodes air tonight, and the series continues on Sundays through Apr. 20.
“Unhitched,” 8:30 p.m. on Fox — From the Farrelly Brothers, the wacky guys behind “Dumb and Dumber” and “There’s Something About Mary,” this new sitcom looks at thirtysomething dating, when choices can be slim and slightly wounded.
Monday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — The sixth season begins tonight, and the celebrity hoofers include three professional athletes: Miami Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor, figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi and tennis pro Monica Seles.
Tuesday
“The Riches,” 9 p.m. on FX — The strange comedy-drama saga about a family of travelers continues as Wayne and Dahlia try to hang onto their stolen identities and stay one step ahead of the law. Eddie Izzard and Minnie Driver are back as the hubby-wife team.
Wednesday
“March Madness,” 6 p.m. on ESPN2 — College basketball gets super-serious with the championship tournament under way. CBS picks up the action Thursday. Check the NCAA online listings for specific teams and times (www.ncaa.com/home).
Thursday
“Lost,” 8 p.m. on ABC — After tonight’s episode, this unraveling sci-fi drama takes another long break (until April 24), so enjoy the latest as the Survivors and the Others continue their strange waltz.
Friday
“Hannah Montana,” 6 p.m. on Disney — The first new episode since January brings the tween superstar back. Squeal with delight!
Saturday
“Blades of Glory,” 7:30 p.m. on HBO — For silly fun, check out this slapstick comedy movie featuring Will Ferrell as, yep, a figure skater.
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March 7, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming … so much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“The Wire,” 8 p.m. on HBO — The fifth and last season finale is an episode that runs about 35 minutes longer than the usual one hour. Creator David Simon, who launched his career at the Baltimore Sun, and Clark Johnson, the actor who directed the pilot and tonight’s finale, bring the show to a satisfying conclusion.
During its critically praised run, the series has examined the underbelly of Baltimore — a hopeless war on drugs, failing schools and, in the final season, the flawed newsroom of the Baltimore Sun. The season’s focus, and tonight’s conclusion, has been on a deceitful reporter and an equally deceitful police detective.
Monday
“Canterbury’s Law,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Juliana Margulies stars as Elizabeth Canterbury, a crusading, vodka-swilling, deeply troubled defense attorney who loves tough cases and the media spotlight that goes with them. Don’t look for high ethical standards at her firm; she’ll do anything to get the job done. Denis Leary, star and creator of FX’s “Rescue Me,” is one of the executive producers of this well-crafted drama.
Tuesday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — This two-hour episode showcases the final dozen, six guys and six gals, singing their little hearts out.
Wednesday
“March Madness,” 6 p.m. on ESPN and ESPN2 — Yes, it’s that time again. College basketball’s confusing and exciting month gets under way with conference tournaments.
Thursday
“Smallville” (8 p.m.) and “Reaper” (9 p.m.) on the CW — Both sci-fi shows return with new episodes.
Friday
“The Return of Jezebel James,” 7 p.m. on Fox — “Gilmore Girls” creator Amy Sherman-Palladino presents anoffbeatcomedy about a young careerwoman (Parker Posey) who arranges for her younger sister (Lauren Ambrose) to carry a baby for her when she can’t conceive. Who is Jezebel? She’s the young sister’s imaginary childhood friend and the inspiration for a best-selling book published by the older sis. It’s a nice show with a terrific cast but probably doomed on Friday nights.
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March 1, 2008
This week's TV picks
Hundreds of channels, hours of programming … so much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Dirt,” 9 p.m. on FX — New season of Courteney Cox’s weird melodrama about life in the gritty world of tabloid journalism.
Monday
“Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles,” 7 p.m. on Fox — The two-hour season finale of the TV spinoff of the blockbuster sci-fi movies, with the series focusing on Sarah on the lam with her son.
“20/20: The Royal Family,” 7 p.m. on ABC — A two-hour up-close-and-personal look at the modern Windsors, featuring Queen Elizabeth barking at her corgis.
Tuesday
Results of the hugely important Texas and Ohio presidential primaries start trickling in after the polls close at 7 p.m. The broadcast networks have no scheduled prime-time specials, but CNN, Fox News and MSNBC will have coverage.
“New Amsterdam,” 8 p.m. on Fox — A new drama about an immortal New York cop who has looked the same for 400 years. Gorgeous Nikolaj Coster-Waldau stars.
Wednesday
“Project Runway,” 9 p.m. on Bravo — It’s the finale. If you’re a fan, start planning the fashionista gathering you always have for this show. If not a fan? Don’t call, drop by or in any way bother those who are. They will not be amused.
Thursday
“American Idol,” 7 p.m. on Fox — Another quartet of losers bites the dust. The heartbreak is excruciating.
“Breaking Bad,” 9 p.m. on AMC — If you haven’t seen this dark comedy-drama about a chemistry teacher-turned-drug dealer, check it out. Bryan Cranston, formerly of “Malcolm in the Middle,” stars.
Friday
“The Dog Whisperer,” 7 p.m. on National Geographic — Cesar Millan teaches dogs and hopeless owners to behave. Not much else is on Friday; might as well discipline your dogs.
Saturday
“Pride & Prejudice,” 7 p.m. on Oxygen — The lavish 2005 film version of Jane Austen’s classic novel, starring Keira Knightley, Matthew Macfadyen and Judi Dench.
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