Review Archives

Posted at 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 19

THIS SEASON'S "IDOL" SO FAR
"IDOL" SEASON 8 PHOTO GALLERY

Adam Lambert performs Tuesday night. Fox photos

Adam Lambert and Kris Allen sang themselves into a dead heat Tuesday on “American Idol,” but Lambert deserves to rock to victory Wednesday.

He gave the show its most exciting moments this year—and sang beautifully too boot.

Posted at 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 19

JANE LYNCH TALKS "GLEE"
RYAN MURPHY FINDS "GLEE"

GLEE
8 p.m. (or after “American Idol”) Tuesday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, May 17

Will Ferrell—and a horde of other oldies—returned to the “Saturday Night Live” studio last night to make the season finale a fun reunion show.

Still, the finale didn’t outdo last week’s Justin Timberlake showcase.

Surprise appearances ruled the night. Besides Ferrell, “SNL” alums Norm Macdonald, Maya Rudolph, and Amy Poehler popped in. Tom Hanks, Anne Hathaway, Paul Rudd, Elizabeth Moss and Artie Lange also showed up, along with musical guest Green Day and a few others I'm sure I missed.

Posted at 6 p.m. Friday, May 15

Haven’t seen Season 1 of “Primeval?” It airs at 10 p.m. Fridays on Sci Fi.

PRIMEVAL
8 p.m. Saturday, BBC America
Tune in or out? out of four.

The British monster mash returns with new characters, new crises and most of all, new and bigger, badder beasties. In the new season, Nick Cutter (Douglas Henshall) and his team of dinosaur-finders race to close time/space anomalies that allow not just prehistoric creatures to cross into our world—but all manner of beings that are steeped in myths and legends.

Yeah, it’s a silly premise—but loads of fun.

Posted at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 15

FAMILY GUY
8 p.m. Sunday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

A psychic tells Peter Griffin that in a past life he was a 17th Century English gentleman named Griffin Peterson, who founded the colony of Quahog in America after he was torn from his great love, Lady (Lois) Redbush, by the jealous—and short—King Stewart III. As if the time-traveling main plot isn’t funny enough, this season finale gets merrily sidetracked with appearances by Alan Rickman, Jason Segel, Neil Patrick Harris and Josh Radnor, who are mocked after lending their voices.

And don’t forget that Eminem and Stewie will introduce the entire Animation Domination line-up on Fox Sunday.

Posted at 5:15 p.m. Friday, May 15

JIM JEFFRIES - HBO Special preview - Sluts and Studs

JIM JEFFERIES: I SWEAR TO GOD
9 p.m. Saturday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

The Australian comic alternately charms and offends the audience in his first full-length HBO special, railing against Pandas (“[Bleep] ’em. Let ’em die off.”), Christians (“You’re wrong.”) and people who don’t get drunk (“No one gives a [bleep] that your kids don’t have bruises!”). His assessment of terminology used for burn victims—“Burned beyond recognition? You ever seen a burn victim? The term should be ‘burned to recognition’”—is particularly cringe-inducing. With more jokes about AIDS, atheism and South African gay bars that always cross the line, Jefferies’ stand-up sermons are challenging. But once you forget political correctness, you’ll be a convert.

Posted at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, May 7

THE FASHION SHOW
9 p.m. Thursday, Bravo
Tune in or out? out of four.

In fashion, there’s something known as a “knock-off,” or imitation of a designer frock. “The Fashion Show” is the ultimate “Project Runway” knock-off, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth its weight in gold ... lamé.

Posted at 7 a.m. Wednesday, May 6

EARTH FINAL CONFLICT: SEASON ONE
$40 for 22 episodes
Tune in or out? out of four.

This is a special treat for “Star Trek” fans. “Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry came up with this series, but it wasn’t developed until after his 1997 death. The syndicated series pit the people of Earth against alien visitors who claim to be helpful, but, well, that would be boring. Von Flores and Lisa Howard play humans who work for the alien Taelons, but also are part of the human resistance. Extras include and intro by “Rod” Roddenberry, Gene’s son; six episode commentaries and a making-of featurette. Seasons 3, 4 and 5 are already out on DVD, released by another company.

Philip Winchester and Tongayi Chirisa in "Crusoe." NBC photo

CRUSOE
$30 for 13 episodes
Tune in or out? out of four.

I didn’t hate NBC’s period adventure based on Daniel Defoe’s novel as much as, well, everyone else did. The foolish romp of a show was beautifully filmed in South Africa, didn’t take itself too seriously and offered MacGyver-like gadgetry and a lot of adventure. And hello, two buff, mostly shirtless guys (Philip Winchester and Tongayi Chirisa) hanging out in a treehouse? I’m in. A paperback of the novel is included with other extras.

Posted at 5:30 p.m. Friday, May 1

COLD CASE
“The Long Blue Line;” Part 1 of season finale
8 p.m. Sunday, CBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

The two-part season finale has been getting buzz because it uses music from Pearl Jam’s re-released album “10.” That’s just a gimmick to get folks to watch a story that’s been told in other series and films: the team investigates the 2005 murder of the first female cadet at a military academy. I was drawn more to Lilly Rush’s (Kathryn Morris) story. The case stirs memories of her time as Philly’s first female homicide detective. And wow, Part 1 has a killer cliffhanger. I so resented CBS for not sending Part 2, which airs May 10.

Posted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 27

Everything I’ve ever written on “Chuck,” including an interview with Vik Sahay.

I’m going to work late today, because I’m watching yet again the phenomenal Season 2 finale of “Chuck,” which blew my mind Monday.

How many different ways can I express how many different kinds of awesome it was? Best … TV … season … finale … ever.

And I say “season” finale as opposed to “series” finale because NBC MUST bring it back after that beyond delightful, fully satisfying, unbelievably riotous hour.

NBC, can you be awesome? Save Chuck! I’ve recently come into a little bit of money … Will that help your decision?

I’m not going to do a blow-by-blow of the episode here. But I do want to share some of the best writing on TV ever. Below you’ll find some of the great lines from “Chuck Versus The Ring,” which was written by co-creator Chris Fedak and Ali Adler.

Posted at 5 p.m. Friday, April 24

WAKING THE BABY MAMMOTH
8 p.m. Sunday, National Geographic Channel
Tune in or out? out of four.

Discovered in 2007 by a Siberian reindeer herder, Lyuba is the most perfectly preserved woolly mammoth ever found. This fascinating documentary follows the forensic investigation of the 40,000-year-old Lyuba, who was 1-month-old when she died. She offers clues about life during the Ice Age.

Posted at 5:45 p.m. Thursday, April 23

READ MY EARLIER REVIEW

THE BEAST finale
9 p.m. Thursday, A&E
Tune in or out? out of four.

Chicago still is the big star of this FBI clunker. The filmmakers have beautifully captured the Windy City, even if the confused plots and overall bleakness have not allowed the show to be a hit. (It averaging about 1.3 million viewers.) The network has said a second season depends on Patrick Swayze (above), who suffers from pancreatic cancer. He’s done an admirable job of making Agent Charles Barker—who tonight gets to the bottom of a FBI conspiracy—more than a tough-talking cliche. It’s too bad more people haven’t seen it.

Posted at 9:05 a.m. Wednesday, April 22

Daisy’s boys: Fox (front from left), '84, '86, '85, Chi Chi, Daisy, London, Tool Box, Sinister, 12 Pack, Torch and Flipper; Big Rig (back from left), Weasel, Flex, Cage, Brooklyn, Dropout, Professor, 6 Gauge and Cable Guy. VH1/51 Minds photo

DAISY OF LOVE
8 p.m. Sunday, VH1
Tune in or out? out of four.

There’s something about a train wreck that just keeps people gawking.

That’s obviously the thinking behind this “Rock of Love” spin-off, which puts Bret Michaels-dumpee Daisy De La Hoya in the driver’s seat and looking for love.

Posted at 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 21

CAPRICA
Out on DVD Tuesday
Tune in or out? out of four.

The “Battlestar Galactica” prequel series won’t begin airing on Sci Fi Channel until 2010, but the network is giving the 90-minute movie pilot an early DVD release to keep fans excited. And they should be.

Posted at 8 p.m. Sunday, April 19

WELLER, MCCORMACK TALK ROMANCE, "IN PLAIN SIGHT"

IN PLAIN SIGHT
9 p.m. Sunday, USA
Tune in or out? out of four.

Each week U.S. marshals Mary Shannon and Marshall Mann solve mysteries surrounding witnesses they’ve helped place in the federal Witness Protection Program (WITSEC), yet USA Network’s “In Plain Sight” is anything but a cop drama.

Posted at 5 p.m. Friday, April 17

AT LEAST DAVID JAMES ELLIOTT HAD FUN

Perfidia (Natassia Malthe) and John Serragoth (David James Elliott) battles evil. Sci Fi photo

KNIGHTS OF BLOODSTEEL
8 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Sci Fi Channel
Tune in our out? out of four.

David James Elliott should not have given up his “JAG” uniform—not for the medieval track suit he wears in this dull sword-and-sorcerer flick.

Posted at 4:10 p.m. Friday, April 17

GREY GARDENS
7 p.m. Saturday, HBO
Tune in our out? out of four.

Who knew Drew Barrymore could do drama? She’s a huge surprise in this film based on the real lives of “Little Edie” Bouvier Beale (Barrymore) and her mother, “Big Edie” Bouvier Beale (Jessica Lange), who were the subjects of Albert and David Maysles’ 1975 cult classic documentary. The touching, uncompromising film follows the Beales from their New York society heights of the 1930s to the 1970s, when Jackie O’s rich, eccentric relatives were found living with dozens of cats and raccoons in their run-down East Hampton estate, called Grey Gardens. Lange and Barrymore give exceptional performances as two women who, for whatever reason, went from beautiful to batty.

Posted at 7 a.m. Friday, April 17

SIT DOWN, SHUT UP
7:30 p.m. Sunday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

I like a good “nut sack” joke as much as the next guy, but when it’s coming from the minds and actors behind “Arrested Development,” it’s more than a little disappointing.

Posted at 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 14

KATHY GRIFFIN: SHE’LL CUT A BITCH
8 p.m. Wednesday, Bravo
Tune in or out? out of four.

Oak Park native, self-proclaimed D-lister and “crazy bitch” (according to Cher) Kathy Griffin attacks the A-listers again in her new stand-up special, filmed last month in Portland. This time Griffin riotously recounts rubbing elbows with stars such as the Jonas Brothers (“I’m calling [BS] on their [bleeping] purity rings!”), Cher (“Who knew Cher’s real hair is Cher hair?”), the desperate housewives (“Marcia Cross’ face looks like a hockey rink”) and Mary Tyler Moore (“She said, ‘Thank you,” and walked away from the crazy lady”). Griffin gives us a bawdy backstage pass to her experiences at the Emmys, the Grammys and in Cher’s bedroom. If Griffin’s still a D-lister, I’ll wear Cher’s hair.

Posted at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday, April 14

OUT OF THE WILD: THE ALASKA EXPERIMENT
9 p.m. Tuesday, Discovery Channel
Tune in or out? out of four.

Chicago residents Carolyn Yamazaki and Fredric Birt are among the nine ordinary people dropped into the Alaskan wilderness with only the clothes and gear they can carry. They—along with camera crews, of course—have one month to hike 54 miles to civilization.

Posted at 10 a.m. Sunday, April 12

Zac Efron hosted “Saturday Night Live,” and it wasn’t awful. It also wasn’t great. The best skit featuring Efron was the post-“High School Musical” bit in the video above. Troy Bolton returned to high school after a year in college—disillusioned that not everyone in the world sings their feelings.

Posted at 4:50 p.m. Friday, April 10

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TRACEY ULLMAN’S STATE OF THE UNION
9 p.m. Sunday, Showtime
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 10

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
8 p.m. Friday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 9

KROD MANDOON AND THE FLAMING SWORD OF FIRE
9 p.m. Thursday, Comedy Central
Tune in or out? out of four.

You have to love a show that offers rippling pecs, nubile women and flashing blades. I do, anyway.

Posted at 9 a.m. Thursday, April 9

PARKS AND RECREATION
7:30 p.m. Thursday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 8 a.m. Thursday, April 9

SOUTHLAND
9 p.m. Thursday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 7:55 a.m. Wednesday, April 8

HARPER’S ISLAND
9 p.m. Thursday, CBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 11 p.m. Tuesday, April 7

THE UNUSUALS
9 p.m. Wednesday, ABC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Next big thing Jeremy Renner, who has been that guy you noticed in TV guest spots and films (“North Country,” “28 Weeks Later”), gets a regular TV gig in this cop drama, um, or comedy—depending on the scene. Renner plays loose cannon Det. Jason Walsh, who breaks in a new partner, Casey Shraeger (Amber Tamblyn), while investigating the murder of his old one. They are just two of the oddballs working in the NYPD’s Second Precinct. Others include paranoid Leo Banks (Harold Perrineau), his terminally ill partner Eric Delahoy (Adam Goldberg), and Ed Alvarez (Kai Lennox), who talks about himself in the third person. They are unusual, as is this show, which successfully mixes the frivolous and serious only about half the time. But keep an eye on Renner, he's going places.

Posted at 7:55 p.m. Tuesday, April 7

RESCUE ME
9 p.m. Tuesday, FX
Tune in or out? out of four.

I’ve watched the first four seasons of this darkly comic series only sporadically. But if Season 5 were a book, I’d have to say that I couldn’t put it down. I stayed up nearly all night watching. Denis Leary and his messed up firefighting crew revisit the 9-11 tragedy when a French author interviews them for a book project. Despite that bleak premise, “Rescue Me” is one of its funniest shows on TV. I didn’t remember that.

Posted at 10 p.m. Monday, April 6

FRINGE
8 p.m. Tuesday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

Fox’s creepy thriller comes back with more than a bang after an “American Idol” forced extended hiatus. FBI agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv) and crew help a boy empath found living underground. He in turn helps Olivia hunt for a serial killer called “The Artist,” who likes to surgically alter women—after he kills them. And that boy’s bald head? Fans who know the show’s mythology will totally see where that’s going. Fun stuff!

Posted at 2:15 p.m. Sunday, April 5

Rod Blagojevich made headlines last week when he was indicted, so it was inevitable he would appear on “Weekend Update” on Saturday.

Seth Meyers welcomed the former governor—actually Jason Sudeikis’ version of him—to the “Saturday Night Live” news skit. But I have to say, the real Blago might be funnier.

“Same ass, different D,” “Blago” said when asked by Meyers how he was doing. Either the audience didn’t get it, or like me they simply didn’t think it was funny. Very few people laughed.

The names Meyers came up with for Blago weren’t bad. Some might be good for future RedEye covers. Watch the video above for the complete skit and decide for yourself.

I’ve included other skits I liked from the episode, hosted by Seth Rogen. Just click the link below. For the show’s misses—such as Fred Armisen’s cold open as President Barack Obama—go to nbc.com.

Feel free to tell me in the comments section what you thought of the episode.

Posted at 2:15 p.m. Sunday, April 5

Rod Blagojevich made headlines last week when he was indicted, so it was inevitable he would appear on “Weekend Update” on Saturday.

Seth Meyers welcomed the former governor—actually Jason Sudeikis’ version of him—to the “Saturday Night Live” news skit. But I have to say, the real Blago might be funnier.

“Same ass, different D,” “Blago” said when asked by Meyers how he was doing. Either the audience didn’t get it, or like me they simply didn’t think it was funny. Very few people laughed.

The names Meyers came up with for Blago weren’t bad. Some might be good for future RedEye covers. Watch the video above for the complete skit and decide for yourself.

I’ve included other skits I liked from the episode, hosted by Seth Rogen. Just click the link below. For the show’s misses—such as Fred Armisen’s cold open as President Barack Obama—go to nbc.com.

Feel free to tell me in the comments section what you thought of the episode.

Posted at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, April 5

THE TUDORS
8 p.m. Sunday, Showtime
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, April 5

THE TUDORS
8 p.m. Sunday, Showtime
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 6:50 p.m. Friday, April 3

IN TREATMENT
8 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Golden Globe winner Gabriel Byrne returns as Dr. Paul Weston, a psychotherapist who has demons of his own. The new season, like the critically acclaimed first, has Weston treating a handful of clients, then hitting the couch himself with his therapist, Dr. Gina Toll (Dianne Wiest). The drama is well-acted, and I suppose well-written. But it’s boring! Talk, talk, talk. Believe me, I have enough issues of my own. I don’t need to listen to this lot whine about theirs.

Posted at 6:50 p.m. Friday, April 3

IN TREATMENT
8 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Golden Globe winner Gabriel Byrne returns as Dr. Paul Weston, a psychotherapist who has demons of his own. The new season, like the critically acclaimed first, has Weston treating a handful of clients, then hitting the couch himself with his therapist, Dr. Gina Toll (Dianne Wiest). The drama is well-acted, and I suppose well-written. But it’s boring! Talk, talk, talk. Believe me, I have enough issues of my own. I don’t need to listen to this lot whine about theirs.

Posted at 11:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 31

PEDRO
7 p.m. Wednesday, MTV
Tune in or out? out of four

Posted at 11:15 p.m. Tuesday, March 31

PEDRO
7 p.m. Wednesday, MTV
Tune in or out? out of four

Posted at 9:45 p.m. Monday, March 30

Reid Scott (from left), Jamie Kaler, Jim Gaffigan, Jordana Spiro, Kyle Howard and Michael Bunin of “My Boys.” TBS photo

MY BOYS
9:30 p.m. Tuesday, TBS
Tune in our out? out of four.

What will happen with to the spark shared by P.J. (Jordana Spiro) and Bobby (Kyle Howard)? Will he marry Elsa (Mini Anden), or come to his senses and admit his feelings about Peeje? I’m sworn to secrecy, but I’m glad this romance finally gets resolved as the fun little sitcom set in Chicago begins its third season. Tonight’s silly fun involves a beard-growing contest—and Jim Gaffigan’s Andy always brings the laughs.

Posted at 9:45 p.m. Monday, March 30

Reid Scott (from left), Jamie Kaler, Jim Gaffigan, Jordana Spiro, Kyle Howard and Michael Bunin of “My Boys.” TBS photo

MY BOYS
9:30 p.m. Tuesday, TBS
Tune in our out? out of four.

What will happen with to the spark shared by P.J. (Jordana Spiro) and Bobby (Kyle Howard)? Will he marry Elsa (Mini Anden), or come to his senses and admit his feelings about Peeje? I’m sworn to secrecy, but I’m glad this romance finally gets resolved as the fun little sitcom set in Chicago begins its third season. Tonight’s silly fun involves a beard-growing contest—and Jim Gaffigan’s Andy always brings the laughs.

Posted at 9:45p.m. Monday, March 30

JIM GAFFIGAN: KING BABY
9 p.m. Tuesday, Comedy Central
Out Tuesday on DVD
Tune in our out? out of four.

Posted at 9:45p.m. Monday, March 30

JIM GAFFIGAN: KING BABY
9 p.m. Tuesday, Comedy Central
Out Tuesday on DVD
Tune in our out? out of four.

Posted at 9:30 p.m. Monday, March 30

Sarah Paulson and Bobby Cannavale are better than the early episodes of "Cupid." ABC photos

CUPID
9 p.m Tuesday, ABC
Tune in our out? out of four.

Posted at 9:30 p.m. Monday, March 30

Sarah Paulson and Bobby Cannavale are better than the early episodes of "Cupid." ABC photos

CUPID
9 p.m Tuesday, ABC
Tune in our out? out of four.

Posted at 6:50 p.m. Friday, March 27

MAKING OF ME: JOHN BARROWMAN
6 and 9 p.m. Sunday, BBC America
Tune in or out? out of four.

The star of the “Torchwood,” who grew up in the Chicago area, returns to the Windy City as part of his search to uncover the origins of his homosexuality. He believes people are born gay, and he consults scientists using state-of-the-art research to prove it. Barrowman also judges the talent show “Any Dream Will Do,” in which 50 actors compete to play the lead in a new production of the musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” (4 and 7 p.m. BBC America).

Jill Scott and Desmond Dube star in "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency." HBO photo

THE NO. 1 LADIES’ DETECTIVE AGENCY
7 p.m Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

For a show involving crime fighting—and airing on HBO—this seven-episode series offers little darkness, instead remaining stubbornly positive as it moves at its own rambling tempo. In a word, it’s precious, like its lead character, Precious Ramotswe (singer Jill Scott), who begins sleuthing in her beloved Botswana. Scott shines, as does Anika Noni Rose as her fussy secretary. “No. 1” may be too sunny to keep HBO’s “Sopranos” fans happy, but Precious’ unrushed story is a refreshing, delightful change of pace.

LITTLE DORRIT
8 p.m. Sunday, WTTW
Tune in or out? out of four.

With times being so tough, you may not want to spend five Sundays watching this timely tale of chronic debt and financial ruin. This absorbing adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic offers a wonderful romance and riveting whodunit. Seamstress Amy Dorrit (Claire Foy) has lived her whole life in a debtors prison when she is summoned to work for cranky Mrs. Clennam (Judy Parfitt), whose estranged son, Arthur (Matthew Macfadyen), suspects may have caused the Dorrit clan’s troubles.

Posted at 12 a.m. Friday, March 27

Greg Grunberg wants a lot more than therapy from Dr. Goode. Starz photos

HEAD CASE
9 p.m. Fridays, Starz
Tune in or out? out of four.

The absolute worst therapist on TV is seeing patients again, but she’s too preoccupied to pay much attention to them.

Their loss is our gain.

Co-creator Alexandra Wentworth absolutely commits to her role as Dr. Elizabeth Goode, a self-absorbed, judgmental therapist-to-the-stars. This season Goode spends almost every session—at $450 an hour—planning her upcoming wedding to creepy agent Jeremy (Rob Benedict, right with Wentworth).

Signing up for the Goode treatment are Jerry Seinfeld, Janeane Garofalo, Tori Spelling, Jeff Probst, Sandra Bernhardt, Hugh Hefner, Paulina Porizkova, Jason Lewis, Isaac Mizrahi and a parade of others.

Wentworth asks the stars to take part in coming up with their story lines. They are playing themselves, but completely exaggerated versions of themselves. Or so I hope.

In last week’s season premiere, which you can see online now at Starz, Macy Gray describes her graphic fantasies about President Obama—"I want to give him a roofie and take him home!" Goode shuts her down, turning the conversation back to herself, the wedding dress she’s trying on and to Jeremy, who she calls “my Obama.”

On Friday, “Heroes” actor Greg Grunberg returns to the show, playing a sex-crazed, cocky parody of himself. Those fans used to Grunberg’s upright Matt Parkman will be totally shocked by what a dick he is here.

Grunberg’s hilarious, and perfect for this bawdy comedy.

Posted at 8:15 a.m. Thursday, March 26

IN THE MOTHERHOOD
7 p.m. Thursday, ABC
Tune in or out? out of four.

SAMANTHA WHO?
7:30 p.m. Thursday, ABC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Posted at 8 a.m. Monday, March 23

CHUCK
7 p.m. Mondays, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

What’s up, viewers? How can I convince you to show unlikely secret agent man Chuck Bartowski (Zachary Levi) some love?

His undercover girlfriend and CIA protector, Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski), is the hottest TV spy since Sydney Bristow, while his other handler, Casey (Adam Baldwin), is the funniest straight man ever. Did I mention his Buy More co-workers? Hilarious. Or how about his fascinating missions and evil nemeses? Fascinating; evil.

In Monday’s all-new “Chuck vs. the Predator,” our hero is contacted by the scientist who created the Intersect computer that’s stored in Chuck’s brain. Meanwhile, Chuck’s Buy More cohorts take on the way more posh Beverly Hills store. All this sets up the guest-star turns of Tricia Helfer, Scott Bakula and Chevy Chase before the end of the season.

“Chuck” is "on the bubble," as they say, which means NBC is trying to decide if the show should come back for another season.

I want this show back next year—and you should too. So don’t miss another laugh-out-loud moment.

For those of you who agree with me, someone has started a campaign at Petition Spot to renew “Chuck” for another season.

Click here for a CHUCK VS THE PREDATOR - Promo

Posted using ShareThis
CHUCK VS. NEW YORK COMIC CON

Posted at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 21

Sunday is finale night on HBO, as “Big Love,” “Flight of the Conchords” and “Eastbound & Down” wrap their seasons. Sunday night won't be the same.

BIG LOVE
8 p.m. Sunday, HBO

The exemplary and controversial third season has been building to tonight’s showdown between Bill Henrickson (Bill Paxton, right), his double-crossing second wife Nicki (Chloe Sevigny) and her evil father, Roman (Harry Dean Stanton).

FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS
9 p.m. Sunday, HBO

In the finale of the uneven second season, Bret and Jemaine are forced to move in with superfan Mel (Kristen Schaal). It should be a fun send-off—possibly forever. The guys still are talking about this season being the end.

Danny McBride (above) brought the heat--and the funny--to the first season of "Eastbound & Down." HBO photos

EASTBOUND & DOWN
9:30 p.m. Sunday, HBO

The too-short first season of the comedy ends with foul-mouthed Kenny (Danny McBride) leaving his teaching job for another shot at the major leagues.

Posted at 4:15 p.m. Saturday, March 21

THE COLOR OF MAGIC
7 p.m. Sunday, ION
Tune in or out? out of four.

Based on author Terry Pratchett’s book series “Discworld,” this uneven British import is one fantasy I don’t want to have. When failed wizardry student Rincewind (David Jason) is assigned to guide bumbling tourist Twoflower (Sean Astin) around the city-state of Ankh Morpork, they encounter evil wizards, dragons, barbarians, a flying space turtle and a star that threatens to destroy Discworld. Unfortunately, some second-rate effects and awful writing makes their adventures jump from silly to exciting to dull.

NOTE: The video clip above is from when “Color of Magic” aired in Britain.

Posted at 2:50 p.m. Tuesday, March 17

BETTER OFF TED
7:30 p.m. Wednesday, ABC
Tune in or out? out of four.

With the layoffs and joblessness at an all-time high, Americans are hating on everything to do with big business. Which means ABC’s perfectly timed, corporate-bashing sitcom “Better Off Ted” should be a big hit, right? Well ...

Posted at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, March 15

CHRIS EGAN IS ONE OF MANY AUSSIES ON U.S. TV
AUSSIE PHOTO GALLERY

KINGS
7 p.m. Sunday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Give NBC some props, people. Despite drowning in one of the worst periods in its history, the network still insists on bringing quality, innovative programming to TV.

NBC has tossed some real stink-bombs on the little screen in recent years while grasping for a hit. But it’s also giving truly wonderful shows a chance to gain viewers. Ratings be damned, the proud Peacock seems to be saying as it continues to support outstanding, yet little watched programs (on TV proper anyway) such as “The Office,” “30 Rock,” “Friday Night Lights” and—keeping my fingers crossed for the future—“Chuck.”

Add “Kings” to that list. The invigorating new drama is an ambitious, atypical program for network TV. It’s not another cop drama, which could be its undoing.

In his contemporary retelling of the Biblical story of David, Goliath and King Saul, Michael Green has created a challenging soap opera filled with palace intrigues, secret romances, betrayals and “Deadwood” veteran Ian McShane.

McShane rules, literally, by honing his Al Swearengen persona into devious King Silas Benjamin, the Saul-like monarch overlooking Gilboa, a fantasyland not unlike America that is fighting for its survival in a war against neighboring Gath.

When Silas learns that a young soldier—David Shepherd (Chris Egan)—has faced down a Gath tank, which incidentally are called Goliaths—and saved his soldier son Jack (Sebastian Stan), he summons the boy to the capitol city of Shiloh.

Silas simultaneously exploits, embraces and fears the war hero, whose swelling popularity threatens the king. All the ever-so-humble former farm boy wants is to get back to his brother and friends on the frontlines, to serve his leader—and date Silas’ idealistic daughter Michelle (Allison Miller).

The rest of Silas’ family and confidantes heat up the already steamy brew. Susanna Thompson plays Silas’ scheming Queen Rose with delicious deviance. She may know about Silas’ secret lover and son on the side. Their troubled son, Jack, keeps his own secrets that could embarrass his father. And Rev. Samuals (Eamonn Walker), Silas’ former confidante who believes the king has lost his way, appears to know something about David destiny.

“Kings’ is definitely an odd duck of a show. At times it overbakes the dialogue—“ War asks the heart to freeze at room temperature,” Silas says. Then the writers come up with a gem of a phrase, as when David tells Michelle what he thinks of the people in court, "In the sea of fish, you're a mermaid.”

It follows the Old Testament story so closely, and invokes God’s name throughout, which might be too much for some viewers.

But I’m hoping “Kings” finds an audience. The stellar cast, the intriguing storytelling possibilities and the intricate details brought to the world Green and his writers have created have me hooked.

“Kings” is unlike anything else on TV. That’s reason enough to tune in.

Posted at 1:30 p.m. Monday, March 9

CASTLE
9 p.m. Monday, March 9
Tune in or out? out of four.

Very little about ABC’s new police dramedy, “Castle,” will make you think, “Wow, I’ve never seen this before.” Take a look:

Posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday, March 6

ASHES TO ASHES
8 p.m. Saturday, BBC America
Tune in or out? out of four.

You don’t have to feel nostalgia for the 1980s to get into this sequel to the British hit “Life on Mars,” but it sure helps.

Fuzzy perms, leg warmers and Adam Ant—you’ll find them all when modern-day police psychologist Alex Drake (Keeley Hawes) is transported back to 1981 after being shot. It’s a fantastical leap for viewers, but one they’ve already taken with “Life on Mars,” which saw contemporary cop Sam Tyler make a similarly surreal trip to 1973, where he fought crime and butted heads with racist, sexist detective Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister).

Alex has studied up on Sam’s case—he did make it back to his real life and report his experience, but that’s all I’ll spoil of “Mars”—and she’s more than equipped to handle the situation. She knows all about Gene and his boys, and laughs off their sexist remarks by calling them “figments.”

In the original “Mars”—not the current ABC version—Sam constantly fretted over his situation. Although she’s not exaclty shouting “I love the ’80s,” Alex seems to be having a better time. She’s rocking the off-the-shoulder sweat shirt look of Jennifer Beals in “Flashdance,” guzzling booze, dancing to an ’80s soundtrack (Adam Ant again) and sexing with a slick businessman. <

Alex knows that she’s in a coma and dreaming, saying matter-of-factly, “I might be one second away from life or one second way from death.”

All she’s got to do to mind-leap back to the present and the daughter she misses is snap out of it, she decides. She searches for clues in her casework and tries to make peace with her mother, who will be killed later in 1981, in order to trigger that wake-up call.

Maybe reliving the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana will shock her back to her future.

Posted at 2 a.m. Friday, March 6

BREAKING BAD
9 p.m. Sunday, AMC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Walter White is living one of life’s little ironies.

Before he went into business cooking meth, Walt (Bryan Cranston) was a wimpy high school chemistry teacher in New Mexico struggling to support his pregnant wife and teen son. It took a death sentence—he learned he had terminal lung cancer—for him to start living. Sure, he’s thriving on the wrong side of the law, but he’s gained the purpose, passion and power he’d never before possessed.

The show’s second season picks up right where the excellent first left off. Walt and his former student/now drug meth-making partner, Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), are selling their improved product to sadistic Mexican drug lord Tuco (a scary Raymond Cruz). Walt figures he has to make just 11 more sales before he earns enough money to take care of his family before he dies.

That plan changes when Tuco takes a snort of Walt's new drug and gets so amped up he kills one of his buddies—making Walt and Jesse witnesses to murder.

But Tuco is the least of Walt’s worries. His DEA agent brother-in-law, Hank (Dean Norris), has video footage showing Walt and Jesse—hilariously disguised and fumbling—as they steal a barrel of chemicals for the meth lab. Hank doesn’t know it’s them, but he’s closing in on Walt’s secret life. Walt’s wife, Skyler (Anna Gunn), also grows suspicious that her hubby is hiding something.

Walt comes up with a plan to cut ties with Tuco and throw his own family off his trail. But as usual, things go tragically—sometimes comically wrong—for Walt and Jesse.

That’s the beauty of “Breaking Bad”: It’s bleak and brutal, but it’s also darkly humorous. And if ever an actor earned his Emmy, Cranston did last year. With quiet magnetism, he exposes Walt’s complicated, conflicted psyche to viewers. Loving family man or stone-cold killer? Brilliant chemist or bumbling businessman? He’s all of these, and you’ll love him for it.

Posted at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 3

STRIKING A POSE FOR ANDROGYNY
MEET THE MODELS: MMAS and ANTM
REVISIT SEASON 1 OF "MMAS"
RONNIE KROELL'S GALLERY

Two supermodels enter, one model leaves ... It's not quite that serious, but The CW's "America's Next Top Model" and Bravo's "Make Me A Supermodel" begin their new seasons Wednesday, pitting Tyra Banks against Tyson Beckford. Luckily, they're not on at the same time, so real fans of modeling--or near nudity--can watch them both.

MAKE ME A SUPERMODEL
9 p.m. Wednesday, Bravo
Tune in or out? out of four.

The first season of “Make Me a Supermodel” introduced the world to “Bronnie,” the gay Chicagoan and eventual runner-up Ronnie Kroell and his bromantic straight pal, Ben DiChiara.

The bromance is over, but Tyson Beckford says you won’t miss it thanks to the new cast of “Make Me a Supermodel.”

“I believe they are even stronger,” the men’s mentor told reporters recently. “You’re going to be blown away by the second season.”

Call this show my guilty pleasure; I was blown away by the premiere, which starts out with the male and female models dropping trou’ and striking poses in pairs. It brings up a surprising and humorous issue midway through the shoot. "We got wood," Beckford says, as everyone around him laughs.

You have to give props to a show that doesn’t pretend to be more than it is: soft-core porn with personality. I love it.

AMERICA’S NEXT TOP MODEL
7 p.m. Wednesday, CW
Tune in or out? out of four.

The best thing “America’s Next Top Model” has going for it is producer/host/judge Tyra Banks.

To borrow her own phrase, she’s fierce. And she knows how to keep all eyes on her show. Her CW reality series begins its 12th season Wednesday with another batch of misunderstood modeling misfits: One contestant refuses to hide her scars, another is obsessed with blood and a third has epilepsy. Banks has the old stand-bys too: a model her late 20s and another who is called fat.

“This is a very special group of girls,” Banks told The Associated Press. “I want them to connect with viewers, and not just with their looks, but with their personalities.”

Banks can get a bit preachy and tiresome, but for the most part she keeps things lively. The two-hour opener starts in Las Vegas, but next week Banks packs everyone up for New York, where all the bitchy fun really begins.

Posted at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 2

REAPER
7 p.m. Tuesday, CW
Tune in or out? out of four.

Ray Wise’s dapper, deadpan devil dishes out the laughs as The CW’s awesome comedy returns for its second season.

Now that Sam Oliver (Bret Harrison) knows he’s the spawn of Satan, he tries to leverage the relationship. Lots of luck, buddy—you still have to hunt down souls that have escaped from hell.

That gimmick might be wearing thin, sure, but Sam’s pals Sock (Tyler Labine) and Ben (Rick Gonzalez), as well as some new characters, keep things interesting—and devilishly insane.

If you’re watching “American Idol” this season, make sure to TiVo this underappreciated show and watch later.

Posted at 10:30 p.m. Sunday, March 1

SAVING GRACE
9 p.m. Monday, TNT
Tune in or out? out of four.

As if Oklahoma City Det. Grace Hanadarko doesn’t have enough problems, she now has to break in new rookie partner Abby Charles (guest star Christina Ricci).

“Are you crying? You don't cry at a crime scene,” Holly Hunter’s Grace tells Abby after bawling her out for being late.

It’s Abby’s introduction to the hard-charging, whiskey-guzzling, sex-loving Grace viewers have come to know and love, thanks to Hunter’s soulful, honest portrayal of the flawed woman.

Her intense acting is matched by that of other cast members, including Kenny Johnson as her former partner/lover, Ham, and Laura San Giacomo as her friend, Rhetta.

Unfortunately, the show’s realism is often undercut by the presence of Earl (Leon Rippy), Grace’s guardian angel. I think the show could stand on its own without Earl. The writers offer up rich, emotional story lines with surprising twists that don't need the supernatural elements to keep our interest.

Posted at 9:30 p.m. Sunday, March 1

Oliver Hudson (from left), Bianca Kajlich, David Spade, Megyn Price and Patrick Warburton star in “Rules of Engagement.” CBS photo

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
8:30 p.m. Monday, CBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

The battle of the sexes is reignited with the third season premiere of this David Spade sitcom.

And guess what? It’s still not funny.

Spade plays homophobic, commitment-phobic bachelor Russell, who taunts his pals Jeff (Patrick Warburton) and Adam (Oliver Hudson) because they actually care about the women in their lives. Jeff is married to Audrey (Megyn Price) and Adam is getting married to Jennifer (Bianca Kajlich).

The show offers no new spin on the time-honored theme of marriage comedies. The guys here are oafs and the women are patient saints trying to bring out the good in their men. Many of the jokes center on the guys' fear to admit they enjoy anything that they deem unmanly, such as Russell's love of theater. It's boorish and boring.

The show must have a three-gay-jokes-per-episode rule, too. In Monday’s show, when Jennifer makes Adam take dance lessons prior to their wedding, Russell calls Adam “Mr. ’Mo Jangles.” Ha.

It’s like being back in high school again.

Posted at 10:40 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28

Back row from left: Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins, Clint Black, Claudia Jordan, Natalie Gulbis, Herschel Walker, Brian McKnight, Jesse James, Andrew Dice Clay, Tom Green, Dennis Rodman, Brande Roderick, Chloe Kardashian; Front row from left: Melissa Rivers, Joan Rivers, George Ross, Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump, Donald Trump, Jr., Scott Hamilton, Annie Duke. NBC photo

THE CELEBRITY APPRENTICE
8 p.m. Sunday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

The more unlikable Donald Trump gets, the more entertaining he is. And nothing puts The Donald’s comb-over on end more than a sassing competitor. This year, the reinvigorated reality series has plenty independent-minded celebrities to butt heads with him, including Dennis Rodman, Jesse James, Annie Duke, Andrew Dice Clay, Tionne Watkins and Tom Green. Nothing thrilled me more than seeing Joan Rivers scream, “You’re a despicable human being!” and throw a wine glass in the previews.

Posted at 11:50 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22

SEAN PENN WINS ONE FOR GAY RIGHTS
WINNERS' LIST
OSCAR VIDEOS

The Oscar crowd loved Hugh Jackman's opening Sunday; but the night's big production number with Beyonce (below) seemed out of place. L.A. Times photo; MCT photo (below)

Hugh Jackman bombed at the box office last year, but his Oscar opening was a big hit.

He should have quit while he was ahead. A second Broadway-style number slowed down a ceremony that wasn’t as different as it was promised to be.

The “Australia” actor, hosting his first Academy Awards, opened with a musical tribute to the best-picture nominees that he claimed to have come up with in his garage due to Oscar producers downsizing the ceremony.

The lyrics weren’t that clever—he didn’t really come up with them himself—but what the showman did offer was a loose, fun and charming kick-off to Hollywood’s biggest party of the year. He sang with Anne Hathaway and to Kate Winslet, bashed the Academy for not nominating “The Dark Knight” for best picture, danced with the “Craigslist dancers” and to techno music and, with armbands a la “The Wrestler,” plugged his upcoming film “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”

Whew! People's Sexiest Man Alive then charmed the nominees, putting some, like 15-time nominee Meryl Streep, on the spot.

“When someone puts up numbers like that, it’s just hard not to think steroids,” he cracked.

He also handed those elbow pads back to Mickey Rourke, making a joke about the actor’s string of no-holds-barred acceptance speeches during this awards season.

“Say whatever is on your mind because you know we have a seven-second delay,” Jackman said, “but if you win, we switch to a 20-minute delay.”

Later, Jackman ate up what seemed like 20 minutes himself, when his big production number with Beyonce and others stopped the show cold. It wasn’t that it was that bad (I admit it, I do like musicals), it just seemed horribly out of place. No one needs to revisit “Mamma Mia” or “High School Musical” at the Oscars.

The Academy promised a different show, but it wasn’t. The set seemed smaller and more intimate, but the show was still laborious and overproduced—just like that second Jackman number.

Five presenters introduced each acting nominee. And although the mini-tribute to each actor was nice, they stretched the show too long.

Thankfully a filmed segment from “Pineapple Express” stars Seth Rogen and James Franco and the great Tina Fey broke up the monotony on a night when no surprises occurred among the winners.

And yes, once again the show went over its allotted time. But won’t it always? The Oscars ceremony is a big, extravagant and overdone beast, and not even Jackman is huge enough to corral it.

Posted at 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20

The "Dollhouse" cast: Tahmoh Penikett (from left), Enver Gjokaj, Eliza Dushku, Dichen Lachman, Fran Kranz, Olivia Williams and Harry Lennix. Fox photo

DOLLHOUSE
8 p.m. Fridays, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

I’m a big fan of Joss Whedon and his series’ “Firefly,” “Angel” and, of course, “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”

“Dollhouse” is none of those. And honestly, I’m disappointed. I’m not suggesting the guy needs to repeat himself to make me happy, but his Web hit “Dr. Horrible” was perfectly different and I loved it.

Whedon’s getting a little too serious with “Dollhouse,” in which a covert group is convincing people who have no other options to have their minds wiped clean of their own memories. After that, the “dolls,” or “actives,” are imprinted with the memories of others in order to assume different identities for each mission.

It’s a little human trafficking mixed with fractured identities injected with a little weird science—and a whole lot of boredom. "Dollhouse" seems to be devoid of any of the joy in those other shows.

At this point the actives, chief among them Echo (who in her past life was Caroline), mindlessly trade pleasantries at the Dollhouse, get massages, swim, shower and sleep. Nothing too exciting there.

My belief was that their missions, or engagements as Dollhouse doyenne Adelle DeWitt (Olivia Williams) calls them, would allow the actives to really bust out the personalities and action. But Eliza Dushku, as nice as she is to look at as Echo, seems kind of brain-drained no matter who she is. In last week’s misfire of a series premiere, she played a troubled hostage negotiator. On tonight’s much better second episode, she’s an adventurous gal on a hunting date with the devil. Bows and arrows, backwoods, dead rangers—you’d think there’d be plenty of opportunity for Dushku to give us just a glimmer of her “Buffy” slayer Faith. Instead, she’s a scared victim until the last part of the episode.

Yawn. I want some action. I want some mystery. I want a lot more smart-ass dialogue. (Ironic boy genius Topher (Fran Kranz) provides some, but even he’s a little lethargic.)

Hope comes in the form of FBI agent Paul Ballard (Tahmoh Penikett), who is hell-bent on uncovering the “urban legend” of the Dollhouse, as well as the series’ mythology involving an escaped active called Alpha. This guy has recovered his memories (and has kept a lot of imprinted knife skills) and is secretly feeding Ballard hints about the dolls, as well as killing people. All that becomes more firmly established tonight and next week.

Maybe Dushku’s Echo—and the series—will get more interesting as she and the other actives start to malfunction like Alpha, regaining some of their own memories. Maybe then she’ll show us all some personality.

Posted at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20

TAKING CHANCE
7 p.m. Saturday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Kevin Bacon (right) is an understated wonder in this fact-based film that follows Marine Lt. Col. Michael Strobl as he volunteers to escort the body of Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps to his Wyoming family after the 19-year-old was killed in Iraq in April 2004.

Bacon’s disciplined, poignant performance makes viewers feel every emotion that Strobl feels—from guilt for being a “desk-jockey” and not fighting in Iraq to honor for caring for a fallen Marine to pride, sadness and humility.

The story hits its emotional peak when, as Phelps’ body is removed from a plane, civilians all around stop to silently show their respects—and seemingly thank Strobl for taking on his difficult task. It’s a powerful moment in a simple, honest film that may move slowly at times, but will leave even the most cynical viewers pondering the preciousness of life.

Posted at 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20

FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS
“Love is the Weapon of Choice”
9 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Kristen Wiig of “Saturday Night Live” guest stars as Barbara (or is it Brahbrah?), the owner of a missing dog suffering from epilepsy.

Both Bret and Jemaine fall for her, which doesn’t get that interesting until they try to record a song to benefit epileptic dogs (Sample lyric: “Somewhere there’s a Golden Retriever having a seizure; / there’s a Labrador who’s barking on the floor.”). The recording session ends with a duel that leads to a laugh-out-loud, 1980s cheese-inspired video for the song “Love is the Weapon of Choice,” complete with flowing gowns, smoky rooms, white doves and dancing ninjas. I’m not sure if the video for “Total Eclipse of the Heart” (below) was the inspiration, but it could have been.

Eventually, the guys throw a benefit concert that ends disastrously—and hilariously—before they have it out over Barbara (or is it Brahbrah?). There’s so much more I’d like to tell, but you should see it for yourself.

Posted at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20

Shelley Conn (from left), Sharon Small, Sarah Parish and Orla Brady star in “Mistresses.” BBC America photo.

MISTRESSES
7 p.m. Friday, BBC America
Tune in or out? out of four.

Honestly, I don’t know how the quartet of British women in this series—doctor Katie (Sarah Parish), lawyer Siobhan (Orla Brady), event planner Jessica (Shelley Conn) and 9/11 widow Trudi (Sharon Small)—manage their time so well. They work, keep decent-looking places, take care of the kids or hubby, go to the gym, have secret affairs and, somehow, manage to get together and dish at least once a week. How!?

Throw that hard-to-swallow scenario aside and you may just enjoy this “Sex and the City”/“Desperate Housewives”/“Lipstick Jungle”-inspired drama. It’s similar to all those shows, except the melodrama isn’t as goofy and the dialogue is cheekier. (Am I using “cheeky” correctly, Anglophiles?)

Because it strips away all the flipness of those other shows, you're left with the women and whether you agree or disagree with their lack of self-control. Wait, that sounds judgmental, doesn't it? I'd be the last guy to fault a person for getting some, but the situations these women—especially Katie—find themselves in makes you wonder what they are thinking.

I connected most with Trudi, who gets a $2 million payoff for her hubby’s death, but isn’t sure she wants to cash the check—or start dating the single father of her daughter’s BFF. Now there’s a character I haven’t seen on any TV show.

Posted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10

EASTBOUND & DOWN
9:30 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Kenny Powers crude remarks to the woman he’s hot for, snorts coke in the backroom of a bar and tries to get a hooker to come over to his brother’s house, where he’s a guest sleeping on the couch.

Kenny Powers is not a nice guy, but you’ll want to spend the next six Sundays with him.

With the talent behind HBO’s laugh-out-loud comedy—writers Danny McBride, Ben Best and Jody Hill (who wrote "The Foot Fist Way") and executive producers Will Ferrell, Adam McKay and Gordon Henchy—you’d expect something great, and the boys don’t disappoint.

McBride, who starred in “Tropic Thunder” and “Pineapple Express,” plays Powers, a washed-up, burnt out pro baseball pitcher who falls out of favor for politically incorrect comments, steroid use and general abuse of everyone around him. No team will hire him, and he ends up testing the patience of his brother, Dustin (John Hawkes) and sister-in-law, Cassie (Jennifer Irwin). He gets work teaching P.E. at his old North Carolina high school, where he comes on to his old flame, April (Katy Mixon), who is engaged to principal Terrence (Andrew Daly), who likes Kenny despite his put-downs and inappropriate behavior around the kids.

McBride doesn’t compromise making Kenny an arrogant, angry, unlikable nuisance. His Kenny is marvelously clueless about what a jerk he is. When Kenny’s brother tells him that he used to like hanging out with him, but not any more, Kenny completely misses the point.

“I’ve got to remember that I’m a winner,” Kenny says. “I’m better than everyone else.”

It’s one of many priceless moments in the premiere. For being such a loser, Kenny really makes “Eastbound & Down” a winner.

WILL FERRELL

Executive producer Will Ferrell does not have a regular role in the series, but does make an appearance, as you can see below:

Posted at 12:30 p.m, Feb. 9

IMPORTANT THINGS WITH DEMETRI MARTIN
9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Comedy Central
Tune in or out? out of four.

Former “Daily Show” correspondent Demetri Martin centers his comedy on obscure things such as power, safety and chairs. In the first episode of his seven-week series, he loosely bases his observations on the theme of timing.

"Timing is everything," he says. “That's a cliché—now. But if I said that a long time ago, I would have been really original."

What is original is Martin’s show, in which he uses animation, sketch and standup comedy, and music to shine a light on what are to him “important” things.

In one bit, he tells how he saw a sign on a door that said: This door must remain closed at all times. "And I was like, 'Dude! You're thinking of a wall!'" he says.

He appears in a sketch called “Time Gigolo” in which he trades potatoes for sex during the Irish famine; shows a short film in which a One-Hour Photo store is put out of business by a 59-Minute Photo shop, and makes up words such as “fortscore,” which is when you get sex every 20 years.

Martin’s deadpan delivery can take some getting used to. And a few of the sketches start slowly but do build to something special, funny, and important.

Posted at 7 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6

XIII
8 p.m. Sunday and Feb. 15, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

Would sibling politicians belong to two different parties? I guess it could happen, but it seems unlikely to me. Much of this derivative and silly two-part mini is unlikely, which isn’t always a deal-breaker if the story is compelling and the acting is good. Unfortunately, this rip-off of the worst things about “24” and the basic premise of the “Bourne” movies—secret agent shoots the president right in front of her governor brother and thousands of others, conveniently gets that kind of amnesia where he can’t remember who he is but remembers how to do all kinds of high-tech stuff and be a killing machine, then works to stop a corporate/military conspiracy to overthrow the government.

Stephen Dorff makes an OK amnesiac agent, whose only clue to his identity is a “XIII” tattooed on his chest, Val Kilmer, on the other hand, is poorly cast and very bloated as the man sent to shut Dorff up.

Sadly the mini leaves the door open for a sequel. Do yourself a favor, rent the “Bourne” movies and watch them instead.

Kimberly Elise is the best thing about "Gifted Hands." TNT photo

GIFTED HANDS: THE BEN CARSON STORY
7 p.m. Saturday, TNT
Tune in or out? out of four.

Cuba Gooding Jr. (right) gets top billing in this made-for-TV movie about the troubled childhood and meteoric medical rise of Dr. Benjamin S. Carson, a pioneering pediatric neurosurgeon. Yet I’ll remember Kimberly Elise, who shines as his illiterate single mother demanding that her two boys be the best they can be. The inspirational story loses some dramatic steam once Ben grows up and Elise is out of the picture, but it’s still a stirring tale.

THE GOOD WITCH’S GARDEN
8 p.m. Saturday, Hallmark
Tune in or out? out of four.

Catherine Bell (left) returns as the seemingly all-knowing and never flustered Cassie Nightingale of last year’s “The Good Witch.” This time, the witchy woman made peace with most of her neighbors, but when she opens up her home as a bed and breakfast, a mysterious stranger threatens to cause trouble. That may sound like a juicy conflict, but this “Garden” could use a few more exotic flowers. It’s just very exciting.

Posted at 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2

MONDAY'S "CHUCK"
MONDAY'S "HOUSE"
MONDAY'S "HEROES"

"Medium" stars Patricia Arquette and Jake Weber love their onscreen marriage. NBC photo

MEDIUM
9 p.m. Monday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

One of the most endearing things about NBC’s veteran drama “Medium” is the relationship between Patricia Arquette’s psychic character, Allison DuBois, and Jake Weber’s mild-mannered Joe.

There isn’t a better marriage on TV, it seems.

“For me that is the foundation and the heart and soul [of the show],” Arquette told reporters last week during a phone interview. “[It’s] what I care about and what I thought was interesting about it.”

“Medium” returns at 9 p.m. Monday for its fifth season, and the first episode contains a wonderful scene between Arquette and Weber in which a discussion about their three children turns into a little teasing. It’s a sweet, lovely moment among the nastiness that Allison psychically dreams up to solve crimes.

Weber says it’s this easy rapport that allows the couple to have such a good marriage.

“I think they make each other laugh; they tease each other,” he said. “I think that they fight hard but they make up very easily. And I think that that’s a hard thing to do in relationships, you know, if you have a strong-willed individuals. ... When they do get into conflict they resolve it quickly because there’s a very strong sort of foundation there of respect and love and lots of fun.”

In Monday’s premiere, the couple deal with a family issue when daughter Bridget (an engaging Maria Lark) repeatedly draws nude pictures of her male art teacher. Meanwhile, Allison works a case in which a woman marries the man who killed her first husband in a car accident after he convinces her he is the resurrected spirit of dead hubby No. 1.

It sounds bizarre, but fans—and Arquette—love the mix of family realism with Allison’s psychic sleuthing of chilling murders.

“Family life is a little bit monotonous,” Arquette said. “You need that with this crazy kind of [psychic] premise. I think you need that normalcy.”

For more from the interview, click the link below.

Posted at 8:20 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2

MONDAY'S "CHUCK"
MONDAY'S "HOUSE"
MONDAY'S "MEDIUM"

Hiro (Masi Oka), Claire (Hayden Panettiere) and Ando (James Kyson Lee) still aren't safe from the government in next week's "Heroes." NBC photo

HEROES: A CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER
8 p.m. Monday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of 4.

“Heroes” has pulled its most masterful time travel trick. It’s working its way back to the quality of its highly successful first season.

I’ve never hated it as much as many critics and viewers have, but even I admit that the complicated time travel storylines muddled a good thing.

The new, 12-episode volume of stories, called “Fugitives,” will focus more on the show’s core characters—the ordinary people with extraordinary abilities we've come to know and miss. It picks up seven weeks after “Villains” left off. After the big showdown in December, those villains are gone, and the heroes are being hunted by agents working for one of their own, U.S. Sen. Nathan Petrelli (Adrian Pasdar).

Turns out Nathan has become just as evil as his father. He’s working to kidnap and detain all the heroes, including his daughter Claire (Hayden Panettiere), brother Peter (Milo Ventimiglia) and former lover Tracy (Ali Larter).

His henchman include Noah Bennett (Jack Coleman) and a commando leader called The Hunter (Emmy winner Zeljko Ivanek).

The latest episode, written by series creator Tim Kring, is a strong metaphor for recent U.S. history, with people being detained without trial at Guantanamo Bay. It’s also reminiscent of an “X-Men” film plot, but I’m giving “Heroes” a pass on that because the images of all the handcuffed, shackled and hooded heroes being led onto a plane creeped me out big time.

What happens on that plane makes me think that, finally, my old “Heroes” is sticking around for good.

Click the link below to watch NBC video interviews with cast members.

Posted at 8 a.m. Monday, Feb. 2

MONDAY'S "CHUCK"
MONDAY'S "HEROES"
MONDAY'S "MEDIUM"

House (Hugh Laurie), Kutner (Kal Penn) and Taub (Peter Jacobson) treat an esteemed cancer researcher (Judith Scott) in "The Greater Good." Fox photo

HOUSE: THE GREATER GOOD
7 p.m. Monday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of 4.

I might be the only person I know who isn’t blown away by “House.” It’s a well-acted, fine drama, to be sure.

I just don’t need a weekly dose of it.

The drama celebrates its 100th episode Monday, and as far as I can tell, “The Greater Good” is pretty much the same basic story as the previous 99.

A patient is admitted to the hospital with an unexplained illness. The grumpy genius Dr. Gregory House (Hugh Laurie) is totally indifferent to the patient’s feelings. He bullies and berates his team of underlings to figure out a diagnosis. He puts the patient through dozens of tests and procedures, taking time out only to make life worse for his boss, Dr. Lisa Cuddy (Lisa Edelestein), and his BFF (if such a jerk can have one), Dr. James Wilson (Robert Sean Leonard).

Before House solves the medical mystery in the last few minutes, he and the team learn things about themselves based on the patient’s condition.

“House” couldn’t get any more formulaic, so it’s a good thing Laurie is starring as the pill-popping, wisecracking doctor. He gives this jerk a brutal honesty, cutting wit and, just peeking through that tough, sarcastic shield, a bit of humanity.

In “The Greater Good,” the team treats a former cancer researcher who left her career to pursue personal happiness. Her decision makes House and his staff members question their own choices.

It’s a fine example of how this series works—how it’s always worked. I’m just not dying to watch more of the same.

So what’s wrong with me? Let me self-diagnose: I am not addicted to “House.”

Posted at 5:50 p.m. Friday, Jan. 30

LISA LAMPANELLI: LONG LIVE THE QUEEN
9 p.m. Saturday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of 4.

Insult comic Lisa Lampanelli spares no individual or group from appallingly foul-mouthed tirades in her first HBO special.

African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics, deaf people, WASPs, Jews, gays and Carson Daly all bear the brunt of her hilarious hostilities. Absolutely nothing that comes out of her mouth can be printed here, but it’s all awfully funny—and awful. And she aims some of her meanest—and grossest—material square in the mirror.

Her rapid-fire barrage of obscenities may offend some viewers, but they’re not getting her shtick. There is no malice behind her words; she’s simply taking the anger out of the bad, stereotyping language and making it meaningless.

And as the saying goes, “We tease because we love.” Lampanelli obviously has a lot of love to share.

Posted at 8:15 a.m. Friday, Jan. 30

THE OFFICE: STRESS RELIEF
Roughly 9:30 p.m. Sunday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of 4.

It’s good that NBC is following what’s bound to be an anxiety-inducing Super Bowl with an episode of “The Office” called “Stress Relief.”

It’s an hour long, which in the past has caused a strain for “The Office” writers, who seem to be stretching a joke out for 45 minutes or so.

This hour is all good.

The episode opens with safety officer Dwight (Rainn Wilson) trying to teach his uninterested co-workers about fire safety, which causes stress all the way to Dunder-Mifflin corporate.

Without giving too much away, it is one of the funniest opening sequences in “Office” history.

After that disaster and a series of other funny mishaps, Michael (Steve Carell) decides to have a Comedy Central-style roast of himself, badly underestimating the opportunity he's giving his resentful employees.

"I consider myself a good person," Oscar (Oscar Nunez) says, "but I'm going to try to make him cry."

Fan buzz about the episode has centered on the appearances of Jack Black, Jessica Alba and Cloris Leachman. Wisely, episode writer Paul Lieberstein, who plays HR guy Toby, doesn’t have them interact with the regular cast.

Their movie-within-the-show is just OK, but that’s OK. This show needs no guest stars to keep us laughing.

Posted at 2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26

Truth in "Trust Me's" advertising
Cavanagh wants to film in Chicago.
Eric McCormack, Tom Cavanagh aren't faking it.
The "Trust Me"-"Mad Men" connection.

TRUST ME
9 p.m. Monday, TNT
Tune in or out? out of four.

I can’t say enough about the importance of chemistry among leads of a TV series. Or charisma.

“Trust Me” has both in spades. The new TNT comedy—yes, I’m calling it a comedy—stars Eric McCormack and Tom Cavanagh as two friends who work at a Chicago advertising agency. The TV veterans know how to sell a story.

McCormack stars as Mason, a straight-laced, responsible art director who is friend and co-worker to Cavanagh’s high-strung, womanizing and wacky copywriter, Conner. In the series premiere, Mason earns a promotion that makes him Conner’s boss, which the copywriter finds hard to stomach at first.

McCormack and Cavanagh are wonderful as the pair, presenting their push-pull bromance with amazing ease. The show’s writers—Chicago ad world vets John Coveny and Hunt Baldwin—deftly mix Cavanagh’s hyper, rat-a-tat charm and McCormack’s reserved-yet-funny approach. Neither actor falls victim to being overly showy or cartoonish. You’ll have no doubt that their characters are best buds with a strong competitive streak.

And as if these two pros don’t offer enough appeal, Monica Potter turns in an outstanding performance as award-winning but insecure copywriting star Sarah Krajicek-Hunter, who was hired by Mason’s now deceased boss. Sarah demands attention, high-profile accounts and an office with a window—giving Potter one of her juiciest roles to date.

Because of its ad world setting, “Trust Me” already is being called a modern “Mad Men” by some. That’s doing a great disservice to both shows. “Mad Men” is a noirish drama while “Trust Me” is a serious comedy. They can’t be compared.

They do share one trait, however: Both shows launched with their own distinctive identity, unpredictable plotlines and incredibly appealing stars.

Posted at 5:10 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24

Two networks offer up action-adventure miniseries this weekend, but with completely different results.

Ian Porter (Dougray Scott) is running from everyone in "The Diplomat." ION photo

THE DIPLOMAT
6 p.m. Saturday, ION
Tune in or out? out of four.

Warning: Do not attempt to watch this four-hour miniseries in one sitting. It’s good, but not that good. You will regret a marathon viewing, believe me.

Now that we have that out of the way, I recommend you do watch “The Diplomat,” especially if you enjoy character-driven, complicated thrillers and foreign accents. This British-Australian co-production hops from London to Tajikistan to Australia and back as British diplomat Ian Porter (Dougray Scott) is busted for importing heroin.

Whether he’s guilty of that charge or not is beside the point, as his arrest sets off a complicated intrigue that involves several espionage-tale clichés: Russian mobsters, dirty bombs, double agents and a dedicated police officer—Scotland Yard CI Julie Hales (Rachael Blake)—who won’t give up her search for truth.

Anyone fan of the “Bourne” movies or other espionage actioners will figure out a lot of what’s coming in advance, but there are enough twists and turns here to keep you guessing, even if only for a little bit.

The acting is terrific, from Scott and Blake as well as Claire Forlani, who plays Porter’s possibly duplicitous ex-wife, Pippa. Just listening to the Aussie cops assigned to protect Porter and his wife is worth the price of admission.

Just don’t overdose in one sitting.

Scott Porter and Mira Sorvino can't save "The Last Templar." NBC photo

The Last Templar
8 p.m. Sunday and Monday, NBC
Tune in or out? out of four.

"The Last Templar" is unoriginal, outlandish and, at least for the first two of four hours, a completely entertaining lark. Who wouldn't chuckle watching a leggy Mira Sorvino, as sassy archaeologist Tess Chaykin, hop on a horse to chase down a horseman who's stolen religious treasures from New York's Metropolitan Museum?

Once their investigation into the crime leads Tess and FBI agent Sean Daley (Scott Foley) to Turkey, the miniseries shifts from ripping off “The Da Vinci Code” to clumsily stealing from the “Indiana Jones” movies. For a while the action gets so ridiculous even I wasn't buying into it. (Yes, even I need a kernal of realism.) Then the mood shifts again, infusing so much religious yakkity-yak and seriousness into the last hour that it got downright boring.

Not even the lovely chemistry between Sorvino and Foley can save "The Last Templar" from the monotony.

Posted at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 24

Ryan Kelley and Sigourney Weaver star in "Prayer for Bobby." Lifetime photos

PRAYERS FOR BOBBY
8 p.m. Saturday, Lifetime
Tune in or out? out of four.

Sigourney Weaver makes her TV movie debut in “Prayers For Bobby,” elevating the beyond the usual Lifetime weeper of the week.

Lifetime should feel fortunate to have Weaver, because the film, based on Leroy Aarons' true-life book, is none too subtle in getting its very important message across: Treating homosexuality as a sin or “abomination” does no one any good.

Weaver plays God-fearing Mary Griffith, whose idyllic late 1970s suburban life is shattered when her son, Bobby (a terrific Ryan Kelley, right), tells the family he's gay.

Quoting Bible passages and evoking eternal damnation, Mary tries to "cure" Bobby, causing him such emotional turmoil that the 20-year-old kills himself.

It’s only after the tragedy that a tormented Mary begins to understand her intolerance has wreaked havoc on the entire family. Searching for answers, she reaches out to the gay-friendly Metropolitan Community Church and the group Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays. Eventually she changes her anti-gay beliefs and becomes a fierce human rights advocate.

“Bobby” plays a little too simplistically, but thanks to Weaver, Kelley and a few other heartbreaking performances, its delivers a strong message about love and acceptance.

Posted at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23

Afro Samurai is back in action. Spike TV photos

AFRO SAMURAI: RESURRECTION
9 p.m. Sunday, Spike TV
Tune in or out? out of four.

Fans of anime will love this beautifully done, two-hour movie furthering the story of avenging ninja Afro Samurai.

Samuel L. Jackson returns to voice Afro, as well as his foul-mouthed sidekick Ninja Ninja. Afro battles Kuma (Yuri Lowenthal), the teddy bear-headed warrior from the original “Afro Samurai” series, who’s under the control of Afro’s chief nemesis, Sio, voiced by Lucy Liu. Mark Hamill voices Bin, Sio’s manservant and protector.

In “Resurrection,” Sio hatches a convoluted scheme that involves bringing Afro’s dad and others back to life to kill the big-haired anti-hero. It doesn’t matter how confusing the plot gets, because splattering blood and flying limbs never looked this good.

Click the link below to see more images from "Afro Samurai: Resurrection."

Posted at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 22

Sharon Gless, Bruce Campbell, Jeffrey Donovan and Gabrielle Anwar. USA photo

BURN NOTICE
9 p.m. Thursday, USA
Tune in or out? out of four.

This energetic, intelligent and completely entertaining show picks up where we left off last fall; ex-spy Michael Weston (Jeffrey Donovan) is hunting the people who tried to blow him up. But that search doesn’t keep him from juggling all his other responsibilites:

Posted at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21

LIE TO ME
8 p.m. Wednesday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

Fox’s new crime series, “Lie To Me,” teaches viewers a whole lot about liars and lying.

“The average person tells three lies per 10 minutes of conversation,” Dr. Cal Lightman (Tim Roth) tells a criminal, kicking off what is a fascinating 20 minutes of lessons and tips on how to catch someone in a lie.

Lightman and his work are based on that of real-life scientist Paul Ekman, whose Facial Action Coding System classifies every human expression and helps law enforcement bust criminals who are lying.

All these facts are fascinating, to be sure (you will totally want to try out the techniques after the show).

But I’m not going to lie to you: It makes the pilot a slow, talky hour that, beyond the way the show presents the lie-detector techniques by using photos of famous people (who appear to be lying), is just an average criminal procedural.

Posted at 10:45 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20

LOST
7 p.m. Wednesday recap episode,
8 p.m. Wednesday Season 5 premiere, ABC
Tune in or out? out of four.

“Lost” roars back to our screens Wednesday with a killer opening ... that just kills me to not blab.

The riveting two-hour Season 5 premiere doesn’t waste any time or dialogue dropping tons of clues for fans. Every answer, of course, opens another can of worms, stirring up even more questions. But within the first few minutes we learn that over the last eight months we’ve been asking the wrong question: Where did the island go when Ben turned that crank deep in the Orchid station?

Sawyer makes the correct query on Wednesday: “So when are we now?”

I have no idea what the answer is—well I do, but I’m probably wrong. It doesn’t matter, though. On Wednesday, “Lost” creators Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse kick off the show’s final 34 hours with a crowded, complicated, chaotic but ultimately satisfying episode.

For more on the new season of “Lost,” click the link after the video below.

Posted at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18

Ginnifer Goodwin (from left), Jeanne Tripplehorn, Bill Paxton and Chloe Sevigny star in "Big Love." HBO photo

BIG LOVE
8 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

Bill Henrickson (Bill Paxton), his three wives and all their children finally return for their third season after a long delay, and it’s worth the wait.

Yes, you read that correctly: three wives. The Henricksons are polygamists with a very complicated family tree.

Bill’s No. 1 wife, Barb (Jeanne Tripplehorn), gets some bad medical news that makes her urge wives Margene (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nicki (Chloe Sevigny) to accept a fourth wife.

Nicki’s dad, “prophet” Roman Grant (Harry Dean Stanton) is in jail for transferring minors across state lines, betrayed by his greedy son, Alby (Matt Ross), who wants to take over the polygamist community of Juniper Creek.

Bill is dealing with all this, plus getting a gambling business off the ground and fighting his neighbors, who are reacting badly to learning just what Nicki’s dad has done.

As if the Henricksons’ lives aren’t complicated enough, Nicki gets a job at the Utah attorney general's office so she can secretly keep an eye on the state’s case against Roman. Bill is forced to go back to Juniper Creek, where he is banned, to help a boy who has been railroaded by the polygamists. He also is trying to woo a fourth wife, and Barb finds out she has cancer.

The first two episodes are as solid and rewarding as the series ever has been, but the third, in which Barb and Bill’s daughter, Sarah (Amanda Seyfried), goes to the prom, is truly jarring.

Posted at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18

UNITED STATES OF TARA
9 p.m. Sunday, Showtime
Tune in or out? out of four.

Toni Collette is a genius, and you’ll see that in her new, 12-episode comedy written by “Juno” scribe Diablo Cody.

Collette plays Kansas housewife Tara, who has dissociative identity disorder. She’s flawless as Tara, the put-upon wife and mom who is off her meds, and her three alternate personalities:

Posted at 11:50 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15

LEARN MORE ABOUT SEASON 2 HERE.

Rhys Darby (left), Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie star in "Flight of the Conchords." HBO photo

FLIGHT OF THE CONCHORDS
9 p.m. Sunday, HBO
Tune in or out? out of four.

It's been an achingly hollow year-and-a-half since the Season 1 finale of HBO's hilarious and offbeat comedy "Flight of the Conchords." But the show's dry, sardonic wit is still intact.

When last we saw them, transplanted New Zealand musicians Bret (McKenzie) and Jemaine (Clement) were fighting for the attentions of their manager, Murray (Rhys Darby), who was spending much more time with their rivals, the Crazy Dogs.

In "A Good Opportunity" (which already has aired online, see below), the boys fire Murray, which leads to the best song of the episode, Murray's operatic lament "Rejected." Murray is my favorite character because Darby is brilliant in making him so utterly and believably clueless. He gets nothing right, as this exchange from a band-meeting scene shows:

Murray: "Item 3. R. Kelly wants to sing on your next song."

Jemaine: "What? Are you serious?"

Murray: "Yup. Shall I find out who he is?"

It's this kind of ridiculousness—delivered completely deadpan and flowing from seemingly uninteresting events—that fuels the show's humor. You’ll chuckle to see how much trouble Bret causes when he goes on a “$2.79 spending spree” in Episode 2, “The New Cup.”

Yes, the boys are still struggling, and they still break into song, which has been a highlight of the show. Parodies of different musical styles and videos have made it a musical that even people who hate musicals can love.

I don't think that this season's songs hold up to classics such as "If You're Into It," "Hiphoppapotamus vs. Rhymenocerous" and "Foux du Fafa." But that's a small quibble about a show that takes such amusing flights of fancy.

Posted at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15

What's William Petersen doing next?

CSI: ONE TO GO episode
8:15 p.m. Thursday (due to presidential address), CBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

You have to give credit to the brain trust behind “CSI.” They know how to spin an unsentimental, brisk and deeply involved tale.

“CSI” bids a classy goodbye to William Petersen’s Gil Grissom on Thursday, while giving Laurence Fishburne’s newbie Ray Langston a bumbling start.

And it does so without wasting a single word, shot or expression.

"I will never forget the things you've taught me," Nick (George Eads) tells Grissom.

"You're the best student I ever had," Grissom replies.

That’s about as near to weepy as it gets, thankfully.

But before Grissom goes off to be with his loves, Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox) and his bugs, he’s got one last case to solved: the Dick-and-Jane Killer has an accomplice. And that’s where Langston comes in.

We were introduced to Fishburne’s college professor a few weeks ago, when Grissom audited a class to watch the DJK (a creepy Bill Irwin) reach out to the accomplice via video conference with the class.

The accomplice has snatched another couple, and a woman’s life is at stake. Grissom invites Langston to help in the investigation, then he invites the professor to join the team permanently.

Langston, who will join the team in an entry-level position, butts heads with a few CSIs and makes an error of overconfidence. The “CSI” writers have set up some potentially great future storytelling.

It’s a great set-up, for sure, but “CSI” won’t be the same without Petersen’s intelligent, gentle playing of Grissom.

Posted at 9:20 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14

THE BEAST
9 p.m. Thursday, A&E
Tune in or out? out of four.

Chicagoans have another reason to call their town "The City of Big Shoulders": It helps carry A&E’s new crime drama, "The Beast."

Shot all over Chicago last year, "The Beast" has made headlines mostly because star Patrick Swayze filmed while fighting pancreatic cancer. But make no mistake, the Windy City battles Swayze’s tough-as-nails FBI agent Charles Barker for the distinction as the series’ most memorable character.

Local scenery and Swayze’s performance are the best things about this run-of-the-mill cop drama.

Few productions, except for maybe Christopher Nolan’s Batman movies, have gone so far beyond pat landmarks such as Wrigley Field and the Sears Tower to show the real, gritty, beautiful city. The show opens with Barker looking out the window of his grungy apartment as the "L" rumbles past, a visual cue to viewers that they’re about to take a gloomy ride through the seedy underbelly of Chicago—and Barker’s mind.

The production shot in Wicker Park, at the Canal Street Marina & Yacht Yard west of Chinatown (right), outside the Federal Building and, apparently, in dark alleys and streets all over the city. We see the mysterious city in scenes—secret lakefront meetings lit only by the downtown skyline, an ambush in a grimy "L" car and a confrontation with a reluctant informant at Montrose Harbor in the dead of winter—that all are gorgeous in their starkness.

The Chicago background makes the show distinctive, as does Swayze’s performance. He is terrific as Barker, a grizzled agent whose years of working undercover have blurred the lines of what he’ll do to bring the bad guys down. He’s so off the grid that an FBI Internal Affairs team is investigating him for being a possible rogue agent.

Believe me, Jack Bauer of "24" has nothing on Barker.

In his recent interview with Barbara Walters, Swayze said he often was doubled over in pain on his bathroom floor just hours before his call time during filming. You can see all that pain and fury in Swayze’s performance. His haggard Barker mercilessly instructs/hazes his rookie partner, Ellis Dove, played by former model Travis Fimmel. Swayze’s scenes with Chicago actor Kevin J. O’Connor—who plays Barker’s sad-eyed FBI handler, Conrad—crackle.

Fimmel, best known in acting circles for the failed syndicated series "Tarzan," is clearly outmatched by Swayze, but he is a surprise. His acting is more quiet than Swayze’s, which is perfect for the role. After all, Dove is getting schooled and then some by Barker.

Unfortunately, the cliche-filled script and trite plot lines don’t reach the quality of the performances by Swayze or Chicago. Be prepared to unplug your brain before watching—there’s nothing wrong with that, by the way—because several events defy logic, like Barker blowing up an SUV by firing a rocket launcher from inside an apartment.

But keep your eyes on Swayze and Chicago, and you’ll find beauty in "The Beast."

Posted at 10:35 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11

DON'T MISS THE RED CARPET PHOTO GALLERY, CLICK HERE.

FOR A COMPLETE WINNERS LIST, CLICK HERE.

On a night of surprises, it was no surprise that Heath Ledger’s Golden Globe honor brought the Hollywood crowd to its feet.

Ledger was named best supporting actor, another of what is likely to be a string of posthumous honors for his role as the Joker in “The Dark Knight.” Ledger died a year ago, well before the Chicago-shot film opened. His director, Christopher Nolan (right), accepted the award Sunday.

“He will be missed but he will never be forgotten,” said Nolan, who spent part of his boyhood in Chicago.

Ledger’s win, which spurred a standing ovation Sunday from the crowd at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, was the most solemn moment during a breezy, loose evening full of stunned movie award winners.

Mickey Rourke continued his remarkable acting comeback, thanking his dogs among others for giving him a shot at movie star redemption—which came in the form of best actor honors for “The Wrestler.”

"It's been a very long road back for me," the actor, whose bad behavior had derailed his career for many years, said.

Kate Winslet, always the bridesmaid at awards shows, picked up two awards, for supporting actress in “The Reader” and lead actress in “Revolutionary Road.”

“I have a habit of not winning things,” Winslet said in accepting the first award of the night. Winslet has been nominated for Oscars five times, but never has won.

"Slumdog Millionaire" director Danny Boyle also seemed surprised that his underdog film set in India swept all four categories for which it was nominated, including his best director honor, plus best drama, screenplay and music score.

Ledger already has won the Critic’s Choice Award and is considered a contender for the Academy Awards, the nominations for which will be announced Jan. 22, the one-year anniversary of his death from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs.

After a year off because of the writers’ strike last winter, the 66th annual Golden Globe Awards provided a no-fuss, no-muss awards show that actually proved fun to watch.

Unlike other big awards show in recent memory, the Globes ceremony had no host (or, thankfully, reality TV hosts, like last fall’s disastrous Emmys). Jennifer Lopez opened the show by giving a supporting-actress award to Winslet. The show moved at a nice clip after that, with no production numbers and very little awful banter among presenters.

Ricky Gervais (left) did take his time at the podium. But I’m not complaining about that.

“I’m not even nominated, which is a little bit annoying,” he said, holding a glass of beer. “I can’t believe I’m not nominated. What a waste of a campaign. That’s the last time I have sex with 200 middle-aged journalists.”

If that’s the case, Gervais slept with too many: The Hollywood Foreign Press Association, made up of only about 90 reporters, presents the Golden Globes. The Globes are given for both film and TV.

There were few surprises among the TV awards. “Mad Men” won best drama, while “30 Rock” continued its run of accolades, winning Globes for best TV comedy and for the acting of Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey.

Co-star Tracy Morgan accepted the best comedy award, saying he made a deal with show creator Fey that if Barack Obama was elected president, Morgan would become the show’s spokesman.

“Welcome to post-racial America," he said. “I am the face of post-racial America."

Accepting her award, Fey said she appreciates all her good fortune in the past year, adding that it’s been easy to stay grounded. “If you ever start to feel too good about yourself, they have this thing called the Internet," she said. "And you can find a lot of people there who don’t like you"

She told several people, using Web their monikers, to “suck it.” “Babs in La Crosse, you can suck it. Diane-fan, you can suck it. Cougar-letter, you can really suck it, ’cause all year you’ve been after me. All year.”

Click below for other Golden Globe moments.

Posted at 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9

Teri Polo (above left), Jason Priestley and Cheech Marin star in "Expecting a Miracle." Also starring are Shalim Ortiz (below left), Kevin Hernandez and Rebeka Montoya. Hallmark photos

EXPECTING A MIRACLE
8 p.m. Saturday, Hallmark
out of four.

With the title “Expecting a Miracle,” this slight-but-sweet TV movie has to be about a baby, right? Yes, it is that obvious, with a main plot that follows an L.A. couple (Jason Priestley and Teri Polo) who are about to break up because they can’t get pregnant. It also offers a subplot about a Mexican boy with a bum leg and his wise priest (Cheech Marin). They both teach the couple powerful lessons while providing a whole lot of hopeful Hallmark moments. Yes, I did shed a little tear.

Posted at 7:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9

Amanda Tapping and Joe Flanigan are reunited Friday on "Stargate Atlantis. NBC photo

STARGATE ATLANTIS
8 p.m. Friday, SciFi
out of four.

PSYCH
9 p.m. Friday, USA
out of four.

"Stargate Atlantis" airs its 100th and final episode Friday with the aptly title “Enemy at the Gate.” It’s not the best “SGA” ep ever, but it’s a nice goodbye, with Amanda Tapping’s Col. Samantha Carter and other favorites coming back. They’re all battling the alien Wraith, who have found their way to Earth. Atlantis and its crew race to destroy an advanced hive ship, giving fans a thrilling space battle. It also gives Col. Sheppard (Joe Flanigan) one last chance to look studly and save the day.

If you know what a Wraith is, you’re stoked like I am. If not, flip to USA for the return of “Psych” and laugh as Shawn and Gus investigate the murder of Shabby the sea lion. James Roday, who play fake psychic Shawn, and Dule Hill, starring as his pal and partner Gus, have meshed into one of the best comic duos on TV. They’re hilarious, simultaneously arguing or competing with each other as they try to snow clients, cops or criminals. Watch the “Psych” clip below.

Posted at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 9

"Flashpoint" showcases great folk songs. Listen here.

Amy Jo Johnson, Hugh Dillon, Enrico Colantini and David Paetkau play SRU team members in "Flashpoint." CBS photo

FLASHPOINT
8 p.m. Friday, CBS
out of four.

CBS’ surprise hit from last summer returns for its new season with members of an elite police tactical unit working as bodyguards for a business mogul (Colm Feore) and his wife (Wendy Crewson).

I like this series. The task force is called upon each week to stop a hostage crisis, take down a sniper or some other tough job. The ace cast playing the officers includes Enrico Colantoni, Amy Jo Johnson, David Paetkau and especially Hugh Dillon.

As sniper Ed Lane, Dillon truly explores the emotional toll the job takes on his character's personal life. He makes the series more than just another cop drama.

Posted at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7

24
7 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Fox
Tune in or out? out of four.

It’s been almost two years since “24” aired a complete season, just enough time for the writers to come up with a new way to test Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland): The super agent faces down a Senate committee investigating abuses of power and use of unlawful methods—torture, that is—by the disbanded Counter-Terrorist Unit.

“Do not sit there with that smug look on your face and expect me to regret the decisions that I have made,” a defiant Bauer tells a committee member, “because, sir, the truth is I don’t.”

By the end of the first four hours of Season 7 (over two nights), even the staunchest Dove is likely to agree with Bauer.

He’s once again tossed into a ridiculously impossible mission in which baddies are plotting to harm America. FBI agent Renee Walker (Annie Wersching) springs him from the Senate hearings and pleads for help to stop his presumed-dead fellow former agent, Tony Almeida (Carlos Bernard), who has kidnapped a computer whiz and hacked into a government computer system that controls air traffic, water supplies and electrical grids.

It’s familiar territory for Bauer and viewers. But “24” knows how to put its audience in a choke-hold. There are more plot twists and murky machinations in the first hour of “24” than there are prisoners held (unjustly?) by the U.S. at Guantanamo Bay. And although CTU is gone, all our favorite characters return, including brainiac Chloe O’Brian (Mary Lynn Rajskub) and former CTU boss Bill Buchanan (James Morrison).

After setting “24” in L.A. for six years (not including last fall’s TV movie, “24: Redemption”), the series benefits from its move to Washington, D.C. All the players—a female president (Cherry Jones), her paranoid husband (Colm Feore), FBI computer geek Janis Gold (Janeane Garolfalo) and several evil-doers—are within Bauer’s reach.

New setting aside, don’t expect to believe that familiar announcement before each episode that claims “events occur in real time.” In order to enjoy Bauer’s 24-hour adventures, you can’t cling to reality.

Just let every implausible, nail-biting minute rock your Monday nights.

Posted at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7

13: FEAR IS REAL
7 p.m. Wednesday, CW
Tune in or out? No stars.

This new reality competition show pits 13 contestants against each other in a series of challenges inspired by horror movies. They are dumped in “one of the most haunted areas on Earth,” Louisiana bayou country, and told to do scary things by a never-seen manipulator named “The Mastermind.” Each week, one victim will be “killed off” until one survives and wins $66,666.

I’m calling it “Survivor: Stupid.”

I lost interest almost immediately, when the bus driver taking them into the woods said that a “tree” in the road meant he could not take them any further. They would have to walk. The smallest of the women could have moved the “tree” out of the way.

It only gets worse. Several of the contestants act frightened by every little thing, and really go way overboard with the screaming and melo-drama.

Do they really think the producers are going to kill them? The scariest thing about this show is that someone might believe it.

Posted at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 7

DAMAGES
9 p.m. Wednesday, FX
Tune in or out? out of four.

Patty Hewes better watch her back.

The manipulative lawyer played with unsentimental brilliance by Emmy winner Glenn Close won her case in the first season of FX’s legal thriller “Damages.” But she made a lot of enemies along the way, and they’re rallying against her in Season 2.

She faces the most dangerous foe in her protégée, Ellen Parsons (Rose Byrne), who is working with the FBI to take down her boss after Patty tried to have her killed in Season 1.

“I want to destroy her,” Ellen tells her FBI handlers.

She’s not alone. Patty’s old nemesis, former billionaire Arthur Frobisher (Ted Danson), still is lurking, as is Patty’s guilt over the death of Frobisher’s lawyer—a suicide Patty caused by blackmailing him.

Patty’s haunted by her past in other ways, too. An old, um, “friend” comes to her for help. Scientist Daniel Purcell seems to have run afoul of an energy conglomerate.

I say seems because, as Patty herself says, “everyone is looking to play an angle.” And in “Damages,” the angles are sharp—and deadly.

Purcell, played by Close’s “The Big Chill” co-star William Hurt (right), is most definitely more than Patty’s newest client. They have a past, we learn, that may mean he’s gunning for her as well.

Watching Close and Hurt work together is a thrill. They’re incredible actors, as is Marcia Gay Harden, who digs into her role as Patty’s new competition, lawyer Claire Maddox. Rounding out the new cast is Timothy Olyphant as Ellen’s grief counseling acquaintance Wes Krulik, who’s working an angle of his own.

There’s no simple character in “Damages,” which means there’s no simple plot line either. But I’m happy to report that although the writers still are playing with timelines, they don’t jump back and forth nearly as much as they did in Season 1.

I have to be honest, though, the show demands your concentration and dedication. This isn’t “The Mentalist” or some “Law & Order” series. But unraveling the twisted mysteries surrounding Patty Hewes is what makes watching “Damages” so deliciously fun.

Posted at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6

"Scrubs" moves to ABC, begins Tuesday.

"Nip/Tuck" returns Tuesday with more of the same calamities.

10 ITEMS OR LESS
10 p.m. Tuesday, TBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

John Lehr may be the funniest guy who know one recognizes. He’s long been one of the Geico cavemen—in both the commercials and the short-lived series.

In the partially improvised “10 Items Or Less,” now in its third season, Lehr gets ample opportunity to show off his face and huge comedic skills.

The new season kicks off with Greens & Grains grocery store manager Leslie (Lehr) coming up with a novel solution to fix his latest screw-up: He’s mistakenly ordered 1,100 pounds of frozen turkeys (“It’s just so easy on the computer; you just point and click!”).

Leslie’s solution shows the wacked out, I-wanna-party-with-these-guys attitude of the show’s writers, including creator Lehr.

Leslie, Todd and Carl come up with a new grocery game—Turkey Bowling. Using the turkeys as balls and liter-sized soda bottles as pins, they become addicted to the game. So addicted, in fact, that the new manager of SuperValueMart, Mercy P. Jones (Kim Coles), makes a wager with Leslie that will keep him bowling and close down the G&G.

In next week’s episode, Leslie’s plan to put a lasik surgery outlet in the store results in temporary blindness and no space for Yolanda’s (Roberta Valderrama) tube top shop.

“Less” is silly, fun and, thanks to Lehr's bumbling Leslie, a bagful of laughs.

Posted at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6

"Scrubs" moves to ABC, begins Tuesday.

John Lehr bags more laughs in "10 Items or Less."

Not cool, guys, not cool! FX photo

NIP/TUCK
9 p.m. Tuesday, FX
Tune in or out? out of four.

I have a problem with knives—as in knives that are repeatedly jabbed into a man’s back. I get dizzy when I see that kind of stuff; then I pass out. So I had some real trouble watching the extremely bloody, violent opening minutes of the second half of “Nip/Tuck’s” strike-delayed fifth season.

My reaction is sort of indicative of my "Nip/Tuck" experience over the past few seasons. I delight in some of the show's wackiness, but then am stunned by its mean-spirited, cruel turns. It's why I've stopped being a regular viewer.

If you remember way back in February, Sean McNamara (Dylan Walsh, above right)—a newly minted TV star on the soap “Hearts & Scalpels”—was dealing with all kinds of crazy. His former agent, Colleen Rose (Sharon Gless, right), killed his new rep by stuffing him with Teddy Bear filling; his daughter Annie and his partner Christian Troy (Julian McMahon, above left) were involved in a paparazzi-caused traffic accident. Just as Sean was preparing to work on Annie’s face, Colleen stabs him from behind.

The opening minutes revisit every gory detail of that scene, showing creepy Colleen sneaking into McNamara/Troy, attacking Sean and then dragging him off to an empty room.

Once Colleen is dispatched, the episode gets more serious, for while anyway.

Confined to a wheelchair, Sean refuses to do any surgeries and takes a job teaching med students. Christian, meanwhile, is diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer.

Both men are wallowing in self-pity, so naturally, they bring home a couple of gals from a bar and present an extended (wheelchair) sex scene that’s even graphic by this series’ standards.

So overall, not much has changed on one of TV’s most over-the-top series. If only I found that enjoyable.

Posted at 9:40 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2

JO KOY: DON’T MAKE HIM ANGRY
9 p.m. Sunday, Comedy Central
Tune in or out? out of four.

Fiery stand-up comic Jo Koy takes aim at Alabama, France, Michael Phelps and road rage. Mocking the snooty, unfriendly French isn’t new, and unfortunately Koy brings nothing fresh to the genre. He’s best when he gets personal, talking about his Wii-addicted mother and his 5-year-old son, who’s fascinated with another sort of “wee” (“He painted it green! Don’t make him angry,” Koy says.) Koy takes awhile to get to the hilarity, but when he does, it’s great.

Posted at 9:35 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2

Gemma Arterton and Eddie Redmayne star in the new PBS production of "Tess of the D'Urbervilles." PBS photo

TESS OF THE D’URBERVILLES
8 p.m. Sunday and Jan. 11, PBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

Laura Linney debuts as the new host of Masterpiece Classic by introducing the Thomas Hardy classic—that really annoys me. Don’t get me wrong, this new production is beautifully done, with Gemma Arterton (yes, that was her in “Quantum of Solace”) as the ill-fated Tess and Eddie Redmayne as her love, Angel. But why, why, why do these old romances always tease us with a sassy, strong female lead who is neither sassy enough to say what she wants nor strong enough to fight for it? Argh!

Posted at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2

GAME SHOW IN MY HEAD
7 p.m. Saturday, CBS
Tune in or out? out of four.

CBS has fallen under the spell of producer Ashton Kutcher (right), who does not appear in this new game show. The home of everything “CSI” is airing his lame hidden-camera game show that has the feel of his old MTV hit, “Punk’d.” Host Joe Rogan orders contestants via an earpiece to generally act foolish in public for cash prizes. The first episode’s player must get a perfect stranger to “marry” her. Sorry Ashton, I will not be watching this show ’til death do we part. In fact, not even 'til it's third episode.

THE NANNY EXPRESS
8 p.m. Saturday, Hallmark
Tune in or out? out of four.

“Las Vegas” alum Vanessa Marcil (left) plays Supergirl—I mean a good Samaritan who can do anything. She’s going to school to be a teacher, tutors low-income kids at her church, takes care of her ailing father and has time to work as a nanny!. After initial trouble, she wins over a widower’s scheming kids—and the widower! Oops, did I spoil that for you? Not really, since everything thing in the made-for-TV movie is predictable, and predictably weepy.

Posted at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2

STARGATE ATLANTIS
8 p.m. Friday, SciFi
Tune in or out? out of four.

It’s 2009, but there’s little celebrating to do for sci-fi fans: The new year means the end of “Battlestar Galactica” and “Stargate Atlantis,” which airs its penultimate episode Friday. The “Vegas” episode is set in an alternative reality where John Sheppard (Joe Flanigan, above) is a Las Vegas detective hunting down an unusual killer who literally sucks the life from his victims. If that sounds familiar to fans, no wonder, the murderer is a wraith (Neil Jackson) hunting on Earth. Sheppard learns what he’s dealing with from Dr. Rodney McKay (David Hewlett), who has traveled to Earth from the Pegasus Galaxy. “Vegas” is vintage “Atlantis,” mixing humor, action and drama with a winking nod to another genre, this time “CSI”-style cop dramas.

Posted at 4:15 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24

CHRISTMAS ON MARS
Tune in or out? out of 4.

Maybe I should have hit the eggnog—or something stronger—before I watched The Flaming Lips’ “Christmas on Mars.”

Sundance Channel airs the space fantasy at 11 p.m. Christmas Eve, 1:30 p.m. Christmas Day and 11 a.m. Dec. 27. You might have to watch it all three times to figure it out.

I think I’ve done it, on my third attempt. After twice falling asleep, I sat through the entire 86-minute feature that stars members of the Lips: Wayne Coyne, Steven Drozd, Kliph Scurlock and Michael Ivins. (The film took seven years to make, mostly shot in Coyne’s hometown of Oklahoma City.)

Cohn, the writer, seems to be telling the hopeful story of a virgin birth inside a space station on Mars. At least that’s what I make of the never-ending images of galaxies a star formations that suggest female genitalia, and the only female character, who sits in a bubble attending an unborn baby gestating outside her body in another bubble.

“If that baby makes it, maybe we’re all going to make it,” the narrator says. “Or maybe we’re all just trapped inside the belly of a machine.”

The “we” are the stressed-out humans aboard the station, including Fred Armisen (“Saturday Night Live”), Adam Goldberg and Steve Burns (“Blue’s Clues”). The narrator, Major Syrts (Drozd), who wanders aimlessly, thinks out loud and tries to prepare for the station’s Christmas festivities. His Santa kills himself, but along comes a ridiculously dressed Martian (Coyne) to help the astronauts—I think.

The Lips’ soundtrack and all the visuals are trippy and fun, but once you get past the psychedelic, galactic beginning, it’s a snooze fest.

I’m sure Lips fans and film buffs will disagree, but I need something with a pulse to keep my interest.

Posted at 1:14 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18

"Nip/Tuck" returns Tuesday with more of the same calamities.

John Lehr bags more laughs in "10 Items or Less."

SCRUBS
8 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 6, ABC
Tune in or out? out of 4.

“Scrubs” returns to network TV on Jan. 6, and its vital signs are more than promising in the first two episodes of its eighth season.

“My Jerks,” the first episode to air on ABC after NBC dropped the show last year (NBC just can’t get it right) has Dr. John “J.D.” Dorian (Zach Braff) getting used to a new group of annoying interns while the entire Sacred Heart staff has to get used to Chief of Medicine Bob Kelso’s (Ken Jenkins) replacement—Dr. Taylor Maddox, who is played by guest star Courteney Cox.

The first episode is a return to form for the show that suffered a creative slump in its seventh season:

Posted at noon Monday, Dec. 15

Ryan Seacrest worried about single Simon Cowell. Click.

MOMMA'S BOYS
9 p.m. Tuesday, NBC
out of 4.

Everything “American Idol” host and hardest working man in showbiz Ryan Seacrest does seems to turn to gold.

Maybe not this time.

At 9 p.m. Tuesday, Seacrest and NBC sink to a new low with the premiere of “Momma’s Boys,” a reality dating show from Seacrest and producing partner Andrew Glassman with a new twist—and an unhealthy dose of bigotry.

“Boys” has 32 women vying for three bachelors. The twist: The three guys love their moms, who move into a Santa Barbara mansion with the 32 women to help theirs sons choose the right gals.

“I can relate to this concept because I'm pretty close to my mother,” Seacrest told journalists last week during a phone interview. “I don't take her out on dates with me ... but she is part of the decision-making process, whether it's personal or professional.”

These mothers, however, go so far as to cook, clean and generally baby their grown sons. But the show’s controversy doesn’t just stem from the moms meddling in matters of the heart. One mom in particular left Seacrest and Glassman awestruck.

“She was an equal-opportunity offender,” Glassman said of Khalood Bojanowski of Washington Township, Mich. “She really is reality TV's answer to Archie Bunker. She is just bigoted.”

Bojanowski—“Mrs. B” as she’s called on the show—provides shocks from the start when she describes the perfect gal for her 21-year-old son, JoJo (yes, JoJo).

“I cannot have a black one,” she says in a taped segment played for the 32 women. “I can’t have an Asian one; I can’t have a fat-butt girl … No Jewish girl! No way, no way! I cannot stand them! I’m sorry, but I can’t handle them. It has to be a white girl.”

I am not making this up. The women react accordingly when they meet Mrs. B. There’s a whole lot of yelling, crying and throwing of cocktail glasses. It’s something you’d expect to see on trashy cable shows.

“We wanted to incorporate more cable-television sensibilities,” Seacrest said. “Obviously, it's a big-budget network show, but we wanted some of that craziness and the loudness that you would generally see on a cable show.”

It’s appalling, and would be completely despicable if not for the lessons that Mrs. B will no doubt learn. Seacrest insists lessons are doled out—if you can stand watching until it happens.

“That’s the kind of beauty of it is that she comes in with … this narrow point of view,” he said. “Her son and these girls pummel her. I mean they put her in her place over and over and over again … You almost root for it.”

Lessons or not, I won't be rooting for this show.

Click the link below for more from the interview.

Posted at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7

HOUSE OF SADDAM
8 p.m. Sunday and Dec. 14, HBO
out of 4.

As I watched the opening night of HBO's four-hour mini about Saddam Hussein's rise and fall, something struck me: He was the Tony Soprano of Iraq, at least as his story is told here.

We see his meddlesome mother constantly disapproving of him, pushing him and even scolding him—all while he's Iraq's dictator. We also see an evil dictator dispatch anyone who gets in his way—including his best friend and his wife's brother.

The story begins as Hussein takes control of the government in 1979, the most chilling part of the mini-series. As Hussein, Yigal Naor does his best work here, portraying the tyrant as an energetic bully mad for power. Shohreh Aghdashloo, as his first wife, Sajida, does excellent work here as well. I've really never seen Aghdashloo in a bad performance, now that I think about it.

But back to the man under the microscope. Hussein's time running from American soldiers gives Naor another chance to shine. He's broken and anything but invincible in these scenes.

In between the bookends, Hussein is exactly what we'd expect—a thug. Certainly a scary thug, but pretty much only that note. The story gets too convoluted in this period as well, jumping back and forth and glossing too quickly over certain events. It can be difficult to follow.

For at least half of its four hours, however, "House of Saddam" makes recent history an entertaining drama.

Posted at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 5

"Leverage" stars feel Windy City love

LEVERAGE
9 p.m. Sunday and Tuesday, TNT

The scoop: Former superstar insurance investigator Nate Ford (Timothy Hutton) had recovered millions for his former employer. Then his son got sick, and his own company wouldn’t pay the medical bills. Now his son is dead, his marriage is over and Ford’s a drunk.

He’s boozing at a bar when aeronautics company exec Victor Dubenich (Saul Rubinek) offers him a job: Steal back an airplane design that was stolen by a rival company, a company that is insured by Ford’s former employer.

With vengeance on his mind, Ford accepts the job and puts together a team of scam artists and thieves who all have their own talents. Eliot (Christian Kane), the muscle, is a weapons and fighting expert; awful actress Sophie Devereaux (Gina Bellman) is a great grifter; Alec (Aldis Hodge) knows his way around computers; and daredevil Parker (Beth Riesgraf) is an exemplary thief.

After their first adventure (Sunday’s Chicago-shot pilot, called “The Nigerian Job”; scenes above) the team decides to take on one more job, and then another, for 13 episodes. They’ll steal from evil types who have cheated others and help those who can’t defend themselves.

What works: “Leverage” takes its cues from the “Ocean's” films and especially the British series “Hustle,” yet I didn’t have that “been there, done that” feeling when I watched. Although very tongue-in-cheek, “Leverage” has an underlying seriousness—I’m as sucker for noble causes—that makes if different than what we’ve seen before.

I like Hutton as the bitter, broken Ford who finds a cause that gets him back on his feet. His co-stars provide a lot of witty repartee and comedic moments. They form a happy, dysfunctional family that’s a joy to watch.

The stings—I’ve seen the first four episodes—vary in complexity and cleverness, but always zip along and entertain. The team grifts in Chicago, L.A. and other locations, taking on everyone from corporate baddies to a security force contractor in Iraq to race horse owners.

What doesn’t: OK, I admit it, there are plot holes aplenty. I ignored them.

Tune in or out: out of 4. “Leverage” has action, intrigue, whimsy and wit. And I’ll never complain when the good guys win.

Posted at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22

STYLISTA
8 p.m. Wednesday, CW

The scoop: The producers of “America’s Next Top Model” and “Project Runway” get together to create yet another reality competition set in the apparently nasty world of fashion. This time, though, models and designers are spared. “Stylista” goes after the industry’s editorial tastemakers—or at least a bitchy group of twentysomethings who want to tell America what to wear. These wide-eyed, would-be fashionistas give themselves up to the snooty folks at Elle magazine to be assistants ala Betty Suarez of "Ugly Betty."

What works: The assignments that Elle fashion news director Anne Slowey (right)—or should I say photo editor Brett Ramey—dishes out are spirit-crushing tasks taken directly from the script of “The Devil Wears Prada.” First, they must create a well-presented, $40 breakfast for Anne. Then their personal style is critiqued by Elle creative director Joe Zee, who sends them packing to buy three work looks on a budget. They return to do a fashion show and create mock magazine pages. The assignments create great tension—even if they are sadistic—and likely will lead to many knock-down, drag-out fights throughout the season.

What doesn’t: Will someone please tell Miss Anne that her high heels may be gorgeous (and the height of fashion), but she looks ridiculous trying to walk in them. Honey, you are on TV; it’s best not to look like you’ve been drinking dirty martinis in your office. And please, no one does “Prada”-style Meryl Streep but Meryl Streep, so stop trying. I would not trust this woman to make my fashion decisions.

I wouldn’t trust these contestants either. They are neurotic, back-stabbing fools. Point 1, who in their right mind would agree to be humiliated on TV like this? Point 2—oh nevermind. I guess that’s why reality TV is still around.

Also worth mentioning while I’m being bitchy, the editing of this series makes the outcomes of challenges obvious. You can always tell who will win a challenge by the way that person is presented—as the soon-to-be loser. It happens every time.

Tune in or out? out of 4. I thought I’d find at least one person to cheer for, but not so far. The contestants are obnoxious, evil people. Even heavyset Danielle, who early on is ignored by the others, falls into the victim mode; its a real turn-off. Betty Suarez she is not, but everyone on “Stylista” is ugly in another way.

Posted at 9 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20

As you can see in the clip above, Katie Holmes can sing. She may not be Beyonce, but she does wonderful work Tuesday performing the Duke Ellington jazz classic "Hit Me With a Hot Note" on "Eli Stone." Holmes is currently starring on Broadway in the play "All My Sons." After Tuesday, the casting directors down the street at "Chicago" might be seeking her out for a run in the musical.

On "Eli," Holmes plays Grace, a lawyer who shows up first in one of Eli's visions--the one where she does her sultry singing. Shoe's not nearly as smooth in reality, it turns out. Grace is an accident-prone klutz who is leaving San Franscico for Africa in a matter of days.

I won't tell you any more, except to say the Holmes is sweet and radiant as Grace, and her character's departure Tuesday leave sthe door open for Holmes to return to the show. That is a hot note.

"Eli Stone" airs at 9 p.m. Tuesday on ABC.

KATIE HOLMES ISN'T THE ONLY BIG NAME BACK ON TV THIS FALL. CLICK ME

Posted at 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19

Paris who? That’s what people will be saying after Paris Hilton's former "The Simple Life" playmate, Nicole Richie, guest stars on NBC’s hilarious spy comedy “Chuck.”

In the 7 p.m. episode called "Chuck vs. the Cougars," Richie plays Heather Chandler, who bullied Chuck’s super spy protector, Sarah (Yvonne Strahovski), when they were in high school. Obviously that was before Sarah looked like she does now.

Richie comes into her own in the episode. She’s a mean beauty who recognizes Sarah at the Buy More when the CIA agent is talking to Chuck (Zachary Levi). She’s married to another former classmate of Sarah’s, a nerd named Mark who turns out to be the key player in a new mission.

Unfortunately for Sarah, that means she and Chuck have to attend the Cougars’ class reunion. To say more would be unfair to you, dear viewers, but Richie holds her own acting—and doing stunt work. She doesn’t look nearly as breakable on “Chuck” as she does regularly.

One other noteworthy guest on the episode: Who’s that guy playing Richie’s husband Mark? Why it’s Ben Savage, who you might remember from the 1990s series “Boy Meets World.”

Both guest stars are used smartly by Josh Schwartz and the "Chuck" team, who have also welcomed John Larroquette, Michael Clarke Duncan and Melinda Clarke. Upcoming guests include Carl Lumbly, Morgan Fairchild and Bruce Boxleitner.

Also on tap: Jordana Brewster will play the college girl who broke Chuck's heart and Tony Hale will star as the new assistant manager at Buy More.

Posted at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19

Ian Gomez, Raviv Ullman, Tisha Campbell-Martin and Nicole Sullivan in "Rita Rocks." Lifetime Photo

RITA ROCKS
7:30 p.m. every night this week, Lifetime
Moves to its regular time slot at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays on Oct. 28.

The scoop: “Mad TV” vet Nicole Sullivan plays Rita Clemens, an overworked wife and mom who wants to recapture her past as a guitarist in a Bangles tribute band. She starts jamming with her postal carrier Patty (Tisha Campbell-Martin), an unemployed neighbor, Owen (Ian Gomez), and her daughter’s slacker boyfriend Kip (Raviv Ullman).

What works: Sullivan and Campbell-Martin have decent voices and appealing personalities, but this unfunny half hour is tone deaf.

What doesn’t: Aside from the “Rocks” part, “Rita Rocks” is a conventional family sitcom. We’ve seen it all before: Rita fights with her daughter (Natalie Dreyfuss), argues and makes up with her hubby (Richard Ruccolo), tries to play matchmaker for Patty.

Tune in or out? out of 4. Ultimately, “Rita Rocks” plays a tired old tune.

Nicole Sullivan, Richard Ruccolo, Natalie Dreyfuss and Kelly Gould star in “Rita Rocks.” Lifetime Photo

Posted at 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19

PULLING
8 p.m. Sunday, Sundance

The scoop: Co-writer and creator Sharon Horgan (center in photo) plays Donna, who gets cold feet just days before her wedding and dumps her dull fiancé Karl (Cavan Clerkin).

During the amusing British import’s six episodes, Donna watches over her now suicidal ex, looks for a new job despite a lack of skills, and tries to survive her hard-partying new roomies, the ever-romantic Louise (Rebekah Staton, left in photo) and loud cynic Karen (Tanya Franks, right in photo).

What works: Horgan and writing partner Dennis Kelly’s dialogue crackles with wit, and Horgan’s performance is spot-on: Donna wants to do the right thing, but her selfishness and insecurity undermine her good intentions.

What doesn’t: Not since Patsy of “Ab Fab” has a venom-spewing, self-hating drunk been as funny as Karen. But I’d hate to see her become too much of a caricature.

Tune in or out? out of 4. “Pulling” is dark, messy, funny, original and, most importantly, real. I’ve never met anyone like the women of “Sex and the City,” but boy do I know a few Donnas, Karens and Louises.

Posted at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16

CRASH
9 p.m. Friday, Starz

The scoop: Inspired by the 2004 Oscar-winning movie of the same name, the 13-episode “Crash” series tells the stories of the (eventually) intersecting lives of L.A. residents.

Among the many characters you’ll meet are has-been record producer Ben Cendars (Dennis Hopper) and his new chauffeur Anthony Adams (Jocko Sims); Christine (Clare Carey) and Peter Emory (D.B. Sweeney), a couple living beyond their means; Guatemalan immigrant Cesar Uman (Luis Chávez); and LAPD cop Bebe Arcel (Arlene Tur) and her pig of a partner Kenny Battaglia (Ross McCall), who stalks a woman (Moran Atias) he arrested after side-swiping her car.

What works: In this cast of extremely unlikable characters, only Eddie Choi (Brian Tee) made me feel anything but outrage. The former Koreatown gang member is trying to go straight as an emergency medical technician, but he gets sucked back into his former life and ends up the target of crooked police detective Axel Finet (Nick Tarabay).

What doesn’t: Hopper—bless his heart—gives his bosses exactly what they want: a crazy, over-the-top performance. But the writers give Hopper the silliest lines onscreen. We meet the wacked-out music mogul during a limo trip in which he’s lecturing a certain part of his anatomy, asking “where did all those veins come from?” and calling it “a private road map to death.” It’s the most grievous example of the show’s overwritten, pretentious dialogue.

Tune in or out? out of four. Though the movie couldn’t have been more obvious in playing its race cards, “Crash” the series, at least in its opener, is more reserved. But it also doesn’t go anywhere, leaving me to wonder why I should spend more time with these unpleasant people.

Posted at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16

Philip Winchester (left) and Tongayi Chirisa are two of TV's HOTTEST NEW STARS. Don't miss my latest photo gallery to see more.

CRUSOE
7 p.m. Friday, NBC

The scoop: Robinson Crusoe (Philip Winchester) and his friend-not-servant Friday (Tongayi Chirisa) fight pirates, mutineers and natives on the island where Crusoe has been marooned in this adaptation of the Daniel Defoe classic.

What works: Laugh if you want, but I enjoyed most of the two-hour premiere—and not just because of the peep show provided by Winchester and Chirisa. (But hey, that helped.) “Crusoe” is a foolish romp of a show that doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously. It offers beautiful scenery (shot in South Africa), MacGuyver-like gadgetry (maybe a tad advanced for the 18th Century) and the action-adventure silliness—if not the campiness—of “Xena: Warrior Princess” and “Hercules.”

What doesn’t: The show’s creators must have decided that Crusoe needs a reason for living besides just, you know, staying alive. Enter the hokey, fuzz-filtered flashbacks that show Crusoe’s formerly happy life in England with his wife, Susannah (Anna Walton). Yawn.

Tune in or out? out of 4. Yes, the dialogue is often wooden and the show shamelessly steals from “Survivor,” “Pirates of the Caribbean” and even “Prison Break,” but what’s not to love about a guy and his bestie living in a treehouse and defending their deserted island from the occasional marauder? Go, Robinson, go!

Posted at 8:40 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14

WARNING: VIDEOS BELOW CONTAIN ADULT THEMES

CHOCOLATE NEWS
9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Comedy Central

The scoop: Creator and executive producer David Alan Grier hosts Comedy Central’s latest fake news show, “the only source for pure uncircumcised realness from an Afrocentric perspective.”

What works: Grier isn’t as funny playing the all-knowing host, but when he puts on makeup for sketches, he’s hilarious. In the premiere’s most effective sketch, he plays poet Maya Angelou, who shares the first drafts of her inaugural poems for either Barack Obama (“You have a mocha chokehold on the American dream”) or John McCain (“President-elect John McCain—Ain’t this a bitch”).

What doesn’t: The satire of “Chocolate News” pales in comparison to “The Daily Show” and “The Colbert Report.” And although I laughed my rear off watching the Phat Man report in the video above, rap is a tired target, as is the porn star Donny Mayfield's "talent" in the video below.

Tune in or out? out of 4. The sketches are hit or miss, but when even a predictable sketch can end with a shocker, you should tune in every week. Case in point: The debut’s hokey final sketch about white folks negotiating the right to use the “n-word” is punctuated when the white official calls the black official the word—without hatred, mind you—post-signed-agreement. I spit out my chocolate milk.

For more clips, go to Comedy Central’s Web site.

Posted at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13

ELI STONE
9 p.m. Tuesday, ABC

The scoop: After experiencing visions—possibly from God—San Francisco lawyer Eli Stone (Jonny Lee Miller) became a prophet of sorts, championing little guys against bigger baddies in his cases. The Season 1 cliffhanger had doctors removing a brain aneurysm that may have caused Eli’s visions and odd behavior. Is he “cured,” and if so, is that a good thing?

What works: Here’s hoping Eli keeps having visions (I know the answer, but I hate to spoil the fun for you), because, unlike in last year’s TV disaster “Viva Laughlin!,” the visions’ musical numbers—from the George Michael solos to the big production numbers—make perfect sense within the story being told.

What doesn’t: For a show about spirituality, I don’t find “Eli Stone” all that preachy. But at times it can get self-righteous and melodramatic.

Tune in or out? out of 4. Three reasons to watch: The devine Loretta Devine belts out “Dancing in the Streets” to open the new season (above), Sigourney Weaver guest stars this week, and she’s followed by Katie Holmes in Week 2. Not to mention that Miller and his TV brother (Matt Letscher) couldn’t be more charming.

Posted at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12

TV's HOT NEW SPIES

CHRISTIAN SLATER INTERVIEW: Click here and here.

MY OWN WORST ENEMY
9 p.m. Monday, NBC

The scoop: Edward Albright (Christian Slater) and Henry Spivey (Christian Slater) share the same body—and two very different worlds. Edward is a ruthless spy and Henry is a suburban family man. The two personalities, programmed to remain ignorant of each other, start to wake up in each other’s realities and all hell breaks loose.

What works: I never doubted that Slater would deliver as Edward, the magnetically intense spy. He’s also remarkably effective as wimpy Henry, who gets drunk when he learns that Edward is the original personality and Henry is the by-product of an experiment. As Henry, Slater hilariously sings to himself: “Roses are red. Violets are blue. I’m a split personality—and so am I.”

What doesn’t: OK, the Edward/Henry split personality thing is preposterous. There's little logic to most of the first episode. But the show trots outs practically every spy game cliché done from James Bond to "Alias."

Tune in or out? out of 4. Hell yes, it’s far-fetched. But who cares? Slater’s the draw here, and watching his two personalities battle for control while trying to keep each other alive is fascinating—and believable.