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Saturday, October 4, 2008
This week’s TV highlights
Hundreds of channels, hours and hours of programming. So much to watch, so little time. Here are some highlights to get you started on your week of viewing.
Sunday
“Desperate Housewives,” 8 p.m. on ABC — I know, I know. This was recommended last week, but that season opener was so divine that I think this season is shaping up to be a humdinger. Creepy new characters, odd twists on old characters and just the right mix of mystery, melodrama and outright comedy.
“Dexter,” 8 p.m. on Showtime — Boy, this comedy-drama about a serial killer is back with a vengeance. I forgot to highlight the season opener last Sunday, but I’ve seen tonight’s episode, and it’s never too late to point out the genius of this twisted, totally bizarre show. Michael C. Hall should have won an Emmy for making us cringe, gag, laugh and empathize with a guy who slices people to pieces.
Monday
“Dancing with the Stars,” 7 p.m. on ABC — Is 82-year-old Cloris Leachman going to be the token clunker kept in the competition way too long? Maybe. She’s funny and brazen, but seriously folks, the woman is not actually dancing. She’s being led around the floor in silly costumes and heavy makeup. Regardless, this is still one of the most engaging reality shows on the air.
“American Experience” at 8 p.m. on PBS — An interesting and inspiring look at the life of Jimmy Carter, former peanut farmer and governor of Georgia who captured the White House in 1976. While his presidency was not exactly a highlight of American history, Carter has gone on to do great things, from charity work to winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
Tuesday
“Presidential Debate,” 8 p.m. on ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, MSNBC, CNN, C-SPAN — This is the second showdown between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. John McCain. It’s a town-hall format, which should be more relaxed than the podium performance last time. Former NBC anchor Tom Brokaw moderates.
Wednesday
“Latinos ‘08,” 8 p.m. on PBS — A look at how candidates and advocacy groups are trying to attract this unpredictable group of voters. This is especially timely as we inch toward Nov. 4.
“Dirty Sexy Money,” 9 p.m. on ABC — This campy, “Dynasty”-style sudser got lost last season when it premiered. And then it disappeared with the writers’ strike. But the story of the filthy-rich Darling clan, with Donald Sutherland and Jill Clayburgh at the head of the family, is a terrific guilty pleasure. The top-notch cast includes Peter Krause and William Baldwin in juicy roles.
Thursday
“Texas Senatorial Debates,” 8 p.m. on PBS — Check out the candidates vying for U.S. Senate, including John Cornyn and Rick Noriega.
“C.S.I.,” 8 p.m. on CBS — Finally, the original and best of the franchise series begins its new season. Lots of action, including the demise of one character and hints of the departure of another. Plus gooey stuff under a microscope.
“Eleventh Hour,” 9 p.m. on CBS — The debut of a new and deeply confusing series about a biophysicist (Rufus Sewell) who helps out the government when weird things like cloning threaten our national security. Sci-fi buffs may enjoy. Me? Not so much.
Friday
“Spain … On the Road Again,” 9 p.m. on PBS — Gwyneth Paltrow, Mario Batali and Mark Bittman dig for shellfish in Galicia. Paltrow’s love of Spain and Spanish food blend nicely, and the Oscar-winner seems to be having a terrific time. She told “Entertainment Tonight” that she gained eight pounds filming this series.
Saturday
“Spider Man 2,” 7 p.m. on FX — This 2004 sequel is very bit as good as the original and makes for fun family fare.
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