Tube Notes

MUST-SEE: "As Good As It Gets," 8 p.m., TNT, 1997; or "Star Wars," 3:05 p.m., TBS, 1977, both cable. When networks are weak, Ted Turner’s channels strike hard.

"Star Wars" creator George Lucas was shut out at the Oscars, losing thrice to Woody Allen and "Annie Hall." But Lucas’ then-wife, Marcia, got an Oscar as part of the editing team. Other Oscars went to "Star Wars" for its sets, costumes, sound, score and special effects. Beyond the glitz, this is still a stirring story about a teenager who confronts interplanetary evil.

"As Good As It Gets" also missed the top prize. ("Titanic" was quite big that year.) Still, it won for best actor and actress. One went to Jack Nicholson, as a grumpy novelist. The other went to Helen Hunt, as a struggling waitress who was much wiser about the human condition. This is an intelligent blend of comedy and drama.

"The Luck of the Irish," 7 p.m., Disney Channel. Ryan Merriman is a teen who is lucky in everything - except trying to pin down details of his ethnic heritage.

"NAACP Image Awards," 7 p.m., Fox. Actor Sidney Poitier is inducted in the NAACP Hall of Fame, and comedian Steve Harvey gets the Entertainer of the Year award.

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