Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE: (Network TV): "Kiss My Act," 7 p.m., ABC. Here's a sweet retelling of the "Cyrano de Bergerac" tale from a modern day, female view. The story is more than a century old, but the idea remains true: An attractive person gets the attention while a plainer and smarter one provides the work. Alexondra Lee plays a blonde comedian (reminiscent of Jenny Jones in her standup days) who is so attractive that she gets instant approval. But it's really Camryn Manheim of "The Practice" who's providing Lee's material both onstage and in her romantic-life. There are some bittersweet moments here, plus enough good comedy lines to keep us entertained. Even with some arbitrary plot switches near the end, "Kiss My Act" is worth catching.
TONIGHT'S MIGHT-SEE (cable): "Sex in the 20th Century," 7 p.m., History Channel. Tonight's episode begins the History Channel's series on sex in the 20th century. It reveals changes in America's sexuality that no floor-length skirt could hide. Early in the century the battle lines were drawn: On one side was Anthony Comstock who was appointed as New York's arbiter on decency. On the other was Margaret Sanger who was fighting to legalize birth control. It was a battle she would wage for 50 years. All of this was disturbing, especially when you consider that this was during a time when the concept of dating was still new; this documentary begins an interesting series, continuing through Thursday.
"The Weakest Link," 7 p.m., NBC. This odd game show settles into its regular timeslot while people debate its merits. By one view (mine), this is cold and distant, rarely letting the viewers care about anyone involved. Others find it bitingly good.
"Everybody Loves Raymond," 8 p.m., CBS. Ray wants to invest in his friends' go-kart track.
"American Experience: Stephen Foster," 9 p.m., PBS. In the middle of the 19th century, America had only one full-time composer — Stephen Foster. He wrote sweet, sentimental songs about a South he had visited only once. Here's an interesting portrait of a successful career and a melancholy life.
"American Masters: Coming to Light: Edward S. Curtis and the North American Indians," 10 p.m., PBS. As the 19th century ended, Curtis began an ambitious effort to photograph the final remnants of the rich Indian culture. Some people complained that he stretched reality, using props and reenactments; others point to the stunning results, photos that document a soulful life.
"Music in High Places," 9 p.m., MTV. Now for something completely different: This international series followed singers visiting (and performing in) beautiful settings. It begins with Alanis Morissette in an Arizona canyon; it continues throughout the week.
