The Left Lane
Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE: "State of Grace," 9 p.m., Fox Family Channel; "The Chris Isaak Show," 10 p.m., Showtime. Here are quick examples of why cable conquers summertime doldrums. While network TV regurgitates old shows, cable programming remains fresh and original. Isaak plays himself, a handsome singer with a dry wit. Tonight, he worries about being profiled on VH1's "Behind the Music," which may bring up some unwanted issues from his past. Plot points pile up. A band guy (Jed Reese) has a purely physical relationship with a publicist. The result plays like a low-key "Seinfeld."

"Boston Public," 8 p.m., FOX. In this rerun Harper worries that a cheerleading routine is too sexual.

"A Shot in the Dark" (1964), 8:15 p.m., AMC. This Pink Panther sequel was a comic triumph. Peter Sellers is superb.

"Ally McBeal," 9 p.m., FOX. This rerun has Taye Diggs as the new lawyer the firm has hired to pull in business. He promptly handles a case involving a nymphomaniac.

"Chasing the Sun," 9 p.m., PBS (check local listings). Here's the start of a four-week series that races through the history of aviation. Mildly interesting, but too rushed.