Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE: "The Beast," 9 p.m., ABC. Imagine Ted Turner times 10. Imagine an eccentric billionaire who doesn't just own a cable news network he virtually lives there. That's the set-up for "The Beast," a serious drama that airs amid summer silliness. Frank Langella plays the cable owner but the real stars are Elizabeth Mitchell and Jason Gedrick who have been doing great work since "Gia" and "Murder One," respectively. Mitchell plays a magazine reporter hesitantly joining the network. Gedrick plays a cocky reporter and anchorman. The first story, involving plans to televise an execution, is so-so. Still, it's backed by strong performances and great camera work. Mimi Leder, one of the best of the early "ER" directors, is in control here. The cable studio provides a sprawling playground for her camera; even a weak story becomes a powerful drama.
SPORTS MUST-SEE: NBA Finals 7 p.m. (tape delay), NBC. Eastern and Western Conference winners square off in this best-of-seven series.
"Country Weekly Music Awards," 9 p.m., The National Network. This cable channel has dumped the "Nashville" from its name and shed most country connections. Still, it's able to gather an impressive lineup of performers here. Lee Ann Womack, whose "I Hope You Dance" is piling up awards, hosts. Other performers include Alan Jackson, Lonestar, Jo Dee Messina, Toby Keith, Jewel, SheDaisy, Jessica Andrews and Phil Vassar.
"The West Wing," 9:30 p.m., NBC (after the NBA finals). This rerun includes surprise reactions to the state of the union address.
"Ladies Man," 7 p.m., CBS. Here's another episode the network didn't get around to showing before canceling the series last year. Some morning romance creates repercussions.
"The Mirror has Two Faces" (1996), 7:30 p.m., CBS. Here's a repeat of this drama starring and directed by Barbra Streisand. Its best moments — centering on Lauren Bacall as her mom — focus on beauty and its impact. Other issues are scattered, despite Streisand's skillful direction.
"Million Dollar Mysteries," 8 p.m., Fox. This episode focuses on perplexing heists.
