Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"The Bernie Mac Show" premiere, 7:30 p.m., and 8 p.m., FOX. In an age of seem-alike comedies this one stands out instantly. That starts with the look. Mac sometimes settles into an easy chair and talks to the camera. The story — loosely based on Mac's real life — is standard TV fare: A cozy couple suddenly must take care of his sister's three kids. Beyond that, however, nothing is standard. There's a crackle to the plots and to the dialogue. It's all refreshingly funny. The first episode tonight has Mac bringing the kids home. The second has him fretting because he is at a party filled with sick children.

OF NOTE

"Malcolm in the Middle," 7 p.m., FOX. This show tends to be hilarious at Malcolm's home and so-so at his school. Tonight's episode, alas, spends way too much time in the school, where a teacher stirs competition.

"Ed," 7 p.m., NBC. Neil Patrick Harris ("Doogie Howser") plays someone who copies Ed by starting a law office in a bowling alley.

"Enterprise," 8 p.m., UPN (seen on KFVE). The crew of the Starship Enterprise goes undercover on a planet plagued by a virus.