Tube notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE: "Citizen Baines," 8 p.m., CBS. In last week's opener, a decent chap (James Cromwell) lost his re-election bid after three terms in the U.S. Senate. Tonight, Baines is told he needs to find a new rhythm in life. That sets up a chance for Cromwell to perform an offbeat dance — just as he did so wonderfully in "Babe." It's fun to see this big (6-foot-6) old body float and flail around a room. Still, much of the show is about Baines' three daughters (Embeth Davidtz, Jane Adams and Jacinda Barrett). So far, only Barrett's character is interesting.
TONIGHT'S MIGHT-SEE: "Crossing Jordan" (7 p.m.), "Law and Order: Criminal Intent" (8 p.m.) and "UC: Undercover" (9 p.m.); all NBC. Just in case we missed them, NBC reruns the opening episodes of its three new dramas. The first one is excellent. "Crossing Jordan" may have copied a lot from "CSI," but does it skillfully. Jill Hennessy is terrific as a steel-willed young medical examiner who keeps getting in trouble with her bosses. Now she's starting over, returning to her hometown of Boston. The others are OK, but messy. "Criminal Intent" tries to spend more time inside the minds of the bad guys; "UC" alternates between gifted actors (led by Jon Seda and Vera Farmiga) and overwrought action and gunfire.
"A Billy Graham Musical Homecoming," 7 p.m., Pax. Bill Gaither, the gospel singer-producer, skillfully alternates between memories of the music in the Rev. Billy Graham's rallies and fresh performances. A great moment comes early when memories of Ethel Waters are followed by a wonderful new performance by Lynn Randle, Alicia Williamson, Lillie Knauls and CeCe Winans.
"Touched By an Angel," 7 p.m., CBS. A baseball player finally gets his shot at the major leagues.
"Sleepless in Seattle" (1993) and "When Harry Met Sally" (1989), 8 and 10:15 p.m., TNT. Meg Ryan gets her night when she stars in two funny movies about relationships. First up is her first big film with Tom Hanks ("Sleepless") then she teams up with Billy Crystal in yet another warm and funny romantic comedy.
