Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE
"Masterpiece Theatre: Bertie & Elizabeth," 9 p.m., PBS. For England's Queen Mother this has been a remarkable ride. Born with the 20th century, she's seen the world transform. She remains popular at 101. On Wednesday, she'll celebrate the 50th anniversary of her daughter's reign. This film begins in 1920, when she is Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. At 19, she dazzles Albert, Duke of York (known to friends as Bertie), who's second in line to the throne.
Bertie (played by James Wilby) is shown as a shy and decent man. Elizabeth (wonderfully played by Juliet Aubrey) is a soaring spirit. They married, had two daughters, and seemed content in the shadows. Then his brother, King Edward VIII (portrayed here as a shallow scoundrel) abdicated. In 1936, Bertie became King George VI, guiding his people through World War II. When he died of cancer at 56, his young daughter stepped in seamlessly.
Of Note
"Sesame Street" season opener, 11:30 a.m., PBS. As the 33rd season begins, an interactive game ("Journey to Ernie" ) is added. Also, the show drops its stop-and-go style. Each story will be played out fully before moving to the next.
"Boston Public," 7 p.m., Fox. Bullying becomes an issue after a bomb threat arrives.
"The Hughleys," 8 p.m., UPN. Kelly Rowland of Destiny's Child guest stars as Darryl's niece, an aspiring singer.
"Everybody Loves Raymond," 8 p.m., CBS. Robert has an important interview with the FBI — but his mom ruins his lucky suit.
"Patch Adams" (1998), 8 p.m., ABC. It should have been easy to make a movie about this real-life doctor, who fought to bring humor and humanity to his work. Alas, this movie piled up so much hokum that "Patch" is buried in excess. Robin Williams is fine in the lead and Monica Potter provides a loveable love interest.
"Becker," 8:30 p.m., CBS. Two old "Cheers" colleagues are reunited with their roles reversed. Now George Wendt is the bartender and Ted Danson is the customer.
"On the Record with Greta Van Susteren" premiere, 5 p.m., Fox News. The former star lawyer for CNN moves to the competition.
"Heroes of Black Comedy" premiere, 8 p.m., Comedy Central. The quality of this documentary series varies sharply during its five weeks. This opener, however, is a dandy. It captures the contrasts of Chris Rock, whose boyish demeanor masks a laser-sharp comedic sense.
