Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"The Mummy" (1999), 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., TNT. The first "Mummy," back in 1932, was a modest film — just 72 minutes long. The second, in '59, was semi-modest. Then came this one splashed up with modern-day special effects. Brendan Fraser plays a handsome adventurer, with Rachel Weisz as the brainy expert who hires him to take her to an ancient Egyptian city. In support is Oded Fehr, the Israeli actor who became the star of NBC's "UC: Undercover."

"Once and Again," 8 p.m., ABC. When ABC made its grand gambles last fall, a lot of good shows got lost in the shuffle. The network changed too much, too fast. After Sept. 11, viewers weren't focused enough to find the shows. Now ABC has shuffled it only slightly, moving it ahead an hour. In tonight's episode, we learn more about Sam's troubles with his first wife. She's played by Jane Sibbett, who also plays Ross' ex-wife on "Friends."

Of Note

"Happy Gilmore" (1996), 7 p.m., FOX. This mild comedy can be watched often (or never), with no great damage. Adam Sandler plays a hockey player who turns to golf. Julie Bowen ("Ed") provides an amiable love interest.

"King of Queens," 7 p.m., CBS. In a transplanted rerun, a car accident tests Doug's friendship with Duncan.

"Ellen," 7:30 p.m., CBS. Here is a new episode of this above-average comedy. Ellen is expected to dress up when the accreditation board visits.

"The Chronicle," 7 p.m., Sci Fi Channel. A new season begins for this offbeat series, which is set at a tabloid newspaper.

"Kindergarten Cop" (1990), 9 p.m., USA Network. Ivan Reitman ("Ghostbusters") and Arnold Schwarzenegger team for a mismatched comedy-drama.

"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," 9 p.m., NBC. When a pregnant woman is mugged, it leads to a tough court case. John Ritter ("Three's Company") guest stars as a key witness.