Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"I Love the '80s Strikes Back," 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., VH1. If you missed the first four nights, don't worry. Here is a joy ride through a decade of excess — a time when people expanded their stock portfolios and reduced their worries. "Let's go through the yuppie checklist," says Hal Sparks. "I got the BMW. I got the Izod. I got the Grey Poupon and I got divorced." Sparks is one of many people — from comedians to musicians — with offbeat comments. Mariah Carey, for instance, saw "Nightmare on Elm Street," then had to walk home through the woods. In the first hour today, we meet the Blues Brothers, Richie Rich and Hungry, Hungry Hippos. Later, we cover 1988-89 with ripped jeans, the Sega Genesis, the Super Soaker and, of course, the Jamaican bobsled team.

Of Note

"Joan of Arcadia," 7 p.m., CBS. God tells Joan to have a quick garage sale. While going through family items, she has revelations.

"Loch Ness" (1996), 7 p.m., Pax. There's a quiet charm to this low-key film. Ted Danson plays a cynical American who wants to disprove the Loch Ness monster. What he discovers is the beauty of the Scottish countryside and the warmth of a single mom, played by Joely Richardson (as totally opposite to her cold "Nip-Tuck" character).

"Miss Match," 8 p.m, NBC. Tentatively scheduled is an episode with Kate finding a real date for a call girl. Meanwhile, Jonathan Silverman ("The Single Guy") plays someone opposing her in court.

"Hope & Faith," 8 p.m., ABC. When the flighty Faith (Kelly Ripa) visits a book club, a party ensues.

"Katie Couric," 9 p.m., nBC. Utah kidnapping victim Elizabeth Smart, who was abducted by an odd religious zealot, discusses her ordeal with Couric, who also interviews Smart's parents, Ed and Lois.