Posted on: Saturday, December 11, 2004
Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
Tonight's Must-See
"Robbie the Reindeer: Hooves of Fire" (7 p.m.) and "Robbie the Reindeer: Legend of the Lost Tribe" (7:30 p.m.), both CBS. The British know how to add droll wit to any situation. Now they've done it with the oft-bland world of Christmas specials. Robbie seems to be Rudolph's son. He has a great nose, a good heart and a terrible work ethic. He's dazzled by the gorgeous and self-centered Vixen, but he ignores the sweet and smart Donner. In short, he's a typical guy.
Meanwhile, Blitzen schemes to destroy him. That comes up again in the sequel, which is more of an action-adventure. This version stripped away most British voices (except Hugh Grant's) and replaced them with Americans, including Ben Stiller, Britney Spears and Jim Belushi. There are still witty Brits at the core. They offer the sort of clever writing and clay-animation that kids and grown-ups will enjoy. Of Note
"Eloise at the Plaza" (6 p.m.) and "Eloise at Christmastime" (8 p.m.), both 2003, ABC Family. These were shot side by side for ABC, telling of a free-spirited little girl (Sofia Vassilieva), often living in a ritzy hotel with only her nanny (Julie Andrews). The stories are simple, but these good-spirited films glow with Vassilieva's breezy charm. "Naughty or Nice," 7 p.m., ABC. Here's one of the most morose Christmas specials ever. George Lopez plays a sports-talk radio guy who is so negative on the air that he's become insufferable at home. Then a 15-year-old (played by James Kirk, who's 18 and looks 25) calls and life goes into free-fall. With its sudden personality switches, this will never be taken for serious drama. With its somber tone, it will never be holiday fun. Director Eric Laneuville has crafted a great-looking film, to little avail. "Without a Trace," 8 p.m., CBS. Malone thinks a missing lawyer may have mental problems. "Single Santa Seeks Mrs. Claus," 7, 9, 11 p.m., Hallmark Channel. Suddenly, we're worried about the dating life of new Santas. Santa's son is named Nick and is ready to take over the family business; first, he falls in love. The film — with Steve Guttenberg and Crystal Bernard — is pleasant and forgettable. "Wife Swap," 9 p.m., ABC. Here's a rerun of the excellent opener in which a gorgeous and pampered New York mom traded places with a hard-working New Jersey mom. "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," 9 p.m., NBC. This rerun is highlighted by a terrific performance by Nikki M. James. She's half of a Bonnie and Clyde duo.
"Saturday Night Live," 10:30 p.m., NBC. Colin Farrell hosts with music by Scissor Sisters.
