Posted on: Monday, October 25, 2004

Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"The Brooke Ellison Story," 5, 7, 9 and 11 p.m., A&E. Brooke Ellison's true-life story would be extraordinary no matter who was telling it. Here it is in masterful hands. Christopher Reeve directed what would be his final completed project before his death. He gives the film a tone of intelligent understatement. He also has a superb cast. Ellison is played by Vanessa Marano (as a cheery seventh-grader, suddenly paralyzed by a traffic accident) and by Lacey Chabert (as a brainy student). The star of the film, however, is Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Brooke's mom. This is a moving story, told with restraint and humanity.

Of Note

"The Swan" season opener, 7 p.m., Fox. This show emerged as a ratings hit last season despite protests from critics. (It's nice to give people makeovers, we said, but cruel to then plunge them into elimination and a beauty pageant.) Now it's back; the two-hour opener also will revisit the women from last season.

"Listen Up," 7:30 p.m., CBS. Tony, the sports commentator's son, wants to skip a golf tournament so he can volunteer at the hospital.

"Everybody Loves Raymond," 8 p.m., CBS. In this rerun, Ray and Robert are stunned to learn that someone their age considers their dad a mentor.

"Radio Music Awards," 8 p.m., NBC. Molly Sims co-hosts with Carson Daly. That's logical enough because this live show is from Las Vegas and pre-empts her own show, "Las Vegas." Scheduled performers include Destiny's Child, Nickelback, Chingy, Ashlee Simpson, Alanis Morissette, Elton John, Green Day, Tim McGraw and Big and Rich.

"Two and a Half Men," 8:30 p.m., CBS. Charlie finally confesses to a childhood misdeed to his brother.

"CSI: Miami," 9 p.m., CBS. This has to complicate a murder case: During trial, someone kills the defendant.

"The Benefactor," 12:36 a.m., ABC (delayed by "Monday Night Football"). This show has stumbled in the ratings so it's being whisked to a quick conclusion. Mark Cuban decides who will win the $1 million.