TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE

"Head of State" (2003), ABC, 7 p.m. The Democrats suddenly need a new candidate in the middle of a presidential campaign. They tap a District of Columbia alderman (Chris Rock) who startles them by speaking frankly. Besides co-writing the film, Rock directed and starred. In support are Bernie Mac, Lynn Whitfield, Robin Givens, Tracy Morgan and more. The movie was co-written by Rock and Ali LeRoi.

OF NOTE

"Al Roker Investigates: Kids, Cards & Dice," 6 p.m., Court TV. Here's the flip side of the surge of gambling that's been on TV lately: More than 3 million kids play cards for money each week, host Roker says in this hour. Some end up with money trouble and consider crime.

"Joey," 7 p.m., NBC. It's been years since Joey saw his boyhood best friend (Adam Goldberg). When they meet there's a surprise.

"Will & Grace," 7:30 p.m., NBC. Here's an episode that throws everyone together for the holidays at the home of Will's mom (Blythe Danner). Grace is attracted to Will's brother (Steven Weber), whose adopted daughter fascinates Karen. Meanwhile, Will fumes that his mom is more supportive of a gay nephew than she was of him.

"The Apprentice," 8 p.m., NBC. The show is down to its final two contestants. One organizes a celebrity softball game, the other a comedy event at a nightclub.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," 8 p.m., CBS. Nick meets the daughter of the man who buried him alive. Meanwhile, Grissom probes a claim that a boy has been abducted from a playground.

"Three Wise Guys," 9 and 11 p.m., USA Network. In the desert at Christmastime, three mobsters meet a young woman (Jodi Lyn O'Keefe) who is eight-and-a-half months pregnant and says her name is Mary. That story sounds familiar enough, but the woman soon offers some neat twists. Skillfully directed by Robert Iscove, this is a good-looking film that is interesting without being exceptional.

"ER," 9 p.m., NBC. On Christmas Eve, Pratt and Weaver rush to save a girl's life. Meanwhile, Haleh (played by Yvette Freeman, a terrific singer) is organizing the annual choir. She has a surprising choice for soloist.

"Without a Trace," 9 p.m., CBS. Sam helps a woman who has amnesia. Jack tries to persuade his dad (Martin Landau) to get surgery for his kidney trouble.

TONIGHT ON KHNL NEWS 8

Feel like seeing a movie this weekend but don't know which flick to pick? Tune in tonight to KHNL News 8 at 5 as we preview this week's new movie releases.