Posted on: Wednesday, February 23, 2005

Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"Lost," 7 p.m., ABC. Viewers tonight learn more about the married couple Jin (Daniel Dae Kim) and Sun (Yunjin Kim). Amid seething emotions, we see them in some flashbacks. A raft has been burned, squelching one shot (granted, a long one) at reaching civilization. The accusations are pointed at Jin.

"Dirty War," 9 p.m., PBS. Two high-quality networks have linked up as HBO lets PBS air three of its movies for free. This first one packs a punch. A Jordanian man living in London has an elaborate plot to make dirty bombs that could devastate London. As word leaks out, agents scramble. "Dirty War" is difficult to watch. Accents are thick, explanations are sparse, the filming style is gritty, and the story brings few thrills. Still, there's a compelling quality to what experts call a cautionary tale.

Of Note

"Crossing Jordan," 7 p.m., NBC. Current plans call for a rerun of the Feb. 13 episode. Jordan and Woody find a fresh clue that could save someone who is five days from the death penalty. Meanwhile, Bug works with a tough-talking cop (Sandra Bernhard) who apparently has a past with him. Neither plot is believable, yet both are entertaining because the show is skillfully written and cast.

"The West Wing," 8 p.m., NBC. Vice President Russell has emerged as the front-runner for the Democratic nomination. Meanwhile, Santos struggles, despite a strong showing in New Hampshire. Now Mel Harris ("thirtysomething") plays a new candidate. Her speech stirs interest — and Josh's suspicion.

"American Idol," 8 p.m., Fox. Here's the first results show. Two of the 12 men and two of the 12 women will be ousted.

"Alias," 8 p.m., ABC. Gina Torres returns as Anna Esposito, Sydney's foe in the first season.

"King of Queens," 8 p.m., CBS. Burt Reynolds guest stars as Doug's old football coach.

"CSI: NY," 9 p.m., CBS. Half of a human body is found in a harbor terminal. The first task is to find the other half.