Posted on: Saturday, June 11, 2005

Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"The Thomas Crown Affair" (1999), 7 p.m., NBC. Sleek and smart, this movie fits all the requirements for a caper film. Trimming it (by at least 20 minutes) to fit a two-hour time slot probably has improved it. Pierce Brosnan stars as a handsome industrialist. While jetting around the world, he seems to savor being an art thief. Rene Russo is the insurance investigator chasing him. These two pretty people make a perfect match. The complex plot is filled with chances for talented director John McTiernan ("Die Hard") to fill the screen with pretty pictures. "Thomas Crown" thrives as lush entertainment.

Of Note

"Odd Girl Out" (2005), 6 p.m., Lifetime. Bullying can be emotional instead of physical, this movie argues. One girl (well-played by Alexa Vega) is socially cut off, through rumor and innuendo. The story seems far-fetched but will stir viewers' emotions.

"Tarzan" (1999), 7 p.m., ABC. This Disney cartoon drew high praise from some critics. It's been showing often on cable lately, but here's a chance to catch it on broadcast TV. Tony Goldwyn and Minnie Driver provide the voices of Tarzan and Jane, with songs from Phil Collins.

"Without a Trace," 7 p.m., CBS. In this rerun, a fired football coach has gone missing.

"CSI: Miami," 8 p.m., CBS. This rerun involves the Internet-fueled phenomenon of spontaneous gatherings. After one such event, a girl is found dead.

"Crossing Jordan," 9 p.m., NBC. If you missed this season finale, catch it now. It includes some key turning points in a well-made series. Macy (Miguel Ferrer) is being investigated by a cold-eyed bureaucrat (Henry Winkler); Woody (Jerry O'Connell) chases a cop killer. Both stories have strong moments that are worth catching.

"Saturday Night Live," 10:30 p.m., NBC. Ashton Kutcher hosts this rerun with Gwen Stefani as the musical guest.