Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
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TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE
"Finding Nemo" (2003, ABC) or "Elf" (2003, CBS) or "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946, NBC); all at 7 p.m. This is a can't-miss night for family movies.
OF NOTE
"Mickey Mouse Clubhouse," 9 a.m., Disney Channel. There are Christmas episodes all morning, including four new ones — this one, "Handy Mandy" at 10, "Doodlebops" at 11 and "Charlie and Lola" at 11:30.
"Love Comes Softly" (2003, 1 p.m.), "Love's Enduring Promise" (2004, 3 p.m.), "Love's Long Journey" (2005, 5 p.m.), Hallmark Channel. Here are the first three films in the pioneer saga; each is slow and stagnant with moments of quiet beauty. The first two have Katherine Heigl ("Grey's Anatomy").
"Santa Baby" (2006, 2 p.m.), "Christmas in Boston" (2005, 4 p.m.) and "Three Days" (2001, 6 p.m.), ABC Family. Here are reruns of three cable films, each one beautifully filmed. "Santa Baby" is a solid comedy; "Three Days" is a deadserious drama. "Christmas in Boston" is a light romantic comedy.
"Dead and Deader," 7:05 p.m., Sci Fi Channel. Dean Cain plays a soldier who becomes a heroic half-zombie. The result ranges from gore to occasional humor.
"Christmas Do-Over," 8 and 10 p.m., ABC Family. A self-centered chap (Jay Mohr) botches Christmas with his ex-wife, their son and her parents. Then he keeps living the day over. There are some clever moments plus wise-guy gags.
"Saturday Night Live," 10:30 p.m., NBC. Justin Timberlake doubles as host and musical guest.