Expect No Surprises In This ‘Program’
The trouble with 1993’s “The Program” (FOX at 8) is that we’ve become so cynical about college football that the troubles surrounding fictitious Eastern State University are neither surprising nor particularly engaging.
Under pressure to win, the coach (James Caan) has sold his soul. The personal destruction around him is secondary to the winning season he needs to save his job. Big deal.
The star quarterback (Craig Sheffer) is an alcoholic whose father, a drunk, also played for ESU. A freshman running back with academic problems (Omar Epps) is tutored by a beautiful co-ed (Halle Berry) who dates his rival for the running-back position. Another player is abusing steroids. Off the field, the coach’s daughter gets caught taking an exam for a back-up quarterback and they both get tossed out of school.
No wonder this movie is running on FOX. It sounds like an episode of “Beverly Hills, 90210,” and when it strays it is just as heavy-handed.
“The Program” is not without some worthwhile performances. The best comes from Epps and Berry, whose romance is as touching as it is inevitable. Somehow, director David S. Ward (“Major League”) keeps it all reasonably on course toward a climactic big game. You may end up pulling for these guys and maybe even see them as victims of what college football has become.
Highlights
“Roseanne,” ABC at 8: Dan (John Goodman) is shocked by the unexpected arrival of his mother (guest star Debbie Reynolds), who has been released from a psychiatric hospital. Repeat.
“Mad About You,” NBC at 8: As pregnant Jamie (Helen Hunt) settles in for bed rest, Paul (Paul Reiser) is swamped by distractions from family members and some obnoxious plumbers.
What he doesn’t anticipate is that Nat (Hunt’s real-life companion, Hank Azaria) will kidnap beloved Murray. Repeat.
“Judith Krantz’s ‘Dazzle,” (1995), CBS at 9: In the conclusion, Jazz (Lisa Hartman Black) copes with her father’s mysterious death as she continues her fight to save his California ranch. Repeat.
“Frasier,” NBC at 9: Niles (David Hyde Pierce) demands he and Maris get back together or seek marriage counseling. He ends up being served divorce papers. Repeat.
“Dateline NBC,” NBC at 10: Len Cannon reports on the truth behind those get-rich-quick ads promising thousands to those who will “work at home.”
Parents’ Pick
“Family Video Diaries,” HBO at 7: “Bong & Donnell” is a slice-of-life documentary about two Baltimore teenagers, one of whom is severely handicapped. Filmmaker William A. Whiteford checked in with these kids from ages 8 to 17. It is remarkable to see their friendship mature as they grow from boys to young men.
Though overlong, it reveals two unique individuals who persevere despite their difficulties. Contains subject matter that may not be appropriate for preteens.
Cable Calls
“Elvis: Aloha From Hawaii,” VH-1 at 6: “Elvis Week” continues with the blockbuster 1973 television concert from the islands.
“Fleetwood Mac: The Dance,” MTV at 10: The band reunited for this concert in May - their first in 15 years. A new live album will be out this month, followed by a tour.
“Arli$$,” HBO at 11: After giving the show kudos, I was disappointed by this half-hour played close to real time. Super agent Arliss (Robert Wuhl) tries to get out of the office for an important meeting, but is met by one crisis after another. Dull. Ted Turner, Chris Berman, Lisa Leslie and Brett Favre make guest appearances.
Talk Time
“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Lisa Kudrow (“Friends”), Peter Berg (“Chicago Hope”) and singer Natalie Cole.
“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Comedian Dana Carvey, radio personality Robin Quivers and music group Afghan Whigs. Repeat.
“Politically Incorrect With Bill Maher,” ABC at 12:35 a.m.: Actor D.B. Sweeney.
“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: Musical guest Cool for August.