Tube Notes
By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service
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TONIGHT'S MUST-SEE
"Racing for Time," 7 p.m., Lifetime. Charles Dutton brings passion and power to this true-life story. He directed and stars as a Texas prison guard who organized a track program for his teen women prisoners. The casting strains credibility: This seems like a prison for models; also, Dutton (who has a shot-putter's body) hardly passes for a former sprinter. Still, Dutton brings the talent and the depth to overcome all. He has three Emmy awards, two Tony nominations and seven years' experience as a Maryland prisoner; he fills "Racing" with a rich humanity.
"Miracle" (2004), 7 p.m., ABC. The 1980 Winter Olympics had the ultimate mismatch — the skilled hockey pros of the Soviet Union against a bunch of American college kids. That story is told here, with Kurt Russell as real-life coach Herb Brooks. His young co-stars were chosen partly for their believable athletic skill.
OF NOTE
"Flashdance" (1983), 5 p.m., TV Land. Jennifer Beals is a steelworker who doubles as a dancer.
"Jericho," 7 p.m., CBS. Here's a quick rerun of Tuesday's season opener. It spends way too much time with revenge schemes but propels "Jericho" toward what could be stronger hours ahead.
"Law & Order: Criminal Intent," 7 p.m., NBC. A murder victim was tugged between her tough childhood and her new status as a literary star.
"On Golden Pond" (1981), 3 p.m., Turner Classic Movies. A warm comedy-drama gets too sweet at times but has subtly perfect performances by Henry Fonda and Katharine Hepburn; both won Academy Awards.
"Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," 8 p.m., NBC. When a rich girl is killed, suspects range from her friends to a gang of homeless kids.
"Garden State" (2004), 4 p.m., Independent Film Channel. Zach Braff wrote, directed and starred in this immensely charming film. He plays a drifting actor who returns home and meets a charmingly quirky woman (Natalie Portman).
"Law & Order," 9 p.m., NBC. Some missing pants lead to murder in a so-so episode.