‘Dateline’ Offers Real-Life Medical Drama
“Dateline NBC” at 9 goes inside a Chicago hospital for a close-up look at three “life-and-death cases,” each presenting an ethical dilemma.
This is not an altogether original idea. But because television has long presented fictional medical dramas, real-life stories are always difficult to resist.
In one case, doctors wrestle with whether to sustain the life of 4-day-old Demarco Hayes. Born prematurely, he weighs only 2 pounds and is suffering from, among other things, a brain hemorrhage.
Adine Burton, a homeless woman, was discovered by paramedics after suffering an apparent stroke. She’s in a coma, with no family to decide whether she should remain on life support.
Heather Wilson is an 8-year-old from South Florida, airlifted to Chicago with a failing liver. Only a transplant will save her life.
Her uncle is willing, but giving up part of his liver could cost him his life.
Stone Phillips narrates the report, which includes the perspectives of families and medical professionals. In each instance, huge costs are being incurred.
And, especially for baby Demarco and Burton, there’s little hope of survival. Even if they do make it, they may have permanent brain damage.
It’s a strong hour, although I found it overwritten. Phillips’ presence is heavy-handed at times when narration seems superfluous.
The report concludes with a haunting question. What will you do when you have to make a similar choice about a loved one?
Highlights
“The X-Files,” FOX at 9: This is ironic. FOX, which has aired that ridiculous alien autopsy documentary, comes up with an “X-Files” episode in which Mulder (David Duchovny) uncovers a similar film. It’s better as science fiction. Repeat.
“Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper,” ABC at 9:30: Julius “Dr. J” Erving makes a guest appearance in a bit of silliness about Mark’s (Mark Curry) broken coffee mug bearing the NBA legend’s image. Repeat.
“Nash Bridges,” CBS at 10: A repeat of the series opener introduces viewers to detective Bridges (Don Johnson). Thank goodness he does a little less talking in subsequent episodes than in this premise-setting hour.
Cable Calls
“Reba McEntire-Ben Johnson Pro-Celebrity Rodeo,” TNN at 5 and 9: The roundup honors actor Johnson, who died in April. Proceeds go to charity.
“Showgirls” (1995), SHOW at 9: Critics savaged this Las Vegas melodrama that is strong on nudity and sex but modestly outfitted in story and acting. Elizabeth Berkley stars with Kyle MacLachlan and Gina Gershon.
The box-office disaster is perfect fare for cable, where some of the dumbest, cheapest sex films ever made play over and over. Next to a lot of Showtime’s skin flicks, this will look like an Oscar winner.
“Butterbox Babies” (1995), A&E at 6 and 10: Susan Clark stars in this fact-based Canadian import about a Nova Scotia midwife who opened a Depression-era home for unwed mothers. Eventually she starts selling the infants to wealthy American couples.
According to A&E, this is Canada’s highest-rated TV movie ever.
“Normal Life” (1996), HBO at 10: The unlikely pairing of Luke Perry (“Beverly Hills, 90210”) and Ashley Judd (“Norma Jean and Marilyn”) yields a provocative character sketch.
Judd plays a bright but troubled woman who marries a straight-laced suburban police officer.
She’s just not cut out for a “normal life,” but he’ll do anything to keep her.
It’s a high-energy affair, sometimes brought down by both stars’ histrionics. But Judd gives her character a vulnerability that almost makes it work.
“HBO Comedy Half Hour,” HBO at midnight: A new season takes flight with Jeff Cesario, who will crack you up with his observations on sex, consumer culture and the portrayal of ItalianAmericans.
Talk Time
“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Actor Kurt Russell and U.S. Olympic gymnastics champion Kerry Strug.
“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Actor Dennis Hopper and music group The Sex Pistols.
“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: Actor-comedian Dennis Miller.