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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

‘Party’ Dilemma Sure To Involve Viewers

Faye Zuckerman New York Times Syndicate

Probably the best time to discover a series is when it hits its stride, and that usually occurs in its third season. A case in point is FOX’s family-in-turmoil drama “Party of Five” (at 9), which embarks on season No. 3 with some involving story lines about college, relationships and growing up.

Those who have been following the plight of the Salingers, know that the show is about a San Francisco family headed by the eldest sibling Charlie (Matthew Fox). The Salingers’ parents were killed in a car crash, and the children cope weekly with universal themes regarding morals and honesty without the advantage of parental guidance.

In tonight’s hour, almost anyone can relate to Bailey’s dilemma during his first week of college. He desperately wants to be a big man on campus, and a new friend, Cooper (Harold Pruett), entices him with some not-so ethical ways to accomplish his goal.

The episode juxtaposes Bailey’s elation at getting away with transgressions with Kirsten’s (Paula Devicq) plummet into a deep depression over the discovery by her colleagues and boss that she plagiarized part of her dissertation.

In the meantime, Justin and Julia (Neve Campbell) launch into discussions about trust and betrayal when Justin writes about her miscarriage to win a prestigious college essay contest.

The characters face difficult decisions, and you’ll empathize with them for not always making the right choices.

One warning: At times the members of the Salinger clan can be too self-indulgent and wallow in self-pity. You’ll be tempted to sigh, “Get a life.”

Highlights

“Beverly Hills, 90210,” FOX at 8: Old stories seem to never die on this series. Yet again the action centers around Nat and Joan’s upcoming wedding. Brandon shows Joan’s daughter around town.

Meanwhile, Kelly begins caring for an AIDS patient. “90210” gets points for introducing a story line in which everyone isn’t cheery and sunny.

“Alex Haley’s ‘Queen’,” CBS at 8: In the concluding Part 2, more hardship awaits Queen (Halle Berry) after she meets Alec Haley (Danny Glover) and gives birth to a second son, Simon, the father of “Roots” author Alex Haley. Though heartbreaking at times, “Queen” provides us all with much to ponder about the Civil War-era and beyond.

“Grace Under Fire,” ABC at 9: Just as school is starting, this half-hour reminds parents of the harsh reality of dealing with school officials. In a heady repeat, Grace attempts to explain to Quentin’s school principal why he shaved his head.

“Pharaoh’s Army” (1995), KSPS at 9: This Civil War drama is a fact-based tale about a Union Army captain (Chris Cooper) who falls for a homesteader (Patricia Clarkson). She has several reasons to dislike Yankees.

It’s a refreshingly slow-paced piece that draws you in with its hypnotic style.

Cable Calls

“The 1996 MTV Video Awards,” MTV at 8: From Radio City Musical Hall in the Big Apple the music video channel doles out awards at its annual gala. Typically irreverent Dennis Miller will host the production which, at times, can be a little offi-color.

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Hootie & The Blowfish and the Fugees perform. Tupac, Seal and Toni Braxton are among the presenters.

Talk Time

“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Jane Curtin (“3rd Rock from the Sun”) and musical group Dishwalla.

“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Whoopi Goldberg and Jonathan Silverman (“The Single Guy”).

“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: Actor-comedian Louis Anderson, actor David Paymer and Goo Goo Dolls.