Waves Of Laughter From 1984 ‘Splash’ Weaken To Ripples
Daryl Hannah and Tom Hanks were a hit when “Splash,” airing on FOX at 8, first appeared in 1984.
But this romantic comedy about a mermaid and the guy who loved her has become dated, not to mention overshadowed, by Hanks’ subsequent work.
It’s still entertaining but hardly a sea of laughs.
Highlights
“Roseanne,” ABC at 8: The uninspired series finale features the welcome home of Darlene’s (Sara Gilbert) miracle baby. It’s a lifeless, unfunny episode, the final insult to fans who have seen the series fall from one of television’s best shows to one of its worst.
The capper is the revelation that the past season was all a Roseanne hallucination.
“The Other Woman” (1995), CBS at 9: Jill Eikenberry plays a dying divorced mom who ends up on a road trip with her three children and her ex-husband’s new wife (Laura Leighton).
“Dateline NBC,” NBC at 10: Scheduled is a report on Ruthann Aron, a Maryland politician charged in a murder-for-hire plot.
Cable Calls
“George Wallace” TNT at 5, 7 and 9: The two-part movie winds to an end with the Alabama governor setting his sights on a run for the presidency.
After Wallace (Gary Sinise) is struck down by a gunman, he is left on the sidelines as liberal Democrats reform the party. Sinise delivers a powerful performance as Wallace is consumed by anger, self-pity and guilt. Ultimately a sympathetic portrayal, this made-for-cable film is a commentary on all politicians who compromise their ideals to be elected.
Talk Time
“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Tim Allen (“Home Improvement”) and animal impressionist Hank Shores.
“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 11:35: Paul Reiser (“Mad About You”), actress Tia Carrere and music group Echo & the Bunnymen.
“Politically Incorrect With Bill Maher,” ABC at 12:35 a.m.: Jay Thomas, John Schneider, Faye Kellerman and author Dr. Andrew Weil.
“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: Former Sen. Bob Dole, magician David Blaine and Tisha Campbell (“Martin”). Repeat.