Spielberg’s ‘War’ offers powerful visuals

Tonight’s must-see

“War of the Worlds” (2005), 8-11 p.m., ABC.

The good news: H.G. Wells’ 1898 novel was given to a master filmmaker (Steven Spielberg) and expressive actors (Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning). Morgan Freeman intones the brief, rich narration.

The bad: Spielberg, usually the optimist, gives in to an exaggerated, one-note view of mankind. Every person – including the central character – behaves like a lout.

Spielberg’s powerful visuals make us overlook that – partially, at least.

Tonight’s might-see

“Bridal Fever,” 9-11 p.m., Hallmark Channel.

Andrea Roth – who is so good as Tommy’s ex-wife in “Rescue Me” – has lighter duty here. She’s a perennial bridesmaid, seeking her moment.

A sub-plot involving a romance novelist (Delta Burke) starts well then turns silly. Still, the main story (and Roth’s performance) will hold viewers.

Other choices include

“Phineas and Ferb,” 8 p.m., Disney. The Disney people have set this fun, 15-minute cartoon series for 8 p.m. each day this month. It has two young inventors, a stylish sister (Ashley Tisdale) and a heroic platypus who secretly fights the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz. It also has some clever songs, including a dandy title tune from Bowling for Soup.

“AKC/Eukanuba National Championship,” 8-11 p.m., Animal Planet and Discovery Channel. After regional dog competitions, the American Kennel Club has its championships.

Sunday’s must-see

Super Bowl, 3 p.m., Fox. It’s the New York Giants and the undefeated New England Patriots, with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman in the broadcast booth. Tom Petty performs at halftime.

Sunday’s alternative

“Masterpiece: Miss Austen Regrets,” 9 p.m. KSPS.

PBS has done a fine job with its other Jane Austen films, but this one is so-so. It views the author’s life darkly, with her spinsterhood as deep tragedy.

“Puppy Bowl IV,” 3 p.m., Animal Planet; reruns at 6, 9 and midnight. Really, it’s a marathon of cute little dogs.