SATURDAY

FEBRUARY 18

2017

BIANCULLI’S BEST BETS

BBC America, 10:00 a.m. ET

When the original Planet Earth miniseries was co-produced and presented by Discovery Channel a decade ago, that network took the astoundingly infuriating, wrong-headed and insulting step of replacing the narration by Sir David Attenborough with newly recorded narration by Sigourney Weaver. Nothing about Sigourney Weaver (her father, after all, was one of TV’s first visionary programmers, NBC’s Sylvester “Pat” Weaver), but swapping out the best nature documentary host on the planet for an actress allegedly more “acceptable” to American ears is absurd. The good news is that the “original” 2006 Planet Earth, with Attenborough as narrator, still exists – and today, as a prelude to the U.S. premiere of Planet Earth II (also narrated by Attenborough, 10 years later), BBC America is repeating the entire 11-part Planet Earth all day, with Attenborough’s voice prominently and passionately attached. Watch, and listen. You’ll be astounded. And hit record, because you’ll want to savor every hour.

THE LEGEND OF TARZAN

HBO, 8:00 p.m. ET

This updated 2016 version of the Edgar Rice Burroughs Tarzan story died on the vine, so to speak – but with its leading players, it’s worth a peek as it arrives on HBO. Alexander Skarsgard, who co-stars in tomorrow night’s Big Little Lies on the same network, has the title role, and Margot Robbie, last seen as Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad, plays the woman who tames him, brings him to London, and understands him better than anyone. We may have different reasons for checking out this movie. You, Tarzan. Me, Jane.

BRITNEY EVER AFTER

Lifetime, 8:00 p.m. ET

Not a recommendation: I’m just noting the arrival of this new Lifetime telemovie, in case you’re in search of a Saturday night Guilty Pleasure. It’s a made-for-TV biography of Britney Spears, starring Natasha Bassett as the pop star with the very public up-and-down private life.

PLANET EARTH II

BBC America, 9:00 p.m. ET

MINISERIES PREMIERE: TVWW contributor Alex Strachan has made it a personal pet project to bang the drums for this mature documentary sequel, writing several different articles about it, which you can (and should) read in his TV That Matters columns here, here, and here. The sequel to Planet Earth, arriving in the States 11 years after the original, shows two things with jaw-dropping clarity. One is how far TV technology and mature filmmaking have come in the intervening years, because the images captured are breathtaking, and in many instances unprecedented. The other thing Planet Earth II shows, with somber finality, is how far we haven’t come in protecting, preserving and appreciating our planet and its creatures and various environments. I’ve seen all of Planet Earth II in advance – and, like Alex, think it’s truly special, and important. Watch it on the best and biggest TV you can find, and record it for repeated viewings. Also, gather the kids. If ever there were a full-family television offering, Planet Earth II is it. And yes, the great David Attenborough is back as narrator. Welcome, Sir David, and thank you…

NETWORK

TCM, 10:30 p.m. ET

Every time I show this 1976 movie to one of my classes at Rowan University, I’m astounded all over again at how prescient writer Paddy Chayefsky was, about everything. Everything from the corporate acquisitions of broadcast networks and the encroachment of bottom-line profits and ratings into their news divisions, to the rise of reality television and angry and unchecked TV public-affairs “personalities,” is in here, in a movie made more than 40 years ago. Peter Finch is brilliant as unhinged network news anchor Howard Beale, and his ultra-talented co-stars include William Holden, Faye Dunaway, Robert Duvall, and Ned Beatty. Oh, and the famous scene in which everyday Americans are shown venting their anger by being encouraged to throw open their windows and shout, “I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this any more!’’ – well, welcome to America 2017.

<< PREVIOUS | NEXT >>

Read and add comments HERE for today's Best Bets!

Leave a Comment: (No HTML, 1000 chars max)

Name (required)

Email (required) (will not be published)


Type in the verification word shown on the image.

Page: 1 of 139 | Go to page:

2773 Comments

lsm999

This is an awesome motivating article.I am practically satisfied with your great work.You put truly extremely supportive data. Keep it up. Continue blogging. Hoping to perusing your next post.

Sep 19, 2025 | Reply

jacqui Porth

Hi Dave: Read your review of Rubicon. I know AMC didn't pursue it. Read BBC4 picked up to air in 2011. Any chance you taped the episodes? If not, do you know anyone who did? Or any contacts for BBC4 (especially for their library). I saw what aired on AMC and have been looking to buy it ever since.... Thanks for any suggestions :)

Sep 17, 2025 | Reply

Feedback

Whether it's a last-minute business meeting or a late-night private party, you won't be constrained by time to reserve the best Gangnam public or private Jamsil karaoke. We'll adapt to your schedule. https://hyungworld.com

Sep 17, 2025 | Reply

lsm99

I really loved reading your blog. It was very well authored and easy to undertand. Unlike additional blogs I have read which are really not tht good. I also found your posts very interesting. In fact after reading, I had to go show it to my friend and he ejoyed it as well.

Sep 17, 2025 | Reply

new lsm99

Thanks , I have just been looking for information about this topic for ages and yours is the best I have came upon till now.

Sep 13, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

Hey Gomer,

IF this site is the source of info that you've been looking for for years, you'd better go back to Elementary school to figure out where in life you turned wrong!

ROTFLMBFFAO!!!!!

Sincerely,

Dave

Sep 15, 2025

Grand Dunman

There are also financial and practical benefits. Historically, owning a home has been a source of long-term financial security.

Sep 10, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

No shit Sherlock!! Thanks for the (ahem) brilliant advice!!

What TV shows do you like?

Big Dave

Sep 10, 2025

lsm99dna

Thank you so much for sharing this information, this will surely help me in my work and therefore, I would like to tell you that very few people can write in a manner where the reader understands just by reading the article once.

Sep 10, 2025 | Reply

Rescheck

The quality of materials and finishing is excellent. You can tell these homes are built to last.

Sep 7, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

What the fuc% are you talking about Homer??!!?

I think you took a wrong turn out of the peanut butter aisle!!!!

ROTFLMBFAO!!!

Sep 8, 2025

sellerfinancedream

Just as convenience adds value in everyday services, an **owner financing agreement** creates the same advantage in real estate by simplifying transactions. It clearly defines payment terms, interest, and responsibilities, reducing the need for traditional lenders. This flexibility builds trust and makes ownership more accessible for both buyers and sellers.

Sep 4, 2025 | Reply

laundrymatnearme

The appreciation shows how simplicity adds real value, whether in useful information or digital entertainment. In daily life, a **laundromat near me open now** provides the same benefit by offering quick and easy access whenever needed. Both highlight how convenience and efficiency create genuine satisfaction.

Sep 3, 2025 | Reply

laundrymatnearme

Sep 3, 2025 | Reply

minorityownedbiz

Komentar itu mengapresiasi informasi yang bermanfaat, sementara **slot qris 5000** juga menghadirkan nilai serupa dalam hiburan digital. Dengan modal kecil dan transaksi cepat, pemain dapat menikmatinya dengan mudah. Keduanya menegaskan bahwa kesederhanaan efektif mampu memberi kepuasan nyata.

Sep 2, 2025 | Reply

Dave Bianculli

Persetan denganmu dan kuda yang kau tunggangi!

ENGLISH ONLY PLEASE!

Sep 2, 2025

lsm99 sport

This article is an appealing wealth of informative data that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

lsm99 lotto

This article is an appealing wealth of informative data that is interesting and well-written. I commend your hard work on this and thank you for this information.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

Mr. G Yachts

Just as travel, entrepreneurship, and reliable services open doors to new opportunities, Yacht Rental Dubai creates a gateway to luxury and memorable experiences on the water. With modern fleets and skilled crews, Yacht Rental Dubai ensures safety, comfort, and personalized service. It is the ideal choice for leisure escapes, private celebrations, and professional gatherings in style.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

OlineDelivery

???? ???????? ?????? ????? ????? ???? ????? ????? ?????? ????? ????? ????? ?? ??????? ?????? ?? ??? ???? ?? ??????. ????? ???? ????? ????? ????? ????, ???? ?? ???? ??????? ????? ?????? ??????. ????? ?? ????? ?????? ?????? ????? ????????? ?? ????? ????? ?????? ?????? ????? ????? ????? ???.

Sep 1, 2025 | Reply

overseasproperty4cash

Just as travel and entrepreneurship open doors to new cultures and opportunities, choosing to **Sell Oveseas Property** can unlock wider financial prospects. It allows access to global markets, maximizes investment returns, and builds long-term stability for the future.

Aug 30, 2025 | Reply

Timetours

What an inspiring story of following a dream and turning years of experience into a meaningful venture. It’s amazing how cultural diversity across India creates endless opportunities for unique products and fresh market ideas. Just like exporting brings the richness of one place to another, travel allows us to experience culture firsthand. Options like tours by bus
make it easier to explore different regions, traditions, and stories in a comfortable and memorable way. Both entrepreneurship and travel are journeys that thrive on curiosity, discovery, and persistence.

Aug 30, 2025 | Reply

hapextreeservice

Unexpected storms or accidents can leave dangerous trees posing risks to your property. In such situations, fast and reliable emergency tree removal Roswell GA services are essential. With trained crews and the right equipment, your home and family stay safe from sudden hazards.

Aug 29, 2025 | Reply

614ispanicroofersacacio

Just as reliable reference materials are essential for producing quality work, hiring a professional [roofing](https://614ispanicroofersacacio.com/roofing/) service ensures your home is well-protected and built to last. Skilled roofers provide expert installation, repair, and maintenance, using high-quality materials for durability. Their precise workmanship enhances the safety and longevity of any property. Timely service and attention to detail prevent future problems and costly repairs. Choosing trusted roofing professionals gives homeowners confidence and peace of mind.

Aug 28, 2025 | Reply

Page: 1 of 139 | Go to page:

David Bianculli

Founder / Editor

David Bianculli has been a TV critic since 1975, including a 14-year stint at the New York Daily News, and sees no reason to stop now. Currently, he's TV critic for NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross, and is an occasional substitute host for that show. He's also an author and teaches TV and film history at New Jersey's Rowan University. His 2009 Dangerously Funny: The Uncensored Story of 'The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour', has been purchased for film rights. His latest, The Platinum Age of Television: From I Love Lucy to the Walking Dead, How TV Became Terrific, is an effusive guidebook that plots the path from the 1950s’ Golden Age to today’s era of quality TV.

New From TVWW

BIANCULLI’S BEST BETS

BBC America, 10:00 a.m. ET

HBO, 8:00 p.m. ET

Lifetime, 8:00 p.m. ET

BBC America, 9:00 p.m. ET

TCM, 10:30 p.m. ET

David Bianculli

PBS' 'Frontline’ Examines Pension Promises and — Spoiler Alert — Finds the Math Doesn’t Add Up

The Decadence of ‘Versailles’ Comes to Ovation

Prescribing Mamie Gummer in 'Emily Owens, M.D.'

Looking for a Free Ride? HBO Can Deliver

'Pass the Biscuits' Part of the Hatfield-McCoy Pop-Culture Legacy