Square Eyes

Television Reviews

Movie of the week, Almost Famous, Ten, Fri, 9.30pm

Most boys have a childhood fantasy about being a rock journalist. Director Cameron Crowe lived his, as a 15-year-old working for Rolling Stone, as this charming and fondly nostalgic '70s coming-of-age story recalls. Getting his big break by tagging along on a band tour, William (a wonderful Patrick Fugit) gets a first hand lesson in sex 'n' drugs 'n' rock 'n' roll. His none-too-happy mum (a brilliant Frances McDormand) has a few things to teach to the rock stars too. It's a beaut yarn.

The Terminator, Prime, Sat, 8.30pm

Who'd have thought that 20 years ago, director James Cameron's blockbuster would serve as the main campaign slogans for Arnie's Guvinator race. It's spectacular biffo, with Arnie playing a robot, a character ideally suited to his personality.

Eurovision Junior, SBS, Sat, 1.30pm

If Popstars or American Idol appeals, then why not try this mini-Eurovision, in which kiddies aged 8-15 from 15 countries compete in the cuteness and cheesy pop stakes.

Big Brother, Ten, Sun, 7.30pm

Oh God, is it that time again already? Hopefully like the other tedious 'reality' game shows on NBN (The Block, where one of the contestants is exposed by a paper for a drugs conviction - remember that fuss last year) and Prime (My Restaurant Rules) that evening, it will soon fade into oblivion and then be heard of no more.

The House of Saud, SBS, Tues, 8.30pm

In all the fuss over Iraq and Afghanistan, many forget Osama Bin Laden is a Saudi millionaire. This two-part doco looks at America's closest Middle East ally and their strained relationship. It's a feudal, wealthy kingdom that embraces modernity and ancient tribalism at the same time.

The Apprentice, NBN, Tues. 9.30pm

Mark Burnett, the bloke behind Survivor, shifts his formula to the business jungle. 16 wannabe tycoons compete under the cut-throat eye of flamboyant New York billionaire Donald Trump, who eliminates one each week for 13 weeks with "You're fired." The winner gets to run a Trump company for a year. It's worth watching for the insight into the lifestyles of the rich and famous.

The Sopranos, NBN, Tues, 10.30pm

At long last this brilliant mafia drama returns, with Tony's empire and family life starting to unravel around him. It's compelling stuff, crisply written, but with wince-inducing moments of violence.

Molly & Mobarak, SBS, Thurs, 8.30pm

This poignant doco is a fascinating counterpoint to the overheated boatpeople debate. Mobarak, 22, is an Afghani refugee. He's one of 90 who've helped the country town of Young revive its fortunes, providing cheap labour for the abattoir. Mobarak falls in love with Molly, daughter of the family he's staying with. The Bali bombing heightens racism in the town, yet initial suspicions give way to respect and genuine affection. Even Conservative MPs see the benefits, but the federal Government remains hardline. It's inspiring and also terribly melancholic.