What's on TV
Saturday 5/25
Stanley Cup Playoffs (ABC, 3 p.m.; and ESPN, 7 p.m.): In Game 5 of the best-of-seven hockey playoffs, the Detroit Red Wings take on the Colorado Avalanche in Colorado. Later, the Toronto Maple Leafs host the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 4.
In Memoriam: New York City, 9/11/01 (HBO, 9-10:05 p.m.): This documentary is very difficult to watch. It combines the best footage from a variety of news sources and individual New Yorkers with cameras. It weaves interviews with survivors, public officials, witnesses, and families of victims into a heart-rending combination. It may be too much for many viewers, but the film provides a clear document of the events of that tragic day.
Price for Peace (NBC, 8-10 p.m.): This Memorial Day special is produced by Steven Spielberg and celebrates the heroism of those Americans who fought in the Pacific theater during World War II. From Pearl Harbor to the occupation of Japan, it was a brutal struggle. American and Japanese war veterans recount their experiences. Tom Brokaw hosts.
American Family (PBS, 9-10 p.m.): The season finale of this Latino family drama carries the unusual title "The Silence of God." Each episode has provoked thought and experimented with cinematic form all in the service of greater understanding of Latino culture, which is as American as apple pie. In this episode Esteban (Esai Morales) faces his past when his little Pablito disappears. Most of the show consists of one continuous 45-minute shot.
Devil's Playground (Cinemax, 8:30-10 p.m.): One of the most austere yet vibrant subcultures in America is explored here through the eyes of Amish teenagers. At 16, they are allowed to experience the outside world to "run around" ("rumspringa"). But the temptations facing teens today are more challenging than in bygone times including drugs and pornography. The teens must choose either to stay in the community or move into the cold, cold world. If they choose the world, family and friends shun them. This documentary is fascinating, troubling, and surprising. It contains mature themes and harsh language.
