Tubegazing

An Unreasonable Man

(PBS, Dec. 19, check local times): Ralph Nader has been a fixture of public life for so long, it's hard to imagine the past 40 years without him – he forced the auto industry to put airbags and seat belts in cars, and Congress to clean up our air and food. But for many, his biggest and most controversial legacy will be the impact of his two runs for president. This documentary is an absorbing look at his whole career, including arguments, pro and con, on the man some call "evil" and others dub "a saint." Must-see TV in advance of the upcoming presidential race. Grade: A – Gloria Goodale