Fall TV Preview

Tonight you can finally watch the premiere of The CW's drama The Secret Circle, the new series based on the novels of L.J. Smith (who also wrote its lead-in, The Vampire Diaries). The witch-centric new show is from Kevin Williamson and stars CW alum Britt Robertson, and if you're interested in checking it out tonight, make sure to read my pilot scoop below for a hint about whether it might be your new favorite show.

What it's about: When teenager Cassie (Britt Robertson) loses her mother to a fire, she moves in with her grandmother in her mom's hometown. A group of classmates takes an odd interest in her, and they quickly reveal why: Cassie is a witch, descended from one of the witch families in town, as are each of them. Cassie completes their coven, and they want her to join them so that they can get the full use of their powers.

Where it works: The pilot is deliciously creepy, thanks to a mysterious villain on the scene (Gale Harold). The show also does a good job of setting up an interesting story that seems to have a lot of potential. Plus it's great to see the endearing Robertson back on her own show after Life Unexpected was canceled.

Where it doesn't: This is a show about teen witches, so the camp factor has the possibility to be high. Some of the dialogue the characters use to set up the premise is pretty cheesy, but maybe it won't be so bad once the show establishes what it's about.

Am I hooked? Oh yeah. After just one episode, I wanted to know more about the town's rich witch history and the sinister characters.

When is it on: Thursdays at 9 p.m.

To see some photos and a video preview of The Secret Circle, just keep reading

Tonight is the debut of Up All Night, NBC's new comedy starring Christina Applegate and Will Arnett as a couple adjusting to their life as parents. If you're on the fence about tuning in this evening, check out my pilot scoop on the first episode to see whether it sounds like something you'd enjoy.

What it's about: Applegate and Arnett play married couple Reagan and Chris, who have just become first-time parents. The show follows the pair as they try to get used to their new roles and routine: Chris has become a stay-at-home dad so that Reagan can go back to work full time. Maya Rudolph has a supporting part as Reagan's demanding but well-meaning boss Ava.

Where it works: I love Arnett as Chris, because it's one of the rare times we see the actor toning himself down to play an all-around nice guy. Not that I don't love his usual shtick, but it's great to see him expanding his range. Also, he, Applegate, and Rudolph are a killer comedy team in a pilot that has tons of laugh-out-loud moments and great writing.

Where it doesn't: If you're dealing with the similar work/life stress that Reagan and Chris are, this show might not be the escapist fare you're looking for.

You might like this show if: You like the fun, irreverent humor of Cougar Town and Happy Endings.

When is it on: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. on NBC.

To see a preview and some photos of Up All Night, just read more.

Fall TV is back, and tonight, TV veteran Sarah Michelle Gellar returns to TV with new show Ringer. The former Buffy stars in The CW's drama series in a dual role as identical twins Bridget and Siobhan. When there's an accident, the ladies are involved in an identity-switcheroo that leads them both to danger.

• What it's about: Aside from their looks, these twins couldn't be more different; Bridget is a recovering addict and ex-stripper, while Siobhan is a wealthy, Manhattan-dwelling socialite. When Bridget fears for her life because she's the star witness in a mobster's murder case, she goes on the run and ends up visiting her sister, whom she hasn't seen in six years. In a mysterious boating incident, Siobhan disappears — and Bridget takes the opportunity to assume her sister's identity and life in New York as a way to hide from the mobster. However, Bridget realizes she's not off the hook when she quickly discovers Siobhan's many secrets and illicit involvements.
• Where it works: The premise and all the little twists are compelling, and the pilot ends on a cliffhanger that made me want to watch more episodes.
• Where it doesn't: The dialogue is so painfully cheesy that it makes all the acting seem similarly bad. The show is going for a Hitchcockian vibe, but it has more of a B-movie tone, especially when combined with one of the worst green-screen scenes I've ever experienced on TV.
• You might like this show if: You want a new mystery series but also love guilty pleasures — you have to take this show with a huge grain of salt.
• When it's on: Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on The CW

To see a preview of Ringer, just read more

Fall TV is upon us, so it's time to dust off those DVRs and gear up for your favorite returning shows as well as promising new series. There's a lot to keep track of, so I'm here to help make sure you don't miss the premiere of anything on your list with this handy printable calendar. You'll be organized in a matter of minutes — all you have to do is click here to download the calendar, then print out plenty of copies (because you know your friends are going to be jealous).