The TV Zone

I know, I know. "The Adirondacks" or "American Idol"..."Adirondacks" or "American Idol."

But trust me on this -- "The Adirondacks" is worth a visit. I pretty much forgot to review this for today's paper -- what, with Sue Simmons' scat attack on the air the other night, I've just been plumb distracted. But it is truly worth the visit.

Produced by some upstaters in Buffalo (WNED) and written by Tom Simon for Working Dog Productions, this isn't your usual beauty shot doc with pretty pix of the High Peaks or splendid autumnal vistas, though that is here. It's a thoughtful look at the people who make up the culture of this vast American treasure, and the perils they face -- and, as a result, the genuine perils the Adirondacks face. This is a program for anyone who loves this place, or wants to love it, or wants to understand why people love it ...

I'm getting tangled up here. That happens. But it's good. (And besides, Syesha's gone tonight.)

"The Adirondacks" airs on WLIW/21 at 9.

(Above, photo by Carol Weeks.)