We’re only one episode in, but I’m getting a better vibe from this season’s Top Chef than from season 2, with its over-the-top personality clashes, head shavings and what have you. The premiere last week was perfectly enjoyable, but it made me wish that someone had persuaded Anthony Bourdain to be a regular judge; the endlessly-quotable chef gave the episode the blunt Michael Kors kick that Chef sometimes lacked. (His Travel Channel show, No Reservations, isn’t in season now, but it’s worth catching next time it airs.)
Elsewhere: I believe Ecclesiastes says, “Of the making of many top-100-movies lists, there is no end.” Tonight, AFI does it yet again with its CBS special, 100 Years… 100 Greatest Movies. (Disclosure: I’ve been a judge in the past for AFI’s year-end best-TV awards.)The twist on this year’s installment of the annual special is that movies made from 1996 to 2006 (American only) will be eligible. Watch and be outraged!