THURSDAY’S BEST PICKS
8 PM G Mysteries Decoded Private investigator Jennifer Marshall and UFOlogist Ryan Sprague take a deep dive into an active cold case that involves an investigation into an unexplained crash in Roswell, N.M., in the summer of 1947. They’re determined to look for any evidence that supports allegations of one of the biggest government cover-ups of the 20th century. 8 PM ( AMC) MOVIE Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb The creative team behind this movie franchise probably made a wise decision to wrap things up given this subpar 2014 sequel, which finds night watchman Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) setting out on an epic quest to the British Museum in London to return an Egyptian artifact before its magic disappears. Robin Williams, Owen Wilson and Ricky Gervais, among several others, reprise their roles from the earlier films; Dan Stevens (“Downton Abbey”) is among the newbies.
8 PM ( BBCA) MOVIE Spaceballs “What’s the matter, Colonel Sandurz? Chicken?” It’s no “Blazing Saddles,” but Mel Brooks’ poke at “Star Wars” brings plenty of laughs. Brooks has two roles, a planetary politician and a diminutive sage called Yogurt — based on guess who. The heavily accented latter character steals his scenes with such lines as “Moichandising! Where the real money of the movie is made!” and “May the Schwartz be with you!” And Rick Moranis’ Dark Helmet is pure gold. 9 PM ( WE) Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars The results of the lie detector test wreak havoc inside the house in the Season 17 finale “Hip Hop Edition: Vow or Never.” Soon, a fight erupts among the housemates before couples are forced to make their final relationship decisions. Meanwhile, Tahiry surprises Vado with a powerful revelation. 9:30 PM ( MAX) MOVIE Side Effects Again switching up a genre with his unique sensibility, director Steven Soderbergh (“Traffic”) puts his spin on a medical thriller with the story of an emotionally fragile woman (Rooney Mara, “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo”) prescribed an experimental drug by a psychiatrist (Jude Law). Her subsequent, shocking actions have a far-reaching impact on all concerned, including her prison parolee husband (Channing Tatum). Catherine ZetaJones also appears.
10 PM ( TBS) Lost Resort In a new episode called “Full Moons Bring Full Drama,” Greg finally reaches the end of his patience and snaps when Brandon’s arrival forces Christine back into her casita, where still more motherdaughter drama ensues. Elsewhere, Robin gets involved in something she shouldn’t, and Thea speaks her truth at a Full Moon ceremony. 10 PM ( TLC) Dr. Pimple Popper: Before the Pop This new companion series to the runaway hit “Dr. Pimple Popper” follows Dr. Sandra Lee as she takes virtual appointments with new patients seeking her help for their painful or embarrassing skin conditions. The kind of hands-on examinations and treatments featured in the original show are impossible during this time of a pandemic, so Dr. Lee gives careful instructions to her potential patients so they can probe and help examine the affected area, giving Dr. Lee the kind of information she needs to form a diagnosis.
10 PM ( TRU) Tacoma FD The winter holiday season has arrived at the firehouse, filling everyone with good tidings of comfort and joy, in the Season 2 finale, “A Christmas Story.” Well, everyone except for Eddie (Steve Lemme), that is, who is about to lose his mind with stress over getting good year-end reviews. Fortunately, the Chief (Kevin Heffernan) has a special gift that just may rekindle Eddie’s yuletide spirit. Marcus Henderson and Hassie Harrison also star in this sitcom, which recently was renewed for a third season. 10:01 PM ( WE) Marriage Boot Camp: Reality Stars The results of the lie detector test wreak havoc inside the house in the Season 17 finale “Hip Hop Edition: Vow or Never.” Soon, a fight erupts among the housemates before couples are forced to make their final relationship decisions. Meanwhile, Tahiry surprises Vado with a powerful revelation.