Published: December 26, 2008 02:31 pm      

Tube Time

In winter, pooches may have to temporarily relinquish their title as “man’s best friend.” When the weather outside is frightful, your television can quickly become your closest ally in getting you through the short days and snowfalls.

Renting flicks

If your reality TV level is nearing its breaking point, try these new-on-DVD picks.

Drama: “Burn After Reading”

Chock full of stars (George Clooney, Frances McDormand, Brad Pitt), this Cohen-brothers cross between a drama and a comedy follows two gym employees who try to blackmail an ex-CIA agent after stumbling upon some of his “secret” documents.

Comedy: “The House Bunny”

Stupid fun. An ex-Playboy Playmate is ousted from Hugh Hefner’s mansion, and takes on a job as a sorority house mom.

Kids: “Horton Hears a Who”

Who doesn’t love a little bit of Dr. Seuss? Jim Carrey voices the elephant, who desperately tries to find a home for the tiny Whoville creatures he’s discovered.

Getting out of the house

Need to peel yourself off the couch, but still want some mind-numbing on-screen entertainment? These flicks are heading to theaters in January 2009.

Drama: “Defiance”

Starring James Bond himself, Daniel Craig, this World War II flick centers on four Jewish brothers trying to escape Nazi-occupied Poland.

Comedy: “Bride Wars”

Two of Hollywood’s blockbuster ladies, Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson, play best friends who’ve scheduled their weddings on the same day. If you liked “13 Going on 30,” you’ll probably enjoy this one - it’s from the same director.

Horror: “The Unborn”

Souls of dead people seek living humans to inhabit. Sure, it’s been done – but looks like The Unborn will give you a few good, cheap thrills.

Going digital

If you’re a TV watcher at all, you’ve heard the buzz about switching to digital programming if you don’t have cable or satellite. Without it, “regular” TV will no longer be viewable whatsoever. Although it might seem like a pain, the digital box comes with advantages for viewers, such as a much clearer picture than analog TV and multiple channels per station (i.e., news-only or weather radar feeds in addition to regular programming).

A digital converter box can cost anywhere from $50 and higher, depending on what model you choose. However, the government has a $40 coupon toward the purchase of the box, available online at www.dtv2009.gov. Act fast, though –

coupons are only guaranteed through the end of 2008. Also, keep in mind you’ll still need an antenna for the digital converter to function - don’t toss those rabbit ears yet! If you do have cable or satellite TV, there’s no need for the digital box.