The best show on television returns

Jack is back!

At long last, Season 5 of 24 kicks off tonight with part one of the four-hour season premiere (which continues Monday). As much as I love Lost and Galactica and a bunch of other great shows, this remains my absolute favorite, hands-down. Each season is a gripping, gutsy 24-hour thriller (well, 18-hour, minus commercials). This is television of motion picture quality, and promises not to disappoint. (The Hollywood Reporter says "Sutherland has never been better. Suffice it to say that this brilliant creation of Joel Surnow and Robert Cochran will only enhance its reputation as the most reliable and involving thriller in TV history.")

And if you didn't see it on the Season 4 DVD, you can check out the 10-minute Season 5 prequel online (along with a host of teasers). For more, check out this excellent feature story from the Associated Press, as well as this interview with executive producer Howard Gordon.