Oliver Stone’s Untold History of the United States
The controversial filmmaker is both director and narrator of this intriguing (if unabashedly polemical) retelling of American history. In Episode 6 of the 10-part series, the director of JFK returns to the Kennedy era, sharing his views on the Cuban missile crisis, the early days of the Vietnam War, and, of course, the president’s assassination. Monday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m., Showtime
The Iranian Americans
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Latest Videos FromThe Week
Tens of thousands of Iranians fled to America during the Iranian Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War, often calling themselves “Persian” to avoid hostility caused by the hostage crisis of 1979–81. In this documentary, 25 Iranian immigrants, including a scientist, a comedian, a U.N. official, and a financial executive, recount how they built new lives in America, often in the face of adversity and prejudice. Tuesday, Dec. 18, at 9:30 p.m., PBS; check local listings
Fast Foods Gone Global
Big American fast-food chains are getting even bigger by expanding into other nations. But as this new series reveals, many of their offerings abroad represent surprising departures from our familiar burgers and fries. Episode 1 looks at how McDonald’s, Domino’s, Subway, KFC, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Coca-Cola customize their fare in Latin America, offering everything from searing hot sauce to beverages crafted from Amazonian fruits. Wednesday, Dec. 19, at 10 p.m., Travel Channel
A White House Christmas: First Families Remember
Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, Hillary Clinton, Barbara Bush, Rosalynn Carter, and many of the former First Ladies’ children speak to host Meredith Vieira about their memories of holidays at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Cameras also go behind the scenes to reveal how the White House staff prepares for Christmas. Thursday, Dec. 20, at 8 p.m., NBC
Christmas in Washington
Diana Ross, Demi Lovato, and South Korean rapper Psy (of “Gangnam Style” fame) are among the artists who performed before President Obama and other Washington dignitaries in this year’s edition of the annual benefit for the Children’s National Medicine Center. Conan O’Brien hosts the concert, which was taped Dec. 9. Friday, Dec. 21, at 8 p.m., TNT
Other highlights
1600 Penn
Bill Pullman, who played the president in Independence Day, portrays a commander-in-chief with a dysfunctional family in this sitcom, debuting here in a sneak preview. Jenna Elfman co-stars. Monday, Dec. 17, at 9:30 p.m., NBC
Mr. Magoo’s Christmas Carol
Excellent songs distinguish this animated holiday musical, which debuted in 1962 but hasn’t aired on TV since the 1980s. Saturday, Dec. 22, at 8 p.m., NBC
Christmas at Luther: Tidings of Comfort and Joy
From Decorah, Iowa, Luther College’s symphony orchestra and more than 500 choristers perform traditional holiday carols and sacred Christmas music. Sunday, Dec. 23, at 8 p.m., PBS; check local listings
