He Sees What Others Miss

"The Mentalist"

Tuesdays at 9 p.m. on CBS

Basic story: Patrick Jane (Simon Baker, "The Guardian") pays attention. A few years ago, he used his powers of observation to enable him "to make a good living pretending to be a psychic," he says in the pilot. But now, as an independent consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation, he applies his skills toward solving cases -- tough cases, such as finding serial killer Red John, which promises to be an ongoing back story in the series. Jane alternately annoys and amuses Teresa Lisbon (Robin Tunney), who heads up the unit. His other colleagues include -- according to series creator Bruno Heller ("Rome") -- a "computer geek" (Amanda Righetti), an "ace interrogator" (Tim Kang) and a "strong-guy" detective (Owain Yeoman).

What it faces: "The Mentalist," which follows CBS's popular "NCIS," faces the "Dancing With the Stars" results show on ABC, "Fringe" on Fox, "Privileged" on CW and the second half of "The Biggest Loser: Families" on NBC.

What you'll love: Baker is engaging as the "mentalist" detective with a wry wit who doesn't necessarily follow protocol as he pieces information together. The ensemble cast is strong.

What you won't: If you're squeamish about dead bodies and bloody scenes -- or want to believe that all psychics are real -- this isn't the show for you.

Bottom line: Follow the clues and see whether you can outsmart "The Mentalist" -- and you're likely to be entertained along the way.

-- Judith S. Gillies