The makers of “The Cut” (7 p.m., CBS) forgot a basic rule of reality television: The contestants are supposed to look desperate, not the host. “The Cut,” a jury-rigged combination of “The Apprentice” and “Project Runway,” is actually an extended commercial for Tommy Hilfiger, described in the show’s press material as a “design mogul.”

What, exactly is a design mogul? And what does he do? That’s not entirely clear, but 16 over-caffeinated and tediously self-assured contestants want the job. Phase one is the creation of a billboard touting the greatness of Tommy Hilfiger.

With so much Hilfiger adoration going on it’s hard to get a grasp on the many contestants. Several stand out like lunatics on a crowded subway car. But Jeff of Chicago quickly emerges as the most dreadful and deluded. A 42-year-old married salesman and father of two, he introduces himself with the line “God took a whole day to make me. It was probably a Saturday, so he rested to admire his work.” He goes on to tout himself further. “I have the potential to blow the mind.” But can he make a lifestyle?

The billboard competition goes badly, but not as poorly as “The Cut.”

Tonight’s other highlights

¢ Jimmy Fallon hosts the “2005 Movie Awards” (7:30 p.m., MTV) featuring performances by Nine Inch Nails and Eminem. This ceremony, in its 14th year, includes two brand new categories: “Best Frightened Performance” and “Best Video Game Based on a Movie.” Shouldn’t that be the other way around?

¢ On back-to-back episodes of “The O.C.,” the Cohens open their arms (7 p.m.), Caleb’s bombshell reverberates (8 p.m.).

¢ Evidence places Lady Heather at the center of a murder case on “CSI” (8:30 p.m., CBS).

¢ The NBA Finals (8 p.m., ABC).

¢ Gang members take Abby hostage on “ER” (9 p.m., NBC).