ZAP2IT.COM

Fox has set a simpler-than-usual two-tiered 2008-09 schedule that includes a well-produced fall launch for J.J. Abrams' "Fringe" and a relatively safe midseason haven for Joss Whedon's "Dollhouse."

While the network's Thursday upfront announcement included two new dramas and three new comedies, plus one unscripted series, Fox's line-up can be understood without a degree in nuclear physics, which hasn't been the case in past years.

Looking at the fall first, Fox will be jumping the gun on the official start of the TV season by delivering four two-hour premiere events on the week of Aug. 25.

Up first will be "Prison Break," which will launch Aug. 25 with a two-hour episode before settling into its familiar 9 p.m. EDT Mondays timeslot after "Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles."

"Fringe," from J.J. Abrams, Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, will have air its two-hour pilot on Aug. 26 and will then settle into a Tuesday 9 p.m. time slot after "House."

Another season of "Bones" will launch from 8-10 p.m. Aug. 27, as the drama will move to Wednesdays at 9 p.m. leading into the return of "'Til Death" and the first-year comedy "Do Not Disturb."

Finally, "Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader" will have a two-hour premiere on Aug. 29. The returning competition show will pair with "Don't Forget the Lyrics!" on Fridays in what may be Fox's most competitive combo on the night in several years.

For the Fall, Fox's Animation Domination lineup will return untouched, as will the network's reliable Saturday. Thursdays will be set aside for "The Moment of Truth" and "Kitchen Nightmares."