Stefani makes her ‘Escape’ to the Alps
What you will be talking about: “The Sweet Escape.” The release of Gwen Stefani’s second solo album is bound to affect not only our sonic landscape but the fashion and cultural landscapes as well. Her first album introduced a sea of tweens to the fashionistas of the Harajuku district of Tokyo. This time expect the Heidi look to make a lederhosen leap as Gwen salutes the Alps. (Tuesday)
What all of planet Earth will be talking about: “Apocalypto.” It’s finally happening, people. After filming delays due to rain and anti-Semitic outbursts due to alcohol, Mel Gibson’s film about the end of the Mayan civilization opens this week in theaters. (Friday)
What you’ll be talking to Santa about: “SNL: The Complete First Season.” John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase, Jane Curtin, Gilda Radner, Laraine Newman, Garrett Morris, audition footage and cast interviews, all 24 episodes of the debut season in their original 90-minute format. It’s a no-brainer. (Tuesday)
What you’re more likely to talk about than you think: “The Librarian 2: Return to King Solomon’s Mines.” Noah Wyle reprises his role as bookworm-turned-hero Flynn Carson in this made-for-television rip-off/sendup of Indiana Jones. It may sound like a poorly conceived “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip” sketch, but with 7 million viewers tuning in when the first installment premiered two years ago, TNT is laughing all the way to the bank. (Tonight)
What people are apparently still talking about: “America’s Next Top Model.” The competition concludes with the inevitable showdown on an international catwalk -- this time in Barcelona. After seven cycles of hearing Tyra Banks use the word “fierce” and watching skinny girls cry, the public has still not grown weary of this show. In fact, “Model’s” numbers are up 6% from last season. (Wednesday)
What nobody over 18 should talk about: “The O.C. Mix 6: Covering Our Tracks.” The music director of “The O.C.” has done a great job of rounding up lesser-known bands and giving their songs great placement during long montages. It is also true that this particular mix has the distinction of being all covers. But post-high school, who really wants to take their musical cues from a television soundtrack? Not us. (Tuesday)
-- Deborah Netburn
