‘Cop Out’: A familiar ring to that plot

Will you still be talking about: Kevin Smith?

Southwest owes him one, that’s true. But will it be Smith’s turn to do the apologizing after we all get a gander at “Cop Out,” which bears a frightening resemblance to Brett Ratner’s “Rush Hour” films. (Friday)

Find even more vampires to talk about on: The National Geographic Channel

Oh, it’s true: In a special teen-girl-baiting edition of “Explorer,” vampire forensics are examined. CSI specialist Matteo Borrini excavates a 16th century mass grave on one of Venice’s outlying islands, where he uncovers a skeleton with a brick in its mouth -- evidence, he believes, of “a macabre ritual designed to kill a vampire.” Team Jacob. (Tuesday)

An ardent bunch will talk about: Joanna Newsom

The harpist and indie darling is back with nothing short of a triple album, “Have One on Me,” which clocks in at 2 hours, 8 minutes and 10 seconds. Echo Park will be humming all through the night. (Tuesday)

What’s this? A new reason to talk about: “Jersey Shore”?

For the uninitiated, yes. Unlock the code of GTL. Find out what all this fist pumping is about. Learn the art of Snookin’ for love. The first season’s DVD is out this week. Unsure about buying? Snooki, J-Woww, Vinny, Ronnie, Sammi, DJ Pauly D and the Situation will appear on “The View” first to promote it. (Tuesday)

Time to talk about: “A Prophet.”

It’s sort of like a French, art-house version of “Goodfellas.” Yes, you do want to see it. Jacques Audiard’s movie is a strong contender to win the Oscar for best foreign film.

No time to talk about: “American Idol.”

The phone lines are open. Less talking, more voting. This season, we must not let the screaming Danny Gokey types get as far as they normally do. (Tuesday)

-- Denise Martin