The Smart List: ‘The Real L Word’ and ‘A Single Man’

Not enough reality TV in your life? Talk about “The Real L Word.”

Showtime’s new series, a reality spinoff of the network’s defunct scripted series “The L Word,” revolves around six Los Angeles-based lesbians and their everyday melodrama. Think any one of the “Real Housewives” editions meets “The L Word.” (Sunday)

If you like ‘60s fashion, talk about “A Single Man.”

The film, out on DVD, stars Colin Firth as George Falconer, a gay British university professor living in Southern California in 1962 who is struggling to cope with the death of his partner. And it marks the directing debut of fashion designer Tom Ford. Maybe “Project Runway” should consider a challenge in film directing? (Tuesday)

Do the guy a favor and talk about “Custom Built.”

It hasn’t exactly been a smooth year for bandana-clad Bret Michaels. He had a few too many visits to the hospital and, well, he won this season’s “Celebrity Apprentice” — is that ever a good thing? Now the ‘80s glam rocker is back to crooning — and touring — with his new solo album. (Tuesday)

Think your family is dysfunctional? Talk about “The Kids Are All Right.”

Two teenage children conceived by artificial insemination track down their birth father (Mark Ruffalo) and welcome him into their family, which includes their mothers (Annette Bening, Julianne Moore). It’s a movie about a modern family continually getting redefined. (Friday)

If musical theater is your passion, you should be talking about “In the Heights.”

The winner of the 2008 Tony Award for best musical is making its run at the Pantages Theatre. Here’s your chance to glimpse the bodega-laden Upper Manhattan neighborhood of Washington Heights without the hours-long flight. (Through July 25)

yvonne.villarreal@latimes.com