Advertisement

SMART LIST: Pop culture talking points (Week of Sept 28 - Oct. 4)

The moment has arrived to talk about: A Jennifer Hudson album. After the “American Idol” also-ran blew away audiences with her turn as powerhouse diva Effie White in the 2006 musical “Dreamgirls,” (a performance that had Simon Cowell eating crow -- bonus!), Hudson’s eponymous debut album finally graces us this week. Somewhere, Beyonce is experiencing “Dreamgirls” deja vu. (Tuesday)

The moment has arrived to talk about: A Jennifer Hudson album.

After the “American Idol” also-ran blew away audiences with her turn as powerhouse diva Effie White in the 2006 musical “Dreamgirls,” (a performance that had Simon Cowell eating crow -- bonus!), Hudson’s eponymous debut album finally graces us this week. Somewhere, Beyonce is experiencing “Dreamgirls” deja vu.

(Tuesday)   (Liz O. Baylen / Los Angeles Times)

Share
Bill Maher

Bill Maher is reason enough to talk about: his documentary “Religulous.”

The “Real Time” host gets a hand from “Borat” director Larry Charles to mount an attack on organized religions, from scientology in the birthing room to Muslim riots over cartoons. New Rule: Only Maher should attempt to infuriate and entertain at the same time. It’s kind of his niche.

(Friday)   (Nathan Denette / Associated Press)

Ben Folds

It’s been awhile since we talked about: Ben Folds.

Thankfully, that’s about to change. It’s been a long three years since “Songs for Silverman,” but his new album “Way to Normal” is on the way, and his bouncy duet with Regina Spektor “You Don’t Know Me” along with that kooky disc cover suggests “Normal” will be anything but.

(Tuesday)  (Gerry Broome / Associated Press)

Dexter

Indulge your evil side by talking about: “Dexter.”

In the trailer for the third season, it looks like America’s favorite serial may be tossing his strict Harry’s Code. It even looks like he may kill an innocent. “If I still cared what Harry thought, I’d feel bad,” he says. What gives? An excellent reason to tune in.

(Today)  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Iron Man

Resume talking about: “Iron Man”

Robert Downey Jr. made us rethink our superheroes in “Iron Man,” didn’t he? Superheroes could be wry, funny, not all that good. That’s why we’re making the DVD part of our permanent collection.

(Tuesday)  (Zade Rosenthal / Associated Press)

Advertisement