SMART LIST: Pop culture talking points (week of Oct. 21, 2007)
By Deborah Netburn, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
You’ll talk about:
Steve Carell, again. Can anyone root against Carell? Doesn’t he just seem nice, normal and funny -- the kind of guy who would make everyone laugh at your party without being insane and embarrassing? His latest film, “Dan in Real Life,” is a sweeping story about a lonely dad, his large family and the woman he falls in love with. We hope this does well, but we’re even more excited for his star turn in next year’s “Get Smart.” That trailer makes us laugh every time! (Friday) (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)
We suppose you’ll talk about:
The unstoppable “American Idol” train. We tired long ago of chronicling the album releases of past “American Idol” winners (and non-winners), but Carrie Underwood’s new album, “Carnival,” is guaranteed to be bought and enjoyed by many people (present company excluded). (Tuesday) (Jeff Christensen / AP)
We doubt you’ll talk about:
“Mind of Mencia.” You didn’t ask for it, but you’re going to get it anyway: Season 3 of Carlos Mencia’s Comedy Central show comes out this week, and it’s . . . uncensored! There are also 30 minutes of deleted scenes! More Mencia for everyone, whether you like it or not. (Tuesday) (Kevin Winter / Getty Images)