MoviesTalk about a comeback; Mickey Rourke returns from obscurity with a much-buzzed about performance as a washed up wrestler who wants a second chance in “The Wrestler.” The former boxer obviously drew on his personal experience for the role, which may end up earning him an Oscar nomination. (Opens Dec. 17)
Remember that whole Valerie Plame scandal? Director Rod Lurie does, and “Nothing But the Truth” tells the story of a reporter (Kate Beckinsale) who reveals the identity of a CIA agent (Vera Farmiga) and the trial that ensues when a government prosecutor (Matt Dillon) demands that she name her source. (Opens Dec. 17)
Need a movie to take the little ones to? Try “The Tale of Despereaux,” the story of a brave little mouse (voiced by Matthew Broderick) who falls for a human princess (voiced by Emma Watson). The whole premise screams, “Oh, how cute.” How can you resist? (Opens Dec. 19)
TVTV viewers love to follow homicide cops on scripted TV shows. Investigation Discovery, the crime arm of the Discovery Channel family, is betting they'll like following real ones, too. "The Shift" will follow real-life Indianapolis homicide detectives as they work around the clock to solve murders. (Premieres Dec. 21, 10 p.m., Investigation Discovery Channel)
Forget Siegfried and Roy — how about Ron and Joy? Documentary "Cat Dancers" tells the true story of Ron and Joy Holiday, performed with exotic cats after retiring from the world of ballet. Then another man came into their lives, forming a love triangle, and then tragedy struck. A fascinating story. (Dec. 15, 8 p.m., HBO)
DVDFirst, there was ABBA the band. Next, there was "Mamma Mia!" the musical. And now there's "Mamma Mia!" the movie, coming to DVD this week. Fans will definitely want to take a chance, take a chance on them. (Out on DVD Dec. 16)
Fans of Rowan Atkinson's goofy Mr. Bean, rejoice: "Mr. Bean: The Ultimate Collection" is out on DVD this week. The seven-DVD set includes all 14 episodes of the original series, plus two movies and even an animated series. (Out on DVD Dec. 16.)
Music
Fall Out Boy lead singer Patrick Stump recently told Rolling Stone that being the biggest band in the world was “not a goal of mine,” despite Pete Wentz’s rather vocal ambitions for the band. We’ll see if Wentz gets his wish with the band’s latest album, “Folie a Deux.” (On sale Dec. 16).
Recently nominated for two Grammy awards (best R&B song and best female R&B singer), Keyshia Cole returns with a new album “A Different Me,” which promises to have more of the singer’s soulful sound. (On sale Dec. 16)