A&E

BANG: The latest game in the “Contra” series proves to be an exhilarating run-and-gun 2-D shooter.

VROOM: Nicolas Cage surprisingly and unfortunately doesn’t let himself go in this 3-D revenge flick.

Four large televisions are displayed on the wall before you, each split into smaller sections of video shown much like surveillance cameras in a security station. Eerie music plays over the speakers positioned on the floor as strange scenes play out before you, all taking place in and around a lavish home.

ROLLING: Adele turns “21” on her new soulful album, on a darker, gospel-inspired path.

RAUNCH: “Hall Pass” brings to life an ultimate male fantasy, but the laughs are far from consistent.

LIMB: Although incomplete, Radiohead’s new album sweeps listeners into the musical cosmos.

This Sunday, it’s time to break out the ballots and turn on your television sets. You’re invited to the “biggest movie event of the year” - that’s right, it’s the 83rd Annual Academy Awards! Hosted by James Franco and Anne Hathaway (a choice of hosts obviously meant to attract younger audiences and boost ratings), the Oscars are coming to your home so that you can witness the celebration of 2010’s cinematic year.

ART: Visiting artist Chico MacMurtrie brings abstract forms to life at the Beall Center.

GRAMMYS: We answer America’s burning question of the week: “Who the heck is Arcade Fire?”

SIMON: Noise-rock alchemists Sonic Youth stick to sporadic sounds on their first film soundtrack.

SCI-FI: Disney’s new action thriller will please, with a hot young cast and superb special effects.

QUEEN: Arriving in her usual dramatic style, Lady Gaga unleashed “Born This Way” at the 2011 Grammys.