Just because school has started, that doesn’t mean the fun stops. But between classes and homework, your free time is limited.
Why waste it on lame junk? If you’re looking for cool ways to amuse yourself, check out these three new diversions:
TV show: “Smallville”
It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s a brand new Superman show. The WB series “Smallville” follows Clark Kent as a teen, before he’s the Man of Steel. Kent (Tom Welling, right) knows he’s not like other high school kids. He’s stronger, faster and has X-ray vision but has to keep it a secret. “Smallville” won’t show Clark flying or in Superman’s blue tights and red cape. Instead, we’ll see him bond with his adopted parents, develop a crush on classmate Lana and befriend Alexander, who’ll grow up to be Superman’s greatest foe, Lex Luthor. Catch the premiere at 8 p.m. Central Time Oct. 16 on WGN-Ch. 9–and see why it’s not always easy being a super teen.
— Ian Spelling
Album: “Christina Milian”
Christina Milian might be the luckiest girl on Earth. The 19-year-old pop sensation opened for ‘N Sync on its U.S. tour, sang on Ja Rule’s hit “Between Me and You,” guest-starred on “Charmed” and co-wrote Jennifer Lopez’s hit single “Play.” Now she’s breaking out on her own with her debut album, “Christina Milian” (Def Soul Records). You might have caught the first single, “AM to PM,” on MTV’s “TRL,” but the disc is full of catchy, edgy R&B songs and huge ballads (think Britney with a more Latin vibe) that are just as good. “AM to PM” is in stores today, and the album is due out later this month.
— Allison Stewart
Video game: “Mario Kart Super Circuit”
Put the pedal to the metal and escape with Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Princess Peach and friends with Ninten-do’s Mario Kart Super Circuit for Game Boy Advance ($30). An update to the N64 classic, this go-kart game includes 20 all-new tracks and hidden courses. Each track comes with its own potential roadblocks and hazards, from skittering crabs to piranha plants. Collect coins to max out your speed and blast rivals with Koopa shells. Race on your own or compete against up to three players (a Game Boy Advance Game Link cable is required). Lush graphics, cool music and fast-paced game play rev up this classic. The game is in stores now.
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— Carol Monaghan