A&E

HOMEMADE: Following in the footsteps of films like “The Blair Witch Project,” “Paranormal Activity” terrifies on a smaller scale.

Fall is depressing. The sun goes away – or, at least in California, it occasionally hides. School is starting all around the country; the general vibe amongst your friends is completely down; and there’s very little to look forward to outside of a disheartening school schedule resetting its batteries, ready to crush what little spirit you have left.

The sixth iteration in the infamous “torture-porn” franchise comes, surprisingly, as the most politically charged vent of the year. “Saw VI” bluntly addresses the issue of health care, giving us a ballsy indictment of the American Health Care system which would put Michael Moore to shame.

FAR OUT: Taking a trip to Middle Earth, with puppets as our guides: not a hallucination, but a much-beloved play.

INDIE: Built to Spill delivers a polished new record of mid-tempo ballads and contemplative lyrics.

ROMANCE: Up-and-comer Carey Mulligan stars in the surprising and brilliant film, “An Education.”

SCARS: The dance pop duo returns with a new album chock-full of guest-star talent and pounding beats.

WEAVE: Comedian Chris Rock explores the strange and mysterious world of African-American hair.

MAGICAL: Shwayze, Cisco Adler, and Gym Class Heroes entertain UCI students at Shocktoberfest 2009.

He despises frozen corn, starts “a wild rumpus” in the living room, disguises himself as a wolf-man, and bites his mother when he doesn’t get his way. Meet Max – a wild young thing trying to escape a world he doesn’t fit in – to a world where bullies and igloo-haters are not allowed!

David Letterman has always been known to push buttons. Part of his appeal has been that fact that he happens to do it very well. While Johnny Carson had his distinct niche during his hallowed “Tonight Show” reign and became the classic late night host, Letterman went the other way.

PRIMETIME: Matt Groening announces a Simpsons Movie sequel after the series ends — but when will it end?