Swiftpicks: 10 things not to miss from A&E editor Tim Swift

DVD

Penelope Cruz:

in 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona':

The most alluring woman in Woody Allen's refreshing romantic comedy Vicky Cristina Barcelona is neither Vicky nor Cristina. It's Cruz's volatile Maria Elena who commands our attention even when she's not toting a loaded handgun. And with a best supporting actress nod, she's got the Oscars' attention as well. In stores Tuesday.

THEATER

'The Eagle Has Landed':

As part of its first U.S. tour, the Liverpool-based Fool's Proof Theatre hits Baltimore this week with an original production about memory and loss. Known for its larger-than-life characters, Fool's Proof tells the tale of a reporter receiving a postcard from a brother whom he hasn't seen in 20 years. Opens Thursday at the Theatre Project.

For more: theatreproject.org

GAMES

'Afro Samurai':

Based on the popular Spike TV animated series, the video game version of Afro Samurai stays true to the original's arresting look and hip-hop-infused sound. Cult favorite Samuel L. Jackson lends his voice, and RZA of Wu-Tang Clan provides the music for one of the more promising releases of the new year. Available Tuesday on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. .

BOOKS

'The Next 100 Years':

by George Friedman:

In such a fast-moving world, it's a pretty audacious task to predict our geopolitical future. Friedman is the first to admit anything's possible. But his theories for the 21st century and the reasoning behind them are intriguing. According to Friedman, the U.S. hasn't really peaked and Poland and Mexico will be major players. In stores Tuesday.