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Elbow those kiddies aside. For many adults, Halloween is a time to get creative and/or kinky and strut your inner pirate or hooker at a party. A third of American grown-ups plan to sport a costume this year, says the National Retail Federation.

But some want to make a statement, or at least an entrance, as something timely, startling and likely to make people say, "That's not funny, it's sick. OK, it's funny and sick."

MICHAEL DESMOND/ABC (ENLARGE)
Ugly Betty
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department/Associated Press (ENLARGE)
Mel Gibson
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Remember: These are not recommendations for kids' costumes.

JACK BAUER. If people ask who you are, tell them you'll explain in the car, but you don't! have! time! now!

KIM JONG-IL. Black pajamas, big sunglasses, Geiger counter.

BAG OF SPINACH. After Kim, the scariest thing out there these days.

JOHN MARK KARR. No costume required — just practice that creepy stare. Not good if you're looking to hook up.

STILL-UNNAMED BABY PANDA. Nice for the awwww factor.

UGLY BETTY. TV's big new star could be fun, complete with unibrow, braces, poncho. Funnier

if you're a guy.

MEL GIBSON. By 2 a.m., you might be mistaken for him anyway.

— Phil Kloer

RELATED LINKS:

• Photos: Costumes

• Send us your costume photos

• For more Halloween photos and event listings, go to www.accessatlanta.com.