If you have previous system restore points to choose from, try to restore to a point previous to the last program/setting you installed/changed.
I've had issues with explorer caused by third party themes, especially when forced to replace the stock explorer.exe. If you find that explorer.exe isn't responding, you can usually get it to reboot itself if you open the task manager and close the program and then start it up again via task manager.
Ctrl-Alt-Delete
Task Manager
Processes Tab
Highlight "Explorer.exe"
End Process
File > New Task (Run...)
Explorer.exe
This is only a temporary workaround until you find the cause of your problems.