But remember how we got to this point in 'Michael Collins', Neil Jordan's earnest (though not always historically accurate) tale of the brilliant military mind with a 'talent for mayhem' (Liam Neeson) who virtually invented modern urban guerilla warfare and liberated at least the southern portion of the Emerald Isle from British rule. Don't worry about the history part--the fudges are minor, and it's great fun to watch as Neeson fights the British for Ireland and Aidan Quinn for the love of Julia Roberts.
On the other hand, the history lessons of 'In the Name of the Father' come at you fast, inaccurate and out of control, which is reason enough to skip this movie even if it does have Serious Actors Daniel Day-Lewis and Emma Thompson -- especially if your English friends are joining you later for tea.
Fast forward instead for a flick that's not so much concerned with history as it is the mystery of the human heart, Jordan's 'The Crying Game'. See it again to realize what a fantastic film this is, especially now that you aren't spending the first half wondering what 'The Secret' could possibly be, and remember this: Pre-'Stargate', we all marveled at Jaye Davidson's talent.
Back in the USA, things aren't so peaceable in the Animal Kingdom. This week brought us microwaved parrots and chainsaw-wielding deer. Meanwhile, animals are dropping like, well, flies at Disney's new zoo, and the American Kennel Club is rethinking its position that while Doberman pinschers are kid-friendly, Chihuahuas should be kept away from both junior AND Taco Bell. What's a card-carrying member of PETA to do? Rent 'Pet Sematary', of course (but don't let anyone see you do it), a God-Awful picture that will nevertheless leave you nostalgic for the time when Stephen King could get a $2 million movie deal for his grocery list. Think of it as desert, and remember, to paraphrase the movie's tag line, sometimes brain dead is better. Happy Viewing.