The latest Big Gay Movie is out on video. Like It Is is a fairly likable little soaper about a boxer (Steve Bell) who's trying to come out while dealing with the ultraconservative atmosphere of the sport. He's soon shagging Ian Rose, a beautiful blonde who's far more experienced with the club and bar scene. It all becomes rather repetitive, but the two are pretty darn hot and their performances are endearing enough. Drawback: soon after delving into the club scene, Bell's roots are forgotten by the filmmakers, making a potentially interesting dramatic situation lose much of its strength.

Noteworthy: After Mick Jagger's turn in Bent, The Who's Roger Daltrey appears in Like It Is as a sleazy gay music entrepreneur. He's actually quite good--but what is it with these rock stars wanting to play characters who like to get it up the bum?

Now out on video: Shakespeare in Love is worth renting, but second thoughts emerge about its Best-Picture-Oscar status... did this film really deserve that honour? It's cute, yes, but best picture? You be the judge. Also: Don't miss The Celebration, Thomas Vinterberg's no-holds-barred look at a family reunion gone terribly wrong.

--Matthew Hays