When "The Crying Game" comes out on videotape, everyone should rent it in order to expand their understanding of human relationships. Unless one is in the city, she will not be able to view it in the theater because of the film's highly controversial plot.

Ireland provides the setting for "The Crying Game" as the IRA engages in hostage taking and other forms of guerilla warfare. The IRA uses a temptress to capture a soldier from the enemy. The soldier befriends one of his captors. However, after his death, his sweet-natured captor follows his friend's instructions to take care of his lover. Surprises test the soldier's loyalty to the lover. The roles are obviously not typical ones to play, but the little-known actors are undeniably superb. (Language and sex earn the film an "R" rating.)

By Monica Gallagher