Dogma

Two angels, Loki (Damon) and Bartleby (Affleck), have been cast out of heaven for past misdeeds but have found a way back in using a loophole in Catholic dogma. However, since their return would prove God to be fallible, it would unmake reality. So it's up to a woman named Bethany (Linda Fiorentino), the "Last Scion", to stop them and save the world. She's not alone in her task - assisting her are Metatron (Rickman), the voice of the Lord; Rufus (Chris Rock), Christ's ignored 13th apostle and Serendipity (Salma Hayek), a muse-turned-stripper.

Anyone familiar with Kevin Smith's earlier films: 'Clerks,' Mallrats' and 'Chasing Amy' will have a good idea what to expect. However the director endured a rough six months due to the Catholic League, a lay group with 350,000 members and an intimidating letter, pressuring Walt Disney and its subsidiary Miromax Films to drop Dogma. However you can't keep a good film down and Dogma surfaced to Uk audiences on Boxing Day.

The film showcases hos stock charecters Jay (Jason Mewes) and Silent Bob (Smith), who hang out in the parking lot of an abortion clinic in order to meet loose women, and lets Damon and Affleck poke fun at the gay rumours that have pegged them as a real-life couple. Then there is the eye-opening choice of Alanis Morrisete playing God, which almost makes the film worth seeing on its own.

Behind the controversy Dogma is a very intelligent and funny film. It contains all the classic one liners and stoned humour that have become Smith's trademark with a number of well aimed sideswipes at the establishment. What better way is there to start your Easter break?

David Goody