M: I stand by my opinion of "Schindler's List," but I agree fully that "Life is Beautiful" is truly "unspeakable."

If you'd like to boost your blood pressure two or three hundred points, check out the gushing all-star reviews at IMDb and Amazon.com. I've done it, and I don't recommend it.

Benigni's own father allegedly survived a Nazi camp. If so, the young genius is even more obtuse than he might appear. (He is quoted as saying, "I hate, I hate, I hate sentimentalism!")

Of course, millions of fans love the message: "Not even crummy bunks and mean old Nazis can beat a guy who thinks positive!"

Thus LIB garnered an award at Cannes, three Oscars, and a special commendation at the Jerusalem Film Festival: "for furthering the understanding of Jewish history."

Sic.

I realize that, statistically, people who are appalled, like me, are the weirdos, and I guess I have to live knowing that. (The chorus of Pod People scolds, "Lighten up, dude! It's just a *movie*! And
>sniff!< Roberto was a *great* father!")

Double feature: follow up a viewing of "Life is Beautiful" with one of "Inglourious Basterds." For a pop evening you'll never forget.