Summer, 2002. Flags and bunting billow as the UK marks Queen Elizabeth II’s Golden Jubilee. The Three Lions put in a better than expected performance at the World Cup, but in true English fashion, there is grumbling because the glory of almost four decades previous could not be replicated.

Despite the cultural distractions, real political discomfort is brewing. US president George Bush is pushing to take military action in Iraq with the stated aim of toppling Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, whether he gets international backing or not. Brits wait with bated breath as UK prime minister Tony Blair mulls joining him.

At the same time, George Michael, one of the most successful musicians of the 1980s and ’90s, has been launching a comeback after a hiatus. After releasing the single “Freeek!” in March, he returns in July with a music video for a new song: “Shoot the Dog.”