Flash, easily recognised by files ending with .swf or flashy stylistic animations, has pervaded many websites (mine included =p).  Hence, it should come as no surprise if you receive such files in emails/msn/aim or even downloaded them yourself. 

How then can we play these files 'offline'? One way is to actually open the file in your favourite web browser.  If you can usually view flash movies in your browser, it stands to reason that the flash movies on your hard drive should be playable.  If that doesn't work, an alternative would be to download this little application from macromedia.  Now, all you would need to do is run the program and open your favourite flash file in the player.  No installation required!

Hope this little tidbit is useful for you!