My First Mister MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -3

Sarcastic, rude, multi-pierced 17-year-old Jennifer (LeeLee Sobieski) shows her hate for life and family by writing morbid eulogies and wearing goth punk black lipstick, black nail polish and black clothes. To free herself from her always cheerful mother, who pretends Jennifer is a typical teenager, Jennifer applies for a job at the mall, but her looks frighten shopkeepers. Finally, Randall (Albert Brooks), a perceptive 49-year-old shop owner, agrees to hire her to clean up his stock room. The most unusual friendship between Jennifer and Randall transforms her from a miserable misfit into a beautiful, trusting, and loving young woman. He is the first man to recognize her intelligence and demand high standards. MY FIRST MISTER's powerful love story, surprises and plot twists will appeal to many moviegoers as much as its many comedic moments. Watch for Oscar nominations.

Thankfully, the relationship between Randall and Jennifer does not become sexual. Jennifer expresses desire for a lover in very crude terms through her writings, and once mistakes Randall's feelings as sexual. She climbs into his bed while he's asleep and snuggles up next to him, even placing his hand on her breast. Startled, he jumps out of bed, explaining they must talk. While there is no sex, many sexually suggestive scenes and explicit dialogue are gratuitous. Randall’s manipulation of nude mannequins while window dressing strongly suggests sexual activity. In a fit of anger, Jennifer arranges scantily dressed window mannequins in a sexual position, creating shock waves in the mall. Numerous f-words, mostly spouted off by Jennifer, prompt Randall to insist that she "clean up her mouth." He also orders her to dress appropriately for business and change her makeup. In a closing scene, Jennifer graciously offers a toast to "f-words – family, friendship, forgiveness and forever." Talking to her dead grandmother and spending time in cemeteries and mausoleums underscores her obsession with death. She encourages Randall and her mother to also talk to her grandmother’s spirit. It’s strongly implied that they also see and hear the grandmother respond. While PREVIEW cannot recommend MY FIRST MISTER because of graphic sexually suggestive dialogue and actions, communicating with the dead as well as foul language, it sends some very powerful, positive messages without being preachy.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Paramount Classics, 5555 Melrose Ave., Chevalier Bldg., #215, Los Angeles, CA 90038