Summer of Sam MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 Content: -4

In the summer of 1977, Vinny (John Leguizamo) sees the bodies of two of his friends after they are killed by the serial killer dubbed Son of Sam, and the word gets around that he has actually seen the killer. This puts a strain on his troubled marriage to Dionna (Mira Sorvino), and their relationship starts to fall apart. As a result of Vinnys paranoia, others in the neighborhood begin to get nervous. Joe T (Michael Rispoli) and his gang start to make a list of possible suspects that even includes friends. As they check up on these suspects, the Son of Sam continues to kill. And the entire neighborhood is thrown into a frenzy of fear and terror. SUMMER OF SAM explores with shocking reality the horrifying effects of serial killings on a fictional Italian-American New York neighborhood. However, its unique film style and dark subject will not appeal to the general populace.

Over the edge explains the disgusting content of this film. Twelve of approximately 18 killings are shown very bloody and close up. On top of that, sexual content is endless. Seven graphic sex scenes include at least sexual motions and sounds. Four of the seven scenes contain some amount of nudity. And one portrays multiple sex partners, including lesbian activity. In addition, male homosexual sex is implied on more than one occasion. The dialogue is littered with sexual innuendo and descriptions, as well as an unbelievable 435 f-words! While director Spike Lee attempts to examine the effects of a great social ill in our society, he goes way over the edge in doing it. Stay away from SUMMER OF SAM!

Preview Reviewer: John Adair
Distributor: Buena Vista Pictures (division of Walt Disney Co.), 500 S. Buena Vista, Burbank, CA 91521