Fear MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 Content: -3

FEAR is about a 16-year-old girl who should have heeded the stranger danger warning. Nicole (Reese Witherspoon) lives with her father, stepmother and young stepbrother in a beautiful home. When her best friend, Margo (Alyssa Milano), insists Nicole go with her to a rave party, the innocent girl meets David (Mark Wahlberg), who seems too good to be true. He is. It doesn't seem to bother her that his friends are creeps, he has no job, and doesn't go to school. Nicole's father (William Petersen) is considered over-protective by his family, their lawyer and the police department when he becomes concerned about David. The terror the boy puts the family through has some suspense, but the predictable story is more like a TV movie of the week.

The most likable character is Steve, Nicole's father, who seems to be the only adult with any common sense. His frustration with the justice system leads him to some foolish actions, however, which triggers the psychopath's fury. The showdown when David and his buddies terrorize Nicole and her family is particularly bloody and vicious with several people killed. Graphic gratuitous beatings, kicking, a stabbing, slams against the wall, a point blank shooting, and a dog beheaded, plus numerous obscenities and profanities assault the senses. David seduces Nicole, first by graphic groping. Then in a prolonged bedroom scene they have sex with nudity implied. Wild, promiscuous Margo gyrates suggestively and engages in sex with two guys at a private party. The affection Steve has for his family knows no bounds as he risks his life for them. Also, Nicole's school friend heroically tries to protect her from David. FEAR may make teenagers more respectful of their parents' protectiveness, but its offensive language, lurid display of seduction and violence are gratuitous and excessive.

Preview Reviewer: Mary Draughon
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal Blvd., Universal City, CA 91608