Rating: 
Summary: Leelee Wows
Review: Leelee S. not only looks fantastic even as a moronic goth but she is years ahead of her age in her screen presence and acting abilities. She is a gem. I recommend any film that she is in.
Rating:
Summary: Affecting Performances by Sobieski and Brooks
Review: Among the many and myriad young actresses making movies today, there has unequivocally emerged a Fantastic Four, and they are: Natalie Portman, Anna Paquin, Kirsten Dunst and Leelee Sobieski. And the one who is arguably the leader of the pack, Leelee Sobieski, takes on the starring role here, in "My First Mister," a story of two very different people, of different generations, both of whom are alone in the world (though in different ways and for different reasons), and who ultimately find what they need in one another-- and without even consciously looking for it. Directed by Christine Lahti, It's a study, not only of human nature, but of the expansiveness and resiliency of the human spirit and of the heart, and how it is possible for two people to defy category and definition, and intuitively reach out to one another by allowing fate, or destiny-- or whatever you want to call it-- to take them beyond the parameters set by society, where-- as in this case-- they are able to find fulfillment in it's purest sense. It's a revised chapter taken from the age-old book of The Human Comedy, updated to a contemporary setting to illustrate that now as much as ever, no man is an island; that everyone needs someone, that there is someone for everyone and, moreover, that one will instinctively seek out that kindred soul, often finding him in the most unlikely of places. Jennifer (Sobieski) is an unhappy teen; she's adopted a goth look and lifestyle, embraces her autonomy, but in so doing has alienated just about everybody around her, including-- or perhaps especially-- her immediate family. she simply cannot relate to her mother, Sylvie (Carol Kane), who seems perpetually mired in the '50s (her appearance and attitude part of her own defense mechanisms and survival tactics), or her step-father, Bob (Michael McKean), a nondescript individual who is just...there. What Jennifer longs for is a place of her own, which she equates (albeit subconsciously) to independence, and toward that end she begins looking for the gainful employment that will enable her to achieve her immediate goal. And it is during her job search that she encounters Randall (Albert Brooks), the manager of a men's clothing store. Necessity may be the proverbial mother of invention, but here it becomes the driving force that makes the connection between two people who-- if not for that necessity-- would never have known the other existed. As it turns out, however, due to some quite personal circumstances and reasons of his own, Randall is something of a singular individual, and is able to see beyond Jennifer's outward appearance and attitude, and agrees to give her a job on a trial basis. And it's the beginning of a unique relationship that will ultimately change both of their lives forever, and in ways that neither of them could possibly have imagined. This is the first feature film that Lahti-- a fine actor herself-- has directed, and she does an exemplary job with it. She knows her characters and the emotional terrain with which she is dealing, and subtly fills the story as it unfolds with pathos and poignancy, which she delivers with care and sensitivity. Lahti has an eye for emotional detail and, perhaps due to her own extensive acting background, knows how to extract the precise sentiment she's endeavoring to express from her actors. And because of the way it's presented, when the story takes an unexpected turn, the transition is so seamless it comes across as entirely real and convincing, which of course gives it credibility, and makes it believable. Lahti has a gentle touch tempered with a restraint, and it gives her film a natural flow and a rhythm that draws in the viewer and makes for a satisfying and involving experience. Complementing Lahti's style, and assuring the success of this film, are the wonderful performances by Sobieski and Brooks. Sobieski runs an emotional gamut in this film, and she does it with a poise and maturity beyond her years, making her journey from disenfranchised goth at the beginning of the film, to the individual she is at the end, plausible and convincing. She manages to convey all of the emotional layers of her character, which enables the viewer to relate to the complexities of who this young woman is and what she's feeling, which-- since this is a character driven story-- is integral to the overall success of the film. And Sobieski makes it so, with a memorable performance. A big part of the credit for the film's success has to go to Albert Brooks, as well. As he does here with Randall, Brooks has an innate ability to create a character that is so normal, so average-guy-on-the-street, that it adds that total sense of reality to the film. It's the little things that Brooks does so well, and that make all the difference; he gives the audience someone with whom they can truly empathize and identify, because he so succinctly manages to express all the affecting elements of everyday life-- the minutiae of day-to-day existence, as well as the corresponding emotions-- through his characters, and it's why you're going to remember Randall for a long, long time. Like Ben Stiller, Brooks has a straightforward, often wry delivery that works so well, and which he uses to great effect. And it certainly serves him well here. The supporting cast includes Desmond Harrington (Randy), Mary Kay Place (Patty), Kevin Cooney (Doctor), William Forward (Customer) and Lisa Jane Persky (Sheila). An entertaining, well crafted and delivered film that promises one thing and ends up giving much more, "My First Mister," in the final analysis, is an engaging story that goes deep and touches the heart, and without any maudlin sentimentality attached. Ultimately a transporting experience, this is one that will take you to a place you'll want to be, and you'll be glad you took the journey. And that's the magic of the movies.
Rating:
Summary: Destined to be a cult hit
Review: I have to admit that I absolutely hate dramas of any sort, the last one I liked being the old Romeo & Juliet with Olivia DeHussey. This movie surprised me, since I didn't expect to like it. Don't expect to see an over the top trauma/drama flick. The acting is very well done, and you actually care for the characters presented. LeeLee S. does a very good job of being a young person who's stuck in the middle, not sure of who she is, or what she wants out of life. Randall is a good foil for her, and they both bring out the best in each other. I am definately going to recommend this to all of my friends.
Rating:
Summary: The best movie in awhile
Review: After months of spending too much money on mediocre (at best) films, FINALLY something worth seeing - over and over again. I've been a huge Christine Lahti fan for years so it came as no surprise that her directorial debut was such a great film. The characters, the acting, the script and the directing are all top notch. Not to be missed!
Rating: 
Summary: A Very High Four Stars!
Review: The movie is so wonderful because of the theme it is trying to get across. I think the movie is trying to show how people can break down their defenses and connect. It shows this happening between the young and the old. It is done in an amusing yet sadly touching way. I haven't seen this theme played on and find it to be highly original. This film touches on how to forgive and let go, learning to be intimate and accepting others as they are. I throughly enjoyed the acting and the direction. Lahti knows how to show rich colors with creativity. I really loved J's bedroom and her manner of dress. The only flaw was the movie went to fast, it had to many things to say and might have been better not as cluttered, a bit simpler. I just felt like the ending went too fast as compared to the slower pace of the beginning which was nicely paced as it developed J's relationship to R. Overall, a must see! I might compare it a little to You Can Count On Me. (***)
Rating:
Summary: Loved it!
Review: This movie was just a great Saturday afternoon flick. I loved the relationship between the two main characters. There were so many little inside jokes that were so cute. It got pretty emotional toward the end, but I think it needed that type of tie. Great flick, don't miss it.
Rating: 
Summary: Leelee Sobieski not dark enough for goth
Review: Leelee Sobieski and Albert Brooks are the odd couple here, but only a faux May-December sexual tension. The direction and plot are uneven. Not sure if it wants to be dark comedy or Ally McBeal-ish dramedy (some Ally type special effects pepper the beginning of the movie, then disappear). Albert is doing classic neurotic Brooks. Leelee is not dark enough to be a goth girl; however she is barely recognizable. The rest of the actors including Carol Kane, Mary Kay Place, and Michael McKeon barely register. Covers familiar teen angst territory before striking out into darker directions. Nothing particularly original. Still the movie is sweet and schmaltzy.
Rating:
Summary: A moving story, some incredible performances.
Review: One of the most pleasant surprises for me. Christine Lahti's directing is superb, the writing brilliant, the chemistry between Leelee Sobieski and Albert Brooks second to none. Some great supporting work by big names such as Carole Kane, John Goodman, Michael McKeon ("Lenny" from Laverne & Shirley -- excuse the misspelling). Albert Brooks is magnificent, as expected. Leelee Sobieski gives a performance that leaves me alternately on the brink of tears or laughing, but always touched. I am left speechless by how good an actress she is. I'll add this in honor of her French roots: De plus, mademoiselle, vous etes d'une beaute sans pareille!!! Check out "Joan of Arc" and "L'idole". More incredible performances from this great young actress.
Rating:
Summary: Life Changing Movie
Review: One of the best movies I've ever seen. Well written, well directed, and very moving. An extremely relevant and serious subject. Wonderful combination of heartfelt emotions and wit. I made my 15 year old daughter sit down and watch it with me!
Rating:
Summary: GREAT GREAT GREAT
Review: I'm short on words, but this movie is Great. Both Albert and Leelee are wonderful. This is truly a film about life and the wonder of it all. Experience life and watch this movie.
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