Swimming in the waters of a young woman's teen angst can make for roiling cinema material. It's been done many times, so finding an original voice is like finding a virgin beach in a populated resort. My First Mister does manage to find that slice of beach, however small it may be.
     When J must face up to the realities of strangled life, she takes a huge step forward in trying to find a job. The men's clothing store in the local mall attracts her interest, and compassionate fiftyish owner Randall decides to give her a chance. Whatever is he letting himself in for?

Lessons in Clothing Store life. ©Paramount

       While there are many excellent comic touches, My First Mister is not a comedy but a drama of understanding. Director Christine Lahti is treading on thin thematic ice chronicling the relationship between a troubled late teen and a prissy bachelor. As the relationship between J and Randall develops, it's clear that a new world is opening up for both of them. Lahti, working from a sensitive script by Jill Franklin, traces their path with remarkable balance. She could easily have  into sugar-coating the events, and while she done stir the emotional pot, it's tastefully done.
     Leelee Sobieski is a pretty amazing J. She exhibits wonderful range of feeling; she really lets it go way out there. She makes you like J. You feel for her. Christine Lahti's camera is likewise a champion of the young confused girl. Casting Albert Brooks as Randall, whose good-natured self-deprecating humor is such a part of the actor,  is a major coup for the production. Brooks, of course, brings his middle age bag of neurosis' to My First Mister, but he stays in character while delivering his typical schtick. He's never sexually threatening to J nor is there a lascivious bone in his body.
    Overall, this is a nicely paced and intentionally modest production. Lahti, a veteran actress making her feature film directing debut, gets excellent performances from her players. She works with confidence leading her collaborators, from the excellent cinematography to the wonderful choice of music, in the right direction.
    My First Mister is dressed in fine DVD clothing. Colors come to life in the world of J and Randall. J's darker sensibilities are enhanced by excellent black levels. Shadow balance is accurate and lighting is on target. The image is mostly very sharp exhibited good depth. It's a bright transfer with of theatrical pop. The Dolby Digital 5:1 surround is especially kind to the music, delivering it with an open feel, in balance, and always lively.
     Dressed as a special edition by Paramount, director Christine Lahti presents an enthusiastic and straight forward audio commentary accompany the film. Lahti shares thematic insights, casting notes, as well as production stories.

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