Slums of Beverly Hills

REVIEW
Writer-director Jenkins' debut feature is a refreshing, funny and offbeat coming-of-age tale told through the eyes of a budding 15-year-old. Both amusing and tender, the film follows Vivian (the very appealing Lyonne), who lives with her unemployed, single dad (Arkin) and two brothers. Though dad is on hard financial times, he's always made sure that the kids have a Beverly Hills address, thereby assuring they can attend school in the prestigious B.H. district. Things pick up when cousin Rita (an outrageously delightful Tomei) arrives from rehab. It's up to Vivian to keep an eye on her, and with brassy cousin Rita around, sexually blossoming Vivian is about to learn more than any 15-year-old needs to know. Jenkins peppers her film with wry and knowing observations on growing up and familial ties, and includes one helluva self-stimulation scene. It's often unexpectedly poignant.