Slums of Beverly Hills

Released 1998
Stars Natasha Lyonne, Alan Arkin, Marisa Tomei, Kevin Corrigan, Eli Marienthal, David Krumholtz, Jessica Walter, Carl Reiner, Rita Moreno
Directed by Tamara Jenkins

A great, semi-autobiographical, coming-of-age film from writer and first-time director, Tamara Jenkins. Vivan (Natasha Lyonne) lives with her elderly father and two brothers in Beverly Hills. They move from one trashy apartment to another (often skipping out on their rent), but they always stay in city limits so they can go to a good school. This movie focuses on their dysfunctional but caring family during the time when Vivian "sprouts" her gigantic breasts. When Vivian's cousin, Rita (Marisa Tomei), moves in, Vivian finally gets a female role model that helps her with her budding sexuality. Slums of Beverly Hills is quite funny and poignant, with wonderful performances all around.

Summary by Bill Alward