Jessica Stein (the deliciously cute Jennifer Westfeldt) has it all or almost. She is a successful, straight, attractive single woman living in New York City. Frustrated of not finding a decent guy (she’s picky), she tries to find a friendship with another woman and answers an intriguing ad in the newspaper written by bisexual free-spirit Helen Cooper (Heather Juergensen) looking for her first lesbian relationship. Can the conservative and resolutely straight Jessica make the leap? What will she tell her parents and friends?

Directed by the competent Charles Herman-Wurmfeld, Kissing Jessica Stein is a refreshing romantic comedy exploring the blurry line between friendship and love. The movie is elevated by credible and heartfelt performances from co-writers Jennifer Westfeldt and Heather Juergensen as well as a great supporting cast highlighted by Tovah Feldshuh who plays Jessica’s Jewish mother with great aplomb and depth.

A cute, smart and witty romantic comedy that goes beyond well beyond its sitcom cliche.

B-