This surprisingly rousing production combines the visceral tension of the best mob movies (dapper psychos, gangland slayings, wiretaps, etc.) with smarm-free scenes of women developing emotional relationships. Hence, Wisegirls has equal doses of testosterone and estrogen, giving it that rare ability to appeal strongly to both men and women. There are several surprises along the way that are the icing on an already entertaining cake, and the overall production values are terrifically human-scale. Mira Sorvino does a wonderful job in a role that has its maudlin moments -- the treacle would have flowed through lesser-skilled hands -- but Glitter-girl Mariah Carey fully redeems herself in a brave and earthy role.