The tone of John Waters's Role Models is conveyed perfectly by the beginning of one of its profiles. "I wish I were Johnny Mathis," he writes. "So mainstream. So popular. So unironic, yet perfect. Effortlessly boyish at over seventy years old, with a voice that still makes all of American want to make out." In this refracted self-portrait, the first generation indie filmmaker presents portraits of subjects ranging from pornographers to famous playwrights; from atheist leaders to imprisoned former Manson family members. Gently irreverent piece; smooth prose that reads like conversation. (Hand-selling tip: Waters is best known as the director of movies including Hairspray and Pink Flamingoes.)