Rent American Beauty (1999)

A key 90s film - Still Fantastic - American Beauty review by GI

American Beauty is one of two great films that reveal the underbelly of American suburban life, whilst the other, Blue Velvet (1986), is a much darker film, this combines it's revelations of what is going on behind closed doors with a study of mid-life crisis. The film seemed very relevant when it was first released and garnered many accolades although viewed today some of its thematic depictions may seem somewhat out of date. Kevin Spacey plays Lester, a mid 40s man stuck in a loveless marriage to Carolyn (Annette Bening), a boring job and has lost the precious connection with his 17 year old daughter Jane (Thora Birch) who sees him as an embarrassment. Then one day Lester decides to change his life and removes all the social barriers that he sees restraining him from doing so. There's plenty of comedy here but it's wrapped up in some serious issues and some may seem a little clichéd today. However what's wonderful about this film is the interconnection with the coming-of-age of Jane as she breaks away from the social shackles that have made her parents so unhappy. The film covers issues such as sex and briefly explores same sex marriage, which at the time was a more contentious issue than perhaps it is today, and indeed latent homosexuality forms a key part of the narrative. Sex and desire are a key theme here as Lester fixates on Jane's best friend, Angela (Mean Suvari). There's also a look at drugs in suburban environments and materialism, a social and human problem that Lester deals with quite effectively. This is a really entertaining, funny and sad film with tremendous performances and it's worth a revisit and a must see if you've never seen it.

Disappointing. - American Beauty review by TH

Some clever twists, but too many of them are threadbare, and too many of them hackneyed; and overall the story is unsatisfying. It comes to an end without drawing the threads together and without giving any sense of completion. And it certainly is not a comedy as billed, only occasionally raising a wry smirk.

A perfect, brilliant & wonderful film with incredible acting, music & cinematography - American Beauty review by TB

I adore this film. It is funny, heartbreaking, moving and silly, sometimes all at the same time.

I remember at the time the enormous critical plaudits and almost uniform 5 star reviews. I loved it at the time and still love it now.

All of the cast are flawless and I absolutely include Kevin Spacey in that. Irrelevant of the accusations against him which have been made many years after this film, he gives an incredible and great performance. And alongside him, Annette Bening and Mena Suvari are also exceptional.

The soundtrack is a work of genius, so much so that even today it is still used in TV programmes/adverts.

And finally, the cinematography by Conrad L. Hall is beautiful and he was rightly rewarded for this stunning lensing.

This film is a masterpiece. I loved it and I hope you do as well.