A film review by Sam Floeter Copyright © 2000 Sam Floeter

One mans struggle to find inner-peace in a jaded, socio-political world seems to be the subject that screenwriter Alan Ball tackles in 'American Beauty'. Ironically, this is a film that encompasses more than just one man. The 'American Beauty' itself is an inexplicable phenomenon probing at the heart of alienation. Critically acclaimed theatre director Sam Mendes (Richard III, The Tempest) makes his successful feature film debut.

"In less than a year, I'll be dead. But in a way, I'm dead already."

The story begins with this prophetic narrative by Lester Burnham, played by Kevin Spacey (L.A Confidential, The Usual Suspects). Lester is the husk of a man, tired of his miserable suburban life, struggling with a hollow marriage and frustrated by an increasing inability to communicate with his teenage daughter. In his opening narrative, we are introduced to a variety of characters. His wife Carolyn, (Annete Bening), a failing real estate agent, and the controlling element in Lesters life. His daughter Jane, (Thora Birch) a typical insecure teen obsessed with the prospect of breast enhancement. His neighbors, Jim and Jim, two homosexual lovers. And finally, his life; a monotonous existence where excessive masturbation provides the only path for temporary escape.

Things begin to change for Lester when he meets Angela. (Mena Suvari) Angela is an aspiring teenage model, conceited and self-centered, who uses Janes insecurities to boost her own self-confidence. To Lester, however, Angela is a goddess. She quickly becomes the object of Lesters sexual fantasies, sparking a flame within him that has long since been extinguished. Thus begins Lesters period of re-evaluation. Unbeknownst to him, his wife Carolyn secretly initiates an affair with real estate giant Buddy King (Peter Gallagher) in a bold effort to escape the tedium of her marriage.

Meanwhile, a new addition comes to their neighborhood in the form of the Fitts family. Janes life suddenly takes a turn when she finds herself being tape-recorded by Ricky Fitts, (Wes Bently) a mysterious drug dealing voyeur with the uncanny ability to percieve 'beauty' in the most abstract mediums. Ricky's father, (Chris Cooper) is an abusive homophobe who tries to instill 'discipline' and 'structure' into Ricky's life.

The real joy of the film arrives through the phase of Lesters gradual transition. Initially motivated by a desire to win Angela, he begins exercising feverishly. Over the course of the next few weeks he quits his job as a magazine scripter, opting instead to work as a register clerk peeon for a fast food franchise called 'Smiley Burger'. He trades his Camry for a cherry red, 1970 Pontiac Firebird, the car of his dreams. He becomes friends with Ricky Fitts, and begins smoking weed. He rebells against the structured social norm and finds a new energy within himself. By the end of the month, Lesters initial desire has completely altered his perspective, expanding to encompass every facet of his life. Where he has failed in the aspect of social and family responsibility, he has succeeded in rekindling the spirit of his youth and attaining his proverbial "second wind" so to speak. Now I don't want to spoil the movie too much, so I'll stop there.

My evaluation of American Beauty is slightly biast, having read the screenplay before hand. It is, of course, an excellent movie but mainly so because of its intricate simplicity. That may sound like a contradiction in terms, but you'll have to see the movie to fully understand. The film has many strengths, among them a wide array of colorful characters and an excellent cast of actors. Kevin Spacey can always be counted on to give a strong performance, but the role of Lester works well for him, manipulating his ability to encapsulate the charismatic 'everyman'.

I was impressed by Wes Bentley's portrayal of Ricky Fitts, particularly so since he was not the character I had in mind while reading the screenplay. He was better. Mr. Bentlys haunting eyes and placid demeanor served well to give his character the twisted duality that was so apparent in the script. As for Thora Birch, I look forward to seeing her in the forthcoming 'Dungeons & Dragons'.

The funny thing about 'American Beauty' is that it doesn't leave much for the viewer to pick away at in terms of criticism. There are no flashy special effects, the camera work is excellent, the acting is strong and the story is solid. Perhaps the only gripes you will hear are the negative responses from melodramatic movie fans thirsting for more violence. 'American Beauty' is not a movie to drag the kids to, as I believe it requires one to relate well with the inner-turmoil that engulfs Lesters life. But then again, who knows? Sam Mendes has done a wonderfull job with this film, and I patiently await his next directing effort.

To round this out, I am glad that the initial script went through a revision. The first draft that I read played more like a murder mystery, beginning with a drawn out court sequence over who killed Lester. I thought that these particular scenes took away from the gist of the movie, and served only to bring the conclusion of the script to an anti-climactic halt. As it stands, the films arc is crystal clear, steadily gaining momentum as the viewer anticipates the fate of the doomed Lester.

In the end, the message behind 'American Beauty' is simple. Life is too short.

	Running Time: 121 Min | Rated R | US Release: October 1st | More >>

Related Links:

• Official Site
• Bomis: American Beauty Ring
• Moviefan Online - American Beauty
• Upcomingmovies.com: American Beauty

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