Review of American Beauty (1999) by Lucas Augusto C — 01 Sep 2014

Lester Burnham is a man in middle age who hates his job. His wife, Carolyn, is an ambitious real estate broker; sixteen year old daughter of the couple, Jane, abhors her parents and has low self esteem.

The film brings a true and often casual and common life and diary of an American family portrait. The film shows gently life of its characters, who live life normally. But, with one thing in common: unhappiness.

'American Beauty' talks about unhapiness, the American illusion of living in a better world, where everything is centralized in a life without problems, this is the dream of millions of Americans unable to change the routine of living in a modern, messy and where everything is centered on two things the world: happiness and power.

The film takes us to the journey of characters in search of happiness, often unusual. 'American Beauty' is a drama with a touch of comedy. Brilliantly directed by Sam Mendes in his debut as a film director.

The original and creative work of Alan Ball, who introduces us in this film. The cast, highlighting the performances of Oscar nominees Annette Bening and Kevin Spacey, and also the crew, who made a wonderful and great work in this film.

And I really have to say, and I think it was no surprise to see 'American Beauty' raising six Oscar statuettes in 2000, incluiding Best Actor to Kevin Spacey and Best Motion Picture of the Year! Two Thumbs Up!