A really fine, unique movie about life, but not for youngsters.

Rating: Null/10 (10 October 1999)

Please don't get this movie confused with another 1999 movie, "American Pie", which was a funny but rather crude movie about horny teenagers all trying to get laid.
"American Beauty" is about real life, about dysfunctional families who don't realize why they are crazy. Until Lester (Kevin Spacey) figures it out. Quits his job, quits pretending he is something he is not, and learns to really begin to deal with life. There are lots of laughs, but also lots of drama.
Make no mistake, this is a movie about Lester's life and death. "American Beauty" has the courage to look at "us". It does so through the eyes of Lester Burnham who tells you at the beginning that he will be dead within the year. Interesting concept!!There are several other stories in the movie, but they are there only as they relate to Lester's. In some spots, it would be easy to walk out of the movie because of where you think it may be going. But stay, watch the whole thing, see how it all fits together and I think you'll agree it is a rare movie among all the special-effect, mega blockbuster that seems to be turned out like beanie babies. Although this one is totally different, the way its messages come through may remind you of movies like "Fargo" and "A Simple Plan". If you didn't think those were fine movies, skip this one.
Kevin Spacey gives an award-quality performance. Most middle-aged men will quickly identify with his character. But turn the roles around and women should just as easily identify.
The reason I say this movie is not for youngsters is because they have not lived enough to comprehend and identify with the characters. But the sex and language are not nearly as bad as some mainstream movies. There is nudity, and graphic discussion of sex acts and body parts among teenagers in this movie, but it probably was necessary within the overall context. I give it 9 of 10, a must-see for any adult who enjoys examining his or her situation in life.
2009 edit: I have watched this movie several more times and have enjoyed it as much as I did on the first viewing.
2014 edit: I upgraded to Blu-Ray for this movie, it is worth it.