Yes, it really is as good as everyone says. One of the finest movies of the last ten years.

Rating: Null/10 (14 October 2002)

I have such low expectations of contemporary Hollywood that if I go and see something and I manage to keep my lunch down afterwards I'm happy. So to actually be able to sit in a theatre and watch a genuinely inspired and original piece of film as this is a very special occasion these days. Way too many current movies are aimed at 16 year olds and have more care and attention lavished on the media promotion and merchandising rights than the movie itself, so it's a real treat to see a movie aimed at adults, with characters you can empathize with, a witty and complex script, first rate acting, fresh direction and splendid cinematography. Kevin Spacey gives the performance of his career as suburban rebel Lester Burnham. He is the obvious focal point of the movie, but I was also impressed by relative newcomers Thora Birch, Wes Bentley and Mena Suvari, and also the seriously underrated Chris Cooper ('Lone Star'). The only minor quibble I have with the movie is Annette Bening's character, which to me doesn't have the depth of the others, and often just comes across as a stereotypical shrewish wife. Apart from that, it's difficult to fault 'American Beauty'. A recent second viewing on DVD was just as enjoyable and impressive as my first viewing on its original cinema release. Yes, this is one movie that really does live up to the hype. A modern classic that cannot be recommended highly enough. Bravo!