Simply stunning - a cinematic masterpiece.

Rating: 10/10 (16 February 2001)

I was really unprepared for what I saw when I first watched 'American Beauty' - having seen various clips from the film I was expecting a middleweight comedy-drama about a man in mid-life crisis. I assumed the fixation that Kevin Spacey has with his daughters Lolita-like schoolfriend would allow for some poignant humour all concluding in an upbeat happy ending. On realising instead that the film offered a bleak examination of the meaning of life, it was difficult to adjust my perspective in time.
Needless to say 'American Beauty' is quite superb - as a directorial debut it rivals 'Citizen Kane' and as a total package the film scores on every level. The performances are outstanding across the board; as good as Kevin Spacey is, his character doesn't dominate the film and he is matched by the trio of younger performers. Mena Suvari is perfect in a role that could have been so shallow - whilst Wes Bentley and Thora Birch breeze through more demanding parts with ease.
This is one of those rare films which is enjoyable to watch, but also manages to raise issues that make us question our outlook on life.
BEST SCENE - lots of contenders, but the shot of the plastic carrier bag being blown around has to get my vote.