A breath of Freedom

Rating: 10/10 (20 June 2002)

Even more amazing as you realize that there is no particular tight structure holding the various strands of the story together. The only unifying idea is the lack of one and an invitation to total freedom of interpretation. Yet in spite of this the you have the feeling that you are witnessing an impecable performance which is at all times perfectly kept in hand and perfectly symmetrical. A film of no restrictions-in subjects it dwells on and people it allows itself and the audience to love-a cannabis dealer, a sometimes pitiful middle aged balding man searching his path; no moral judgment is passed, no condemnation uttered. American Beauty is a film about beauty-and nothing you see through its transforming camera lens can be anything but beautiful. Sam Mendez is at his best using a full blown arsenal of theatrical devices; often you can imagine any of his characters standing on a stage; there is theatrical care for placement of the characters in the set and the sound track oscillating between 70s tracks and the haunting instrumental motif composed by Thomas Newman gives it unforgettable atmosphere. Total freedom, art at its best; it will stay with you through every look you take again at the world. My all time favorite.