Great movie

Rating: 10/10 (3 December 2002)

There are very few movies which I've watched and instantly fallen in love with, but this definitely has to be one of them. So why is this movie supposed to be so good? Here's why...
Lester Burnham is simply the anithesis of the anti-hero. He is stuck in a dead-end job, receives little support or loving contact through his wife, and his only daughter seems to despise him. However one day he meets his daughter's friend (played by Mira Sorvino) and is instantly transfixed. This sets off a rebellion insider him, encouraging him to quit his job, fantasise about the girl and smoke illicit substances.
Not exactly a moral, wholesome two-hour experience then? Well, no but neither was the Godfather but people judge that to be a masterpiece. What it is is superbly acted, wonderfully directed and hugely funny. It has some wonderful one-liners ("There is nothing worse than being ordinary") and possesses real depth. It is a movie that challenges the perception of what you think you are, and how you lead your life, and an analysis of what really makes a person happy.
It is also refreshingly dysfunctional and cynical in its attitudes towards the modern-day suburban ideal in middle America. Love it or hate it, you can't help but discuss this movie for weeks to come.