fascinating

Rating: 8/10 (27 August 2002)

American Beauty is a film of real substance with performances right out of the top draw. Kevin Spacey and Annette Benning play the couple who's marriage ended years ago in love if not in writing. The idea of the film is to show you that, people are very good at hiding their true feelings. We the audience are told that Spacey's character is going through a mid-life crisis, yet by the end of the film you feel he is the most sane character there. Superb performance by Spacey and a career best by Mena Suvari as the "Lolita" like object of Spacey's desire. Benning is also fantastic, if a little over hammy at times. The script is brilliant and it is brought to life by the powerful cast. A top notch film that is worth repeat viewing.