Glorious achievement

Rating: 10/10 (30 January 2000)

Only from time to time does a film from Hollywood truly deserve to be tagged a "Masterpiece" (despite the lightness with which some so-called critics pronounce the word). This is undoubtedly one of these times: "American Beauty" is a Masterpiece, one that will be remembered from years to come as a milestone that opened the second century of film art. Hats off to Mr. Alan Ball for creating such a beautiful gem, that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, and to Mr. Sam Mendes for translating his words to the screen so masterfully and conducting his marvelous cast with such a firm hand. Please, Academy, give them each one their Oscars, and don't forget Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening as well.