the best film of 1999

Rating: Null/10 (19 February 2000)

Today I finally saw American Beauty and I must say that it is awesome. Actually only one other film made me feel this way in 1999 which is Fight Club and as much as I feel sad for the ultimate commercial failure of that one, I am extremely happy that for once, a film as mercilessly critical of the consumerist society of our contemporary world as American Beauty has for once been embraced by the American film-going public. It clearly struck a chord throughout that country and deservedly so. A faultless and constantly witty script turns all the cliches of American suburban life, that seemingly untouchable microcosm of American lifestyle upside down. That said, its main themes and considerations are apparently universal enough since it was able to draw constant heartfelt response -whether chokeful aughter, worried cry or deadly silence - from a packed audience of all ages as far away from the troubles and tribulances of the American family as Turkey at the screening I attended. All of the cast shines but the film is a clear tour de force for Kevin Spacey. His is a performance that is able to connect with the viewer even though the character does not invite 100 per cent identification. If there is any justice, he should be given every acting trophy in this world for this performance. After an instable choice of fils and big voids of non-acting due to pregnancies, it is a relief to see Annette Bening on top form again. She is one of the finest actresses around and she perfectly captures this all-American careerwoman who is constantly on the verge of hysteria although the character sometimes dangerously ventures into the territories of caricature. The three young actors are all incredibly talented and sholud be congratulated for bravely taking these roles in an age where most young actors choose to chart the safe waters of teen comedies and slasher flicks. It is hard to believe in the transformation of Thora Birch from the cute little girl she has been in the likes of Monkey Trouble and All I Want for Christmas into the confused and, frankly, evil-intentioned adolescent of this film. Mena Süvari displays the perfect physical embodiment of what constitutes beauty and both she and Wes Bentley have clearly great career prospects ahead of them. A gem through and through.