The Ice Storm is similar to American Beauty, yet, in my opinion, more superior. The film also played with issues that often plague nuclear, American families, but didn't receive nearly as much praise. While I found watching American Beauty was like watching a poetic mid-life crisis, I thought the film was overrated. The Ice Storm is subtle in its approach and cathartic. It's also very well-written and easy on the eyes.
Ice Storm is a movie that is actually worth thinking about once it's over.
The drama is everyday stuff, but somehow the whole thing is really mesmerizing. Maybe Ang Lee is a magician. I don't know how the Academy ignored this movie. The cast is fantastic, from the leads to the smallest parts. Of special mention are David Krumholz, Allison Janney and Christina Ricci.