American Beauty (1999)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

American Beauty is a drama film directed by Sam Mendes and written by Alan Ball. The film is set in suburban America and explores themes of beauty, freedom, societal expectations, and existential ennui. The story is narrated by Lester Burnham (Kevin Spacey), a disillusioned middle-aged man who experiences a dramatic transformation over the course of the film.

Lester Burnham’s Transformation

Lester Burnham is a depressed, frustrated suburban father who despises his job and feels disconnected from his wife, Carolyn (Annette Bening), and daughter, Jane (Thora Birch). He becomes infatuated with Angela Hayes (Mena Suvari), Jane’s attractive friend, which sparks his desire to change his life. Lester quits his job, begins working out, and starts working at a fast-food restaurant to regain a sense of freedom and purpose.

Carolyn and Lester’s Relationship

Carolyn Burnham, a real estate agent, is equally dissatisfied with her life and marriage. She embarks on an affair with her colleague, Buddy Kane (Peter Gallagher), the “king” of real estate, which further strains her relationship with Lester. Carolyn’s obsession with success and appearances contrasts sharply with Lester’s growing disdain for societal norms.

Jane and Ricky’s Connection

Jane Burnham, feeling alienated from her parents, forms a connection with Ricky Fitts (Wes Bentley), the new neighbor. Ricky is a troubled but perceptive teenager who lives with his strict, abusive father, Colonel Frank Fitts (Chris Cooper). Ricky introduces Jane to his hobby of filming seemingly mundane subjects, revealing the hidden beauty in everyday life. Their relationship blossoms into a genuine romance.

The Climax and Resolution

Tensions rise as Lester’s newfound assertiveness and pursuit of happiness collide with the expectations and judgments of those around him. Angela’s flirtations and Carolyn’s affair converge on a fateful night when Lester rejects Angela’s advances upon discovering her vulnerability. Meanwhile, Colonel Fitts, suspecting a relationship between Ricky and Lester, confronts Lester, leading to a series of tragic misunderstandings.

The film concludes with Lester’s murder by Colonel Fitts, who mistakenly believes Lester was seducing his son. Lester’s death brings the film full circle, with his closing monologue reflecting on the beauty and transience of life.

Movie Ending

The film ends with Lester’s death, narrating from beyond the grave about the beauty of life and the importance of appreciating the present moment. His final monologue emphasizes finding beauty in the ordinary and reflecting on the moments that make life worthwhile.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in American Beauty.

Type of Movie

American Beauty is a drama film that blends elements of dark comedy and psychological exploration. It delves into themes of midlife crisis, suburban discontent, and the search for meaning.

Cast

• Kevin Spacey as Lester Burnham
• Annette Bening as Carolyn Burnham
• Thora Birch as Jane Burnham
• Wes Bentley as Ricky Fitts
• Mena Suvari as Angela Hayes
• Chris Cooper as Colonel Frank Fitts
• Peter Gallagher as Buddy Kane
• Allison Janney as Barbara Fitts

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Thomas Newman, whose minimalist and evocative music enhances the film’s contemplative and emotional tone. The soundtrack includes memorable tracks such as “Dead Already” and “Any Other Name.”

Filming Locations

American Beauty was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, with various suburban neighborhoods providing the backdrop for the story. The setting emphasizes the typical American suburbia, highlighting the film’s themes of surface appearances versus underlying realities.

Awards and Nominations

American Beauty received numerous prestigious awards, including:

• Academy Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Director (Sam Mendes), Best Actor (Kevin Spacey), Best Original Screenplay (Alan Ball), and Best Cinematography (Conrad L. Hall).
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Director, Best Actor (Kevin Spacey), and Best Screenplay.
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Film, Best Direction, Best Actor (Kevin Spacey), Best Actress (Annette Bening), and Best Cinematography.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Director Sam Mendes made his feature film debut with American Beauty, bringing his theatrical background to the film’s visual and narrative style.
• Kevin Spacey’s portrayal of Lester Burnham is often cited as one of his career-defining roles, bringing depth and complexity to the character.
• The film’s iconic poster, featuring a close-up of a rose and a hand, symbolizes the themes of hidden beauty and the contrast between appearance and reality.

Inspirations and References

The film draws inspiration from various sources, including the works of Tennessee Williams and the concept of the American Dream. Alan Ball’s screenplay reflects his experiences and observations of suburban life and societal pressures.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of American Beauty closely follows Alan Ball’s original screenplay. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions, providing further context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While there are no direct novelizations, the film has been analyzed in various books and essays exploring its themes, impact on cinema, and cultural significance.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Lester’s encounter with Angela at the basketball game.
• Lester quitting his job and blackmailing his boss.
• The scene where Carolyn sings along to “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”
• Ricky showing Jane the video of the plastic bag.
• The climactic confrontation between Lester and Angela.

Iconic Quotes

• “It’s a great thing when you realize you still have the ability to surprise yourself.” – Lester Burnham
• “I feel like I’ve been in a coma for about twenty years, and I’m just now waking up.” – Lester Burnham
• “Sometimes there’s so much beauty in the world, I feel like I can’t take it.” – Ricky Fitts

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The use of red roses throughout the film symbolizes passion, beauty, and the superficiality of appearances.
• The recurring motif of the plastic bag represents the beauty found in mundane and overlooked aspects of life.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was around $15 million, and it grossed over $350 million worldwide.
• Alan Ball’s screenplay was initially conceived as a stage play before being adapted into a film.
• The film’s title, American Beauty, refers to both a type of rose and the superficial beauty often associated with American culture.

Why Watch?

American Beauty is a thought-provoking and visually stunning film that offers a deep exploration of human desires, societal pressures, and the search for meaning in an often superficial world. Its compelling narrative, strong performances, and thematic depth make it a must-watch for fans of drama and psychological films.

Director’s Other Movies

Sam Mendes also directed:

• Road to Perdition (2002)
• Revolutionary Road (2008)
• Skyfall (2012)
• Spectre (2015)
• 1917 (2019)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Revolutionary Road (2008)
• Fight Club (1999)
• The Virgin Suicides (1999)
• Magnolia (1999)
• The Hours (2002)

American Beauty is still a big deal in modern cinema. It offers a deep look at the twists and turns of life and the human experience. Its lasting impact and critical praise show just how important it is as a modern classic.