American Beauty

I first watched this film when it was originally released, and I recently rented it again with my LOVEFiLM subscription.

And now after a few repeated viewings, I have to say that this is my favourite film of all time.

It's one of those films that has such a perfect formula that it's almost impossible to fault it. The film is sad, funny, shocking, grim and socially realistic in equal measure. The film has an excellent cast, and I loved the way the main characters' strong personalities unravelled as they become disillusioned or pressurised by their sterile suburban life. The soundtrack is amazing too.

I think Kevin Stacey gave his best performance in this film, Mena Suvari was excellent too (the last scene between Lester and Angela is one of my favourite movie scenes ever) and I genuinely loathed Carolyn, the fake, materialistic and image obsessed housewife.

Does anyone else love this movie or does it top anyone else's list?
 
Its right up there with Shawshank and American History X as my favourite movie of all time. Not watched it in a year or so, might dig it the dvd out tonight seeing as Lost isn't on.
 
I think American Beauty is pretty trite to be honest.

Ang Lee's similarly themed The Ice Storm is miles better.

Gorgeous cinematography though I'll grant you.
 
Agree 100%. And said so at the time, when AB was sweeping the Oscars. IMO its actually one of the most over-rated films of recent times.
 
Completely agree.

I absolutely love this film. Watched it several times now. Kevin Spacey is fantastic in this and became my favourite actor after watching this.

One of my all time faves.
 
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