Film Review: American Beauty (USA 1999) by Sam Mendes

Content:  In this podcast, we talk about Sam Mendes’ film “American Beauty” from 1999. We describe the film as an ironic and at the same time sad portrayal of a midlife crisis of Lester Burnham (Kevin Spacey), who fundamentally questions and changes his marriage, his career and his life.  The film sheds light on the dysfunctional relationships within the family and the neighborhood and addresses social criticism of consumerism and the search for beauty in the everyday.  We emphasize the acting performances, especially that of Kevin Spacey, and mention the film's numerous Oscar awards.  Plot:  At first glance Lester and Carolyn Burnham, portrayed by Kevin Spacey and Annette Bening, appear to be the perfect couple in a perfect house in a perfect neighborhood. However, Lester is sinking deeper into a hopeless depression.  He's suffering from a midlife crisis that impacts his family life, consisting of his cranky wife Carolyn and rebellious daughter Jane. Both openly express their contempt for Lester. Narrated by Lester himself, he admits to failing in all aspects of his life.  He has utterly failed as a husband, father, and in his career. But then there's Angela, Jane's school friend. Lester can't stop thinking and fantasizing about her. He wakes from his suburban coma and wants to drastically change his life.