American Beauty
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
American Beauty is a 1999 drama film directed by Sam Mendes, starring Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, Thora Birch. It drew a wide audience and shaped its genre.
Plot
American Beauty is a 1999 American black comedy and psychological drama film directed by Sam Mendes in his feature directorial debut, and written by Alan Ball. Kevin Spacey stars as Lester Burnham, an advertising executive who has a midlife crisis when he becomes infatuated with his teenage daughter's best friend, played by Mena Suvari. Annette Bening stars as Lester's materialistic wife, Carolyn, and Thora Birch plays their insecure daughter, Jane. Wes Bentley, Chris Cooper, Peter Gallagher, and Allison Janney co-star.
Production
Written by Alan Ball, the film was produced by DreamWorks Pictures. Thomas Newman composed the score. Conrad Hall handled the cinematography. The film runs 122 minutes. The crew and editing refined every shot.
Reception
On a budget of $15,000,000, American Beauty grossed $356,296,601 worldwide at the box office. A critic consensus praised its screenplay and score.
Legacy
Its legacy endures through a remake, a sequel and a lasting franchise; later cinema cites its influence and symbolism.
See also
References
- "The 100 Greatest Films of All Time". topfilms100. Retrieved 30 June 2026.
- Ebert, Roger. The Great Movies. Broadway Books.
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