The idea of "joy in small things" is really a reference to the joy of being. In other words, joy isn't derived from anything at all. It comes from a state of acceptance, of being at peace.
Thank you. I could phrase it a dozen different ways, but this is the essence. Whatever you want to call it, it's as Lester says at the end, letting it flow. If you try to hold onto it, beauty, you'll never have it. Just be.
You're right. And even though joy can come from outside of yourself, from moments that show themselves to you, you have to be in a state of acceptance & peace like you said to not just receive it but welcome it.
The symbol isn't just of a "rose", and while your words on that make sense, it's not what was intended. The "American Beauty" is a breed of roses, so the title refers to this breed of roses that while being pretty and appealing in appearance, is often prone to rot underneath at the roots and branches of the plant. Thus, the tagline "...look closer" tells the viewer that when they look beyond the "perfect suburban life," they will find something rancid at the root.
@ Yummy Sounds. I would agree with this. This movie is what you choose to make of it IMHO. I tried to articulate to someone why "American Beauty" is one of my favorite movies of all-time and I just couldn't put my finger on it. Of course, it's a scathing indictment of modern American life at the surface, but it's more of a philosophical movie to me. As Sam Mendes (the director) said "It was amazing that a movie where the pivotal scene is a dancing plastic bag, was embraced and understood so greatly." The "Plastic Bag Scene" and Spacey's monologue at the end, make that movie for me personally. Just pure beauty. No pun intended. Beauty and happiness are fleeting in life and not even Rickey's video camera could hold on to either.
This is probably my favorite film of all time. It really is the ride, the roller coaster, that makes this movie for me. The highs and lows are just...amazing. Along with the music, it really makes a viewing experience I have never matched.
I totally agree. This is my alltime favorite drama and I've been watching it at least once a year since I had seen it in the cinema when it first came out.
One of my all time favorites too. It cannot be matched. The soundtrack is so thought provoking along with the great drama and filming. I love questioning the image of beauty and how people present themselves in society. This movie is definitely one that can be watched over and over again, as it provokes new thoughts each time.
Just watched this movie last night, and It lives up to its name. It's one of the most beautiful films I've ever seen. And no matter how sad the ending is for many reasons, it still has major payoff.
This is a film if I see it is on Netflix, I will play it going to sleep. Easily watched it 40 times. I find it very touching. Who isn’t trying to put on a face like they’re living a dream but all of us are struggling.
I love movies and watched American Beauty when I was 13. From the writing, performances, cinematography, and score it was THE movie that opened my eyes to what filmmaking was. Still is one of my favourite films! A True Masterpiece.
Thank you so much for your work. I watched this video when I was going through rough times, and through it, I managed to understand certain aspects of life which helped me overcome the issues I was facing back then. I always come back to this video, this is a timeless video. Thank you!
Always remember to watch what you wish for. Thru the course of the movie, everyone gets exactly what they wanted and each person ends up worse for it. I guess except Ricky, he got the girl he wanted but he also is able to see the beauty in things others cant.
Masterpiece indeed.Idle minds in suburbia. How the smallest things even if they hadn't happened, have no change on the destiny of the larger outcome in their lives. Example, the beer almost spilling on the couch- had he spilt it or she didn't see the near mishap, they may have rekindled lost passions? Yet would it have mattered?
I saw this when I was 14ish, couldn't get it thought it was a terrible movie. Watched again today, and my god this has hit me like a tonne of bricks, absolutely fantastic movie
Floren Nakajima exactly what I thought! when i first saw it, I was 12 years old and thought it's boring. I'm 18 now (i know i'm still very young) and i've watched it at least 5 times at different age and every time it's so cool to think back how I used to think about that film. absolutely fell in love with it at 17.
as a kid in the nineties we didn't have much money and I was jealous of the families in this movie.. Then I got older and pitied them. The beauty is anywhere and everywhere though in truth.
Genuine//Imitations It was a perfect, graphic and somewhat comedic critique of corporate (mostly Wall St workers) in the 90s. A beautiful portrayal of the superficiality and meaninglessness of that lifestyle.
@@some_randomninja Pure happiness as a concept doesn't exist, I don't think. Ups and downs are inevitable in life, no matter how healthy, wealthy, and full of love your life is. The idea that you all you have to do is obtain this one thing, then you'll be happy forever, is just impossible. Happiness is a feeling, an emotion, not a lifestyle. The way I see it, happiness comes in waves, and you really have to be present in the moment to accept the opportunity to ride that wave when it comes by. That's how you fully appreciate the ups, now as for the downs... I think it helps if you find a way to enjoy the times in between those waves happiness, or atleast come to terms with them instead of letting yourself feel stuck or worse, actually causing yourself to be stuck by giving up and settling into the cesspool instead of continuing to try climbing out of it. The "bad times" we go through don't have to be the "worst times." Finding a way to still enjoy things and letting yourself love the people in your life as well as seeking comfort in them, is the best way to use the downtime. But a lot of people just say to themselves "well this fucking sucks" and they sit in that shitty attitude, and that only makes it worse, and last longer. What's worse is when they fully give up. Then... you could lose years of your life, or for some people, they never find a way out of that, and are lost forever from that point. Long story short, try and find new things in life to love, and appreciate the things and people you already love, because surrounding yourself with good people is really more important than you'll probably ever be aware of.
@@Jack-rk7jc The great misstep of evolution occurred once homo sapiens gained consciousness. Before, we acted on instincts of hunger, sexual reproduction, and survival. However, with the addition of consciousness, humans now spend the entirety of their brief existence searching for the elusive feelings of "happiness" and "love". Although some may feel they have obtained these imagined emotional states, in reality, they have merely released certain chemicals in their brain. Despite the darkness and nihilistic nature of our futile existence, we somehow manage to get out of bed everyday.
People make fun of that thing with the dancing bag...but IT'S REAL. I was walking down the street one day when a plastic bag jump right in front of me and did a miraculous dance. It was like ballet but with a bag! Then, this bag followed me for two blocks as I walked down the street! I'll never forget the look on this cat's face as he watched this bag trailing behind me as we passed by his front lawn. Hollywood isn't always full of crap (just most of the time).
I think you could possibly even add on to the symbolism. Not only are the roses a primary symbol, but in a more broader sense, the color red is represented throughout the entire film. The red roses, the front door, the red behind buddy kane's advertisements, the red car, the sweater with red flowers worn by jane, and even the red oven pan, etc. And red represents so many different things like sexuality, love, rebellion, life force, and the soul.
Of course, Tyler Durden when he is introduced wears white because the narrator is still sort of processing the very being of Tyler, when he realizes he wears red, the aforementioned colour. But in the end he wears black, the color of project Mayham to show his true self
Why “he had to”? Nevertheless it made me think also of the movie “A single man”, when Colin Firth’s character reaches the same catharsis and ends up the same...dead...
Lester is the focus. He's finally found beauty (the little things) but he's been enlightened too late in his life spent here on earth. Ricky shows insight into what the rest of the characters and the audience have the capability to become, enthralled with seeing the beauty in everything. This film is a great lesson in life.
American Beauty was detailing the end of the nuclear family, the end of the conventional American dream, and the innocence of the American youth being replaced by a jaded pessism directed at their parents and elders.
I know I'm late with this reply but you sure said alot there. You're on to something. I absolutely respect the narrator's analysis but in my lowly opinion he is too detailed. I think he may have gone off on a couple tangents. What I got out of the movie is seeing a family 👪 who have lost their way and , believe it or not , they actually still love eachother. They just don't have the tools to be reconciled to eachother. I believe deep down they don't want to fracture or split up. They want to be a family but they are searching in every wrong place to find happiness , but happiness alludes them. They basically have the American dream but what good is it. The American dream deceived them and has basically destroyed them. This accurately reflects thousands of American families right now. Look at all our material success and it robbed us of our heart and soul. Families are wealthy but lost. They're lost.
@@sean.furlong1989 not sure . The hippies back in the late 60s were not trying to overthrow or degrade the traditional family unit nor traditional marriage.
1: Cruel Intentions 2: American Beauty 3: Fight Club In this order, for the message behind the movie. All great movies, all have a deep thoughtful reality of people trying to cope with their life.
The aesthetic of the real world...the crappie clothes and shitty food. The cast seems to yearn to go back in to save others. But they are always dress very autrutrisric, as if they are most posh, for a mission. It seems they have to "dress up" their egos, never manifesting the same things they see daily in the real world.
And Another thing. From now on we're going to alternate our dinner music because frankly, and I don't think I'm alone here, I 'm getting a little tired of this Lawrence Welk Shit.
Thomas Newman's "American Beauty" theme music has ALWAYS touched my soul, and makes me ACHE for something I cannot define (And I'm normally not the most "spiritual" of people) but this soundtrack just DOES this to me. So much so that driving to my mother's funeral 9 years ago, I purposely listened to it, just to reinforce its power on me. The single piano with string accompaniment is such a DEEPLY moving motif.
Thomas Newman has some really great scores. This might be the best. But White Oleander, Meet Joe Black, Road to Perdition, Finding Nemo, Shawshank, Cinderella Man, and The Iron Lady are all fantastic.
I just watched your analysis of American Beauty, and in going through the comments, I saw a month ago you said that you had been feeling down on yourself. Knock that crap off, buddy. Your analysis of American Beauty was MIND BLOWING. Tonight, I've been doing a lot of thinking about my relationships, life and death, notions of "God", the universe, beauty, peace, meaning... and to cap the evening off with your analysis of American Beauty was fantastic. "Taking control of a shadow or mirror self seems great, but... it involves so much turmoil. Yet there are those who live inside that state constantly, which is another way to try and escape these identity crises, but as stated, it creates a person that can be happy and sees the things other people take for granted, while on the other hand keeps them from experiencing full joy due to their split." In that one paragraph, you were able to accurately summarize my entire 'existential crisis' that I've been analyzing for the last several years of my life. You are an incredibly bright, intelligent person. You have an incredible way with words, that is "substantive" as someone else put it, and is so succinct and poignant that even I, who consider myself a word-smith, find myself envious :). Keep up the fantastic work!
All I can really say is thanks. Not to diminish what you said in the slightest, but every once and a while I'll get a comment or email or what have you like yours that helps to alleviate the sort of petty depression I fall into. I appreciate it so much.
Brilliant mate, no BS just straight to the point with using the perfect clips to back up your points. There was nothing wrong with the previous format however this seems a lot better
Thank you for doing justice to this movie, it's a pretty special film for me. I also want to mention as a professional classical musician, that the soundtrack of this movie was groundbreaking, we can hear the minimalist score influence in many films and trailers that we see even today.
What it all Meant I want this to be straight to the point. This was a clear step up, literally. I got to about 7 minutes and had to pause the video because of so much essential information being tossed my way, I mean that in a good way. Your critical writing has evolved and the dead pan delivery was in full effect. Perfect balance of objective analysis combined with subjective observation. One: too many titles, way too many. Your potential for tight structures really showed in this video, so I would suggest dividing your analysis into 3 parts and a conclusion. This will allow you to have the title, Part one: whatever, Part two: whatever, conclusion etc. Movies have 3 acts and a conclusion, why not film essays? Having so many titles is unnecessary. You begin with an opening statement about how the film is about identity and beauty. Just keep talking like normal, giving us context and then... Part one. I saw a title for tone, cinematography, music, and your normal sentences on screen all before 2 minutes of video😬 By dividing the essay into parts, this will allow you to discuss all of those elements in between and still be able to thread the character arcs, buzz words, etc. And you can place those titles into different parts, more organization. That allows the viewer to say, "I think I'll study part 2 for now before moving on." Imagine that. Two: you really kept it consistent with your examination of the themes of identity and beauty. There was also this nuance where you showed a character talking about seeing a dead homeless woman and how sad she looked. Then you cut to a dead Lester with a smile. You allowed me to catch that on my own without beating me over the head. Perfect. Be careful with your wording. "Subtext is apparent through the lens of everything else thus far." By not saying what type of lens (spiritual, existential, identity) this sentence becomes abstract. Always be conscious of appropriate modifiers. You're a writer. "Trying to force an identity is as problematic as having none at all." Perfect!!!! Three: you're almost there, super sayain level 1000. Just keep grinding. This was your best format thus far, so happy to see you experimenting even though you have to deal with your other life, independent from critical work. Seriously consider the division of parts. It's gonna let you expand on textual threads and visual continuities in whatever film you're examining and thread those different elements within your overall essay. I'm about to rewatch this bro because it's so good. Take care
bob polo I'll keep ALL this in mind for my next video. Especially the bit on the subtext phrasing. Structure is key to clarity, so if I can continue to improve on that, I'll take any suggestion. Sorry I can't reply to everything specifically. Just know I'm taking it to heart, appreciate the time taken to type it up, and have no time at the moment.
I've always loved the movie, still one of my favorites. Lester to me was the focus and gave the message. However, years later and the allegations against Spacey came to light. Now? The parts with Angela are REALLY tough to watch
you're so enticing in a way i can't describe, i'm so amazed with the way you talk and the things you say, so poetic yet precise, i could listen to your analysis for hours and i wouldn't feel bored at all, it's sad being surrounded by people that just don't get it, movies are so beautiful and full of messages waiting to be deciphered, it's truly breathtaking seeing that people like you have such passion when talking about movies, sorry for the long comment, props to you sir❤️
I knew this movie was a master piece the first time I saw it in my twenties. Twenty years later I'm still trying to wrap my head around its complexity.
That was awesome! Your analysis is so substantive that it is impossible to take it all in with one viewing. How are you able to analyze this movie the way you do and talk that way you do in your analysis? The way you phrase a sentence is incredible to me. I can't really describe what it is you're doing but I just know that it's simple but encapsulating the way you speak. I would love to be able to speak like that. Please keep the videos coming.
Well thank you very much! I've been kinda down about my work recently, so it's great to have such nice words sent my way. I've been thinking about doing some "teaching" videos to show how I analyze or break down any given piece of media. Just stay tuned.
Please do so! I have just recently come across your channel, and, while I enjoy your videos tremendously, there are only a limited amount of films one man can analyse. I always feel like I am missing out on half the fun due to my limited ability to break down films and discover its (hidden) messages and themes. Teaching your viewers a tool set to do so themselves would be perfect.
The best moments for me is my morning cigarrete right after I eat breakfast. Sad but its true. All kidding aside, the video was amazing. The first time I wathced the movie, I was 15 and it blew my fucking teenage mind. Still is one of my favourite movies. And now that I am much older, it even has more meaning than ever.
9:00 Identity is used as a synonym for "meaningful life" in some circles Trying to force an identity is as problematic as having none at all. It makes us narrow minded and withholds Joy. Even living within an established life, where you'd think one can build on themselves, it still can keep people in a depressive state. So how do we avoid this? Perhaps shedding off that past obsession with the image being chased. Maybe it's just relaxing. It feels good to indulge in nostalgia, and have the things at one point that you only dreamed of. ... even the things that made you feel guilty. Obsession often leads to new obsession, unfortunately, which can get out of hand - or inappropriate. Taking control of a shadow or mirror self seems great, but it involves so much turmoil. Yet there are those who live inside that state constantly, which is another way to try and escape these identity crises. But as stated, it creates a person that CAN be happy, and sees the things that other people take for granted, while on the other hand keeps them from experiencing full joy, due to their split. So if "too much understanding" at one time, has us getting obsessed with the new vision. Then only having it half the time, still has the person miserable, then wouldn't embracing it throughout life mean that's the way to live? Sure! But who's like that?? I mean there are going to be those who haven't taken that first step into their mold yet. But who would understand how to subvert this longing for meaning and identify, from the beginning of life? Actually, what even is this understanding that these "partially enlightened" are seeing? Joy from Beauty in the small things? What does that entail? Why is it important? Is there beauty in what's behind things? Enough to create meaning? Probably not. But ISN'T there joy in those things? Those small things, if they are meaningless ... only great to the individual. Simply, generically beautiful. Express forces beyond our control. Things we failed at. Are objectively sad, or just ... are. Isn't that something?? At least more than presenting ourselves for other people, in hopes that it exudes purpose.
A true spiritual movie ! I understand it better than before because I had an awakening and some profound experiences with meditation. Reality is perfect as it is, it's infinite beauty. The ego project his judgements and fear on reality and this is why we think Reality's harsh or not perfect at all. Ego isn't truth, being is. Reality is pure beingness, there is no moral, no judgement, no language, it only is. And we're not separate from it, we are it. Now you don't have to believe me, if you want to know learn to be and within years you'll see by direct experiences.
My favorite symbol in the movie is one that I never hear anyone discuss. It's not just the blood on the counter reflecting Lester's smiling face, it's the blood on the floor. It's an exclamation point. It's the punchline. Life seems important, but it slips away into a small puddle of liquid. TADA!
Probably the best movie i have ever seen. Watched it when I was 17 loved it. Now at 37 still a great movie. Probably one of the best movies I have ever seen
The morning after I saw this movie I asked my husband for a divorce. I identified so strongly with Spacey's character and being a middle aged poor woman with zero attraction for teen girls I never really understood why I felt that way. I just knew I didn't want to die living unhappy but secure. Your explanation makes sense to me. I understand now why I identified with him. :)
I rarely bother to comment on anything. You are incredibly good at breaking things apart. Please keep making videos. "She's just waiting in other people's quicksand." Dude.
I thought it was symbolic. The young girl that he is obsessed with is his youth. He believes that by sleeping with her that he can recapture some of that freedom. He comes to the realization just like when he starts to get intimate with her that it is wrong. His time has past and he sbould take joy in his life now. Maybe help his family recapture some of that spark. It's just when he realizes his life is perfect the way it is that he is shot. I believe that is why the photographer boyfriend smiles at the look on the father's face because it is complete bliss. However like many great movies, it can mean different things to different people.
I saw this movie back when it was brand new, I was around 20 and I thought that it was stupid. Now at 42 I saw it again and it's one of the best movies I've ever seen. Very good review!!!
This movie talks to me in a different way. The movie says there's so much beauty that you can't take it but relax and it flows through you. It speaks to me through love rather than something as common as beauty. I've wanted to be married and be with my soulmate since I started liking girls, which was literally in Kindergarten. I saw the beauty of love through the relationship of my parents. August 15, 2017 they will have been together for 25 years. I saw the best parts, worst parts, hardest parts and easiest parts of love through them. I knew the meaning of love at 15 and only knew more of it as I grew older. I talk to my soulmate in spirit on a regular basis. I talk to her like I would pray to God. Her name is Lexie. I've wanted love like my parents have for so long. They never really taught me how to show someone I love them. So, I always just threw it all on the table and scared them away. My heart to this day is so full of love that it has become a burden that ways me down. It constantly weighs me down because I have no woman to give this love. I have no woman because women don't want the love I have to offer. The love I have is true love. The love I witness in my parents marriage everyday. Women that want that love don't exist. Not in my world anyway... Is this Lexie I told you of even real? Am I crazy because my own love has weighed me down to rock bottom? Then I watched this movie and everything just felt okay. That being said, I haven't found a way to let go of my love so it can flow through me rather than weigh me down. I'd really like some help with that one. I was born in 93, so I understand the end of history thing. We appreciate that all the hardships from world wars, racism, diseases, and other things are gone but we have no direction now. We're just a bunch of half alive misguided ghosts. We're half alive because we have no direction. We're misguided because we listen to the unwise(Hollywood, the media)trying to tell us what to do. This and Shawshank Redemption are my favorite movies of all time.
Can I ask you, IF you don't mind of course, and you are still using this account, given that this comment was written 6 years ago.....has your opinion changed? Did you find Lexie....in all her glory? You must be around your 30's now... I don't even know why I went through this rabbit hole on YT watching a video about the movie, then scrolling down the comments. Your comment related to me in a way that I was holding my breath and watching the screen for 20 minutes before I pressed reply. I'm just curious. I'm a female, with sort of completely different experience than yours in regards to my parents life, but the sentiment is the same still...
I remember lying on my friend's bed as he surfed the net, and the haunting American beauty theme music played in the back ground, when my friend said out of the blue. " The problem with you is you won't allow anyone to love you" My expression changed I felt my soul for a brief moment escaped my body, as that truth speared my heart. That has always stuck with me. We no longer have contact. That music always reminds me of that moment.
i just finished this movie and im crying an ocean 😭😭😭😭😭 i really feel so much for every characters. especially right now that im alone in quarantine and doing my best to be grateful everyday. omg i love this movie 😭
This came out when I was 17 so the 90's were my "day" At the time all we wanted to do was be back in the 80's or 70's but I look back somewhat fondly at it. (I say somewhat because life as a minority back then was still a horror show) Life had more meaning, more purpose compared to today where everything is uncovered and it's mostly awful. We see the world as it is today, and it's hard to look.
I never before really noticed how beautifully Angela showed that she truly cares for Lester (11:10) and with that she literally saved Lester overwhelmed with solitude from crying. Such a fantastically played scene. And it is may be the only scene of the movie where people really care about each other and understand each other
The music works so well because it sounds so tribal. They use sounds of rain, birds, drums, moaning, steam, crystal. It's the opposite of the dull, planned, OCD structure of modern western life.
I'm 34 and I'm amazed I had never actually come across this as I lived and grew up during this era of time and obviously can relate to it. I was absolutely blown away by this movie and felt it hit so many deep sentiments of the time it was filmed and even modern day.
It seems as if many of the characters desire what they dont have, things theyve lost or things they cant have. To them these things are beautiful as signified by the rose. What they fail to realize is that beauty is all around us. They also seem to juxtapose the concepts of freedom and structure with characters like space desiring freedom and people like the gay neighbors dad wanting structure too much freedom makes you oblivious to beauty around you
This movie means just as much to me as a 40 year old man, as it did to me as an 18 year old teenager, but in two totally different ways. A phenomenal piece of art which only some people will truly appreciate.
american beauty is in my opinion one of the best movies ever made. It is a complex movie, the story is great and the characters and actors as well. Most movies come even close to this one...did the film get an oscar or the sound? it should.
Thank you, dude. You have no idea how much I enjoy listening to/watching your perspective on some of the finest films I've seen. Lately I've been struggling with deconstructing how my own life unraveled and became derelict and meaningless, so I started rewatching films and browsing youtube for essays, deconstructions and perspectives to keep my mind occupied and "stay in the light". It's refreshing to listen to other people's standpoints on these masterpieces and you're doing a fine job at keeping depression away. You're awesome!
American Beauty and Fight Club both started with a character liberating himself (in part by growing a backbone), but how the theme transitioned to beauty here wasn’t clear to me. It seemed the beauty was imposed externally by the exquisite music and artistic direction instead of internally structured through the character oppositions. Correct me where I have a blindspot
@@GamingBusterOneAndOnly hi. There are plenty of films like this. I'm going to send a title a month. Tell me what you think after viewing. Be sure to not read any reviews or watch any trailers it could ruin your enjoyment. 1 "Silver lining playbook."
I really liked your interpretation of this movie. I watched this movie many times, but it never occurred to me that it's about people's identity & life meaning. I thought it was about life in the American Suburbs. If you do 'a what it all meant video' on 'In the heart of the sea' or 'Life of Pi', it will be awesome.
Can't wait! Who knows your channel will be so popular then, and Yann Martel might do an interpretation for your channel (like fight mediocrity channel). That will be awesome!
The idea of "joy in small things" is really a reference to the joy of being. In other words, joy isn't derived from anything at all. It comes from a state of acceptance, of being at peace.
I can agree with that.
Thank you. I could phrase it a dozen different ways, but this is the essence. Whatever you want to call it, it's as Lester says at the end, letting it flow. If you try to hold onto it, beauty, you'll never have it. Just be.
That’s so true very wise
You're right. And even though joy can come from outside of yourself, from moments that show themselves to you, you have to be in a state of acceptance & peace like you said to not just receive it but welcome it.
Which if anything, goes AGAINST the American ideal. That's the brilliance. We're always told to strive, compete, & never settle.
The symbol isn't just of a "rose", and while your words on that make sense, it's not what was intended.
The "American Beauty" is a breed of roses, so the title refers to this breed of roses that while being pretty and appealing in appearance, is often prone to rot underneath at the roots and branches of the plant. Thus, the tagline "...look closer" tells the viewer that when they look beyond the "perfect suburban life," they will find something rancid at the root.
It's not only the rose it's also the color red like when the camera focuses on the red door near the end
Thanks, I didn't know this but it makes a lot of sense!
Everyone has a different perspective.
@ Yummy Sounds. I would agree with this. This movie is what you choose to make of it IMHO. I tried to articulate to someone why "American Beauty" is one of my favorite movies of all-time and I just couldn't put my finger on it. Of course, it's a scathing indictment of modern American life at the surface, but it's more of a philosophical movie to me. As Sam Mendes (the director) said "It was amazing that a movie where the pivotal scene is a dancing plastic bag, was embraced and understood so greatly." The "Plastic Bag Scene" and Spacey's monologue at the end, make that movie for me personally. Just pure beauty. No pun intended. Beauty and happiness are fleeting in life and not even Rickey's video camera could hold on to either.
CinephiliacProdction Excellent
This is probably my favorite film of all time. It really is the ride, the roller coaster, that makes this movie for me. The highs and lows are just...amazing. Along with the music, it really makes a viewing experience I have never matched.
Check out Revolutionary Road !
jason antigua I will!
Even though Revolutionary road is a great film, it doesn't match the greatness of American Beauty
I totally agree. This is my alltime favorite drama and I've been watching it at least once a year since I had seen it in the cinema when it first came out.
One of my all time favorites too. It cannot be matched. The soundtrack is so thought provoking along with the great drama and filming. I love questioning the image of beauty and how people present themselves in society. This movie is definitely one that can be watched over and over again, as it provokes new thoughts each time.
Just watched this movie last night, and It lives up to its name. It's one of the most beautiful films I've ever seen. And no matter how sad the ending is for many reasons, it still has major payoff.
This is a film if I see it is on Netflix, I will play it going to sleep. Easily watched it 40 times. I find it very touching. Who isn’t trying to put on a face like they’re living a dream but all of us are struggling.
I love movies and watched American Beauty when I was 13. From the writing, performances, cinematography, and score it was THE movie that opened my eyes to what filmmaking was. Still is one of my favourite films! A True Masterpiece.
Thank you so much for your work. I watched this video when I was going through rough times, and through it, I managed to understand certain aspects of life which helped me overcome the issues I was facing back then.
I always come back to this video, this is a timeless video.
Thank you!
The new format is really nice. I enjoy how you thank the viewer(s) at the end of your videos. keep up the good work
The American western lifestyle portrayed in this film is completely different to the east / Asia.
I'm and going to rewatch your vids and add a like to all off them
Always remember to watch what you wish for. Thru the course of the movie, everyone gets exactly what they wanted and each person ends up worse for it. I guess except Ricky, he got the girl he wanted but he also is able to see the beauty in things others cant.
What an absolutely amazingly beautiful and meaningful film, thanks for the analysis :)
The beauty of explanation
....Your explanation
Masterpiece indeed.Idle minds in suburbia. How the smallest things even if they hadn't happened, have no change on the destiny of the larger outcome in their lives. Example, the beer almost spilling on the couch- had he spilt it or she didn't see the near mishap, they may have rekindled lost passions? Yet would it have mattered?
I just watched this movie and I didn't understand it and this really helped so thanks 👌🏽
One of your best videos!
Well thank you!
Harold Haroldson True
Harold Haroldson don't be negative, It wasn't what it meant ;P
I saw this when I was 14ish, couldn't get it thought it was a terrible movie.
Watched again today, and my god this has hit me like a tonne of bricks, absolutely fantastic movie
I dig the new format eh!! :D
I believe this is the kind of movie that's just getting better and better to you as you get older.
Yeah, it hit me really hard in high school, but now I know more people that are like these character
Thank you for sharing your insight, Mate :")
Floren Nakajima exactly what I thought! when i first saw it, I was 12 years old and thought it's boring. I'm 18 now (i know i'm still very young) and i've watched it at least 5 times at different age and every time it's so cool to think back how I used to think about that film. absolutely fell in love with it at 17.
So right. I just rewatched it at 24. I remember watching it in my teens and sneak watching it when I was really young. It’s such a great movie.
Like wine.
as a kid in the nineties we didn't have much money and I was jealous of the families in this movie.. Then I got older and pitied them. The beauty is anywhere and everywhere though in truth.
Hell yeah....
i hear that!
Amen brother
Joe Urban I feel you bro. Peace
MWAH me too
American Beauty is a true masterpiece. One of my favorite films of all time.
Martin Dean He's probably American, we don't use the "u" in such a way.
You know shit is good when you say film instead of movie
why? it's not really a feel good film. by the end of it you feel like there's no point to life. what's good about that?
@@olegdepapa the fact that this film was able to evoke that particular emotion for you is skillful in itself.
i slept on this film and been watching clips definitely watching soon
American Beauty and Fight Club gave such good representations of the corporate 90's
Office Space and the Matrix are also good ones.
What about Glengarry Glen Ross. Loved that one too.
And American Psycho
+Sue Donym isn't american psycho about a bunch of 80's yuppies
Genuine//Imitations It was a perfect, graphic and somewhat comedic critique of corporate (mostly Wall St workers) in the 90s. A beautiful portrayal of the superficiality and meaninglessness of that lifestyle.
People always think they want stuff but they actually want happiness. They spend their entire lives chasing after it but fail to ever grasp it fully
Pure happiness is when you're a child i reckon. As you get older you just have snippets of fun.
@@some_randomninja Pure happiness as a concept doesn't exist, I don't think. Ups and downs are inevitable in life, no matter how healthy, wealthy, and full of love your life is. The idea that you all you have to do is obtain this one thing, then you'll be happy forever, is just impossible. Happiness is a feeling, an emotion, not a lifestyle.
The way I see it, happiness comes in waves, and you really have to be present in the moment to accept the opportunity to ride that wave when it comes by.
That's how you fully appreciate the ups, now as for the downs... I think it helps if you find a way to enjoy the times in between those waves happiness, or atleast come to terms with them instead of letting yourself feel stuck or worse, actually causing yourself to be stuck by giving up and settling into the cesspool instead of continuing to try climbing out of it.
The "bad times" we go through don't have to be the "worst times." Finding a way to still enjoy things and letting yourself love the people in your life as well as seeking comfort in them, is the best way to use the downtime. But a lot of people just say to themselves "well this fucking sucks" and they sit in that shitty attitude, and that only makes it worse, and last longer. What's worse is when they fully give up. Then... you could lose years of your life, or for some people, they never find a way out of that, and are lost forever from that point.
Long story short, try and find new things in life to love, and appreciate the things and people you already love, because surrounding yourself with good people is really more important than you'll probably ever be aware of.
Happiness is a byproduct
@@Meisterling calmness is an inate quality of the mind and its often mistaken as a hole that needs to be filled with stuff like phones, cars,etc
@@Jack-rk7jc The great misstep of evolution occurred once homo sapiens gained consciousness. Before, we acted on instincts of hunger, sexual reproduction, and survival. However, with the addition of consciousness, humans now spend the entirety of their brief existence searching for the elusive feelings of "happiness" and "love". Although some may feel they have obtained these imagined emotional states, in reality, they have merely released certain chemicals in their brain. Despite the darkness and nihilistic nature of our futile existence, we somehow manage to get out of bed everyday.
When it's late I get all philosophical and shit and watch videos like these
Good! Keep at it
I know right? It's 3 AM on a Friday morning and here I am pondering the meaning of beauty.
Roy Boy that's me every night join the club dude
r/iamverysmart
Same, when my mind is too tired to keep up the facade of controlling everything I tend to turn toward this sort of stuff.
People make fun of that thing with the dancing bag...but IT'S REAL. I was walking down the street one day when a plastic bag jump right in front of me and did a miraculous dance. It was like ballet but with a bag! Then, this bag followed me for two blocks as I walked down the street! I'll never forget the look on this cat's face as he watched this bag trailing behind me as we passed by his front lawn. Hollywood isn't always full of crap (just most of the time).
PROVEN FACT VIDEOS you were probably smoking that same stuff Ricky Fitts was
There is a whole life behind things, Search "Truth Contest" and read the top entry called The Present. The truth will set you free
Grace Ful if it was so true no one would need a book to know it
User name checks out
I thought it was cool
I think you could possibly even add on to the symbolism. Not only are the roses a primary symbol, but in a more broader sense, the color red is represented throughout the entire film. The red roses, the front door, the red behind buddy kane's advertisements, the red car, the sweater with red flowers worn by jane, and even the red oven pan, etc. And red represents so many different things like sexuality, love, rebellion, life force, and the soul.
Daniel Miller also anger and hate
You forgot the blood at the end.
The soul is represented by red?! In what philosophy?
Of course, Tyler Durden when he is introduced wears white because the narrator is still sort of processing the very being of Tyler, when he realizes he wears red, the aforementioned colour. But in the end he wears black, the color of project Mayham to show his true self
Red usually means passion.
Lester Burnam reached self actualization which means he had to die.
Why “he had to”? Nevertheless it made me think also of the movie “A single man”, when Colin Firth’s character reaches the same catharsis and ends up the same...dead...
True. He was complete.
Wake up, Donnie
Wild, a similar thing happens in _Panic_ with William H. Macy
Reminds me of Vanilla Sky a bit. He wakes up the moment he realises he's experiencing a manufactured dream.
Lester is the focus. He's finally found beauty (the little things) but he's been enlightened too late in his life spent here on earth. Ricky shows insight into what the rest of the characters and the audience have the capability to become, enthralled with seeing the beauty in everything. This film is a great lesson in life.
That’s pretty good. Never thought about it that way.
American Beauty was detailing the end of the nuclear family, the end of the conventional American dream, and the innocence of the American youth being replaced by a jaded pessism directed at their parents and elders.
I know I'm late with this reply but you sure said alot there. You're on to something. I absolutely respect the narrator's analysis but in my lowly opinion he is too detailed. I think he may have gone off on a couple tangents. What I got out of the movie is seeing a family 👪 who have lost their way and , believe it or not , they actually still love eachother. They just don't have the tools to be reconciled to eachother. I believe deep down they don't want to fracture or split up. They want to be a family but they are searching in every wrong place to find happiness , but happiness alludes them. They basically have the American dream but what good is it. The American dream deceived them and has basically destroyed them. This accurately reflects thousands of American families right now. Look at all our material success and it robbed us of our heart and soul. Families are wealthy but lost. They're lost.
Couldn't the same be said for the hippies of the late 1960s/early 1970s?
@@sean.furlong1989 not sure . The hippies back in the late 60s were not trying to overthrow or degrade the traditional family unit nor traditional marriage.
I did kind of have that feeling when this came out. Like 'does it mean everything gets worse from here'?
The soundtrack is a masterpiece
Thomas newman should've won the Oscar
@@paperchasindude6578 FACTS
Who knew such simple keys could evoke so much emotion. One of my favorite movie soundtracks ever. So much peace and calmness it brings me.
Had to get that mf on vinyl
When I was a teenager I thought this was just a cool movie, but as a grown man I think it's a masterpiece.
1: Cruel Intentions
2: American Beauty
3: Fight Club
In this order, for the message behind the movie. All great movies, all have a deep thoughtful reality of people trying to cope with their life.
Donnie Darko and the Matrix will round the list off... late 90s they were opening the veil for us.
@@jimmycrackcorn1603 The Matrix? How and why?
The aesthetic of the real world...the crappie clothes and shitty food. The cast seems to yearn to go back in to save others. But they are always dress very autrutrisric, as if they are most posh, for a mission. It seems they have to "dress up" their egos, never manifesting the same things they see daily in the real world.
All 3 came out in 1999! Along with Office Space.
dont forget office space
And Another thing. From now on we're going to alternate our dinner music because frankly, and I don't think I'm alone here, I 'm getting a little tired of this Lawrence Welk Shit.
Paul y Lol!
This movie profoundly hit me in a way I can’t even explain
Same
Yeah, I feel you there.
Same here…
Same for.. I'm looking for other movies which give same feel
Man frfr it’s like the feeling of the fall
Thomas Newman's "American Beauty" theme music has ALWAYS touched my soul, and makes me ACHE for something I cannot define (And I'm normally not the most "spiritual" of people) but this soundtrack just DOES this to me. So much so that driving to my mother's funeral 9 years ago, I purposely listened to it, just to reinforce its power on me. The single piano with string accompaniment is such a DEEPLY moving motif.
Thomas Newman has some really great scores. This might be the best. But White Oleander, Meet Joe Black, Road to Perdition, Finding Nemo, Shawshank, Cinderella Man, and The Iron Lady are all fantastic.
A rare thing these days... a truly great American film.
Yeah, but look when it was made. They sure aren't making any good movies any more.
whats so great about it?
Made by a Brit though
@@kasdfg776 what do you mean? Parasite came out and won oscars. Your name came out and received praise
No way, I saw this movie for the first time 2 nights ago and you post it NOW!!! That's awesome. I love coincidences so much.
There are no coincidences
Where were you for the past 17 years? this movie was released back in 1999 lol.
blooduhz Just never got around to seeing it! I actually hadn't even heard much about it until some friends suggested it to me.
Synchronicity is the word you are searching for
I just watched your analysis of American Beauty, and in going through the comments, I saw a month ago you said that you had been feeling down on yourself.
Knock that crap off, buddy. Your analysis of American Beauty was MIND BLOWING. Tonight, I've been doing a lot of thinking about my relationships, life and death, notions of "God", the universe, beauty, peace, meaning... and to cap the evening off with your analysis of American Beauty was fantastic.
"Taking control of a shadow or mirror self seems great, but... it involves so much turmoil. Yet there are those who live inside that state constantly, which is another way to try and escape these identity crises, but as stated, it creates a person that can be happy and sees the things other people take for granted, while on the other hand keeps them from experiencing full joy due to their split."
In that one paragraph, you were able to accurately summarize my entire 'existential crisis' that I've been analyzing for the last several years of my life.
You are an incredibly bright, intelligent person. You have an incredible way with words, that is "substantive" as someone else put it, and is so succinct and poignant that even I, who consider myself a word-smith, find myself envious :).
Keep up the fantastic work!
All I can really say is thanks. Not to diminish what you said in the slightest, but every once and a while I'll get a comment or email or what have you like yours that helps to alleviate the sort of petty depression I fall into. I appreciate it so much.
+What it all Meant there is no depth without pain my bro. I'm in the same boat as you! Thanks for video my man 📹 peace ✌
@@WhatitallMeant just wanted to say thanks for this video. This was a great review for a classic film
Trying a new format, any feedback is greatly appreciated. Hopefully you like it!
Love this movie love your channel
It works well! another great deconstruction, it seems i missed out a few things from this classic. Much appreciated.
Very straightforward while still keep in the unique way in which you deconstruct something. Feels very specific and clear. Great job!
+Donte Newmy Hopefully, I'm going to try to have A Clockwork Orange out by next week
Brilliant mate, no BS just straight to the point with using the perfect clips to back up your points. There was nothing wrong with the previous format however this seems a lot better
I love what you're doing and find it very enlightening and educational. Please keep going!
My favorite movie. It's an absolute masterpiece
May I request a movie, Lolita. It's one of my favorite movies, it's a bit of an odd movie. Glad to have found your channel.. (:
Stacey Xtra yasss just watched it and i'm so confused
This film reminds me of Lolita too!
Which version? Irons?
Thank you for doing justice to this movie, it's a pretty special film for me. I also want to mention as a professional classical musician, that the soundtrack of this movie was groundbreaking, we can hear the minimalist score influence in many films and trailers that we see even today.
Oh yeah, if these were reviews/retrospectives rather than thematic analysis, you better believe that section would have been much longer
What it all Meant I want this to be straight to the point. This was a clear step up, literally. I got to about 7 minutes and had to pause the video because of so much essential information being tossed my way, I mean that in a good way. Your critical writing has evolved and the dead pan delivery was in full effect. Perfect balance of objective analysis combined with subjective observation.
One: too many titles, way too many. Your potential for tight structures really showed in this video, so I would suggest dividing your analysis into 3 parts and a conclusion. This will allow you to have the title, Part one: whatever, Part two: whatever, conclusion etc. Movies have 3 acts and a conclusion, why not film essays? Having so many titles is unnecessary. You begin with an opening statement about how the film is about identity and beauty. Just keep talking like normal, giving us context and then... Part one.
I saw a title for tone, cinematography, music, and your normal sentences on screen all before 2 minutes of video😬 By dividing the essay into parts, this will allow you to discuss all of those elements in between and still be able to thread the character arcs, buzz words, etc. And you can place those titles into different parts, more organization. That allows the viewer to say, "I think I'll study part 2 for now before moving on." Imagine that.
Two: you really kept it consistent with your examination of the themes of identity and beauty. There was also this nuance where you showed a character talking about seeing a dead homeless woman and how sad she looked. Then you cut to a dead Lester with a smile. You allowed me to catch that on my own without beating me over the head. Perfect.
Be careful with your wording. "Subtext is apparent through the lens of everything else thus far." By not saying what type of lens (spiritual, existential, identity) this sentence becomes abstract. Always be conscious of appropriate modifiers. You're a writer. "Trying to force an identity is as problematic as having none at all." Perfect!!!!
Three: you're almost there, super sayain level 1000. Just keep grinding. This was your best format thus far, so happy to see you experimenting even though you have to deal with your other life, independent from critical work.
Seriously consider the division of parts. It's gonna let you expand on textual threads and visual continuities in whatever film you're examining and thread those different elements within your overall essay. I'm about to rewatch this bro because it's so good. Take care
bob polo I'll keep ALL this in mind for my next video. Especially the bit on the subtext phrasing. Structure is key to clarity, so if I can continue to improve on that, I'll take any suggestion. Sorry I can't reply to everything specifically. Just know I'm taking it to heart, appreciate the time taken to type it up, and have no time at the moment.
Thomas Newman "Any Other Name".. The track suits the film perfectly.
I love Thomas Newman. My favorite is The Orchard from Phenom
I've always loved the movie, still one of my favorites. Lester to me was the focus and gave the message. However, years later and the allegations against Spacey came to light. Now? The parts with Angela are REALLY tough to watch
you're so enticing in a way i can't describe, i'm so amazed with the way you talk and the things you say, so poetic yet precise, i could listen to your analysis for hours and i wouldn't feel bored at all, it's sad being surrounded by people that just don't get it, movies are so beautiful and full of messages waiting to be deciphered, it's truly breathtaking seeing that people like you have such passion when talking about movies, sorry for the long comment, props to you sir❤️
Well thank you! Glad I can be that for you.
bro, you just got an admirer.
IKR! people don't care about the meaning of the movie anymore these days..
a rich analysis for a film rich in meaning. cant get any better
I knew this movie was a master piece the first time I saw it in my twenties. Twenty years later I'm still trying to wrap my head around its complexity.
ITs about a guy trying to bone a underage girl. There nothing complex about it.
So death is the penultimate freedom.
Death is imprisoned by life, just as life is imprisoned by death. Freedom only comes from being at peace with the state in which you are already in.
no, acceptance is
Lol this movie is stupid the blonde was the only normal one
@@xzaviermalibu6276 you sound like the blonde lol
Great analysis - fun little detail: at 4:54 Jane is wearing a rose-patterned sweater.
The most revolutionary thing someone can do is be happy
Happiness do not remain constant throughout the life span but vary from one stage of life to another. ;)
I think there is something red in almost every scene..
american beauty and american psycho are my two favourite movies so the fall out boy album is great haha
Leah M cray cray! Nearly exact same as me and exact same top favourite movies 😂
That was awesome! Your analysis is so substantive that it is impossible to take it all in with one viewing. How are you able to analyze this movie the way you do and talk that way you do in your analysis? The way you phrase a sentence is incredible to me. I can't really describe what it is you're doing but I just know that it's simple but encapsulating the way you speak. I would love to be able to speak like that. Please keep the videos coming.
Well thank you very much! I've been kinda down about my work recently, so it's great to have such nice words sent my way. I've been thinking about doing some "teaching" videos to show how I analyze or break down any given piece of media. Just stay tuned.
Please do so! I have just recently come across your channel, and, while I enjoy your videos tremendously, there are only a limited amount of films one man can analyse. I always feel like I am missing out on half the fun due to my limited ability to break down films and discover its (hidden) messages and themes. Teaching your viewers a tool set to do so themselves would be perfect.
I agree, very insightful break down.
Dude do eternal sunshine for the spotless mind
Maybe soon
you seen it trippy movie
This was an incredibly well done analysis. You've put into words the meaning that I felt.
Never enjoyed a movie as much as this one.
A wonderful movie. Explores the human frailty. Dysfunctional families and miss guided fantasies.
The best moments for me is my morning cigarrete right after I eat breakfast. Sad but its true. All kidding aside, the video was amazing. The first time I wathced the movie, I was 15 and it blew my fucking teenage mind. Still is one of my favourite movies. And now that I am much older, it even has more meaning than ever.
I don't think the movie is as good as it used to be when it was released back in 1999, and it did not age well for Spacey.
It meant that Kevin Spacey is a Brilliant Actor!
9:00
Identity is used as a synonym for "meaningful life" in some circles
Trying to force an identity is as problematic as having none at all.
It makes us narrow minded and withholds Joy.
Even living within an established life, where you'd think one can build on themselves,
it still can keep people in a depressive state.
So how do we avoid this?
Perhaps shedding off that past obsession with the image being chased.
Maybe it's just relaxing.
It feels good to indulge in nostalgia, and have the things at one point that you only dreamed of.
... even the things that made you feel guilty.
Obsession often leads to new obsession, unfortunately, which can get out of hand - or inappropriate.
Taking control of a shadow or mirror self seems great, but it involves so much turmoil.
Yet there are those who live inside that state constantly, which is another way to try and escape these identity crises.
But as stated, it creates a person that CAN be happy, and sees the things that other people take for granted,
while on the other hand keeps them from experiencing full joy, due to their split.
So if "too much understanding" at one time, has us getting obsessed with the new vision.
Then only having it half the time, still has the person miserable,
then wouldn't embracing it throughout life mean that's the way to live?
Sure! But who's like that??
I mean there are going to be those who haven't taken that first step into their mold yet.
But who would understand how to subvert this longing for meaning and identify, from the beginning of life?
Actually, what even is this understanding that these "partially enlightened" are seeing?
Joy from Beauty in the small things? What does that entail?
Why is it important? Is there beauty in what's behind things?
Enough to create meaning? Probably not.
But ISN'T there joy in those things?
Those small things, if they are meaningless ... only great to the individual.
Simply, generically beautiful. Express forces beyond our control.
Things we failed at. Are objectively sad, or just ... are.
Isn't that something??
At least more than presenting ourselves for other people, in hopes that it exudes purpose.
Really impressive work, Sir!
I am looking forward to listening to more!
Thank you for transcription :) I am French and I had difficulty distinguishing certain words!
A true spiritual movie ! I understand it better than before because I had an awakening and some profound experiences with meditation. Reality is perfect as it is, it's infinite beauty. The ego project his judgements and fear on reality and this is why we think Reality's harsh or not perfect at all. Ego isn't truth, being is. Reality is pure beingness, there is no moral, no judgement, no language, it only is.
And we're not separate from it, we are it.
Now you don't have to believe me, if you want to know learn to be and within years you'll see by direct experiences.
My favorite symbol in the movie is one that I never hear anyone discuss. It's not just the blood on the counter reflecting Lester's smiling face, it's the blood on the floor. It's an exclamation point. It's the punchline. Life seems important, but it slips away into a small puddle of liquid. TADA!
Probably the best movie i have ever seen. Watched it when I was 17 loved it. Now at 37 still a great movie. Probably one of the best movies I have ever seen
You might want to watch more movies.
The haunting music score. And Kevin Spacey and the pothead did it for me.
The morning after I saw this movie I asked my husband for a divorce. I identified so strongly with Spacey's character and being a middle aged poor woman with zero attraction for teen girls I never really understood why I felt that way. I just knew I didn't want to die living unhappy but secure. Your explanation makes sense to me. I understand now why I identified with him. :)
too late in life lol...but you're still alive, so there's that.
that's terrible.
How's The Single Life
@@westkanye4005 lmfaooooo
That's awful you abandoned your marriage because you saw a movie? Did you make it to the end? He realized his life wasn't that bad.
I rarely bother to comment on anything. You are incredibly good at breaking things apart. Please keep making videos.
"She's just waiting in other people's quicksand." Dude.
Glad you decided to! And I will, A Clockwork Orange is next
Background music has been my wake up alarm for years. That piano is the most gentle sound to wake up to.
Same it's so brilliant
Whats the name of the track?
@@eadams1057 The track is called "Any other name" by Thomas Newman
@@Mindzinsuk thanks
Pseudo intellectual drivel.
I thought it was symbolic. The young girl that he is obsessed with is his youth. He believes that by sleeping with her that he can recapture some of that freedom. He comes to the realization just like when he starts to get intimate with her that it is wrong. His time has past and he sbould take joy in his life now. Maybe help his family recapture some of that spark. It's just when he realizes his life is perfect the way it is that he is shot. I believe that is why the photographer boyfriend smiles at the look on the father's face because it is complete bliss. However like many great movies, it can mean different things to different people.
this changed the way I see movies for ever I can't believe how ignorant I've been
I saw this movie back when it was brand new, I was around 20 and I thought that it was stupid. Now at 42 I saw it again and it's one of the best movies I've ever seen. Very good review!!!
This movie talks to me in a different way. The movie says there's so much beauty that you can't take it but relax and it flows through you. It speaks to me through love rather than something as common as beauty. I've wanted to be married and be with my soulmate since I started liking girls, which was literally in Kindergarten. I saw the beauty of love through the relationship of my parents. August 15, 2017 they will have been together for 25 years. I saw the best parts, worst parts, hardest parts and easiest parts of love through them. I knew the meaning of love at 15 and only knew more of it as I grew older. I talk to my soulmate in spirit on a regular basis. I talk to her like I would pray to God. Her name is Lexie. I've wanted love like my parents have for so long. They never really taught me how to show someone I love them. So, I always just threw it all on the table and scared them away. My heart to this day is so full of love that it has become a burden that ways me down. It constantly weighs me down because I have no woman to give this love. I have no woman because women don't want the love I have to offer. The love I have is true love. The love I witness in my parents marriage everyday. Women that want that love don't exist. Not in my world anyway... Is this Lexie I told you of even real? Am I crazy because my own love has weighed me down to rock bottom? Then I watched this movie and everything just felt okay. That being said, I haven't found a way to let go of my love so it can flow through me rather than weigh me down. I'd really like some help with that one. I was born in 93, so I understand the end of history thing. We appreciate that all the hardships from world wars, racism, diseases, and other things are gone but we have no direction now. We're just a bunch of half alive misguided ghosts. We're half alive because we have no direction. We're misguided because we listen to the unwise(Hollywood, the media)trying to tell us what to do. This and Shawshank Redemption are my favorite movies of all time.
Can I ask you, IF you don't mind of course, and you are still using this account, given that this comment was written 6 years ago.....has your opinion changed? Did you find Lexie....in all her glory? You must be around your 30's now...
I don't even know why I went through this rabbit hole on YT watching a video about the movie, then scrolling down the comments.
Your comment related to me in a way that I was holding my breath and watching the screen for 20 minutes before I pressed reply.
I'm just curious.
I'm a female, with sort of completely different experience than yours in regards to my parents life, but the sentiment is the same still...
I remember lying on my friend's bed as he surfed the net, and the haunting American beauty theme music played in the back ground, when my friend said out of the blue. " The problem with you is you won't allow anyone to love you" My expression changed I felt my soul for a brief moment escaped my body, as that truth speared my heart. That has always stuck with me. We no longer have contact. That music always reminds me of that moment.
I want to know character Rick more... He was very behave very strange... At the end he was smiling over kavin death...
it is because, he understanded too, the meaning of the beauty in little things. Despites death, there is a sparkle of beuty in death.
Lol no he’s crazy lol and is a murderer
@@xzaviermalibu6276 Ricky never hurt anyone
i just finished this movie and im crying an ocean 😭😭😭😭😭 i really feel so much for every characters. especially right now that im alone in quarantine and doing my best to be grateful everyday. omg i love this movie 😭
Well this is late. But hope things are better for you these days.
This came out when I was 17 so the 90's were my "day"
At the time all we wanted to do was be back in the 80's or 70's but I look back somewhat fondly at it. (I say somewhat because life as a minority back then was still a horror show) Life had more meaning, more purpose compared to today where everything is uncovered and it's mostly awful. We see the world as it is today, and it's hard to look.
I never before really noticed how beautifully Angela showed that she truly cares for Lester (11:10) and with that she literally saved Lester overwhelmed with solitude from crying. Such a fantastically played scene. And it is may be the only scene of the movie where people really care about each other and understand each other
The music works so well because it sounds so tribal. They use sounds of rain, birds, drums, moaning, steam, crystal. It's the opposite of the dull, planned, OCD structure of modern western life.
you're super talented I don't understand why you're so low on subs
subscribed!!
I found 'American Beauty' an almost perfect movie. Still enjoy it today. Great review and analysis. Thank you.
You should do The Great Gasby
I'm 34 and I'm amazed I had never actually come across this as I lived and grew up during this era of time and obviously can relate to it. I was absolutely blown away by this movie and felt it hit so many deep sentiments of the time it was filmed and even modern day.
It seems as if many of the characters desire what they dont have, things theyve lost or things they cant have. To them these things are beautiful as signified by the rose. What they fail to realize is that beauty is all around us. They also seem to juxtapose the concepts of freedom and structure with characters like space desiring freedom and people like the gay neighbors dad wanting structure too much freedom makes you oblivious to beauty around you
This movie means just as much to me as a 40 year old man, as it did to me as an 18 year old teenager, but in two totally different ways.
A phenomenal piece of art which only some people will truly appreciate.
My favourite film of all time
What about the emasculation of men, decay of society, the matriarcat, being awake or asleep.
An absolutely brilliant movie. Probably my favourite cinematic creation of all time. I say this as a Canadian, too. Love this movie.
american beauty is in my opinion one of the best movies ever made. It is a complex movie, the story is great and the characters and actors as well. Most movies come even close to this one...did the film get an oscar or the sound? it should.
It won 5 Oscars including Best Picture
@@paperchasindude6578 I think it became popular before it won any Oscars.
I loved this movie as a teenager. Watched it at least half a dozen times.
This movie is such a pieve of art. There is hardly anything like it.
this movie is a true work of art. really great acting by the cast
Thank you, dude. You have no idea how much I enjoy listening to/watching your perspective on some of the finest films I've seen. Lately I've been struggling with deconstructing how my own life unraveled and became derelict and meaningless, so I started rewatching films and browsing youtube for essays, deconstructions and perspectives to keep my mind occupied and "stay in the light". It's refreshing to listen to other people's standpoints on these masterpieces and you're doing a fine job at keeping depression away. You're awesome!
Thanks! I'm glad I could do something actually meaningful for you.
Have you watched the movie more than once without looking at your phone during?
One of my all time favorite movies and this is a great analysis!! Nice job!
American Beauty and Fight Club both started with a character liberating himself (in part by growing a backbone), but how the theme transitioned to beauty here wasn’t clear to me. It seemed the beauty was imposed externally by the exquisite music and artistic direction instead of internally structured through the character oppositions. Correct me where I have a blindspot
I don’t get this film at all.
This movie was a masterpiece period.
This is an excellent documentary. I was blown away by American beauty when it came out and still love it to this day.
American Beauty is a film you can understand but cannot expain
That's it
Yeah..
Is there any other movies like this
@@GamingBusterOneAndOnly hi.
There are plenty of films like this.
I'm going to send a title a month. Tell me what you think after viewing. Be sure to not read any reviews or watch any trailers it could ruin your enjoyment.
1 "Silver lining playbook."
I can explain it. Its about a guy in some badly written mid life crisis who wants to fuck a 16 year old.
I really liked your interpretation of this movie. I watched this movie many times, but it never occurred to me that it's about people's identity & life meaning. I thought it was about life in the American Suburbs. If you do 'a what it all meant video' on 'In the heart of the sea' or 'Life of Pi', it will be awesome.
I'm saving Life of Pi for a special time.
Can't wait! Who knows your channel will be so popular then, and Yann Martel might do an interpretation for your channel (like fight mediocrity channel). That will be awesome!
Please do vanilla sky.