The film American Beauty, directed by Sam Mendes, presents a dark, cynical view of the American dream, but also offers hope. The film depicts the typical lifestyles of those who live in our vision of average, middle-class, suburban life. The film also looks close at, and examines, the more insidious elements of our complex times. Through the use of characterisation, cinematography and colour Sam Mendes successfully communicates these ideas.

Behind all that glossy exterior of two cars, large homes, green grass and perfectly manicured gardens people have to ask themselves are they truly happy with their lives. The film American Beauty delves behind this exterior and starts to examine the lives of those who dwell inside the typical middle-class American suburbia. Overall the film is about beauty. As more is learnt about the people who live on the picture perfect setting of Robin Hood Trail, Anytown, U.S...