Reviews

Setting aside the question of 'Why do we need a remake of an almost perfect original?' I was very pleased with this movie. Credit it, if you will, to Stewart's resonant, commanding voice, but I thought he more than held his own against O'Toole's Henry. Less pomp, more circumstance. Regarding Eleanor, well - nothing could ever top the great Kate's performance in the original movie. Considering the impossibility of doing so, though, I have to say that Glenn Close did a more than admirable job with the role. Indeed, in a couple of scenes – when she was talking but the camera wasn't on her face – you could almost imagine you were hearing Hepburn! Overall, Close's Eleanor was less bitter and acerbic than Hepburn's, but it was still a most valid interpretation of the character. Re: the sons - I didn't care much for Howard's interpretation of Richard – more smarmy posturing rather than the Machiavellian swagger of entitlement that I feel the part calls for (i.e., Anthony Hopkins' portrayal.) But, the characters of Geoffrey and John were cast better in this one, in my opinion, than in the original. Rafe Spall played John's blithering, namby-pamby, spoiled brat to perfection. Also, the sets were wonderful! Big thumbs up.

I've seen this amazing film twice, and I plan to see again at least once on the big screen, then purchase as soon as it's available on video and watch it at least every couple of months to remind myself: 1) what's really important in this life; 2) how the only thing we have to fear is fear itself; 3) that every life has a story; and 4) that beauty permeates each and every moment of our lives, even the low moments. Not only is "American Beauty" well-crafted and excellently executed (writing, directorial, and acting awards are highly merited), it is also visually captivating. The visual theme of the roses throughout the picture is absolutely stunning. This film will likely offend some, but not those who have had, even once in their lives, a glimmer of the kind of insight discovered by Kevin Spacey's character. If you're jaded and you know it, "American Beauty" is a must-see -- not your standard "feel-good" movie, but certainly a welcome wake-up call.