American Beauty: A Bust?

Anthony Leong's criticism of the film, American Beauty, suggests its one well presented character isn't going to bring the film justice. Commenting on the "thematically-ambiguous" value of the film, he portrays the point of life insights to be poorly illustrated. The list of well-known and respected actors doesn't save the film from its themes withdrawal; however, Leong implies that Thora Birch's character, Jane Burnham, is the only role that draws you in until the end. Through witty dialogue, the story gets your attention, but it's hard to "root" for the characters because of there crude eccentricities. The director, Sam Mendes, falls short when trying to interpret the rude awakening of the American Dream, leaving one to commit to their own philosophies.