This brilliant new character study from first time filmmaker Sam Mendes seems to succeed where such films as The Ice Storm and Happiness failed. This is an expertly written and directed film about the lives of dysfunctional suburbanites that paints a poignant and unpredictable picture that's brimming with character.

Lester Burnham (Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey) can't get a grasp on his unfulfilling life. His wife Carolyn (Annette Bening) is an anal-retentive nag and he has a hard time communicating with his troubled daughter (Thora Birch). This is only scratching the surface, but I refuse to give away any more.

Strangely enough, Bening is the weak link of the film. Her character is supposed to be annoying, but I found it to be a bit excessive. Spacey soars in a performance that deserves to be showered with awards. He adds layer upon layer to this powerfully vulnerable character. Also terrific is Birch, who sheds her little girl image by playing a character who's on the verge of her sexual awakening, while always keeping her integrity and playing it smart. Chris Cooper (The Horse Whisperer, October Sky) is also stunning as Burnham's neighbor--a prejudiced ex-marine.

Sam Mendes is a welcome newcomer with a unique visual style, who's proven he can coax terrific performances from a stellar cast. He suggests taboo situations with honesty and restraint, without feeling the need to shock the audience with gratuity.

One of the film's major themes is seeing beauty in the simplest things. That's fitting because there is much beauty to be found in American Beauty.