Subjective Beauty in Movie Dynamics: Analyzing 'American Beauty'
In the realm of cinema, the concept of beauty is often depicted as a subjective experience, rather than an objective one. This article explores how the film “American Beauty” portrays the intricate dynamics of beauty through the lens of its characters and visual storytelling. The focus will be on how the directorial choices bring to light the subjective nature of beauty, particularly through the eyes of the troubled teenage boy, Ricky Fitts.
Introduction to Subjective Beauty
Beauty, in its essence, is highly personal and cultural. What one individual finds beautiful might not be deemed attractive by another. This subjectivity is elegantly captured in films such as “American Beauty”. The film explores how beauty is perceived through a narrative that delves into the lives of its characters, each experiencing beauty in their unique ways.
The Role of Ricky Fitts in Analyzing Subjective Beauty
At the heart of the film lies the character of Ricky Fitts, a troubled teenager whose journey and perception of beauty serve as a pivotal thematic pillar. Through his eyes, we are introduced to two distinctly contrasting entities representing conventional and alternative beauty: Angela, the conventionally attractive cheerleader, and Jane, her goth-ish teenage neighbor.
Ricky’s relationship with his surroundings and people is characterized by a deep sense of disconnect, stemming from his strict and controlling father. This familial tension leads to a search for solace and beauty in unconventional places. One of the earliest and most striking examples of Ricky's subjective perception of beauty is his fascination with a plastic bag. In a scene that remains iconic, Ricky films the plastic bag, marveling at its movements and the way it dances in the wind:
“‘It’s the most beautiful thing I ever filmed,’ Ricky says, capturing a moment that is transcendent and poetic.”
Contrasting Representations of Beauty
The juxtaposition between the beauty perceived by Ricky and the societal norm is stark. Angela, the conventionally attractive cheerleader and fashion model, represents the epitome of conventional beauty. In contrast, Jane, Ricky’s goth-ish neighbor, who often plays second fiddle to Angela, is perceived as the alternative, unconventional beauty. However, the film presents beauty in a manner that recognizes its subjective nature, shifting the lens to perceive beauty beyond mere aesthetics:
“Whether Jane or Angela is more beautiful is subjective, but Ricky finds beauty in even the most mundane and discarded objects, like a plastic bag.”
The Power of Visual Storytelling
The film's visual storytelling plays a crucial role in emphasizing the theme of subjective beauty. Through Ricky's videos, we are invited to see the world through his eyes, allowing us to interpret the beauty in its raw, personal form. This approach not only enhances our understanding of Ricky's character but also challenges us to reconsider our own perceptions of beauty.
The plastic bag scene is particularly poignant, as it encapsulates the essence of subjective beauty. In a world dominated by societal norms and expectations, this scene serves as a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places. The beauty of the plastic bag lies in its movement, its unexpected grace, and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and poetry.
Conclusion
“American Beauty” is a profound exploration of the concept of beauty, emphasizing its subjective nature through the lens of its characters, particularly Ricky Fitts. The film invites us to acknowledge and embrace the diverse and multifaceted interpretations of beauty, challenging our preconceptions and encouraging us to find beauty in the unfamiliar and the discarded.
For further exploration, you can watch the full film clip and consider the beauty in different forms, whether in a conventionally attractive figure or in a simple plastic bag.