Hannah Elyce

In relation to narrative, the concept of reliving the same day over and over again has gotten old and repetitive (pun intended). I’m aware that Groundhog Day is one of the classics that display this concept throughout the film; although I am biased on my own preference after watching movies with the same influence of the narrative such as ‘Before I Fall’, ‘Naked’ and ‘Happy Death Day’. I will admit that having a film about reliving a day repeatedly to achieve a goal is interesting as a film theme. As of the narrative, I find that it’s smart that the writer of the film wanted a cynical weatherman - who are usually chirpy and positive for their image - as the protagonist. I see it as a way to rebel against social norms. Most people who are interested in Bill Murray as an actor or are interested in classic drama/fantasy films would enjoy this film, but it really is not for me.

Firstly I was apprehensive with watching this 1999 drama/comedy film, I didn’t think I would enjoy it usually because I prefer more modern and recent films or films that left a significant mark in film history. What I found unique yet captivating in the film was the realistic theme of sinning that was quite possibly over-dramatised. I recognised repetitive themes within the film were cheating (relationship troubles), infatuation, underage sex, drugs, abuse, rebellion and many others that can be difficult to view. I found that those harsh themes are what made the film so beautiful. To think about it, Lester, Ricky and Jane mention the phrase “there is beauty in the world” hence the title ‘American Beauty’. Starting from the beginning of the film I could hear a lot of quirky orchestral music playing in the background and followed throughout the film. 1970’s rock music was often played from the middle until the end of the film. Songs like The Seeker by The Who, Cancer for the Cure by Eels, Because by Elliot Smith, and All Right Now by Free were examples of Rock songs on the film’s soundtrack. Elements of sound effects were also used where necessary such as a gunshot, raindrops, and a typewriter. The sound used throughout ‘American Beauty’ fit well in each shot, and the fact that the film didn’t end on a stereotypically ‘happy ending’. I was overall though-roughly pleased of the film despite having low expectations.

(May contain spoilers) Not many films commonly portray the realities of the music industry like this film does - it’s refreshing. As Jackson struggles with addiction and dependency on drugs and alcohol, I found that the concept of Ally inspiring him to try to change his habits is very romantic. I believe the saying “actions speak louder than words” applies in this circumstance. The fact that the main characters have flaws is what gives this film a realistic twist – with Ally’s lack of confidence and Jackson’s problems with his hearing. With them, both trying to work on their flaws together shows a lot of strength in a relationship like theirs. Watching Ally’s confidence throughout the film grow in her singing and performing was uplifting – especially for the fact that it was helped by her partner Jackson’s mentoring and the growing trust within each other. I’ve noticed throughout the film that there were some easter eggs that were placed by director Bradley Cooper to pay homage to the previous remakes of ‘A Star is Born’, such as the nose tracing scene that was inspired by Barbra Streisand’s remake and the use of foreshadowing with the suicide prevention billboard that hints to Jackson’s death. I found it hard to watch when Ally and Jackson fight because of Jackson’s jealousy over Ally’s successes, only because not many films display that harsh reality with what some relationships can become if it’s surrounded by toxic elements like this. I was left in a shock when Jackson commits suicide near the end of the film. My mind racing to what ifs. How is Ally going to cope once she finds out? How did he get here? Was there more to it? My major concern at that point was Ally’s well-being, maybe it’s because throughout the film the audience gets more and more emotionally invested in her character. In conclusion, the film was beautifully made and well thought through. I was extremely pleased with the story, even though it didn’t have a happy ending. But since Bradley wanted the film to be realistic, maybe it didn’t need a happy ending.