American Beauty The Most Beautiful Thing Quote
"American Beauty" is a 1999 American drama film directed by Sam Mendes and written by Alan Ball. The movie explores the themes of beauty, materialism, and the American Dream. One of the most memorable quotes from the movie is "The most beautiful thing in the world is just out of reach." This quote has become a popular saying that people use to describe the elusive nature of beauty and happiness.
The Meaning Behind The Quote
When the character of Lester Burnham, played by Kevin Spacey, says this line, he is reflecting on his life and the choices he has made. He realizes that he has been chasing after things that he thought would make him happy, such as success and material possessions, but he still feels unfulfilled. He then sees a plastic bag floating in the wind, and he is struck by its beauty and simplicity. He realizes that the most beautiful things in life are often the ones that are just out of reach, and that he has been ignoring them in his pursuit of happiness.
The Elusive Nature of Beauty
The quote "The most beautiful thing in the world is just out of reach" speaks to the idea that beauty is often fleeting and hard to grasp. It suggests that we should appreciate the beauty around us, even if we cannot possess it. In the movie, Lester finds beauty in the simplest things, such as a plastic bag or a rose petal. This shows that beauty can be found in unexpected places, and that we should keep our eyes open to the world around us.
The Pursuit of Happiness
In "American Beauty," several characters are shown to be pursuing happiness in different ways. Lester is trying to break free from his mundane life and rediscover his passion for living. His wife, Carolyn, played by Annette Bening, is trying to achieve success in her career and maintain a perfect image of herself and her family. Their daughter, Jane, played by Thora Birch, is trying to navigate the difficulties of adolescence and find her place in the world. The movie shows that happiness is not something that can be achieved through material possessions or external validation, but rather through finding meaning and purpose in one's life.
The Importance of Beauty
The quote "The most beautiful thing in the world is just out of reach" also highlights the importance of beauty in our lives. Beauty can inspire us, uplift us, and give us a sense of wonder and awe. It can also remind us of the fleeting nature of life and the need to appreciate the present moment. In "American Beauty," the beauty of nature is shown to be a source of comfort and inspiration for several characters, including Lester and his neighbor, Ricky, played by Wes Bentley.
The Legacy of "American Beauty"
"American Beauty" won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay. It has since become a cult classic and is regarded as one of the greatest American films of all time. The movie's themes of beauty, materialism, and the pursuit of happiness continue to resonate with audiences today, and the quote "The most beautiful thing in the world is just out of reach" has become a timeless expression of the human experience.