Essay Comparing The Graduate And American Beauty

The use of literary techniques provide significant success on the film's development. Points of views, creates anxiety and suspense. Moreover, characterization and themes are sympathized through it. Both films The Graduate, by Mike Nichols and American Beauty, by Sam Mendes, emphasize the duality of human nature, the American Dream as well as social issues presented in society which both are also considered satires.

The use of theme, characterization and irony are conveyed through The Graduate and American Beauty. Both Human Nature and the American Dream can be illustrated on both films. Since the beginning of both films, materialism takes absolutely the control of the their development. Moreover, Different points of views as well as decision making from each one of the characters have created controversy along the film The Graduate. Benjamin Braddock, the major character seems to be trapped on his decisions toward his future, willing for realize something different. In addition in the film American Beauty, Lester Burnham relates his life which just and the opening sequence he states that he will die in less than a year. Lester’s statement creates controversy within the audience. How will he die? Where will he die? Accident? this could be questions created on the audience minds. Lester has the American Dream, a comfortable house, a happy family, goods, possessions, travel, no worries, etc. However, his dream becomes irony and fantasy. Both films face the issues of appearance versus reality and having controlled versus feeling loneliness. The Braddock family, the Robinson family and the Burnham family seen to be interested on materialism rather than love, comprehension and respect for others. Carolyn Burnham, a real estate woman is obsessed
Roses represent Saint Valentine, love, unity and passion; despite the title, the events shown on American Beauty illustrate completely the opposite, its title is full of irony toward its