Are you bored with the same old superhero flicks and rom-coms? Do you crave movies that make you think, movies that peel back the layers of seemingly perfect lives to reveal the messy, complicated truths underneath? If so, you’re probably a fan of “American Beauty.” But what do you watch after you’ve seen Lester Burnham dance with a rose petal a dozen times? You’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best movies like American Beauty that explore similar themes of suburban disillusionment, hidden desires, and the search for meaning.
20 Best Movies Like American Beauty You Need to Watch Now
Official Movie: American Beauty
“American Beauty,” released in 1999, isn’t just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Sam Mendes and starring Kevin Spacey, Annette Bening, and Thora Birch, this film dives headfirst into the dark underbelly of suburban America. It’s a story about a middle-aged man, Lester Burnham, experiencing a midlife crisis, his icy wife Carolyn desperately clinging to an image of success, and their withdrawn daughter Jane navigating the awkwardness of adolescence. “American Beauty” uses dark humor and sharp social commentary to expose the dissatisfaction and yearning hidden behind perfectly manicured lawns and forced smiles.
The film explores themes of freedom, beauty (or the perception of it), societal expectations, and the search for authenticity. If you loved how “American Beauty” challenged your perceptions and made you question the status quo, you’re in for a treat with the rest of this list. Each film offers a unique perspective on similar themes.
1. Fight Club (1999)
A disillusioned white-collar worker, known only as the Narrator, struggles with insomnia and a general sense of emptiness in his consumerist life. He seeks solace in support groups for various ailments, finding a temporary emotional release. However, his life takes a drastic turn when he meets the enigmatic Tyler Durden. Tyler, a soap maker with anarchist philosophies, challenges the Narrator’s worldview and encourages him to embrace chaos and reject societal norms.
Together, they start “Fight Club,” an underground gathering where men can physically fight each other, providing a raw and primal outlet for their frustrations. As Fight Club grows, it evolves into something much larger and more dangerous, leading the Narrator down a path of self-discovery and ultimately forcing him to confront uncomfortable truths about himself and his identity.
Fight Club shares American Beauty’s cynical view of modern society and its critiques of consumerism and the search for meaning in life. Both films feature protagonists who are deeply unhappy with their lives and seek radical ways to escape their perceived prisons. While American Beauty uses dark humor and social commentary, Fight Club employs a more aggressive and rebellious approach to question societal norms and expectations. Both movies are definitely a must-watch if you want to see more films that challenge the status quo.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
2. Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
The Hoover family, a collection of quirky and dysfunctional individuals, embarks on a cross-country road trip to support their young daughter Olive’s dream of competing in the “Little Miss Sunshine” beauty pageant. Each family member is grappling with their own personal struggles: Richard, the father, is a failing motivational speaker; Sheryl, the mother, is desperately trying to hold the family together; Dwayne, the teenage son, has taken a vow of silence; Frank, Sheryl’s brother, is a suicidal Proust scholar; and Edwin, Richard’s father, is a foul-mouthed and heroin-addicted war veteran.
As they travel in their unreliable VW bus, the Hoovers face numerous challenges and setbacks, forcing them to confront their own shortcomings and learn to support each other despite their differences. Ultimately, the trip becomes a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, as they realize that family is more important than winning.
Like “American Beauty,” “Little Miss Sunshine” explores the complexities and dysfunctions within a seemingly normal family. Both films use humor and pathos to reveal the hidden struggles and vulnerabilities of their characters. While “American Beauty” focuses on the darker aspects of suburban life, “Little Miss Sunshine” offers a more optimistic and heartwarming perspective on finding connection and acceptance within a flawed family unit. Even with very different tones, both movies are all about finding happiness outside the conventional ideas of success.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Starz | Subscription |
3. The Virgin Suicides (1999)
Set in 1970s suburban Michigan, “The Virgin Suicides” tells the story of the five Lisbon sisters – Therese, Mary, Bonnie, Lux, and Cecilia – as seen through the eyes of a group of neighborhood boys who are captivated by their beauty and mystery. The girls are raised in a strict and overprotective Catholic household by their parents, which only intensifies the boys’ fascination. After Cecilia attempts suicide, she is allowed to have boys over to the house, but she ultimately succeeds in taking her own life.
Following this tragic event, the remaining sisters become even more withdrawn and isolated. The boys, desperate to understand the girls and their inner lives, attempt to unravel the secrets behind their isolation. The story culminates in a series of tragic events that leave a lasting impact on the community.
“The Virgin Suicides,” like “American Beauty,” explores the themes of suburban alienation, repressed sexuality, and the hidden lives of teenagers. Both films create a sense of unease and mystery, suggesting that beneath the surface of seemingly normal communities lie dark secrets and unspoken desires. The focus on beauty, particularly the unattainable beauty of youth, is another key similarity.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Criterion Channel | Subscription |
4. Revolutionary Road (2008)
Based on the novel by Richard Yates, “Revolutionary Road” tells the story of Frank and April Wheeler, a young couple living in 1950s suburban Connecticut. They consider themselves different from their neighbors, dreaming of a more fulfilling and exciting life. April yearns for a life beyond the confines of their domestic routine, while Frank feels trapped in his monotonous office job. They decide to move to Paris in search of a fresh start, but their plans are derailed by unexpected circumstances and their own personal insecurities. As their dreams crumble, their relationship deteriorates, leading to resentment, infidelity, and ultimately, tragedy. The film explores the themes of disillusionment, societal expectations, and the destructive power of unfulfilled dreams.
“Revolutionary Road” shares “American Beauty’s” exploration of the dark side of the American Dream and the suffocating nature of suburban conformity. Both films depict characters who are trapped in unhappy marriages and struggling to find meaning and purpose in their lives. The pursuit of happiness and the cost of compromising one’s dreams are central themes in both narratives.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Paramount+ | Subscription |
5. Happiness (1998)
“Happiness” is a darkly comedic and disturbing film that explores the secret lives and sexual perversions of a group of suburban neighbors. The film follows several interconnected characters, each grappling with their own unique and often unsettling desires. There’s Bill Maplewood, a seemingly normal psychiatrist who secretly rapes his patients; his sister, Joy, who is desperately seeking love and happiness; and their sister, Helen, a successful writer who is obsessed with finding the perfect relationship. The film delves into themes of loneliness, alienation, and the human capacity for both love and depravity.
Like “American Beauty,” “Happiness” dares to expose the hidden darkness beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic suburban communities. Both films explore taboo subjects and challenge conventional notions of morality and happiness. The use of dark humor and unflinching honesty is another key similarity. Though this movie is way darker than American Beauty, it’s still a great watch!
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Criterion Channel | Subscription |
6. The Ice Storm (1997)
Set in 1973 Connecticut, “The Ice Storm” portrays the unraveling of two families during a Thanksgiving weekend marked by a devastating ice storm. The film explores themes of marital dissatisfaction, sexual experimentation, and the growing generation gap. As the adults engage in casual infidelity and emotional detachment, their teenage children navigate their own confusing experiences with sex, drugs, and identity. The ice storm serves as a metaphor for the emotional coldness and lack of communication that permeates the families, leading to tragic consequences.
“The Ice Storm,” much like “American Beauty”, examines the undercurrent of discontent and moral decay within suburban families. Both films depict adults struggling with their identities and seeking escape through extramarital affairs, while their children grapple with the complexities of adolescence. The sense of isolation and the breakdown of communication are prominent themes in both narratives.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
7. Adaptation (2002)
“Adaptation” is a meta-comedy-drama about screenwriter Charlie Kaufman’s struggle to adapt Susan Orlean’s non-fiction book “The Orchid Thief” into a screenplay. As Charlie battles writer’s block, self-doubt, and existential angst, his twin brother Donald, an aspiring screenwriter himself, embraces cliché and convention with surprising success. The film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, as Charlie’s own life becomes increasingly intertwined with the story he’s trying to tell. “Adaptation” explores themes of creativity, identity, and the challenges of finding meaning and authenticity in a world saturated with information and entertainment.
While seemingly different on the surface, “Adaptation” shares “American Beauty’s” exploration of the search for meaning and authenticity in a world that often feels superficial and absurd. Both films challenge conventional narrative structures and use humor to address complex and existential themes. The characters grapple with their own insecurities and desires, leading them down unexpected and often unconventional paths.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Netflix | Subscription |
8. Sideways (2004)
“Sideways” follows Miles Raymond, a wine enthusiast and struggling writer, as he takes his soon-to-be-married friend Jack Cole on a road trip through California wine country. Miles, still heartbroken over his divorce, is hoping for a relaxing escape, while Jack is looking for one last fling before settling down. As they sample wines and encounter various women, their friendship is tested by their differing personalities and desires. The film explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the search for meaning and self-acceptance.
“Sideways,” like “American Beauty,” explores the themes of midlife crisis, dissatisfaction, and the search for happiness. Both films feature characters who are grappling with their past mistakes and struggling to find purpose and fulfillment in their lives. The use of humor and poignant moments is another common thread.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
9. Thumbsucker (2005)
Justin Cobb is a teenager struggling to break his thumbsucking habit. He tries various methods, including hypnosis and medication, but nothing seems to work. As he navigates the challenges of adolescence, Justin seeks to find his identity and overcome his insecurities. He becomes involved in debate club and tries to find his place in the world. The film explores themes of addiction, identity, and the pressures of growing up.
“Thumbsucker” has some of the same themes of growing up in a messed up world as “American Beauty”. Both movies show teenagers dealing with difficult parents and trying to figure out who they are.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Tubi | Free with ads |
10. The Squid and the Whale (2005)
Set in 1980s Brooklyn, “The Squid and the Whale” tells the story of the Berkman family as they navigate the complexities of divorce. Bernard, a pretentious and intellectual writer, and Joan, his equally intelligent but more grounded wife, struggle to co-parent their two sons, Walt and Frank. As the family dynamic unravels, each member grapples with their own insecurities and emotional turmoil. The film explores themes of family dysfunction, intellectual arrogance, and the challenges of growing up in a broken home.
Just like “American Beauty”, “The Squid and the Whale” shows how families can fall apart and how hard it is for kids when their parents are fighting. Both movies look at the problems hidden behind a normal family and make you think about how people deal with tough times.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Criterion Channel | Subscription |
11. Fargo (1996)
Jerry Lundegaard, a car salesman in Minnesota, is in deep financial trouble. Desperate for money, he hires two criminals to kidnap his wife and demand a ransom from her wealthy father. However, the plan goes horribly wrong, leading to a series of violent and unexpected events. Marge Gunderson, a pregnant police chief, investigates the case, uncovering a web of lies and deceit. “Fargo” is a darkly comedic crime thriller that explores themes of greed, desperation, and the absurdity of violence.
“Fargo,” while a crime thriller, shares “American Beauty’s” cynical view of the American Dream and the dark underbelly of seemingly normal communities. Both films use dark humor to expose the flaws and vulnerabilities of their characters. The exploration of desperation and the consequences of misguided choices are also common themes.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
12. Being John Malkovich (1999)
Craig Schwartz, a struggling puppeteer, discovers a portal that leads directly into the mind of actor John Malkovich. Anyone who enters the portal experiences the world through Malkovich’s eyes for 15 minutes before being ejected onto the side of the New Jersey Turnpike. Craig and his wife Lotte, along with his coworker Maxine, exploit the portal for their own personal gain, leading to increasingly bizarre and surreal consequences. “Being John Malkovich” is a mind-bending comedy that explores themes of identity, desire, and the nature of reality.
While highly unconventional, “Being John Malkovich” shares “American Beauty’s” exploration of the search for identity and the desire to escape one’s own life. Both films feature characters who are deeply dissatisfied with their existence and seek unconventional ways to find meaning and fulfillment. The blurring of reality and fantasy is also a common element.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Criterion Channel | Subscription |
13. Election (1999)
Tracy Flick is an overachieving and ambitious high school student who is determined to become student body president. However, her path is challenged by Jim McAllister, a popular but disillusioned teacher who despises Tracy and is determined to sabotage her campaign. Jim encourages Paul Metzler, a good-natured but dim-witted athlete, to run against Tracy, leading to a series of increasingly absurd and unethical campaign tactics. “Election” is a satirical comedy that explores themes of ambition, power, and the corrupting influence of politics.
“Election”, released the same year as “American Beauty”, uses dark humor to expose the hidden agendas and power struggles within a seemingly ordinary setting. Both films feature characters who are driven by their desires and willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve their goals. The critique of societal expectations and the exploration of moral ambiguity are also shared themes.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Paramount+ | Subscription |
14. Garden State (2004)
Andrew Largeman, a young man suffering from depression and heavily medicated, returns to his hometown in New Jersey for his mother’s funeral. There, he reconnects with old friends and meets Sam, a quirky and free-spirited young woman who helps him to confront his past and rediscover his emotions. “Garden State” is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of depression, alienation, and the search for connection and meaning.
“Garden State,” like “American Beauty,” explores the themes of suburban alienation, the search for identity, and the struggle to find happiness in a world that often feels superficial. Both films feature characters who are grappling with their past and seeking a more authentic and fulfilling life. The use of music to enhance the emotional impact of the story is another common element.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
15. Juno (2007)
Juno MacGuff, a sixteen-year-old girl, discovers that she is pregnant after a one-time encounter with her friend Paulie Bleeker. Juno decides to give the baby up for adoption and begins the process of finding the perfect parents. She connects with Mark and Vanessa Loring, an affluent couple who are eager to adopt a child. As Juno navigates the challenges of pregnancy and adoption, she learns valuable lessons about love, responsibility, and the complexities of adulthood. “Juno” is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of teenage pregnancy, adoption, and the meaning of family.
While dealing with a very different situation, “Juno” echoes “American Beauty’s” focus on the complexities of family relationships and the unexpected challenges of life. Both films offer a nuanced and often humorous perspective on unconventional situations. The exploration of societal expectations and the characters’ struggle to define their own paths are also shared themes.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
16. Lost in Translation (2003)
Bob Harris, a middle-aged actor, and Charlotte, a young woman whose husband is a photographer on assignment, find themselves adrift in Tokyo. Both are experiencing feelings of isolation and cultural disconnection. They form an unlikely bond as they explore the city and share their anxieties and uncertainties. “Lost in Translation” is a poignant and atmospheric film that explores themes of loneliness, cultural differences, and the search for connection.
“Lost in Translation” shares “American Beauty’s” theme of finding oneself lost in a life that doesn’t fulfill them. Both explore feelings of isolation and longing for something more meaningful.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Peacock | Subscription |
17. Office Space (1999)
Peter Gibbons is a software programmer who hates his job and his life. After a hypnotherapy session gone wrong, he starts to rebel against his corporate superiors and embrace a more carefree attitude. His newfound apathy inspires his colleagues to join him in his rebellion, leading to a series of increasingly humorous and outrageous events. “Office Space” is a satirical comedy that explores themes of corporate alienation, the monotony of office life, and the desire for freedom.
“Office Space,” like “American Beauty,” uses humor to critique the emptiness and dissatisfaction of modern life, particularly in a corporate environment. Both films feature protagonists who are experiencing a midlife crisis and seeking a way to break free from the constraints of societal expectations. The theme of finding meaning and purpose outside of work and material possessions is also shared.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
18. Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Charlie Kelmeckis is a socially awkward teenager starting his freshman year of high school. He struggles with anxiety and depression and feels like an outsider. He finds solace in his friendship with two seniors, Sam and Patrick, who introduce him to new experiences and help him to navigate the challenges of adolescence. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of mental health, friendship, and the search for belonging.
“The Perks of Being a Wallflower” shows the challenges teenagers face, and is similar to the teenage struggles in “American Beauty”. Both movies look at how difficult it can be to find your place and deal with personal problems.
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
19. This is Where I Leave You (2014)
When their father passes away, the Altman siblings return to their childhood home to sit shiva for seven days, as per his wishes. Each sibling is dealing with their own personal struggles and unresolved issues, leading to a week of family drama, revelations, and unexpected connections. “This Is Where I Leave You” is a comedy-drama that explores themes of family dysfunction, grief, and the complexities of sibling relationships.
“This Is Where I Leave You” has the same focus on the struggles within families as “American Beauty”. The hidden unhappiness of everyone in the family is a central theme.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Hulu | Subscription |
20. Suburbicon (2017)
Set in the seemingly idyllic suburban community of Suburbicon in the 1950s, the film follows Gardner Lodge as his life is upended by a home invasion that results in his wife’s death. As the investigation unfolds, dark secrets and hidden agendas are revealed, exposing the racism and violence that lurk beneath the surface of the seemingly perfect community. “Suburbicon” is a dark comedy thriller that explores themes of racism, violence, and the hypocrisy of suburban life.
“Suburbicon,” directed by George Clooney and written by the Coen brothers, shares “American Beauty’s” satirical take on suburban life and its willingness to expose the darkness hidden beneath the surface of seemingly perfect communities. Both films explore themes of dissatisfaction, moral decay, and the hypocrisy of societal expectations. The use of dark humor and unexpected twists is another common element.
| Platform | Availability |
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| Amazon Prime Video | Rent/Buy |
| Apple TV | Rent/Buy |
| YouTube | Rent/Buy |
| Paramount+ | Subscription |
Conclusion
So there you have it – 20 movies like American Beauty that will make you laugh, cry, and question everything you thought you knew about the world. From dark comedies to poignant dramas, these films offer a diverse range of perspectives on similar themes of suburban disillusionment, the search for meaning, and the complexities of human relationships. Grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be challenged! Hopefully, you will find a new favorite to add to your movies list!
FAQ About Movies Like American Beauty
Q: What makes a movie “like American Beauty?”
A: Movies “like American Beauty” typically explore themes of suburban disillusionment, the dark side of the American Dream, dysfunctional families, midlife crises, and the search for meaning and authenticity in a seemingly superficial world. They often use dark humor, satire, and unconventional storytelling to challenge societal norms and expose the hidden desires and vulnerabilities of their characters.
Q: Are all these movies as dark as “American Beauty?”
A: No, the movies on this list vary in tone and intensity. Some are darkly comedic and satirical, while others are more poignant and dramatic. Some movies have a lighter tone but touch similar themes, such as Little Miss Sunshine.
Q: Are these movies appropriate for all ages?
A: No, many of these movies contain mature themes, strong language, and potentially disturbing content. It is important to check the ratings and reviews before watching them, especially with younger viewers.
Q: Where can I find these movies?
A: The availability of these movies on streaming platforms may vary depending on your region and subscription services. Check platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube for rental or purchase options. Each entry has a table with specific streaming details too.
Q: Which movie should I watch first if I loved “American Beauty?”
A: That depends on what aspects of “American Beauty” you enjoyed the most! If you liked the dark humor and social commentary, try “Fight Club” or “Election.” If you preferred the exploration of family dysfunction, check out “Revolutionary Road” or “The Squid and the Whale.” If you were drawn to the themes of alienation and the search for meaning, consider “Garden State” or “Lost in Translation.”
