American Beauty

Question 1

who did the music?

American Beauty

Answer 1

Thomas Newman

Question 2

what’s the piece called?

American Beauty

Answer 2

Any other name

Question 3

American Beauty

rhythm

Answer 3

slow rhythms used

create clam atmosphere

Question 4

American Beauty

melody

Answer 4

• Melodic ideas, played on felt piano, are fragmented and without structure. These represent the small fragments of memory Lester is recalling and cherishing.
• Acciacaturas are used throughout, however are graceful and delicate. This ties nicely with the imagery of the plastic bag, a delicate object floating carelessly and gracefully with the wind.

Question 5

American Beauty

time signature

Answer 5

rubato
Fermatas used
in

Question 6

American Beauty

timbre

Answer 6

• Newman’s choice of timbre reflect the continuous movement of the cue. Pad sounds sound like high and low vocal lines that fade in and out of the cue, creating a rich timbre and adding to the gentle nature of the cue. High amounts of reverb and distortion add to the rich timbre.

Question 7

American Beauty

tempo

Answer 7

• The cue uses rubato and a generally free flowing tempo, creating a sense of continuous movement, and representing how Lester is still present, even after death, through his narration from a higher place.
• Fermata is frequently used to add to the theme of reflection present in the scene. Lester is reflecting on his past experiences and life in general

Question 8

what’s happening in the scene?

American Beauty

Answer 8

• This cue takes place during the film’s final scene. Lester has just been shot by an unknown murderer, however the score itself acts as accompaniment to Lester reminiscing events of his life as he transitions into the afterlife.
The overall effect of the score and the visuals is a gentle, mysterious, dream-like sequence, a fitting end to the movie as Lester has finally found solace in a world has for a long time despised.