The Tragic Fate of Lester in American Beauty: A Deeper Dive into the Impact of His Death

The death of Lester Burnham in David Fincher's American Beauty serves as a pivotal point in the film, delving into complex psychological themes. In the climactic scene, following a series of escalating tensions, Lester, a man struggling with his identity and desires, meets a violent and repressed neighbor, Frank Fitts, culminating in a tragic confrontation that ends with his untimely demise.

Frank Fitts: The Neighbor Who Turned Murderer

Frank Fitts, played brilliantly by Christopher Cooper, is a character whose repressed, violent tendencies create a stark contrast with the vulnerability and hope expressed by Lester. In a fit of rage and misunderstanding, Frank mistakenly believes that Lester is having an inappropriate relationship with his daughter, Angela, leading to a shocking revelation and the tragic murder of Lester.

Cooper's portrayal of Fitts is particularly chilling, as his T-shirt, covered in Lester's blood, serves as a chilling reminder of the horrific events that transpired. The film underscores the depth of Fitts' repressed emotions and the consequences of his irrational and violent actions. In reality, Fitts was not planning an outright murder; he confessed his homosexuality to Lester but was ultimately too ashamed to deal with the consequences, leading to a moment of irrational violence.

Why Lester's Murder Was Paramount for the Film

The decision to have Frank Fitts murder Lester was not an arbitrary one by David Fincher, but rather a carefully crafted narrative choice that serves multiple functions within the film. For one, it highlights the themes of repression and the search for identity, themes that are central to the movie. Moreover, Lester's tragic death underscores the consequences of unfulfilled desires, a poignant message that resonates deeply with the audience.

Lester's journey throughout the film is one of transformation. He seeks freedom and authenticity in his life, largely in contrast to the restrictive, oppressive nature of suburban America. His death marks the end of this transformation, a cathartic moment that provides the audience with a sense of closure while leaving them to question the nature of happiness and fulfillment.

A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Original Ending

The original ending of American Beauty, proposed by writer Alan Ball, was much darker and potentially more controversial. Lester and Angela were to run away together, an outcome that could have been disastrous both for Lee Clifford (Lester's character) and the integrity of the film itself. Ball was hesitant to rewrite the ending, but ultimately, DreamWorks President Walter Parkes urged him to change it for the sake of artistic success.

In the revised ending, Lester is killed by Frank Fitts, adding a layer of complexity to the story. The police find a video of Jane (Angela's character) asking Ricky (Ricky's character) to kill her father as a joke, while Fitts' bloody clothes are hidden by his wife, Barbara Cooper, before the police arrive. This ending leaves the audience with an ambiguous and somber feeling, questioning the true victims of the tragedy and reflecting on the film's overarching themes.

While the original ending might have been more provocative, the current ending in American Beauty maintains a balance between drama and emotional resonance. The ambiguous conclusion, with Lester dying content and Frank living an unhappy life, invites the viewer to reflect on the nature of happiness and the consequences of our actions.

Conclusion: The Lasting Impact

The death of Lester in American Beauty is a pivotal moment that underscores the film's broader themes. It is a raw, intense, and thought-provoking scene that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. The impact of Lester's murder is not just about the event itself but about the psychological and emotional repercussions it has on the other characters and the audience. It is a testament to the film's ability to touch the core of human emotions and experiences.

Final Thoughts

In the intricate tapestry of American Beauty, Lester's tragic fate serves as a powerful example of the film's psychological depth. His journey towards self-actualization, his confrontation with societal expectations, and his violent end all contribute to the movie's reputation as a landmark in American cinema. The careful crafting of his death by Frank Fitts, repressed and misunderstood, reinforces the film's critical themes of repression, identity, and the consequences of unfulfilled desires.