DreamWorksAmerican Beauty was one of the best films of 1999, with a tour de force performance from Kevin Spacey and an endlessly compelling story that is still haunting to this day. Thomas Newman's addictive main theme for the film relies on a sparse, open-ended piano and loose background melodies, a stunning combination that works together in perfect harmony. The theme often feels questioning, as if the piano is attempting to have a conversation with you about life and the universe.It feels so very alive, as if Newman has opened up some musical netherworld where only beauty can exist. Elements of the theme lilt throughout the score, coming to a head in the final moments of the film in such a poetic way. It's one of those themes that you can always come back to as a gentle reminder of how film scores don't always need big, bombastic horns to be a pleasurable listening experience. All you need is a gifted composer and a great film.