American Beauty (1999 film) his family in happier times, and dies having had an epiphany that infuses him with "wonder, joy, and soul-shaking gratitude"—he has finally seen the world as it is. According to Patti Bellantoni, colors are used symbolically throughout the film, none more so than red, which is an important thematic signature that drives the story and "[defines] Lester's arc". First seen in drab colors that reflect his passivity, Lester surrounds himself with red as he regains his individuality. The American Beauty rose is repeatedly used as symbol; when Lester fantasizes about Angela, she is usually naked and surrounded by rose petals.
Lester James Peries birthday, his request was granted when the National film corporation ceremoniously opened the "Lester James Peries Film Archives" at the request of His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapakse. The event was followed by a photographic exhibition of Dr. Peries' life and works. Peries has written approximately twenty books. The most-well known of them are "LJP Life and Works" (Prof. A. J. Gunawardene), "Lester by Lester" (as told to Kumar de Silva) and "Lester" (Prof. Sunil Ariyaratne). A music CD was produced by The Lester James Peries and Sumitra Peries Foundation containing 21 songs from Peries' films. Some of Peries' films have