The film "American Beauty" was filmed in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Filming Locations:

Long Beach Polytechnic High School

In the Movie

Scene where Lester and his wife watch their daughter's performance, but Lester is completely captivated by Angela.

In Reality

The scene was filmed in the gymnasium of Polytechnic High School in South Los Angeles.

High School

In the Movie

Scene where Ricky films a dead bird in the schoolyard. Angela notices it.

In Reality

The scene was filmed at South High School, located in South Los Angeles.

Mr. Smiley's Drive-Thru

In the Movie

Scene where Lester, working at the "Mr. Smiley's" drive-thru, catches his wife Carolyn cheating with Buddy Kane. 'Smile! You're at Mr. Smiley's!'

In Reality

The scene was filmed at the drive-thru window of Cr. Junior restaurant in northeastern Los Angeles.

Burnham House

In the Movie

Scene where In front of the Burnham family house.

In Reality

The scene was filmed on the outskirts of Los Angeles, in the Homeaday area.