Fetishism

While reading the definition of fetishism in this article, my mind instantly gravitated towards Sam Mendes' American Beauty. Not only is American Beauty one of my favorite films, but I also find it so interesting how much symbolism is incorporated into it. After reading this piece, I can also see a strong use of fetishism present.
The author defines fetishism as a notion of over investment in parts of the body, most commonly the female body. This can be shown through costuming and make up and camera attention towards feminine traits such as long legs or breasts. In American Beauty, Angela is the hyper-sexualized best friend of the main character's daughter. She serves as an object of desire or as "an object of his look and surveillance, meaning is ascribed to her by him." (p 481) In this film, Angela is what he is not allowed to have, and for the majority of the film she is simply an object for him to gaze upon and fantasize about.
Red is a reoccurring throughout the film, representing lust and desire. Angela is frequently seen with red lips, and lying around red roses. This use of color contributes to the fetishism in the film and goes hand in hand with her revealing costuming.