From the 20th to the 21st century, cinema is a realm of fusion between reality and imaginary spaces. The subtle suggestion of political, social and psychological issues; within narrative and cinematic effects. American Beauty (1999) and Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966) are films that explore the problems caused by the loss of one's male identity in the modern Western world. Concepts such as masculinity and patriarchy that have constructed male identity are undermined by society's views of what a man should be; aesthetically, physically and emotionally. The color and atmosphere of these films illustrate the issues in a visual sense to engage the audience and present the outcome. The male protagonists in both films have similar personal behaviors and, in a sense, have lost their masculinity due to their situations. How does it affect men's roles as fathers and husbands? The purpose of this essay is to examine the interrelationship of both films through the crisis of masculinity and patriarchy in American families; as well as the role of colors and atmospheres in the interpretation of issues. Holly Wood is known for her unique ability to influence and reflect social and political norms. During the 1960s the emphasis on family and family structure as a symbol of social status and achievement. Patriarchates were dominantly enforced and fathers were responsible for the development and security of his family; it is his purpose as a man. However, in recent years the structure of Western families has changed significantly, moving from patriarchies to divided families because the concept of fatherhood has been discredited as oppressive or unequal. Movies and modern media entertainment, such as sitcoms, have portrayed fathers and men... in the middle of paper... beautiful angles and tantalizing music. Likewise, when George and Martha start arguing or when Nick and Martha dance, the camera focuses on the actors rather than everything around them. This creation of increased space made trivial and minor details a part of the narrative forcing the audience to emotionally and subliminally perceive the antes of the characters. Revealing the changes from 1966 to 1999, both films are related and define ideas of family and patriarchies. The American definition was altered by high-ranking celebrities who decided that having a family was an achievement and meant that that parent was successful. After all, family success is overall success defined as: having a car, a pet, kids, a house, and a white picket fence. However, not everyone can reach this standard, as suggested by Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?