Oct 03, 2001 03:15 AM
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American History X bravely attempts to tackle the delicate issue of racism in modern America, and succeeds. Unlike most films of today, it is an accurate portrayal of reality.
Fight club was the only Edward Norton film I had seen previous to this, but I had no real idea as to the extents of his talents. However, this film is the classic it is partly thanks to the dramatic performances of both Norton and Edward Furlong.
Norton is Derek, the leader of a local white power movement who is imprisoned for a brutal murder. However, three years later, when released from prison, having realized the error of his ways, is now faced with the seemingly impossible task of transforming his younger brother's (Furlong) views which he himself has created.
The film cleverly switches between the reformed Derek, and the racist Derek, showing the causes of his racism, as well as the cure, as it were.
American History X is one of those films that you don't just watch, you actually become a part of. There are scenes that shock you so much they send shivers down your spine.
The film also offers an insight into the mind of a racially discriminate person, and although it is difficult to sympathise, we see that the environment which surrounds him is largely to blame.
The film does contain language and occurences that some viewers might consider to be offensive, but none of it is gratuitous, it is purely to highlight the discrimination that often goes unnoticed.
Director Tony Kaye does well to powerfully demonstrate the problems America has with racism in a direct way.
Particularly powerful is the closing scene, although commenting on this would spoil things for anyone who hasn't seen the film yet.
There are few features on the DVD. These are deleted scenes, a theatrical trailor and a look at the cast and crew. I personally would have liked to have seen an interview with the creator, if only to see what provoked such a masterpiece
An emotional, original journey through the streets of modern America, this is well worth the watch. Even for those of you that aren't too keen on contemporary dramas, give this one a go.
