A passionate tale of transition and rehabilitation holds American History X in such high regard for its take on topical societal subjects, enlightening and educating in order to shape an equal, diverse community in America.
Derek, who has served three years in prison for a hate crime, tries to change the thoughts of his brother, Danny, who is following the same path.
The '1998' picture stands out for its violent scenes of brutality, emphasising the true rage and horrors of Neo-Nazism in the country. In depicting these troubles, the detail and camerawork in angling every shot and conveying every emotion is a credit to the work of director Tony Kaye, who ensures every moment has a lasting memory in the mind of its audience.
Edward Norton, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his acting performance, entered the spotlight of film following 1996's Primal Fear, and only cemented his name at the upper echelons of cinema for his lead role in 'American History X'. Ultimately, the actor is tasked with portraying two characters, the pre and post incarcerated Derek. Even at his worst, Norton encapsulates the mere sensitivity and love that the character has towards his family, assuming safety and responsibility after his father's passing. When released from prison, we see the rational thinking and reserved personality of the protagonist. The then 27-year-old masters the complete change in character, expressing care and concern, not being afraid to fight back against the hostility and protests.
The beauty of the film is its order of events, emphasising the contrast in the tone of the movie. Intertwining between in and out of prison highlights the power of the catalyst of the spectacle: young Lamont who befriends Derek inside jail nurtures the character to become a better man.
The shift of black-and-white to colour is symbolic throughout. Once again in foreshadowing the transition of perspective, though also to signal the sign of the times in reflecting a foreword-moving, cosmopolitan new America.
A movie which confronted societal divide in a moving and poignant manner. It's moral message still translates today.
Derek, who has served three years in prison for a hate crime, tries to change the thoughts of his brother, Danny, who is following the same path.
The '1998' picture stands out for its violent scenes of brutality, emphasising the true rage and horrors of Neo-Nazism in the country. In depicting these troubles, the detail and camerawork in angling every shot and conveying every emotion is a credit to the work of director Tony Kaye, who ensures every moment has a lasting memory in the mind of its audience.
Edward Norton, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his acting performance, entered the spotlight of film following 1996's Primal Fear, and only cemented his name at the upper echelons of cinema for his lead role in 'American History X'. Ultimately, the actor is tasked with portraying two characters, the pre and post incarcerated Derek. Even at his worst, Norton encapsulates the mere sensitivity and love that the character has towards his family, assuming safety and responsibility after his father's passing. When released from prison, we see the rational thinking and reserved personality of the protagonist. The then 27-year-old masters the complete change in character, expressing care and concern, not being afraid to fight back against the hostility and protests.
The beauty of the film is its order of events, emphasising the contrast in the tone of the movie. Intertwining between in and out of prison highlights the power of the catalyst of the spectacle: young Lamont who befriends Derek inside jail nurtures the character to become a better man.
The shift of black-and-white to colour is symbolic throughout. Once again in foreshadowing the transition of perspective, though also to signal the sign of the times in reflecting a foreword-moving, cosmopolitan new America.
A movie which confronted societal divide in a moving and poignant manner. It's moral message still translates today.