One truly vivid, powerful film

Rating: 10/10 (15 June 1999)

This is quite possibly the most vivid film I have ever seen. It fears nothing, not holding back for the sake of the status quo in what films are allowed to show. And the message it sends is an important one: that hate is a terrible thing to have.
The acting is stellar, in particularly by Edward Norton, whom i believe was oscar-deserving in this and is one of the best actors around. He really plays two roles in this, and does both fantasticly. His diction is strong, and his expressions are as well. The look he gives his brother after murdering 2 men is the most chilling look I have seen in film. Norton is absolutely fantastic. Also brilliant is Avery Brooks, whose voice is tremendous.
The directing and structure of this film is great. The Black and white and the water serve as important symbols. The story is well told and done in an original way. It has very few flaws, in particular the overdone prison rape scene, although really graphic in this film. Also the ending is disturbingly unresolved, although that could also work to its advantage. Overall, the film is superbly done in every way. I highly recommend it.