thought-provoking...

Rating: 9/10 (6 July 1999)

I watched this movie with a friend without any knowledge of what the movie is about. To my surprise, it's a absolutely superb drama about the consequences of urban racism. A movie like I've never seen before.
Filled with realistic characters, thought-provoking social commentary with a bite and moments of brief, shocking violence. The acting is superb all around with Edward Norton gives a strong performance to a character that we start off despising but gradually emphatising and liking in the end. Edward Furlong was also superb with his mature performance, although one would wish that his character could be developed more. The supporting cast, which includes Derek's sister, his mother and also his African-American friend in Jail.
Directing is tremendous with the usage of unusual camera angle and black and white flashbacks, but doesn't make the story confusing. Some may find the violence are too strong, but it's adequate and realistic.
At first I thought it's going to be another boring drama movie but instead ended up with a well made, superbly executed and involving movie that will leave you thinking. One of the best movie I've seen in my entire life.
9.897 out of 10