Good but too Short

Rating: 8/10 (1 July 1999)

This was one of those films that needs to be about an hour longer -- both because it is so good and because it skims the surface of so many of its' plot points. For example, the prison scenes needed to be longer and more in depth. One whole year of Derek's sentence is covered in just a few minutes! Nonetheless, this movie had a powerful and moving message that will not soon be forgotten.
Other than that, though, this was a very good and disturbing movie. It was nicely shot, with good use of color, camera angle, close-ups, etc. All of the actors do a good job as well, especially the two leading roles. I recommend it highly, although if the director ever comes out with an expanded version, it would improve the film immeasurably.
One other thing -- I have to say that I think the movie unfairly (and maybe unconsciously?) labels anyone who is against affirmative action and immigration control as a right-wing racist or even a skinhead. Watch the two dinner scenes to see what I'm talking about. Remember, you can be a fair, honest, unbiased person and still be against affirmative action.