Racially loaded work of art - from a different point of view

Rating: 8/10 (1 March 2019)

American History X is the white piano note on the aspect of racism. It is true that race discrimination can be seen from different points of views. Play the white note and you hear one sound, play the black note and you hear another. Whereas Tony Kaye's masterpiece plays the white tiles, it can be said that Richard Wright's Native son plays the black one. Both stories are displaying a different perspective on the topic of racism, both do it so well, and both are oh-so-important.
This film is appealing to the white crowd - the crowd that through generations have oppressed the other crowd for being less, when we are all equal human beings created together - to try and make people realize, as Derek realizes. The feature follows Derek Vineyard (Edward Norton), or rather his younger brother, Daniel (Edward Furlong) and their lives as neo Nazis and their road to redemption. It begins with Derek being released from prison, after serving 3 years for brutally killing two black criminals trying to steal his car. During his time away, Daniel, who worships Derek like a God, has followed in his footsteps and now Derek must try to keep him off that path. A different Derek came out than the one that came in, which is off-putting to Daniel as he struggles to cope with this new reality.
The motion picture is filmed alternating between colour and black and white. The part in colour standing for the present, and the black and white part for the flashbacks. They provide an acumen into Derek's life and development and there are clear connections between flashes from the past where he is seen as an innocent young boy realising the equal worth of all humans, but also the tormenting from his father to steer him onto an awful direction, and the coloured future scenes where a now salvaged Derek, who no longer is a little boy, resists the temptations of his racist friends.
As for my opinion of the film, after seeing it twice, I can say nothing but that it's a masterstroke by the creators. No less credit can be given to the outstanding performances of the cast. Edward Norton keeping up with the rapid changes in his character, and Beverly D'Angelo putting on a truly devastating act. Moreover, you could argue that the film is too violent, but not according to me. The violence only helps provide the message of the film. Tony Kaye really nailed this racially loaded movie and provides for an entertaining show with a meaningful message.
Whether American History X will go down in history as the neo Nazis favourite movie or a true life- changer that hits close to home for many struggling white racist people, is perhaps unnecessary to discuss. There will always be people who simply doesn't care for humanity, or anything else for that matter. What does matter, however, is that movies such as this one is not only important but a must to show to young people in particular. Even with all the violence, it shows what could happen if you go down the wrong path.