Edward Norton: the next De Niro

Rating: 8/10 (31 May 1999)

Though this story is well told and nicely directed, it is Edward Norton who makes the film as good as it is. Ranging from pre- Nazi school nerd to post- prison adult, with a fabulously scary Neo - Nazi in between, he was well deserving of his Academy Award nomination. Not since early Robert De Niro films have I seen a young actor with such range, potential, and talent. I remember being impressed with his brilliant "rookie" year, 1996, when he appeared in Everyone Says I Love You, The People vs. Larry Flynt and Primal Fear. Now it seems he has taken the next step towards being one of the great actors. His portrayal of Worm in Rounders was solid, and Derek in AmerHistX is nothing short of brilliant. Look for him in the upcoming Fight Club and his directorial debut next year : Keeping the Faith.