What Happens When People Stop Being Polite And Be Real?

Rating: 9/10 (2 October 2006)

American History X is the tale of a skinhead (Edward Norton) who "curb stomps" a black man and goes to prison. Whiel in prison, he reflects on his younger days and learns that racism is stupid. But when he gets back out, can he save his brother (Edward Furlong), who has followed in his footsteps? Also stars Fairuza Balk, Avery Brooks and the dad from "Boy Meets World".
This is a very powerful movie because of one thing: its rawness. Raw is the only word I know that describes the intensity of the violence and the prison situations. You won't find this on "The Birdman of Alcatraz" (though maybe on "Oz").
Also, the movie tackles a real world issue: racism. Unfortunately, it does so in a very exaggerated way (not all racists are skinheads), drags in things like affirmative action (which is racial but not necessarily racist or anti-racist) and seems to focus on blacks. In the world of 1998 maybe blacks were heavily discriminated against, but by 2006 it seems that being black is not nearly as bad as being Hispanic or Arab. (Not that blacks are equal yet, but much more so than other groups.) We all know Edward Norton is a great actor ("Fight Club") and many will rave over Edward Furlong ("Brainscan"). Avery Brooks tries hard to break away from the Star Trek stereotype (but fails). Fairuza Balk is great (at least as good as "The Craft", much better than "The Waterboy" but not as good as "Return to Oz"). The dad from "Boy Meets World"? Don't know his name... he's the dad from "Boy Meets World".
A great film, but don't watch it with your kids unless they're old enough to understand adult situations. This is "Schindler's List" for Americans. Could be a great way to start a discussion on a difficult issue.