A very powerful film!

Rating: 10/10 (21 January 2002)

A mate of mine suggested this film to me, and I found it to be the most thought provoking film I have seen in many years. This film challenges the viewer from beginning to end.
This film is so important. It takes a very serious subject - rascism, Neo Nazi beliefs - and dissects and analyzes the effects it has on the a) Protaganists. b) Victims. c) Societies.
Edward Norton, still relatively unknown when he made this film, gives a gritty, realistic, and overwhelming performance as Derek Vinyard. His transformation from hate fuelled Neo Nazi to understanding rehabilitated young man, deserved an Oscar. That's how good he is! He is electric.
This film also features the most shocking piece of cinema I have ever witnessed! The scene where Derek executes a burglar, who also happens to be black. There has been much controversy over the inclusion of this scene in the finished film, and it's a good thing that this scene was allowed in because we need to see this scene to see how violent, and brutal Derek was before his transformation. We needed to see that scene to show us the way in which he felt about black people. Derek was a creation. He was a product. Of a man who believed that black people are worthless. What's more frightening is that this man, was a product of another man's beliefs and hate, and so it goes. Who do we blame? Is there any Blame? This is the film's ultimate question.
Edward Furlong gives a very good performance as Derek's younger brother. He too is being corrupted, just like Derek had been, and this brainwashing is what the film highlights most.
The film is not one I can review lightly, it's a very serious film, and deserves the highest respect. I do not want to say anything that may offend anyone. With a film like this you have to be careful how you phrase things.
Overall, a great film, strong performances, intelligent script and a real eye opener to anyone who watches it. Get the tissues out for the end too!!!!
"No matter what our race, colour or religion, let's try to understand one thing - we are ALL human. We are all equal."
Perfect 10