Derek is a charismatic, intelligent, articulate young man who has just got out off prison and finds out that his younger brother is following in his footsteps.

Rating: 9/10 (18 January 2008)

American History X pokes at the belief of white supremacists and political correctness in America. Tony Kaye punches you in the face with his fierce dialogue and cinematography, supported by a masterful performance by Edward Norton, the reformed and remorseful Neo-Nazi protégé. It reinforces the current standing that clever racists can profoundly exploit those that have no direction in life and nowhere to channel their anger. Even with its verbal and physical brutality, it is a film that should be watched to see these extreme issues and how things could end up if we let poverty, racism and political correctness feed of each other. It is shame that Tony Kaye has not directed many other films.
Edward Norton is a talented actor as he possesses an ability to morph into many different characters (The Narrator, Fight Club) (Monty Brogan, 25th Hour) (Eisenheim, The Illusionist), providing he has the artistic room to breathe. Tony Kaye utilisation of Norton's flexibility has made this one of 1998's poignant yet underrated films.
There were a few scenes in the film that gave the impression of the unnecessary purity of racist violence. Triumphant music scores as the white supremacist battle with their darker counterparts and almost 'Jesus-like' holiness during Derek's revengeful murders were overcooked. Although the sole piece of the film revolves around Derek, his actions and consequences, it doesn't explain his family's staunch views against Racism. With all the family difficulties, financially and spiritually, the film does not explain their moral convictions and the importance of education as shown by Derek's sister's devotion to education. There was also the over simplification of why Derek was going to be dormant racist in the making due to his father views. It would have nice to see a little bit more of Murray (Elliot Gould) and Sweeney (Avery Brooks) interact with Derek and how there lives were affected by his persona. Finally, the deleted scenes should have been added to the film as I felt added weight and understanding.
Even though this film is several year old as I write this, it is still provoking today as it was in 1998. A definite must have.