Pure Astonishment

Rating: 8/10 (11 February 2000)

This review contains CRUCIAL storyline elements that DEFINATELY ARE considered SPOILERS.
This is without doubt one of the most thought provoking and powerful movies that I have watched. When I got it, i didn't know of the content or themes, and I might not have watched it if I had. But I sure am glad I did.
Edward Norton and Ed. Furlong were supurb as the leads, and the script was first rate. The prison scenes were harrowing, but I thought they gave a realistic view of the situation at that time. There were some harsh scenes, not least when Norton stamps on the black guys head when he is told to bite the curb and breaks his neck, I was nearly sick. The film was full of sub-text, and the change in attitude of the main character was gradual and believable. The characters had time to grow on the audience and it made it all the more sad at the end of the film when
PLEASE DON'T READ IF NOT SEEN, YOU WILL NEVER FORGIVE YOURSELF)
Edward Furlong's character gets killed. The supporting cast give a good performance, especially the fat guy (sorry, his name escapes me) who could not have been more obnoxious if he tried. He made me want to grab him and punch him, which is the sign of believable acting I think.
A very powerful film which left me stunned, and definately one to recommend very highly indeed.