v5n54-racism.html

Movie new spin on racism and anger

By Mireya Vazquez, Special to the On-Line Forty-Niner
Wednesday, November 25, 1998

Racism in America is a hot topic and "American History X" tackles it head on. The movie is one the most powerful films of the year and will leave viewers deeply moved.


MOVIE REVIEW

The story deals with the modern-day racial hatred that exists in our country. Edward Norton portrays Derek Vinyard a neo-Nazi skinhead who is fueled by the racist teachings of Cameron Alexander played by Stacy Keach.

The white-power rage that exists in Derek lands him in prison. Upon his release, Derek finds his younger brother Danny played by Edward Furlong following in his footsteps.

Edward Norton should garnish an Academy Award for his gripping performance. His role is played with an eerie conviction that leaves one feeling disturbed. Norton's physical appearance as well as his portrayal of the character is equally mesmerizing.

Edward Furlong previously seen in "Terminator 2" also delivers a stellar performance.

His character guides the viewers through the story and gives insight on the lives of the Vinyard family. His life is shaped by his brother's actions and the outcome is what the film is shaped around.

The film did have a few weaknesses. The Vinyard's were the only characters that were fully explored. Other characters in the story were stereotypically portrayed. The skinheads were portrayed as dumb and impressionable and the black character's as thugs, with the exception of Avery Brooks who plays the black principal that tries to help the Vinyard brothers.

Tony Kaye, who was also the film's cinematographer, directed the movie. He did an exceptional job with the film's flashback black-and white sequences and the present day color footage. Although, Kaye was displeased with the films editing and in the end distanced himself from the film, his cinematography is exceptional.

"American History X" is a thought-provoking movie that deals with the topic of race in a unique way. The film does not preach, but gives a straightforward account on race and anger in present day America.