American History X

As a film about the danger of neo-fascism and racial violence shown in schools as part of education, American History X would work almost flawlessly, but as a drama with artistic ambitions and also with such high ratings from fans, this film is not convincing for me. The problem is not in the actors, because Norton and Furlong belong to the very best that American cinema can count on in this age category, the problem is simply in the unconvincing screenplay that steers the story too much toward a family melodrama, where a school assignment or a fabricated prison story is enough to turn toward the right path, which really doesn't feel authentic. It is not even a film incidentally mapping a very interesting scene of American far-right heavily influenced by Christian fundamentalism, and it is not even a film about the skinhead movement. The film is based on the acting talent of Edward Norton, who underwent an incredible physical transformation and suddenly became an uncompromising guy with a well-built physique and a hateful grin on his face, who can execute members of a black gang in one of the two truly intense scenes. Overall impression: 65%. (01/03/2011)

Let's leave aside the classic methods to provoke the most basic emotions. American History X has an excellent cast (especially Edward Norton, Beverly D'Angelo and Fairuza Balk), and a logically constructed story that makes the viewer think. In addition to the purposefully used B&W sequences, there's also a cleverly interspersed massacre with the rough comedy of a guy from the laundromat who doesn't root for the KKK. (09/01/2013)

From skepticism to crushing punchlines and feelings. Each storyline has its meaning and power, and in combination with the amazing Ed Norton, which will often give you chills, and Tony Kaye's meticulous camera, the relatively pointless material becomes a rightfully celebrated study of the darkest aspects of human nature. (10/13/2006)

A film I kept postponing, I just didn’t feel like watching it. Now I can say with a clear conscience that it was a huge mistake. The film tackles very serious social issues, strong neo-Nazism and the associated racism towards minorities, and isn’t afraid to show their true side. Everyone should see this film, as it also serves as a documentary depiction of their customs and acts as a kind of probe into their lives. It’s not easy to watch, it’s quite intense. Both Edwards are truly excellent, Norton, in my opinion, opened the doors to Hollywood with this amazing performance; after this film, offers must have been flying onto his desk one after another. On the other hand, it’s a shame that such a talented actor is no longer as utilized these days. At times, the black-and-white filter further intensifies the dense atmosphere. I don’t know the director well, but anyone who manages to make you genuinely hate the main character at the beginning and then, by the end, when he tries to reset his life and start with a clean slate and simply live normally, makes you sympathize with him, has accomplished something. The ending is crushing, as expected. You simply can’t escape the past, no matter how hard you try. I might add a few more percent over time; for now, it’s a strong four stars, and I give it 86%. (08/17/2018)

Strange, but I suspected it was coming to exactly that ending – the ending of the movie, that is. For me, the story doesn't end. I'll still be caught up in imagining what came next. How this last event played out in the lives of these "fictional" people. And I regret it; the foolishness, the ignorance, the rudeness, the hatred, the understanding, the leader, the indelible mark. What a strange picture. It's just that my heart isn't beating enough for it to get 5 stars. (11/12/2008)