This is one of the hidden gems I've just gotten around to seeing. It took me years to see this, Braveheart, Citizen Kane, and The Shawshank Redemption and I am proud to say they are all some of the best films I've ever seen. American History X is one of the most powerful films about racism that I've ever seen so I was quite surprised when I found out on IMDB that the director, Tony Kaye, originally wanted his name removed and the pseudonym of Humpty Dumpty placed on it. I guess he was displeased with the re-edit Edward Norton gave it or something because it lengthened his performance. I am so glad Norton did this. He is by far one of the best actors to come out in recent years and he was well deserving of his Oscar nod for this flick.
If you haven't seen this film, it deals with a young man named Derek (Edward Norton), a leader of a group of white supremacists. He is sent to prison for three years following the murder of two black men who were stealing his truck. He comes out a reformed individual and now must deal with his brother, Danny (Edward Furlong) who looks as though he is in the same situation Derek was in three years previous. The movie deals with the relationship between the two brothers, how racism can tear a family apart and the consequences of racism. American History X is extremely powerful due to the excess of talent in Furlong and Norton (along with the screenwriter and director). I am proud to finally say I have seen this film and it is still provoking my thoughts.
Video: 8/10
Enhanced widescreen. The black and white and color scenes look great. One complaint though: on the sides of the TV during the black and white sequences sometimes I saw a little bit of color.
Audio: 9/10
5.1 and stereo, clear and as good as you need.
Extras: 5/10
Disappointing area right here. We only have 3 deleted scenes, a trailer, and bios. While the stuff here (the scenes in particular) are well done, the disc's extras as incredibly weak. What about a commentary by Norton? Furlong? Or the screenwriter? Give us something!
Overall: 8/10
A cheap disc, a great movie with great transfers. Worth buying!
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