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American History X

Name: American History X
Genre: Drama, Crime
Released: October 30, 1998
Duration: 119 min
Rating: 62
Cast: Edward Furlong, Edward Norton

1998

METASCORE

Generally favorable reviews based on 32 Critics

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USER SCORE

Universal acclaim based on 578 Ratings

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8.8

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8.8	User Score Universal acclaim based on 578 Ratings

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AMERICAN HISTORY X

Movie Details & Credits

Release Date: October 30, 1998 | R

Starring: Edward Furlong, Edward Norton

Summary: A groundbreaking controversial drama about the tragic consequences of racism in a family. (New Line Cinema)

Director: Tony Kaye

Genre(s): Drama, Crime

Rating: R

Runtime: 119 min

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Awards & Rankings

64	#64 Best Movie of 1998
5	#5 Most Discussed Movie of 1998
2	#2 Most Shared Movie of 1998

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Metascore

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Critic Reviews

100

Chicago Tribune Gene Siskel

A shockingly powerful screed against racism that also manages to be so well performed and directed that it is entertaining as well. [30 October 1998, Friday, p.A]

Mr. Showbiz Kevin Maynard

American History X is a crash course on how to make a message movie that resonates with crackling power.

Variety Todd McCarthy

Jolting, superbly acted film. Read full review

Film.com John Hartl

Norton's performance, which is every bit as varied as his Oscar-nominated work in Primal Fear, once more demonstrates that he's one of the most remarkable chameleons working in film.

The Globe and Mail (Toronto) Liam Lacey

Excellent in flashes, unintentionally absurd and lead-footed at other moments, the movie stumbles under the weight of its own grandiose intentions. Read full review

Newsweek David Ansen

This material is charged enough without piling on the melodrama and the lip-smacking violence. The movie too often sacrifices reportage for razzle-dazzle. Read full review

Stephen Hunter

A mousy little nothing of a picture. Read full review

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User Reviews

sockemeye

Nov 23, 2010

One of the greatest movies I've ever seen, with an amazing, captivating performance by Edward Norton. This film sheds light on issues that many people in society are afraid to discuss or take seriously. A beautifully composed film, a must see.

10 of 13 users found this helpful103

Thorshammer7

Sep 26, 2013

I really enjoyed this film. I loved the acting and powerfull message this movie had. I think this movie kinda helped me with some stuff I was going through as well.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

ScarTissue1990

Apr 7, 2013

One of the greatest films I've ever seen. Edward Norton is such a fantastic actor and Edward Furlong is such a underrated actor. It's a definite must watch.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

matta.

Oct 20, 2005

Movie was great but the tragec ending took away alittle.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

annbd

Mar 28, 2018

Finally got to write a review for this great great movie. It's definitely emotional, touching, sad, but it was a great experience watching it. Amazing performances. The movie says, that a man can change, but actually there need to be a big factor for that to happen (like getting intoFinally got to write a review for this great great movie. It's definitely emotional, touching, sad, but it was a great experience watching it. Amazing performances. The movie says, that a man can change, but actually there need to be a big factor for that to happen (like getting into prison, kidding). And there are always two sides of the story (the end). Of course, there where some unnecessary things. I promised to my boyfriend to mention it.. That little penis there in the bad room was totally unnecessary, like I laugh a lot to this 5cm hairy thing. :D… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

Potarto72

Dec 21, 2014

American History X is purely brilliant. It dispels and breaks down racism and prejudice without bashing it. Finally, a film that can convey a willingness to open oneself to new ideas, without writing off certain beliefs as taboo or evil. I can't say it doesn't take any side, but it certainlyAmerican History X is purely brilliant. It dispels and breaks down racism and prejudice without bashing it. Finally, a film that can convey a willingness to open oneself to new ideas, without writing off certain beliefs as taboo or evil. I can't say it doesn't take any side, but it certainly doesn't force any side on the viewer, and instead forces us to assert the situation as a whole. It's just an excellently directed and acted film in every way, and I think everyone should get the chance to witness what it has to offer.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

Sorry_I_Suck

Jul 26, 2018

In order to get ready for Infinity War, I decided to watch all the Marvel movies leading up to it. I had no idea the Hulk's origin story was so socially profound. Could've used more Hulk though.... pretty disappointed.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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