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 566 Ratings

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8.8

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8.8	User Score Universal acclaim based on 566 Ratings

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AMERICAN HISTORY X

Movie Details & Credits

Release Date: October 30, 1998

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
4	#4 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

Washington Post - 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 12 users found this helpful102

LegenSA

May 29, 2013

I think that this movie MUST take 10/10, because of it's thoughts about racism and Nazism. The end is curt, but still amazing... If you haven't seen it, you should. It's changed my feelings about Nazism positively and that's wonderful. Finally don't see it half. You'll dislike it.

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 1 users found this helpful10

matta.

Oct 20, 2005

Movie was great but the tragec ending took away alittle.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

Spangle

May 28, 2014

Now this is a great film. Yes, it is dark, violent, and quite disturbing at times, but it is also powerful, moving, and important. Edward Norton is absolutely phenomenal. He takes this deeply troubled character who comes to realize what is truly going on his life and he knocks it out of theNow this is a great film. Yes, it is dark, violent, and quite disturbing at times, but it is also powerful, moving, and important. Edward Norton is absolutely phenomenal. He takes this deeply troubled character who comes to realize what is truly going on his life and he knocks it out of the park. He was terrific and put the film on his shoulders and absolutely killed it. The director, Tony Kaye, while he wishes to distance himself from the final product, he did a great job as well. There was some beautiful imagery here and while it may not be the version he intended as the final cut, his vision absolutely is here and the messages it provokes is still powerful. Really, after watching this film, I felt like I had been hit by a ton of bricks. The entire film is so moving and affecting that it really leaves you in a trance once it ends and the credits start rolling. On top of that, there are many powerful scenes, but none as powerful as the final one. It really leaves you on the brink of tears as you try to deal with what you just watched.

A truly mesmerizing character study with a heart and soul, American History X should absolutely be considered a "must watch" for all.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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 0 users found this helpful00

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.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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