American History X explores the neo-Nazi skinhead subculture in America. The skinheads are portrayed as hate-mongers; they believe in white supremacy and blame everyone else for their problems. The movie in a strong way, teaches that everyone deserves a second chance in life. Racism exists in many ways while American History X portrays one aspect of racism. Director Tony Kaye portrays the neo-Nazi culture of America; their beliefs, reasons, and assumptions on others. American History X thoroughly exposes America as what it is today. Everyday, crimes of hate are being committed mostly by blacks and whites. From elementary to high school, most of my classmates were predominately black. I have seen and been through everything possible; in high school our lunch room was divided between races, friends being beat up because of being in the wrong neighborhood, I could go on and on. With that stated, I believe I have the credibility to state that the situations that occurred in American History X are true and relevant today. This film provides a realistic portrayal of what extremism and bigotry can do when set loose on the streets of America. I wonder why American History X was not publicized much when it first came up. This film should be required as part of a high-school/middle-school's curriculum.
             By far, this is the best movie that I have ever seen. Everything you look for in movie, American History X has it. It has a strong message and strong themes running throughout the storyline. Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton) is a motivated, Neo-Nazi and a white supremacist living in Venice Beach, CA. He goes to prison for brutally murdering a black car thief. Once in jail, he is considered a hero within the Neo-Nazi cult he is part of. Derek slowly realizes that now he is the 'nigger' in jail. Like it or not, Derek must open his mind and get along with others or he won't survive in jail. After Derek's jail term, he realizes how wrong he has been w...