American History X (1998)
A searing drama about redemption, hatred, and the devastating legacy of violence — told through the story of two brothers caught in the grip of white supremacy.
American History X - Movie Information
- Original Title: American History X
- Release Year: 1998
- Directed by: Tony Kaye
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 59m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): July 1, 1998 (Canada), November 20, 1998 (United States - R), March 26, 1999 (United Kingdom - 18), February 25, 1999 (Germany - 16), March 3, 1999 (France - 12), September 21, 1999 (India - A), August 12, 1999 (New Zealand - 16), May 6, 1999 (Australia - MA 15+), April 16, 1999 (Brazil - 16), August 27, 1999 (Italy - VM18), March 19, 1999 (Spain - 18), April 17, 1999 (South Korea - 18)
- Alternative Titles: American History X (ES), Amerikanska istoriya KH (BG), 野兽良民 (CN), Американская история Х (RU), America X (IL), A Outra História Americana (BR), Amerikan Hisutori X (JP), Amerikan Tarixi X (AZ)
- Production Companies: New Line Cinema, Savoy Pictures, The Turman-Morrissey Company
- Production Countries: United States of America
American History X - Plot
Derek Vineyard is paroled after serving 3 years in prison for killing two African-American men. Through his brother, Danny Vineyard's narration, we learn that before going to prison, Derek was a skinhead and the leader of a violent white supremacist gang that committed acts of racial crime throughout L.A. and his actions greatly influenced Danny. Reformed and fresh out of prison, Derek severs contact with the gang and becomes determined to keep Danny from going down the same violent path as he did.
American History X - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the story of Derek Vineyard unfold:
Some legacies must end.
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American History X - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Tony Kaye
Main Cast
- Edward Norton
- Edward Furlong
- Beverly D'Angelo
- Jennifer Lien
- Ethan Suplee
- Fairuza Balk
- Avery Brooks
- Elliott Gould
- Stacy Keach
- William Russ
Writers
- David McKenna
Producers
- John Morrissey
American History X - FAQs
What is the ending of American History X explained?
The film ends with Danny being shot by a Black student shortly after Derek has renounced his racist past and inspired Danny to change. The tragic conclusion underscores the film's central theme: that hatred, once unleashed, leaves wounds that cannot be easily undone, even after genuine redemption is achieved.
Is American History X based on a true story?
American History X is not based on a single true story, but screenwriter David McKenna drew on real events and documented white supremacist activity in Los Angeles during the early 1990s. The characters are fictional, though the social dynamics and gang culture depicted reflect documented realities of that era.
Where can you stream American History X?
American History X is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability may vary by region. Check JustWatch for the most up-to-date viewing options in your area.
Who are the main actors in American History X?
The film stars Edward Norton as Derek Vineyard and Edward Furlong as his younger brother Danny. The supporting cast includes Beverly D'Angelo, Fairuza Balk, Avery Brooks, Ethan Suplee, Elliott Gould, Stacy Keach, Jennifer Lien, and William Russ.
What is American History X about?
The film follows Derek Vineyard, a former neo-Nazi skinhead released from prison after three years, who desperately tries to steer his younger brother Danny away from the same path of racial violence. Told through Danny's narration, it examines how hatred is learned, inherited, and ultimately confronted.
How was American History X received by critics?
American History X earned strong critical praise, particularly for Edward Norton's performance, which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Critics lauded the film's unflinching examination of racism and redemption, though some noted its narrative structure as uneven. It holds a strong reputation as a landmark drama.
What is the age rating for American History X?
American History X is rated R in the United States for strong brutal violence including rape, pervasive language, strong sexuality, and drug use. It carries an 18 certificate in the UK and Spain, a VM18 rating in Italy, and similar adult-only classifications in several other countries.
Who directed American History X?
American History X was directed by Tony Kaye, a British filmmaker best known for his work in advertising and music videos. The production was notably troubled, with Kaye publicly disavowing the final cut after disputes with star Edward Norton over the film's editing and final form.
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