The movie American History X displays racism in modern society. A man named Derek is a neo Nazi, and his attitude reflects that of his father’s. He is extremely racist towards black society. His attitude is then passed on to his little brother. His character has an extreme transformation because of an event that causes him to go to prison. In the end he realizes that his beliefs were wrong. His brother ends up being killed because of the Derek’s beliefs. The theme of the movie is that racism can create pain and suffering for both ends. The theme of this story is didactic because they are letting you find this on your own.
This scene of the movie American History X displays a lot of characteristics from our basic concept lecture. The two that I noticed most was tension and release, and conscious and subconscious. Tension rises in the scene as Derek begins talking about his beliefs, and then is released after the entire family has fought and Derek goes up the stairs because his mother screamed terrible things at him. As for conscious, you are completely aware that this scene of the movie is in black and white. Subconsciously, however, they are showing you this in black and white to show Derek’ beliefs. He is extremely racist towards that black community, and he sees you as either black or white. After Derek’s character transforms and realizes that his beliefs were wrong, the movie is returned to color. The theme of this movie is also displayed through rhythm and movement.
The rhythm of this scene rises, and gets faster and faster, letting the viewer know that something bad is about to happen. Then, the rhythm smooth out again after Derek completely freaks out. He shoves food in his sisters face, and begins screaming at her and pulling her hair. He then looks at his mother’s boyfriend and begins screaming at him. He tells him to get out of their house, and he is not welcome. Then, his mother goes outside to tell her boyfriend bye, but before she leaves she tells Derek she is ashamed that he came out of her body. This is probably the worst thing that a mother can say to her child. The tension is released her, and everything slows down once again. Movement is also important. The camera movement gets quicker and quicker, until finally Derek goes crazy. Then, the camera returns to a slow smooth movement.
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