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wildiris
Reviews
American History X (1998)
Flaws and merits, but more merits
In the eventual final cut that emerged from the celebrated editorial disputes, flaws and merits struggle for supremacy but the merits, I think, win over. On the down side, the treatment of Derek's ideological metamorphosis is a tad superficial (though understandably presented), and Tony Kaye's arty camerawork is sometimes used to overblown effect, as is the otherwise beautiful score. On the up side, there are fine individual scenes and excellent performances, and when the visuals do work they can be stunning - there can't be many films in which the opening credits themselves are a work of art. AHX is not perfect but it is affecting and more special than the typical multiplex movie-by-numbers. In a way, its flaws themselves could be seen to reflect its attempt to do something darker and original and not stick to safe guidelines.
American Heart (1992)
A marvellous film that deserves a bigger audience
I love Martin Bell's American Heart. It comes together like an organic whole, with nothing that seems false or out of place. The low-key, matter-of-factly gritty tone means that the film probably won't rollercoaster over you on first viewing, but also that, unlike some more high-impact films, it bears repeated viewings and even gains by them.
American Heart is high quality throughout, with fine writing, directing, acting, and artistic design. The characters are well drawn, not just types but real creations. The cast are wonderful across the board. Despite the fact that Heart was his first non-documentary feature, Bell seemed already to know how to get the best out of his actors (his later made-for-cable film Hidden in America also features fine performances). The score is very effective, too; Tom Waits' end-title song in particular. For anyone interested in Jeff Bridges or Edward Furlong this is probably essential viewing, but it is also well worth discovering for indie buffs or, indeed, anyone who likes good drama. Though the UK video sleeve may make it look like an all-action blockbuster, and the opening title sequence like a comedy, don't be put off: it's a gritty, poignant drama of real quality that deserves to be seen by more than the seemingly few who have already done so.