American History X: a Critical View of the Movie

American History X is not a typical movie in the sense that it does not fit into standards of other Hollywood movies. American History X breaks the boundaries and I believe that it is not an example of popular culture. Three major themes are prevalent in this movie that attempt to twist or bend ourr normative thinking about movies. First, family values or family unity is the overriding power within the movie. This is not consistent with society today. Second, racism and white supremacy is central in determining who you are in this neighborhood. Again, this issue is not of much significance today. Finally, the government is to blame for much of the wrongs in society. This attitude may be consistent today, but is not often depicted in the mass media. In the following paragraphs, I will examine in detail these three main themes. I will describe the important themes, analyze the particular patterns throughout the movie that are consistent with these themes, and interpret what it all means based on the evidence that I have provided. Finally, I will evaluate this movie and make a judgment as to why it is high art rather than popular culture.