For a man accustomed to violence and hatred, escaping from the cycle can be a difficult thing, particularly when this outlook is informed by a racist ideology. This is the path taken by Derek Vinyard (Edward Norton) in American History X, who finds himself in prison after committing an act of manslaughter in a racist attack. Director Tony Kaye may have effectively disowned American History X after a dispute with Edward Norton, who reportedly edited much of the film himself, but the end result remains a powerful indictment of neo-Nazi ideology and the ability for people to reform. The assault which Derek's incarceration rests on is undoubtedly a truly shocking one, as he forces the man to bite on a curb before stomping on his head. Few scenes are as likely to make you wince as this one. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOzR5Jnd6bU
