Alot of egotistical posturing goes a long way. The way that "American History X" centers around Edward Norton's Derek is just a method of portraying the way that his brother Danny(Edward Furlong) idolizes him. "Narcissistic" it's not, although at first glance one may think that the entire film is Edward Norton's ode to himself as an actor. I don't believe that it is.Before "American History X" I had seen one Edward Norton movie. It was a well done if odd piece of noir called "Rounders". I liked it, but "Rounders" didn't move me to tears or scare the crap out of me. Amercan History X is the name of a course designed specifically for Danny Vinyard by his school's principal because, well, Danny is brilliant but 'misguided'. After having his report on Mein Kampf thrown out, Danny is assigned to write a report on his brother, Derek, who quite conveniently has just been released from prison. Derek was a nazi skinhead, imprisoned for the killings of a few black men who chose the wrong car to steal. Make no mistake, Derek did it. And he's proud. You see it in his eyes, a pure fire of hatred burning deep into your mind. This fire jumps from the film onto the screen with vigor, and sears itself into the audience with even more power. The plot continues from here, with a seamless link of past and present and change written on Derek's face. The performances in this film are unbelievable with the most standout being of course from Edward Norton. A surprise was from Edward Furlong, whose high voice and irritating tone just multiplied his lack of appeal in "Pecker". He was really good here. His voice still bugs me, but what the hell.When a movie makes you feel something that you can only feel from first hand experience, it's really good. When a movie makes you feel something that you haven't before, it's outstanding. American History X is both of these, and more.