---
title: "American History X"
year: 1998
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/american-history-x-1998"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 73
imdb_id: "tt0120586"
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 119
community_rating: 8.3
vote_count: 12688
content_rating: "R"
---

# American History X (1998) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/american-history-x-1998

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

American History X is a film about a man who is released from prison after serving time for a violent crime. Through the narration of his younger brother, the story explores the protagonist's past as a leader of a violent white supremacist gang. The gang's actions were marked by racial crime in Los Angeles. The brother's narration reveals the significant influence the protagonist had on him. After his release from prison, the protagonist makes a conscious effort to change his ways and prevent his brother from following in his footsteps.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A former white supremacist struggles to steer his younger brother away from a life of hate."

### Why Watch
- powerful performances
- thought-provoking themes
- compelling character arcs

### Caveats & Content Note
- contains disturbing depictions of violence
- heavy subject matter
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains intense sequences of violence and themes related to racial hatred.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: gritty, intense, dramatic, provocative

## Streaming Availability Matrix

| Region | Stream (Subscription) | Free / Ads | Rent / Buy |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **United States (US)** | None | None | Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies |
| **United Kingdom (GB)** | HBO Max Amazon Channel, HBO Max | None | Apple TV Store, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video |
| **Canada (CA)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, CosmoGo |
| **Australia (AU)** | None | None | Apple TV Store, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies |

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Tony Kaye
- **Networks / Studios**: New Line Cinema, Savoy Pictures, The Turman-Morrissey Company

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Edward Norton** as *Derek*
- **Edward Furlong** as *Danny*
- **Beverly D'Angelo** as *Doris*
- **Jennifer Lien** as *Davina*
- **Ethan Suplee** as *Seth*
- **Fairuza Balk** as *Stacey*
- **Avery Brooks** as *Sweeney*
- **Elliott Gould** as *Murray*
- **Stacy Keach** as *Cameron*
- **William Russ** as *Dennis*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: What is the film about?
It follows a man released from prison who attempts to prevent his younger brother from following his former path of white supremacy.

### Q: Who is the protagonist?
The story centers on Derek Vineyard, a former leader of a violent gang.

### Q: What is the relationship between Derek and Danny?
Derek and Danny are brothers, with Derek serving as a significant influence on Danny's life.

### Q: Why was Derek in prison?
He served three years for killing two African-American men.

### Q: What is the setting?
The events of the film take place in Los Angeles.

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*