The film American History X deals with rampant and violent racism. More often than not the racism is portrayed by very young people aged anywhere from 16-26. The main character Derrick is primarily used as a puppet by what many view as a racist mastermind, Cameron Alexander. It is Derrick who is used as a tool to attract the younger audiences of racists, including his brother Danny. What can be regarded as the scene where young racism is shown in its largest numbers is the party sequence. Here teenagers of all ages are shown listening to loud racist metal/grind-core music, drinking, and communicating amongst each other. The party is hosted by Cameron Alexander of course, and is considered to be somewhat of a welcome back party for Derrick. The lighting through out the scene is somewhat diluted in general. There are many shadows and in some areas, darkness. This gives the overall area an ominous and even dangerous feel. The camera only attributes to this feeling. The camera moves quickly and erratically moving from person to person. The shots mimic the chaotic music that plays and gives a sense of urgency and again, danger. The partygoers are completely at home of course. Their lives are built and based around the hate they preach and the distorted ideals they believe in. The scene itself mirrors this ideology. The erratic scene is coupled by the erratic camera. With the music and lighting, the scene is the perfect part of the film to observe the growing racism in the minds of the young people.
Make sure that your picture has posted correctly. They are teens, and they are impressionable, but what economic class do they represent and why is class so important in this film. You need to link class to racism.
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