“American History X” (1999) tells a controversial story of two brothers involved in the extreme-right white supremacy movement in the United States. Derek (Edward Norton) is a staunch neo-Nazi who lives a life filled with hate and violence. After murdering three black people who he caught stealing a car, he serves three years in prison for voluntary manslaughter. His brutal crime turns him into a hero in the eyes of his peers, and he is emulated by his younger brother Danny. Upon Derek’s release from prison, Danny has become an ardent fascist and indoctrinated member of the extreme right. Refined by his experiences in prison and dissuaded of his previous convictions, the ex-con subsequently tries to open his brother’s eyes as well.

In his brief introductory lecture, Jun.-Prof. Moritz Ingwersen, Chair of North American Literature with a Focus on Future Studies, will provide a critical classification of the film, in particular in the context of current developments in the US.