AMERICAN HISTORY X [1998]

Director Tony Kaye's powerful drama American History X is the type of film that seems like it will linger with the viewer for the rest of their lives.
As disturbingly compelling as the narrative is, one can't help but notice the haunted performance played with perfection by Edward Norton.  Aided by a truly impressive cast, the film is told in a non-linear style that bounces back & forth between color and a wonderfully effective black & white.  The end result is a piece of great cinema that will probably leave the viewer stunned, deeply saddened and probably speechless for the duration of the end credits.

5 basketball courts out of 5

DETACHMENT [2011]

Not since American History X has a film left me feeling so horrible, so it came as no surprise when I found out Detachment's director Tony Kaye is the same guy.
It's a stark look at the youth of today and they way we as adults tend to forget our responsibility towards them.  It's wonderfully acted by a talented ensemble cast, filmed with thoughtful intimacy and aided by some interesting animation to tell the story that rips out your heart and stomps all over it.  Unfortunately it can be a bit too much at times and takes you out of the harsh reality that it's trying to portray.  Still by the end of the film it leaves the impact it's meant to make, meaning it made it's point with success.

3½ sad cupcakes out of 5