On a one to five I would say a four.  I am no movie buff but do watch anything (at least once) and the film does have the viewer enthralled the whole time.  The overtones that are included are amazing as well.  When the police officer places the gun into Cuba Gooding JR.'s mouth you are legitimately astonished and terrified all at the same time.  American History X I would say shows the extremes more which is why I would say I like it more.