Norton is an amazing actor, a hot-dog whose delight in transformation is infectious.

Two things hold the interest: Norton's astounding performance, and a feeling for the male reality of reactionary working class environments.

The problem is that Kaye, who's used to selling cars on TV, shoots Derek the Hater as lovingly as he would a new Volkswagen.

Making social statements is important, but so is quality writing. The film lacks too much in one area to be brilliant, but is successful enough in other areas that it is easily a good movie.