The Order Unmasked: 5 Films Exposing America's Neo-Nazi Terror Group

A Critical Examination of Extremist Strategies

The Order, a white supremacist group active in the 1980s United States, has been the subject of several films exploring its tactics and impact. These movies shed light on a dark chapter of American history, examining the group's methods and ideologies.

By analyzing The Order's strategies through film, viewers gain insight into the inner workings of extremist organizations and their recruitment techniques. These cinematic explorations serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the dangers of hate-based ideologies and the importance of combating such movements in society.

1) 'American History X' - Examines the allure and influence of white supremacy

'American History X' portrays the seductive power of white supremacist ideology through the story of two brothers in Los Angeles. The film explores how these beliefs can take root and spread within families and communities.

Derek Vinyard, played by Edward Norton, becomes a charismatic leader in the neo-Nazi movement. His journey illustrates how personal tragedy and misdirected anger can fuel extremist views.

The movie depicts the recruitment tactics used by white supremacist groups, showing how they prey on vulnerable individuals seeking belonging and purpose. It highlights the role of charismatic leaders in perpetuating these ideologies.

Through Derek's transformation in prison, the film also examines the challenging process of unlearning deeply ingrained racist beliefs. It shows the potential for redemption and the ripple effects of changing one's mindset.

'American History X' provides a stark look at the consequences of embracing white supremacist ideologies, both for individuals and society at large. It serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of hate.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_History_X

2) 'Imperium' - Undercover FBI agent targets Neo-Nazi organizations

'Imperium' is a 2016 crime thriller that explores the world of white supremacist groups through the eyes of an FBI agent. Daniel Radcliffe stars as Nate Foster, a young agent who goes undercover to infiltrate neo-Nazi organizations.

The film draws inspiration from real-life experiences of former FBI agent Michael German, who spent years investigating extremist groups. It offers a glimpse into the tactics and ideologies of The Order and similar white supremacist movements.

Radcliffe's character immerses himself in the neo-Nazi subculture, adopting their beliefs and mannerisms to gain trust. The film depicts the challenges and dangers faced by undercover agents in these high-stakes operations.

'Imperium' showcases the inner workings of white supremacist groups, their recruitment methods, and their plans for violent actions. It highlights the FBI's efforts to thwart potential terrorist attacks by these extremist organizations.

The movie provides insight into the psychological aspects of radicalization and the complex motivations driving individuals to join such movements.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperium_(2016_film)

3) 'The Believer' - Explores the psychology of a young Jewish Neo-Nazi

'The Believer' is a 2001 drama film directed by Henry Bean that delves into the complex psyche of Daniel Balint, a Jewish man who becomes a neo-Nazi. The film is loosely based on the true story of Dan Burros, a member of the American Nazi Party who was revealed to be Jewish.

Ryan Gosling portrays Daniel, a character tormented by his own identity. The film explores the internal struggle of a young man who rejects his Jewish heritage and embraces anti-Semitic ideologies.

'The Believer' examines the psychological motivations behind Daniel's transformation. It suggests that his extreme beliefs stem from feelings of powerlessness and anger towards both religious teachings and historical persecution.

The movie presents a nuanced portrayal of Daniel's conflicted nature. It shows how he grapples with his Jewish background while actively participating in neo-Nazi activities.

Through Daniel's journey, the film offers insight into the mindset of those who join extremist movements. It highlights the role of personal trauma and identity crisis in shaping radical beliefs.

[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Believer_(2001_film)]

4) 'Skin' - Follows a skinhead's journey away from extremism

'Skin' is a 2018 biographical drama directed by Guy Nattiv. The film portrays the true story of Bryon Widner, a former white supremacist who decides to leave his hateful past behind.

Jamie Bell stars as Widner, a heavily tattooed skinhead deeply entrenched in a neo-Nazi organization. The movie explores his struggles as he attempts to break free from the violent, racist group that has become his surrogate family.

The film depicts the challenges Widner faces in shedding his extremist beliefs and the physical reminders of his past. It shows the painful process of removing his hate-filled tattoos, symbolizing his transformation.

'Skin' offers a unique perspective on white supremacist tactics by showcasing how these groups prey on vulnerable individuals, providing a sense of belonging and purpose. It also highlights the difficulties of leaving such organizations.

Through Widner's journey, the film examines the complex web of relationships and ideologies that sustain white supremacist movements, offering insight into both their appeal and the path to redemption.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skin_(2018_feature_film)

5) 'This Is England' - Chronicles youth culture and skinhead movement in 1980s Britain

'This Is England' explores the skinhead subculture in 1980s Britain through the eyes of a young boy. The film depicts how the movement, which began as a multicultural working-class youth culture, became infiltrated by far-right extremists.

Director Shane Meadows showcases the initial appeal of skinhead culture, with its blend of Jamaican and British influences. The protagonist Shaun finds acceptance and camaraderie within a skinhead group led by the charismatic Woody.

However, the arrival of the older, racist skinhead Combo disrupts the group's harmony. Combo's influence reflects the real-life shift in some skinhead circles towards white nationalism and violence against minorities.

The film portrays how vulnerable youth can be drawn into extremist ideologies through a desire for belonging and identity. It highlights the tactics used by groups like The Order to recruit young people into white supremacist movements.

'This Is England' provides a nuanced look at the complexities of subcultures and the dangers of extremism taking root in disenfranchised communities.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/This_Is_England

Historical Context of The Order

The Order emerged in the early 1980s as a violent white supremacist group. It sought to overthrow the U.S. government and establish a white ethnostate through terrorist tactics and criminal activities.

Origins and Evolution

The Order formed in 1983 under the leadership of Robert Jay Mathews. Inspired by the fictional novel "The Turner Diaries," the group aimed to spark a race war and revolution against the federal government. They labeled it a "Zionist occupied government" controlled by Jews.

The Order quickly escalated from ideological discussions to violent action. They engaged in counterfeiting, robbery, and assassination to fund their activities. Their most notorious act was the 1984 murder of Jewish radio host Alan Berg in Denver.

The group's criminal spree lasted only about a year before law enforcement cracked down. A fiery shootout with the FBI in December 1984 resulted in Mathews' death and the arrest of other members.

Key Figures and Leaders

Robert Jay Mathews founded and led The Order until his death in 1984. He recruited members from various white supremacist circles, including the National Alliance and Aryan Nations.

David Lane served as the group's propagandist. He authored the "14 Words" slogan widely adopted in white nationalist movements. Lane received a 190-year prison sentence for his involvement in Berg's murder.

Bruce Pierce acted as Mathews' second-in-command. He participated in several robberies and assassinations, including Berg's killing. Pierce died in prison in 2010 while serving a life sentence.

Richard Scutari handled security and weapons training. He evaded capture for over a year before his arrest in 1986. Scutari remains incarcerated in federal prison.

Analyzing Tactics and Influence

White supremacist groups like The Order employ various methods to spread their ideology and gain followers. Their strategies focus on propaganda dissemination and targeted recruitment efforts.

Propaganda Techniques

The Order utilizes multiple propaganda channels to promote its beliefs. Online platforms serve as key tools, with social media accounts and websites hosting racist content. Films and documentaries glorifying white supremacy circulate in these circles.

Printed materials like pamphlets and newsletters spread The Order's message offline. These often distort historical facts to support their racist narratives. Symbols and coded language appear frequently to appeal to potential sympathizers.

Public demonstrations and rallies aim to gain media attention and normalize their presence. The group frames its actions as protecting white identity and culture to seem less extreme.

Recruitment Strategies

The Order targets vulnerable individuals for recruitment, often focusing on young white males. They exploit feelings of alienation or economic hardship to draw people into their ideology.

Online forums and chat rooms serve as entry points, where recruiters engage in conversations and share propaganda. In-person events like music concerts or martial arts classes provide opportunities to meet potential recruits face-to-face.

The group uses a gradual approach, starting with less controversial ideas before introducing more extreme beliefs. They create a sense of belonging and purpose to retain members, offering community support and a shared identity.