The 1992 film Malcolm X is an epic biographical drama about the African-American activist Malcolm X. Directed and co-written by Spike Lee, the film stars Denzel Washington in the title role, as well as Angela Bassett, Albert Hall, Al Freeman Jr., and Delroy Lindo. The movie is long, with a runtime of 202 minutes, but it is worth watching as it brings Malcolm X's autobiography to life with an epic sweep and a nuanced message. It is available to watch with a subscription on Showtime, Paramount Plus, or to rent or buy on Vudu, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
The film was nominated for two Oscars and has received critical acclaim. The Criterion Collection has released a special edition of the film with bonus features, including a program about the making of the film, deleted scenes, and a feature-length documentary produced by Marvin Worth and Arnold Perl and directed by Perl, narrated by actor James Earl Jones. The official trailer of the film is available on YouTube.
Plot
The 1992 film Malcolm X is a biographical epic drama that follows the life of African-American activist Malcolm X, from his childhood in rural Nebraska to his assassination in 1965. The film portrays Malcolm X's transformation from a small-time gangster to a member of the Nation of Islam, a black nationalist and religious movement, and his eventual break with the organization. It also depicts Malcolm X's pilgrimage to Mecca, which broadened his perspective on race and religion. The movie concludes with a series of clips showing the aftermath of Malcolm's death, including Martin Luther King Jr. delivering a eulogy to Malcolm, and Ossie Davis reciting a speech at Malcolm's funeral. Nelson Mandela delivers a speech to a school, quoting an excerpt from one of Malcolm's speeches.
- Childhood and Early Years:
The film begins with Malcolm Little's childhood and early adulthood in the 1920s and 1930s. It explores the impact of racism on his family, the violence they faced, and his father's death. Malcolm becomes involved in criminal activities, leading to his arrest and imprisonment.
- Conversion to Islam:
While in prison, Malcolm Little converts to Islam and becomes a follower of the Nation of Islam, led by Elijah Muhammad. He changes his name to Malcolm X as a symbol of his rejection of his "slave" surname. Upon release, he becomes a devoted minister for the Nation of Islam.
- Activism and Leadership:
Malcolm X becomes a charismatic and influential leader within the Nation of Islam, advocating for black pride, self-defense, and separatism. His speeches and teachings gain national attention, attracting both admiration and controversy.
- Conflict with the Nation of Islam:
Tensions rise within the Nation of Islam due to Malcolm X's growing popularity and his disagreements with Elijah Muhammad. This leads to his suspension and eventual expulsion from the organization.
- Pilgrimage to Mecca:
After leaving the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X embarks on a pilgrimage to Mecca, a transformative experience that changes his perspective on race and religion. He embraces Sunni Islam and renounces the separatist views he once held.
- Return to the United States:
Malcolm X returns to the United States with a new vision of unity among all races. He becomes a vocal advocate for human rights, condemning racism and violence.
- Assassination:
Despite his evolving views, Malcolm X faces ongoing threats and surveillance. In 1965, during a speaking engagement in Harlem, he is assassinated by members associated with the Nation of Islam.
- Legacy:
The film concludes by reflecting on Malcolm X's legacy and the impact of his teachings on civil rights and the fight against racism. His life is remembered as a complex journey of personal and ideological evolution.
Cast
- Denzel Washington as Malcolm X
- Angela Bassett as Betty Shabazz (Malcolm X's wife)
- Albert Hall as Baines (Malcolm X's mentor)
- Al Freeman Jr. as Elijah Muhammad (Nation of Islam leader)
- Delroy Lindo as West Indian Archie
- Spike Lee as Shorty (Malcolm X's friend)
- Theresa Randle as Laura
- Kate Vernon as Sophia
- Lonette McKee as Louise Little (Malcolm X's mother)
- Tommy Hollis as Earl Little (Malcolm X's father)
- James McDaniel as Brother Earl
- Ernest Thomas as Sidney
- Jean-Claude La Marre as Benjamin 2X
- Ossie Davis as Eulogy Performer
- Ernie Hudson as Police Officer
- Giancarlo Esposito as Thomas Hayer (one of Malcolm X's assassins)
In addition to the main cast, the film features cameo appearances by Black Panther Party co-founder Bobby Seale, the Rev. Al Sharpton, and future South African president Nelson Mandela.
Director: Spike Lee
Writer: Alex Haley, Malcolm X, Arnold Perl, Spike Lee
Box Office Gross: $48,169,910
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures
Genre: Biography, History, Drama
Release Date (Theaters): Nov 18, 1992
Release Date (Streaming): Jan 25, 2011