The National Daily World Enquiring Globe

Film Review - Malcolm X

I like films about redemption. This one is even better because the story is true. Malcolm X is the great personal journey of one man who helped enlighten the world.

Malcolm starts out as a common hoodlum. He's nothing to be proud of. He lives his life as an animal. He steals, is involved in organized crime, and is only concerned about his comforts.

Malcolm's redemption comes in prison, as he is recruited into the Nation of Islam. Malcolm changes his ways and stops living like an animal and begins to think of his people. This is Malcolm's first transformation. Later he becomes a principal in the Nation of Islam, and becomes so popular that the Nation needs to get rid of him.

Malcolm is a complex character. During his pilgrimage to Mecca, he is changed again. He realizes that God created all men. His hatred of the white man is wrong. Malcolm is now the fully reformed man. He has realized the truth that can close the gap between black and white people. What makes this the perfect tragedy is that Malcolm is assassinated just as his final work is about to begin.

At 202 minutes this film is best taken in a couple sessions. It's a long movie for a reason. Each part of Malcolm's life is well documented. Nothing appears to be glossed over. In fact, the substantial time spent on Malcolm's life of crime builds a great juxtaposition of his last days.

I've not been a Spike Lee fan but this one is worth looking for.

Slight Suction!

Film Facts

Cast

Directed by Spike Lee

Released in 1992

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Reviewed by Mongo