Malcolm X (1992)

VHS COVER/SIDE

Length of film:  202 Minutes

Rated: PG-13

Genre: Biography, Drama, History

Director: Spike Lee

Starring: Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Albert Hall, Al Freeman Jr., Delroy Lindo,

IMDB Rank: 7.7/10

Part 1 Time: 100 Minutes

Part 2 Time: 102 Minutes

Where does the first part end? Brother Banes, Sister Betty, and Malcolm X speak after a rally.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “She’s interested” Brother Banes speaks to Malcolm X following his introduction to Sister Betty.

First line of dialogue on the second part: “Brother Minster, I was wondering if you could speak to our class?” Sister Betty speaks with Malcolm X.

How jarring is it when the first part ends?  Minimal, at this point in the film Malcolm X is fully invested in spreading the word of Allah. He is beginning to be noticed by both members of the African American and White community for various reasons.

Which part is better? Although the film should be reviewed as a whole there is a clear point of intermission. Part one addresses Malcolm’s early life, including the racism he faced, his life as an illegal bookie, his time in jail, and his early involvement in Islamic Religion. Part two focuses on Malcolm X’s raising fame as he becomes a strong voice for members of the African American community. Part two is given the slight edge due to its ability to show Malcolm X’s raise as an American human rights leader.

Academy Awards: Best Leading Actor (Nominated-Denzel Washington), Best Costume Design (Nominated)

National Film Registry: 2010