Review of Malcolm X (1992) by Drew S — 21 Jul 2011

Before reviewing this film, I'll say this about Spike Lee, he is one of the most painful directors that I have ever seen in the cinematic medium. On the very rare occasion, he can turn out a good film.

However Spike Lee has one trick up his sleeve and it's the race card, he uses for everyone of his films to the point that you can't even take the guy seriously. With the case of Malcolm X, he is suited for the job, but really, I think maybe Denzel Washington should have directed this as well as starred in it.

What truly makes this film worth watching is Denzel Washington's performance as Malcolm X. He truly delivered something incredible on screen. However I also thought that the film felt too preachy and it started to sound like a Spike Lee rant after a while.

As a person who's read Alex Haley's The Autobiography Of Malcolm X, I have to say that I much preferred the book to the film. I thought there was a lot more detail, and more interesting facts that Spike seem to leave out or twist to make his own point in telling Malcolm X's story.

Personally I preferred the book over the film and though I thought Denzel Washington was great, I can't shake the feeling that this is just Spike Lee playing the race card to his own advantage in telling this historical story.