Review of Malcolm X (1992) by Peter H — 10 May 2011
It is the end of Malcolm X which, like so many other films, feels hideously out of place when all is said and done. With Nelson Mandela and Ossie Davis providing the epilogue and eulogy, Malcolm X goes farther than it should in creating the character.
But does that necessarily destroy the movie? No. The lack of depth between Malcolm and wife Betty is a disadvantage, as is probing and explaining the wae between Malcolm and the Nation of Islam. However, it is Denzel Washington, portraying the titular figure from youth to middle age, who shines.
Charismatic and stern at the same time, he is the epicenter of the film. A lesser actor would have made this a glorified History Channel film. Astute viewers of other Spike Lee films will notice some of the director's trademarks, especially in a scene near the finale (which also seems rushed, but no bother).
This review of Malcolm X (1992) was written by Peter H on 10 May 2011.
Malcolm X has generally received very positive reviews.
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