The Life of Malcolm X

Rating: 10/10 (7 December 2014)

Spike Lee's adaptation of Malcolm X is a historical motion picture that draws viewers into the life of Malcolm X. The events that take place throughout the film depict Malcolm's journey to becoming one of the most famous leaders in history. The film begins by glamorizing Malcolm's life as a hustler on the streets of Boston. Spike Lee's use of color and music in the night club scenes help embody the essence of the time period. The use of tracking shots, and long shots capture the energy of the city during this time. As the film progresses, viewers watch as Malcolm's life as a hustler is disrupted when he is sentenced to prison. When Malcolm refuses to state his identification number, he is thrown into solitary confinement by the prison guards. For the first time throughout the film there is no light in the scene where Malcolm is alone in solitary confinement. The loss of light helps enhance Malcolm's isolation from the world. After being released from solitude, Malcolm interacts with another prisoner by the name of, Baines. Baines introduces Malcolm to the Nation of Islam; however Malcolm is resistant at first. As Baines and Malcolm continue to converse about the Nation of Islam, and the nation's leader, Elijah Muhammad, Malcolm slowly begins to embrace the Islamic faith. Baines shares his knowledge of Elijah Muhammad's wisdom, and informs Malcolm that Elijah Muhammad can lead Malcolm to the light. Once Malcolm is released from prison, he becomes a minister and spokesman for the Nation of Islam. Malcolm captures the attention of many people after joining the nation, and later decides to go on a pilgrimage to Mecca. It is in Mecca, where Malcolm experiences racial unity for the first time in his life. Many long shots are filmed in Mecca to visually showcase the unity, and acceptance of others that Malcom witnesses. Spike Lee ensures that every minute of this movie counts by specifically deciding the colors, music, events, camera angles, and editing that are used to create an inspirational documentary that tells the life of an inspirational and dedicated man by the name of Malcolm X.