Malcolm X
A tribute to the controversial black activist and leader of the struggle for black liberation. He hit bottom during his imprisonment in the '50s, he became a Black Muslim and then a leader in the Nation of Islam. His assassination in 1965 left a legacy of self-determination and racial pride.
Critics Sentiment
Malcolm replaces surname Little with X and begins preaching in Harlem
Malcolm's teacher discourages his law career dreams due to skin color
The film rises dramatically from Malcolm's early institutional racism experiences to his emergence as the iconic civil rights leader Malcolm X.
Critics consistently praised Denzel Washington's transformative performance and Spike Lee's epic direction, with particular acclaim for the vibrant early sequences and Malcolm's spiritual evolution. The film maintains strong audience engagement throughout its lengthy runtime, with reviewers appreciating its balanced portrayal of a controversial figure. While some noted the film's occasional preachiness and length, most considered it a masterpiece that deserved greater Oscar recognition.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 309
Denzel Washington
Malcolm X
Angela Bassett
Betty Shabazz
Albert Hall
Baines
Al Freeman Jr.
Elijah Muhammad
Delroy Lindo
West Indian Archie
Spike Lee
Shorty
Theresa Randle
Laura
Kate Vernon
Sophia
Lonette McKee
Louise Little
Tommy Hollis
Earl Little
James McDaniel
Brother Earl
Ernest Lee Thomas
Sidney
Jean-Claude La Marre
Benjamin 2X
O.L. Duke
Pete
Larry McCoy
Sammy
Maurice Sneed
Cadillac
Debi Mazar
Peg
Phyllis Yvonne Stickney
Honey
Scot Anthony Robinson
Daniel
Sonny Jim Gaines
Cholly
Crew
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