Malcolm X (1992)
Based on The Autobiography Of Malcolm X by Malcolm X and Alex Haley, this highly acclaimed film from director Spike Lee boasts an adapted screenplay by Lee and Arnold Perl (Fiddler On The Roof). It presents the major moments in the life of the influential leader – from his youth spent engaged in criminal enterprise, to his imprisonment, his conversion to Islam, his time with the Nation Of Islam, his marriage, pilgrimage to Mecca and, ultimately, his assassination during a speech.
With Denzel Washington in the title role, Malcolm X also features Angela Bassett, Delroy Lindo, Theresa Randle, and Christopher Plummer. It is noteworthy for including the legendary Nelson Mandela in its cast, and also benefits from a voice-over by actor Ossie Davis, reading the eulogy he gave personally at the funeral of Malcolm X. The power of the film lies in the fact that the themes and issues that dominated the life and work of Malcolm X remain highly relevant throughout the world today.