Malcolm X

The 1992 American biographical drama directed by Spike Lee is based on "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" co-authored by Malcolm X and Alex Haley. The film chronicles the life of African-American activist Malcolm X (Denzel Washington), from his troubled childhood marked by racial violence, through his criminal past and imprisonment, where he converts to Islam, to his rise as a prominent leader in the Nation of Islam. It details his service in the Nation, subsequent break from the organization, pilgrimage to Mecca, reevaluation of his views on race relations, and the founding of his own organization. The film highlights his relationships with his wife Betty Shabazz (Angela Bassett) and mentor Brother Baines (Albert Hall). Al Freeman Jr. portrays Elijah Muhammad, and Delroy Lindo plays West Indian Archie. Spike Lee appears as Shorty, a friend from Malcolm's early life. Cameo appearances include Bobby Seale, Reverend Al Sharpton, and Nelson Mandela. The film received critical acclaim, with Denzel Washington earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.