This epic film follows the overwhelming journey Malcolm X went through from petty criminal to black activist, and is a testament to his intelligence and strength of character.

Spike Lee obviously had fun with this film, alternating serious acting, found footage and scenes which mimic photographic records with highly choreographed dances, exaggerated clothes and sunglasses. This frivolity brings fresh air to the charged history and yet I am not sure this was necessary or even appropriate, and sometimes feels like Spike Lee reminding you that he is there, like Woody Allen's need to be in the spotlight.

The strength of the film is fundamentally thanks to Malcolm X. He was a fascinating person; angry, hungry for knowledge and understanding, charismatic, a highly articulate speaker, and -according to the film- always humble. The film presents him as a bright ray of hope, not only because he shows how it is possible to continually better oneself and others, but also thanks to his intelligence and his willingness to change and grow.

Malcolm X is a fascinating figure as he embodies and condenses the history and consequence of racism and black subjugation in the United States (and far further afield). Born in 1925, Malcolm X began as just another black man with no opportunities in a racist society, he went to jail and there was enlightened by Islam. When he left he become a prominent minister in the extremist Nation of Islam. His opinions evolved from being a backlash of anger which, although understandable, led to advocating black supremacy, total segregation, as well as refusing dialogue with any other black movements especially churches. He kept learning and growing, opening his vision and reach, to acknowledge support from other religious groups and races. It is so sad that he was assassinated at the age of 40, just when he was starting to dialogue openly with other social and human rights activists. Malcolm X made a huge difference in the struggle for African American rights, but this tribute to his strength leaves you feeling that he would have made much more of a difference had he lived.

The film portrays Malcolm X as a brilliant man, full of conviction and determination, who was able to respond to the life changing experiences that life threw at him. It shows the evolution of his beliefs and gives a glimpse of the historical background, and baggage, surrounding him. In this sense, Spike Lee's direction is a success and Denzel Washington's acting, strong as always, is true to the myth of Malcolm X.