KINORAFIELD GUIDE TO FILM
1992 · 202 min · PG-13

Malcolm X

Directed by Spike Lee · Drama, History

Malcolm X (1992) is a Drama film, directed by Spike Lee set in New York City, Boston, and Mecca during the 1940s–1960s. It runs 202 minutes and is rated PG-13.

A biopic, with a bleak and contemplative tone. Themes of freedom & oppression, identity, and faith / religion play out through episodic chapters.

Composer
Terence Blanchard
Cinematography
Ernest R. Dickerson
Cast
Denzel WashingtonAngela BassettAlbert HallAl Freeman Jr.Delroy LindoSpike LeeTheresa RandleKate Vernon

The world of this film

Setting

Setting

Premise & themes

Premise
Tone
BleakContemplative

Shape

Protagonist
Solo Lead
Pacing
Measured
Dialogue
Talky Dialogue Driven
Based on
  • 1957

    12 Angry Men

    New York City — 1950s
    Urbandir. Sidney Lumet
  • 2013

    12 Years a Slave

    New York City · New Orleans · Louisiana — 1800s
    Ruraldir. Steve McQueen
  • 2002

    25th Hour

    New York City — 2000s
    Urbandir. Spike Lee
  • 1993

    A Bronx Tale

    New York City — 1960s
    Urbandir. Robert De Niro
  • 2001

    A.I. Artificial Intelligence

    New Jersey · New York City — Far Future
    Urban · Suburbandir. Steven Spielberg
  • 2002

    Adaptation.

    Los Angeles · New York City · Florida — 1990s
    Urban · Wildernessdir. Spike Jonze