Caitlin Willis - Malcolm X

Caitlin Willis
3/8/17
Intro. to Film Studies

Malcolm X

           Growing up, I learned about Martin Luther King Jr. more than Malcolm X. In schools we learned about Martin Luther King because he was the more peaceful hero. Malcolm X was seen as too aggressive to teach children. This movie helped to refresh my memory and also teach me more about this important Civil Rights leader. It also helped to rid my mind of the bias I had. Going into the movie, I was aware that Malcolm's approach to racism and discrimination was different than MLK's. Rather than being peaceful and enduring, he was more straightforward and upfront about what the black community wanted. I wouldn't exactly call him aggressive though. But he definitely was a voice for those not satisfied by MLK's approach to human rights. This movie, I feel, portrayed that perfectly.
           This film also touches on Malcolm X's religion, which he embraced during his time in prison, and how that impacted his part in the Civil Rights movement. He became Muslim and that strongly dictated his actions as a leader. Many Muslims looked to him during the movement, especially when he led the march to protest the police officers. He was also a Muslim preacher but then he decided not to do it anymore. He left the NOI but continued preaching regularly. His religion strongly encouraged his involvement in the Civil Rights movement.
           His death was also extremely similar to how he died in real life. He was shot multiple times by a pistol. The eulogy at the end of the film was also very moving. This movie is a token of the Black Rights Movement and portrays black excellence well.