"Malcolm X" Film Study/Discussion Questions

Here is part 1 of the Study Questions for Spike Lee's film "Malcolm X", the film that we are studying in Studio Production in honor of Black History Month.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT THIS PROJECT AND THESE QUESTIONS: I'm not trying to endorse or promote any particular viewpoint or belief except for wanting people to study/examine American history and to improve ethnic/race relations. I am trying to encourage people to: think for yourself and oppose racism and hatred.


1. At the beginning of Spike Lee’s film “Malcolm X” there is a sound collage of many very intense and provocative statements that Malcolm X made at different points in his life (read and portrayed by actor Denzel Washington) combined with the American flag burning and footage of the Rodney King beating. Why do you think Spike Lee starts the film this way? How do these particular Malcolm X statements and this sequence make you feel? Is it an effective intro? Why or why not?


2. After watching the entire film compare and contrast Malcolm X’s beliefs that are stated at the beginning of the film (earlier in his life) with his beliefs at the end of the film (later in his life). Evaluate: after watching the film and learning about Malcolm X’s life do you have a different feeling about the film’s opening statements?


3.Where did Malcolm X live and grow up as a young man? What was his nickname as a young man? What was Malcolm X’s original name? Why did he change his name?


4. Where was Malcolm X born? Where did Malcolm X live when he was a child? As a young man, what did he do for work and what was his lifestyle?


5. What happened to Malcolm X’s family when he was still a young child? What was Malcolm’s father’s occupation? What are some other events from his childhood that influenced his views?


6. Why did Malcolm get sent to prison? What inspired him to start thinking and living life differently?


7. Evaluate: what is the difference between how Malcolm X views white people as a young man, during and after prison and later in life?



To be continued…