Customer Reviews

Death of a Prophet

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

This movie is nowhere near as flashy or as gripping as Spike Lee's "Malcolm X". It presents a more low key and gritty picture of a man quietly going on with his life's work even while knowing that someone has marked him for death. The lack of Hollywood flair makes this movie feel more realistic than Spike Lee's film, like you're actually walking around the city with Malcolm. Still I missed the sense of energy that Denzel Washington brought to the role. Freeman's Malcolm is someone you like and respect, but he doesn't charismatically draw you into his vision like Washington did in his portrayal, or perhaps like the real Malcolm did. In any case this DVD is worth seeing for its sense of realism, which perhaps serves as something of a counterbalance to visions of Malcolm X, the demi-god of our imagination, when after all he was a flesh and blood man, albeit a man of great vision, courage and charisma.

This incredible film follows the events in the final twenty four hours of the life of controversial religious and political leader Malcolm X. Fanatics tried to firebomb his home. They tried to murder him white he slept. Why was he so hated? Where were the police on the day of his assassination? How did his killers manage to escape?

Don't be fooled into thinking that because Morgan Freeman is in this film that it has any quality -- it does NOT. One of the worst films I've ever viewed. Kept waiting for something redeeming to happen -- never did. It's far from a "gripping drama" as advertised. Don't waste your money.

Literally follow Malcolm in his final steps that led up to the day of his death. He was respected of many and hated by a few - quite an interesting film and an accurate account of Malcolm's life. It will bring a sadness to watchers, but also leave a powerful impact of courage and realization of the fear that can stop forward movement in so many. Acting is superb by all in chosen roles.

Malcolm X is an essential figure in American history and Morgan Freeman is fine actor, but this movie just didn't work for me. If you know the basic story and events of his life, this movie doesn't really tell you anything new. Why make a movie of only the last 24 hours of his life? There is so much to be learned in the years before that. I recommend the Spike Lee film and the Autobiography of Malcolm X instead. They will tell you much more about the dimension of the man than this short film can.