Genius: MLK/X 2024 Parents Guide

Genius: MLK/X” is a 43-minute biography, drama, and history film directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples. Written by Jeff Stetson, the movie stars Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Wilbur Fitzgerald. It’s set to release in the United States on February 1, 2024, and was filmed in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The production involves EUE / Sokolow, Fox 21 Television Studios, and Imagine Television.

Genius: MLK/X Plot Summary

In this compelling cinematic exploration, the narrative delves into the crucial formative years of two towering figures in the civil rights movement: Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. The storyline intricately weaves through their childhood and adolescent experiences, providing an intimate portrayal of the events and relationships that profoundly shaped the iconic leaders they would ultimately become.

The tale unfolds with Malcolm X’s liberation from prison, marking a pivotal moment in his life. As he emerges into a world fraught with racial tensions and injustice, the audience witnesses the genesis of his fervent commitment to advocating for the rights of African Americans. Malcolm’s journey is not only a personal quest for identity and justice but also a harbinger of the radical and unapologetic approach that will define his activism.

Simultaneously, the narrative pivots to Martin Luther King, Jr.’s academic achievements, culminating in his graduation from Boston University. This milestone not only signifies King’s intellectual prowess but also lays the groundwork for his emergence as a charismatic and eloquent leader. The film skillfully captures the complex interplay between King’s theological education and the racial realities he confronts, highlighting the evolution of his beliefs and strategies for achieving social change.

As these two influential figures embark on their respective paths, a subtle but palpable rivalry begins to take root. Their differing ideologies and approaches to activism create a tension that simmers beneath the surface, foreshadowing the divergent trajectories that will define their leadership styles. The audience becomes privy to the nuanced dynamics between King and Malcolm X, observing the intricate web of personal, philosophical, and strategic choices that will eventually lead them down disparate but interconnected paths.

Against the backdrop of a nation grappling with systemic racism and the fight for civil rights, the film magnifies the significance of these early years in shaping the destinies of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. Through meticulous storytelling and powerful performances, the audience is immersed in the intricate tapestry of their lives, gaining a deeper understanding of the multifaceted forces that molded these iconic figures and set the stage for a transformative era in American history.

Genius: MLK/X 2024 Parents Guide

Violence:

• Limited physical violence; depictions of historical racial tensions and civil rights struggles.
• Scenes featuring protests and confrontations, but without graphic violence.

Language:

• Minimal strong language, occasional racial slurs reflective of the historical context.

Sexual Content:

• Brief non-explicit romantic scenes between characters.
• No explicit sexual content.

Substance Abuse:

• Historical context includes scenes with characters smoking and drinking.
• No glorification of substance abuse.

Frightening/Intense Scenes:

• Intense racial themes and confrontations may be emotionally challenging for some viewers.
• Historical footage and depictions of civil rights struggles may be distressing.

Themes:

• The movie explores themes of racial injustice, civil rights, and the personal sacrifices made by historical figures.
• Educational value in understanding the formative years of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X.

Cast of Genius: MLK/X Series

1. Aaron Pierre as Malcolm X
2. Kelvin Harrison Jr. as MLK
3. Wilbur Fitzgerald as Senator Byrd
4. Jayme Lawson as Betty Shabazz
5. Weruche Opia as Coretta King
6. Ron Clinton Smith as Judge Leland Carr
7. Rachel Walters as Keela
8. Keller Fornes as Princeton Debater
9. James Adam Tucker as Doctor
10. Nevaeh Moore as 10-Year-Old Hilda
11. Ben Kacsandi as Andrews
12. Ryder Wynn as Young Martin
13. Dion Earl as W.T. Handy
14. LaTricia Akhagbeme as Mary

Key Points:

1. Director & Cast: Directed by Channing Godfrey Peoples, starring Aaron Pierre as Malcolm X, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. as MLK.
2. Plot: Explores the formative years of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X, weaving through childhood and adolescent experiences.
3. Rivalry: Highlights the subtle tension and differing ideologies between King and Malcolm X, foreshadowing their distinct leadership styles.
4. Themes: Addresses themes of racial injustice, civil rights, and personal sacrifices made by historical figures.