Malcolm's transformation from criminal to Nation of Islam leader is portrayed through constant critiques of white supremacy, police brutality, and institutional racism, making these themes not subplots but the core emotional and plot propulsion. Spike Lee's direction infuses activist intent, framing the story as a challenge to stereotypes and a call for black self-determination, complete with incendiary scenes of racial confrontation and NOI ideology that prioritize racial separation over integration.

Casting is heavily race-focused with an all-black principal ensemble justified by the subject but emblematic of identity-driven production choices, including Lee's public battle to helm the project over a white director. While authentic to the historical figure, these elements dominate, compromising pure entertainment by embedding heavy-handed messaging that lectures on racial awakening and pride, alienating broader audiences and sparking production controversies over funding and length rather than universal appeal.