Michael X: Hustler, Revolutionary, Outlaw

The rise and fall of Michael X

2021 · 100 min · Documentary

This is the untold story of the rise and fall of Michael X – otherwise known as Michael De Freitas or Michael Abdul Malik – who was once heralded as the UK’s answer to Malcolm X. With insider testimony from those who knew him and unseen archive footage, Michael X: Hustler, Revolutionary, Outlaw provides a chance to re-evaluate this divisive historical figure who spent the end of his days on death row until he was eventually executed by signed order of the Queen. Exploring a defining period of modern British history, we unravel Michael’s childhood in Trinidad, the genesis of the British Black Power Movement and the intoxicating days of counterculture and Notting Hill Carnival, before returning to the Caribbean where Michael was tried and convicted of murder.

Directed by James Van Der Pool

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