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Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film Essay

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Introduction

In Malcolm X, costumes and makeup effectively convey the narrative and theme. The film follows the life of Malcolm X, a well-known African-American civil rights leader and Muslim minister who rose to fame in the 1950s and 60s. Malcolm X was a powerful voice in advocating for the rights of African Americans in a time of systemic racism and oppression. Through this film, the use of costumes and makeup effectively communicates the message and legacy of Malcolm X.

The Importance of Costumes and Makeup in the Malcolm X Film

Costumes and makeup illustrate the various stages of Malcolm X’s life in the film, from his hustler days in Boston to his conversion to the Nation of Islam and later travels. His transformation is conveyed through costume, including a dark blue suit with a flat-brimmed fedora representing his hustler lifestyle, contrasting with the Nation of Islam’s white shirt and bow tie (Cunningham, 2019). This helps emphasize the contrast between his past and new path.

The use of makeup and wardrobe symbolizes the themes of Malcolm X’s life and struggle. As he grows more devoted to the Nation of Islam, Malcolm X’s clothing becomes increasingly uniform, consisting of a bow tie, a white shirt, and a dark suit. This uniformity emphasizes the thematic elements of self-discipline, obedience, and faith critical to the Nation of Islam. Moreover, the use of makeup helps to highlight the physical transformation Malcolm X experienced due to his commitment to the Nation of Islam (Cunningham, 2019). His face appears smoother and more relaxed, while his eyes are brighter, symbolizing the spiritual awakening he underwent.

Conclusion

The costumes and makeup featured in the film Malcolm X effectively convey its narrative and themes. Through them, viewers can observe the transformation of Malcolm X from a hustler to a civil rights leader. The contrast between his past life and his newfound commitment to the Nation of Islam is further emphasized through the costumes and makeup, illustrating the themes of self-discipline, obedience, and faith necessary to the Nation of Islam. In this way, the costumes and makeup are integral to the film and effectively convey its narrative and themes.

Reference

Cunningham, R. (2019). The magic garment: Principles of costume design. Waveland Press.

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"Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film." IvyPanda, 16 Dec. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/costume-and-makeup-as-narrative-devices-in-the-malcolm-x-film/.

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IvyPanda. (2024) 'Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film'. 16 December.

References

IvyPanda. 2024. "Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film." December 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/costume-and-makeup-as-narrative-devices-in-the-malcolm-x-film/.

1. IvyPanda. "Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film." December 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/costume-and-makeup-as-narrative-devices-in-the-malcolm-x-film/.


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IvyPanda. "Costume and Makeup as Narrative Devices in the Malcolm X Film." December 16, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/costume-and-makeup-as-narrative-devices-in-the-malcolm-x-film/.

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