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Spike Lee thanks Jordan, Magic on 25th anniversary of 'Malcolm X'

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The story has been known around Hollywood for years, and on Saturday filmmaker Spike Lee again gave thanks to two NBA legends for helping him produce one of his signature movies.

Saturday marked the 25th anniversary of the release of "Malcolm X," Lee's 1992 biopic of the late civil rights activist. Back in the early '90s, Lee was having trouble securing financing for the film. In a last-ditch effort, he appealed to, and received help from prominent African-Americans such as Jordan, Johnson, Oprah Winfrey, and Bill Cosby.

"This is not a loan," Lee said at the time. "They are not investing in the film. These are black folks with some money who came to the rescue of the movie. As a result, this film will be my version."

Denzel Washington was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor in the title role.

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