One Night in Miami... is a historical drama film directed by Regina King, based on the play of the same name by Kemp Powers. The movie takes place on the night of February 25, 1964, following Cassius Clay's unexpected victory over Sonny Liston to become the World Heavyweight Champion.
After the fight, Clay (played by Eli Goree) meets with his friends Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir), Sam Cooke (Leslie Odom Jr.), and Jim Brown (Aldis Hodge) in a hotel room in Miami's Hampton House. As the night goes on, the men discuss their roles as Black public figures and celebrities and the struggle for civil rights in the United States.
Malcolm X tries to persuade Clay to join the Nation of Islam and embrace his Muslim faith fully, while Sam Cooke speaks about his desire to use his music to effect social change. Jim Brown discusses his plans to retire from football and become a Hollywood actor, but also expresses his frustration with the limitations placed on Black actors.
As the night progresses, the conversation turns to the struggle for civil rights in the South, and the men debate the best way to help their community and effect change. The discussion becomes heated at times, as the men grapple with their own experiences of discrimination and privilege.
The film concludes with each man reflecting on the impact of their meeting and the steps they can take to use their careers and platforms to further their cause. One Night in Miami... is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of race, class, and the struggle for social justice in America.