MOVIES - Nov. 12, 1992

Second Thoughts: Spike Lee has softened his earlier statement that African-Americans should take off work and skip school to see his about-to-open new film, “Malcolm X.” However, Lee continues to stress that support for the movie is mandatory to persuade studios that such dramas are worth the investment. “Hollywood is using this as a test,” he told a crowd at Southern University in New Orleans. “We’re going to prove them wrong. You don’t have to take the day off.” But, he added, “Please. It’s very important. Parents, go see this film with your children.” . . . New Line Cinema will screen director Louis Malle’s “Damage” for the Motion Picture Assn. of America today in New York to appeal the film’s NC-17 rating. Malle, who is recuperating from open heart surgery, will send a statement to the appeals board via videotape.