#96: Do The Right Thing (1989)

Spike Lee has always been somewhat of a controversial figure in America’s eyes, but you can’t deny the fact that he brings issues up that sometimes need talking about. Usually I don’t concentrate on what actors or directors do outside of their pictures, but I think that Lee is one of those celebrities, for one reason or another, who has gained such a reputation (viewed either negatively or positively) that it has affected whether or not people see his films. Which is a shame, because Do The Right Thing is one powerful, introspective and moving film filled with humor, drama and in a way, horror. I think that regardless of what your opinion is of Lee, this film is a must see that will garner a new respect for the man.

Do The Right Thing, with a recognizable late 80’s hip-hop culture at its center, follows Mookie (Lee), a pizza delivery boy for the only white occupants in the African-American Brooklyn neighborhood. As the film progresses through one extremely hot day, you meet eccentric and thoughtful characters that make up one huge family. As racial tensions began to slowly boil over, Mookie is forced to make choices that not only affect the neighborhood, but also reflect on the troubles that America’s society faces every day.

There is no question that this movie is about racial issues as the hit “Fight The Power” opens and segues throughout the film, but Lee approaches it in such a new way, that instead of being hesitant, you dive head first into the story. You are weaved into an ensemble of characters that are so funny and touching, that regardless of race, you start to feel a connection. Then with innovative use of cinematography, breaking of the fourth wall, and camera angles, Lee guides you to a face-to-face conflict that is so terrifying in its realistic nature, you don’t know what hits you. What he forces you to do, which is contrary to what others say about the director, is to think for yourself and answer the question, “Why?”

I know that this sounds heavy handed, and it is, but I don’t want to neglect the fact that this movie is a very entertaining ride with superb performances from an all-star cast. When you combine high entertainment with themes that challenge an audience, you can see why this film is now considered as one of the top 100 American films.

I give Do The Right Thing 5 out of 5 pizza slices.