Monday, June 4, 2007

Do the Right Thing - 1989, directed by Spike Lee


Spike Lee's greatest film, that effectively handles a touchy subject without ever feeling manipulative. That, of course, can not be said of most of his films, but it does apply here. Do the Right Thing takes a look at the issue of racism and analyses it from all sides, not just one. Add to the mix some consistent pacing, a wonderfully portrayed story and an intrinsically executed 'real-time' effect, and you end up with one of the best 'important' films of the 80s.

The events of Do the Right Thing transpire over the course of a 24-hr day. It is the hottest day of the year, and in a Brooklyn neighbourhood, tensions are slowly escalating. With the majority of the residents in the neighbourhood black, and the only local businesses Korean and Italian, the slowly growing tension is poised for an eruption. Mookie (Spike Lee) works for Sal's, and because of his ties with most of the people in the neighbourhood, he ends up at the center of the meltdown.

The movie concentrates on the varying racial opinions within different groups about the other. The prevailing theme is the tendency for minorities to complain about racism, while engaging in racial behaviour themselves. This film shines the light on this and similar issues, and provokes thought without pointing a finger. Credit Lee for his ingenious direction.

While there are no 'standout' performances, everyone works together to create a highly believable and natural setting. The best performances are given by Danny Aiello, Spike Lee and John Turturro.

Spike Lee has fashioned himself a career primarily based on racially-themed films. While I find a lot of what he does to be forceful and preachy, his work here not only represents the pinnacle of his career, but also one of the crowning jewels of the 80s. Tackling an issue this controversial with such proficiency, while keeping the entertainment level incredibly high, is indeed a work of art. Definitely a must-see for everyone.

© 2007 Kim Bartlett

2 comments:

  1. Nice pick. I agree with you especially on the 'manipulative' aspect. It doesn't seem as forced or as 'in your face' as the rest of his films but still manages to retain its power. It's made in such an effective and hands on manner that the viewer is totally immersed into the experience. I need to give this a re-watch, but yeah, definitely Spike's best.

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  2. Absolutely Spike Lee's masterpiece, and one of the most intelligent films on race relations ever made.

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