“Do the Right Thing” is a provocative movie about racial tensions in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Bed-Stuy. Director Spike Lee’s explosive portrait of a hot summer day where hostility and violence boil over like a pot on the stove, causing widespread destruction and tragic loss. The film brilliantly captures the ripple effects of racism, poverty, and police brutality as they converge in a deadly climax, sparking an unforgettable conversation about race relations in America.
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Review
“Do the Right Thing” is a film that had a profound impact on American cinema, culture and society. Released in 1989, this Spike Lee joint was a controversial and powerful depiction of racial tension and violence in a Brooklyn neighborhood. With its vibrant colors, pulsating music and memorable characters, “Do the Right Thing” continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest films of all time.
The story follows Mookie (played by Lee), a young black man who works at Sal’s Pizzeria in Bed-Stuy. Over the course of one sweltering hot day, tensions simmer between the predominantly black residents of the neighborhood and Sal (Danny Aiello), the pizzeria owner who proudly displays pictures of Italian-American icons on his wall. The situation culminates in a tragic showdown that leaves viewers questioning what it truly means to “do the right thing.”
The film was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising Lee’s bold direction and unique voice. Roger Ebert wrote that “Do the Right Thing” was “one of the most important films I’ve ever seen,” while The New Yorker called it “a work of art.” However, not everyone was pleased with what they perceived as an incendiary portrayal of race relations. Some critics accused Lee of fanning the flames of racial animosity.
Despite the controversy surrounding it, “Do the Right Thing” has become a beloved classic over time. Its themes – such as police brutality, gentrification and cultural appropriation – continue to resonate today. It’s not just its message that has endured; it’s also the film’s striking visuals and memorable score by Public Enemy’s Chuck D.
The cast is also worth noting – including an early performance from Samuel L. Jackson as DJ Mister Señor Love Daddy – Lee assembled a talented group who brought depth and nuance to their roles. From Sal’s two sons (played by John Turturro and Richard Edson) to the neighborhood drunk (Miguel Sandoval), each character felt like an integral part of the community.
Lee’s signature visual style was on full display in “Do the Right Thing.” He used bold colors (such as the bright red of Radio Raheem’s boombox and the vibrant green of Sal’s pizzeria) to create a sense of heightened reality. The film also featured innovative camera work, such as a memorable sequence where characters speak directly into the lens.
Perhaps what makes “Do the Right Thing” so impactful is its honesty. Lee doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations about race and prejudice. He presents them in all their complexity, showing how everyone – regardless of their skin color – has their own biases and assumptions.
The film’s climactic scene, where Mookie throws a trash can through Sal’s window, has become one of cinema’s most iconic moments. It’s one that leaves audiences with more questions than answers. Was Mookie right to destroy Sal’s property? Did he really “do the right thing?” The fact that there are no easy answers is what makes “Do the Right Thing” such a thought-provoking film.
Over thirty years after its release, “Do the Right Thing” remains as relevant as ever. Recent events – from Black Lives Matter protests to debates over cultural appropriation – have shown that many of the issues explored in this film are far from resolved. Nonetheless, it continues to inspire viewers with its uncompromising vision and commitment to dialogue.
In conclusion, “Do the Right Thing” is a masterpiece of American cinema that deserves every bit of acclaim it has received. From its memorable characters and striking visuals to its timely themes, it remains a film that should be required viewing for anyone interested in exploring issues related to race and justice in America.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 120
- Release : 1989-06-14
- Genre : Drama
- Cast : Danny Aiello as Salvatore ‘Sal’ Fragione, Ossie Davis as Da Mayor, Ruby Dee as Mother Sister, Richard Edson as Vito Fragione, Giancarlo Esposito as Buggin Out
- Crew : Wynn Thomas as Production Design, Spike Lee as Screenplay, Spike Lee as Director, Spike Lee as Producer, Barry Alexander Brown as Editor
- Popularity 24.223
- Budget : $6,500,000
- Revenue : $37,300,000
- Company : 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, Universal Pictures, 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks
- Summary : Salvatore “Sal” Fragione is the Italian owner of a pizzeria in Brooklyn. A neighborhood local, Buggin’ Out, becomes upset when he sees that the pizzeria’s Wall of Fame exhibits only Italian actors. Buggin’ Out believes a pizzeria in a black neighborhood should showcase black actors, but Sal disagrees. The wall becomes a symbol of racism and hate to Buggin’ Out and to other people in the neighborhood, and tensions rise.
- Tagline : It’s the hottest day of the summer. You can do nothing, you can do something, or you can …
