Ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of a Spike Lee “joint”? The legendary director holds nothing back, dishing on the theatrical release of his new film ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ and Denzel Washington’s incredible portrayal of Malcolm X. What’s his biggest industry pet peeve? You might be surprised!
Spike Lee, a cinematic provocateur renowned for his impactful “joints,” recently offered a candid glimpse into his filmmaking philosophy and the evolving landscape of the film industry. With a career spanning over four decades, Lee has consistently challenged audiences and sparked dialogue, a reputation that continues to precede him as he discusses his latest projects and views on contemporary cinema.
His newest film, ‘Highest 2 Lowest,’ a vibrant reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime drama, aims to deliver an entertaining morality play. However, as with many of his works, the film inherently invites deeper interpretation, a dynamic amplified by the ongoing “streaming wars” and the contentious decision regarding its theatrical release. Lee’s film, after a brief theatrical run, swiftly transitioned to Apple TV+, a move that stirred considerable debate within the “film industry” and among movie enthusiasts.
Lee expressed his strong dissatisfaction with the abbreviated theatrical window for ‘Highest 2 Lowest,’ clarifying that the decision was beyond his control and rested with the financiers, Apple and A24. He acknowledged the growing popularity of “streaming movies” but maintained his preference for a more extended big-screen presence. His remarks underscore a prevalent tension between artistic vision and commercial strategy in modern filmmaking.
Reflecting on his storied “filmmaking” journey, Lee recounted his early passion for documenting societal events, particularly the infamous summer of 1977. This formative period ignited his drive to pursue film professionally, eventually leading him to the prestigious NYU film school, a path that circumvented biased standardized tests and allowed his talent to shine through a compelling portfolio.
A significant portion of the interview revisited his collaboration with “Denzel Washington” on the iconic ‘Malcolm X’. Lee detailed Washington’s meticulous preparation, highlighting how the actor delved beyond mere imitation to embody the spirit of Malcolm X. This deep commitment transformed the portrayal into a profound exploration of the historical figure’s complex identity.
Lee emphasized the spiritual depth of Washington’s performance, describing it as a form of “possession” where the essence of Malcolm X seemed to inhabit the actor. This profound engagement resulted in moments on set where the line between actor and subject blurred, solidifying Washington’s “Malcolm X portrayal” as a benchmark in “cinematic legacy” for its authenticity and emotional power.
Despite his history of addressing “volatile social issues” in “Spike Lee films,” Lee firmly declined to re-engage with past controversies, such as the enduring discussions surrounding ‘Do the Right Thing’ and its perceived provocation. He signaled a desire to move forward, focusing on his current endeavors and the continuous evolution of his artistic voice, rather than rehashing old debates.
Ultimately, Spike Lee remains an unwavering force in cinema, continually pushing boundaries and challenging perceptions. His latest reflections confirm his enduring commitment to provocative storytelling, his astute observations on the evolving “film industry,” and his indelible mark on American culture through a career dedicated to meaningful and impactful cinema.
