I have not seen many Spike Lee films. In fact, I think Do the Right Thing was his first early film that I’ve actually seen. Thus, going into the experience, I was somewhat skeptical because I know that many of his films receive a great deal of criticism from individuals who believe they only reinforce negative African American stereotypes. I did end up enjoying Do the Right Thing but I can understand where these critics are coming from. I know it is not Spike Lee’s intention to promote stereotypes, Do the Right Thing just requires an audience that is willing to think critically about the film’s true message. The whole time I was watching the film, I kept thinking about how the message of Do the Right Thing would totally backfire if someone watching this film wants to relate to or take sides with a particular character such as Radio Raheem or Sal. For this reason, I was really happy that Spike Lee included the quotes of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X in the final credits. As long as the audience understands the message, the film is ingenious. I loved the way the lighting captured intensity of the heat. The way the plot seems to drag also adds to the sense of rising tensions which explodes into the shocking and violent climax. Finally, I thought it was very clever that the morning after the riot, the scene opens to a day that is just as hot and intense as the previous morning. This demonstrates how the community is no closer to resolving their hate. So, while I can understand critics’ concerns, the fact that Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing is so real and unapologetic, challenges stereotypes and hate rather than reinforces them.


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