Do the Right Thing remains relevant

Over 35 years after its initial release, Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing (1989) stays relevant and cements itself as a classic and influential film.

Re-released in select theaters during Black History Month, this film was special to experience on the big screen. Do the Right Thing stands the test of time because of the way it is filled to the brim with inventive directing and powerful performances. I encourage all to catch this film in theaters while you can. 

Lee is one of the most unique and stylistic directors in modern times. Lee writes, directs and stars in this film, fully bringing his vision to life. Scoring an Oscar nomination for his masterfully written script, the film has numerous long-standing quotable lines, such as “That’s the truth, Ruth!” and famous characters, like Radio Raheem (played by Bill Nunn), with emotional and personal storylines. 

This film showcases a crowded Brooklyn neighborhood on the hottest day of the year, amid rising tensions between races, store owners and employees. Lee captures the relationships — if a little mean-spirited — among Black, white, Asian and Latino residents in a single location in the late 20th century. 

The shifting of power dynamics on the street is one of my favorite aspects of the film. Initially, the power resides with the white characters — the police and the owners of Sal’s Pizzeria. As the film progresses, the power shifts into the hands of the minorities who live on the street, as they realize that the odds are stacked against them and how injustice is woven into their block.

By the end of the film, the balance of power is completely flipped. The rioting and destruction of the pizzeria signifies the defiance of longstanding power structures. The residents come together and retaliate after the murder of a beloved community member. This is an empowering film driven by the importance of the themes of justice and community. 

In a sea of great characters, I especially enjoyed Ossie Davis’ performance as Da Mayor. A drunken, sincere castaway — yet the “mayor” — he plays a walking contradiction. But with a heart larger than the sun on that hot day, Da Mayor makes a significant impact on the story and the attitude on the block, ultimately becoming one of my favorite characters in the film. Kind and wise dialogue, like the iconic “Always do the right thing” delivered with a strong yet soft tone, creates a complex and mysterious character that occupies many scenes and hearts. 

Do the Right Thing is a certified Spike Lee classic, sustaining great performances, writing and relevance throughout decades. Re-released at a celebratory time of year for the Black community, this film continues to celebrate empowerment and representation. I was fortunate to rewatch this film in theaters, a very rare experience that I may never have again. I am glad to have experienced this film and recommend it strongly for both its enjoyment and educational value.