25 Films by Spike Lee
25 titles
- 1
David Byrne's American UtopiaMovie · 2020 · 105m · Music, DocumentaryThis film captures David Byrne's Broadway musical, a vibrant and inclusive celebration through music. It encourages audiences to find connection with one another and with people around the world.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6 - 2
2 Fists UpMovie · 2016 · 58mThe University of Missouri football team's November boycott of their game against Brigham Young University, demanding the resignation of President Tim Wolfe, garnered national attention. This event, however, was just one part of a larger story explored in Spike Lee's documentary for ESPN Films. The film reveals that while the athletes played a key role in Wolfe's departure, the true driving force behind the confrontation with racism at Mizzou came from the female organizers of the Concerned Student 1950 movement and, notably, from Jonathan Butler, who engaged in a hunger strike. Their bravery and determination offer a hopeful message, encapsulated in the film's closing chant: "We gonna be all right."IMDb 6.9 - 3
School DazeMovie · 1988 · 121m · Comedy, Drama, MusicDuring Homecoming Weekend at a historically black college, long-standing rivalries between fraternities and sororities intensify. The annual celebration of school history and tradition becomes a setting for conflict, not only among Greek organizations but also with students who feel left out.
Against a backdrop of parades, parties, and competition, the characters navigate complex social dynamics and expectations. The film explores identity, belonging, and power as students seek acceptance and status within their groups while also trying to connect with the wider campus. Through a realistic look at college life, the movie examines relationships, ambition, and the challenges young adults face as they search for their place in the world.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.7 - 4
Inside ManMovie · 2006 · 129m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA heavily armed, masked gang storms a Manhattan bank, locking the doors and taking hostages. The detective assigned to resolve the situation is struggling with corruption charges he's currently facing.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 5
BlacKkKlansmanMovie · 2018 · 136m · Crime, Comedy, DramaColorado Springs, late 1970s. African American police officer Ron Stallworth and his Jewish colleague Flip Zimmerman undertake an undercover mission to infiltrate the Ku Klux Klan.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 6
4 Little GirlsMovie · 1997 · 102m · Documentary, TV MovieSpike Lee's film examines the 1963 bombing of a black church in Birmingham, Alabama, during Sunday school, which killed four young girls. Using detailed research and recreations, Lee reveals the complex political tensions, hateful actions, and societal inequalities that led to this tragedy. The film includes an interview with former Alabama Governor George Wallace, who reflects on his involvement during that difficult time and the larger story of civil rights in America. This compelling film tells the painful story of a devastating act of violence and reminds us of the continuing fight for equality and justice in American history.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2 - 7
BamboozledMovie · 2000 · 136m · Comedy, DramaProducer Pierre Delacroix, after being rejected by his network for his sitcom idea, deliberately pitches the worst concept imaginable: a 21st-century minstrel show, hoping to get fired. Instead, the network airs it and it unexpectedly becomes a huge success.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 8
Malcolm XMovie · 1992 · 202mThis is a look at the life of the controversial Black activist and key figure in the fight for Black liberation. Facing a low point during his imprisonment in the 1950s, he embraced the Black Muslim faith and rose to prominence within the Nation of Islam. His assassination in 1965 cemented a legacy of self-reliance and racial pride.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.5 - 9
She's Gotta Have ItMovie · 1986 · 84m · Comedy, RomanceNola Darling lives a life outside the norm, juggling romantic relationships with three different men simultaneously. The story unfolds through their viewpoints and those of her friends, as each man wants Nola's full attention. But Nola resists being tied down to one person. This is a story about finding oneself, navigating relationships, and challenging societal expectations. It explores the complexities of modern love and the desire for freedom in a world that often tries to define human connections.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 10
Do the Right ThingMovie · 1989 · 120m · DramaIn a raw drama set in Brooklyn, Salvatore "Sal" Fragione owns a popular local pizzeria. Things get complicated when a regular customer named Buggin' Out objects to Sal’s Wall of Fame, which only features Italian actors. Buggin' Out believes the pizzeria, in a predominantly Black neighborhood, should celebrate its diverse customers with a more inclusive display, and his frustration fuels growing tension. What starts as a disagreement over a simple gesture evolves into a reflection of broader societal issues, forcing both Sal and Buggin' Out to examine their own biases.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 11
Mo' Better BluesMovie · 1990 · 129m · Drama, MusicBleek Gilliam, a remarkably talented but self-centered trumpeter, tries to juggle relationships with two women: the passionate Indigo and the steady Clarke. His dedication to music remains constant until unforeseen difficulties challenge his carefully constructed life. When Bleek's childhood friend and manager faces trouble, he's pushed to protect those he cares about most. Through these challenges, Bleek must re-evaluate what's truly important, navigating the difficulties of friendship, love, and his career, and ultimately realizing the significance of loyalty and connection.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 12
Joe's Bed-Stuy Barbershop: We Cut HeadsMovie · 1983 · 60mAfter Joe's murder, Zack Homer inherits the barbershop and finds himself in charge. Zack just wants to keep things traditional, offering classic haircuts, but modern styles are popular and business is struggling. Then, Mr. Lovejoy appears with the same offer he made to Joe – a chance to save the shop. But what will be the price?IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.8 - 13
Da 5 BloodsMovie · 2020 · 155m · War, DramaFour African-American Vietnam veterans journey back to Vietnam. Their mission: to find the remains of their lost squad leader and a rumored treasure. The veterans face dangers from both people and the environment, grappling with the enduring consequences of the Vietnam War's moral failings.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 14
Summer of SamMovie · 1999 · 142m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerSummer 1977. New York City lives in fear as a psychopathic serial killer, dubbed 'Son of Sam,' commits a series of brutal murders. The city is on edge; residents are constantly afraid, unsure if each night could be their last.
The film captures the gritty atmosphere of the time, exploring the urban landscape and the relationship between the killer and his victims. It's a chilling look at a real-life horror story, revealing the darkness in people while also showing how those affected find strength in unity amidst chaos. As police hunt the elusive murderer, New Yorkers confront their fears, experiencing the suspense that gripped the city during this terrifying period.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 15
Red Hook SummerMovie · 2012 · 125mFlik, used to a comfortable life in Atlanta, is sent by his mother to spend the summer with his estranged grandfather in a Brooklyn housing project. Feeling isolated and bored, he finds his strict grandfather, Enoch, a passionate preacher, determined to convert him. The only bright spot is Chazz, a spirited girl from church. As the summer heats up and Enoch's sermons fill Sunday mornings, tensions rise and various conflicts erupt among the residents.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.5 - 16
ClockersMovie · 1995 · 128m · Crime, Drama, MysteryStrike is a young man involved in the city's drug trade, working for the ruthless Rodney Little. When a murder occurs at a local fast-food restaurant – the night manager is found dead with four gunshot wounds – Strike’s older brother confesses and turns himself in. Detective Rocco Klein doubts the confession and begins his own investigation, suggesting Strike and Rodney are involved in a dangerous criminal network.
The film explores Strike's life under pressure as he deals drugs for Rodney. As Detective Klein closes in on their criminal operation, tension grows between Strike and his brother, whose decision to confess has serious consequences for both of them.
The movie examines loyalty, betrayal, and family within the urban underworld. As secrets are revealed and alliances change, the audience is left wondering who to trust in a world filled with violence and deception.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 17
CrooklynMovie · 1994 · 114m · Comedy, DramaThis Spike Lee film is set in 1970s Brooklyn, a neighborhood with a strong culture but facing economic hardship. It follows a dedicated school teacher and her jazz musician husband as they raise their five children. Using his distinctive storytelling style, Lee brings audiences to a time when music was central to daily life. The film examines the couple's love and dedication as they deal with difficulties in their careers, community, and family, while also highlighting the strength and spirit of the period.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 18
Da Sweet Blood of JesusMovie · 2015 · 123m · Drama, Horror, RomanceDr. Hess Green is afflicted by a strange curse after encountering an ancient African artifact, developing an uncontrollable craving for blood. He then becomes involved in a risky relationship with Ganja Hightower, a connection that explores themes of love, addiction, sex, and social standing.IMDb 4.5TMDB 4.7 - 19Director Spike Lee's New York CityMovie · 2015 · 2mFilmmaker Spike Lee, a lifelong New Yorker known for films like *Malcolm X*, has consistently set his stories in the city, particularly Brooklyn. He considers Brooklyn his home and a major influence on his work, stating that many of his films – including *She's Gotta Have It*, *Do the Right Thing*, *Crooklyn*, and *Clockers* – are about the people and places of Brooklyn, New York. This is a brief travel documentary for VisitTheUSA.com.
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She Hate MeMovie · 2004 · 139m · Comedy, DramaAfter losing his job, a former executive begins offering his services to wealthy lesbians, providing artificial insemination for financial gain.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.1 - 21
Jungle FeverMovie · 1991 · 132m · Drama, RomanceThis drama follows a successful African American man facing a difficult moral choice: pursuing an affair with a white coworker. He struggles with the potential social consequences and the complexities arising from their different races. The film explores societal expectations, personal desires, and the impact this taboo relationship has on his life.
As tensions build and secrets emerge, the story examines love, identity, and the pressure of societal norms. It focuses on the protagonist's internal conflict as he considers whether this forbidden affair will ultimately cause more harm. With strong performances and a compelling script, the film offers a powerful and thought-provoking look at love, race, and personal boundaries.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 22
Chi-RaqMovie · 2015 · 127m · Drama, Crime, ComedyThis is a contemporary take on Aristophanes' Lysistrata, reimagined in Chicago amidst gang warfare.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.7 - 23
Girl 6Movie · 1996 · 108mIn New York City, a disheartened actress finds herself working as a phone sex operator.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.0 - 24
He Got GameMovie · 1998 · 136m · DramaA gifted young basketball player unexpectedly faces the criminal justice system, a situation hidden from his devoted father. As legal proceedings progress, the potential impact on the son’s future becomes clear. Driven by determination and hope, the father strives to convince his son to attend college, a choice that could shorten his prison term.
This powerful drama examines family loyalty, redemption, and pursuing dreams despite hardship. The father-son relationship offers a raw look at navigating the legal system, fueled by their shared passion for basketball as a symbol of hope. The story follows their emotional journey through triumphs and setbacks, highlighting the transformative power of education and the importance of perseverance.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 25
Get on the BusMovie · 1996 · 116mIn 1995, a diverse group of Black men journey across the country by bus to participate in the Million Man March in Washington, D.C. The passengers include a recently unemployed aircraft worker, a father whose son is struggling with legal trouble, a Black Republican, a former gang member, a Hollywood actor, a biracial police officer, and the white bus driver. Throughout their trip, they openly discuss the significance of the march and grapple with themes of masculinity, faith, politics, and race.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.3
