Do The Right Thing (1989) ****1/2

Spike Lee's Do The Right Thing (1989) remains, 30 years on, an unconventional, electric and brilliant film. (Sadly) it also remains relevant in its portrayal of racial relations and tensions. Through the microcosm of a single block in a Brooklyn neighborhood populated by an eclectic (and superbly monikered) array of characters (played to perfection by the wonderful cast), Lee portrays how quickly relationships can deteriorate and turn to violent conflict over one scorching summer day. There really is no other film like DTRT, thanks in part to—among many contributing factors—the top notch acting, vibrant costume design by Ruth E. Brown, the beautiful and vivid golden hues of Ernest Dickerson's cinematography, and—of course—that unforgettable Public Enemy song.

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