Spike Lee arrives for this interview in Los Angeles, having just flown on Steven Spielberg’s private plane. Sporting a New York Knicks hat and jacket, he is ready to transition into a striking black-and-white suit adorned with tiny silhouettes of Michael Jordan. This ensemble is for his appearance at Francis Ford Coppola’s AFI Life Achievement Award Ceremony in Hollywood. After this prestigious event, Lee will hop on another plane to catch a Knicks playoff game in Detroit on Sunday morning. For many, such a packed itinerary would be a show of privilege, but for Lee, it’s just another Saturday night.
In May, at 68 years old, Spike Lee is set to premiere his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, at the illustrious Cannes Film Festival. This film features his long-time collaborator, Denzel Washington, who portrays a music mogul wrestling with ethical dilemmas. This theme of morality has been a cornerstone of Lee’s work, challenging audiences for over 26 years since his debut at Cannes in 1989. The film is a modern, New York-centric reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 police procedural, High and Low, and stars Jeffrey Wright as the music mogul’s chauffeur, Ilfenesh Hadera as his wife, and A$AP Rocky in a role shrouded in mystery.
Highest 2 Lowest is not only an Apple Original feature in partnership with A24, but it also reflects Lee’s rich personal connections to art and music. The film is set to hit theaters on August 22 and will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5. The storyline follows a man at the peak of his career who realizes he has lost touch with his authentic self amidst his lavish lifestyle.
As a prominent Black American director, Spike Lee’s influence has never been more critical, especially in light of current societal challenges. Wright asserts, “The perspective of Black Americans right now is under attack,” highlighting the ongoing struggles against cultural erasure and the importance of Lee’s body of work as a counter-narrative. Lee’s films serve as a vital reminder of the African American experience, with Wright emphasizing, “Spike’s place as the guardian of the African American perspective is critical.”
In a revealing interview, Lee discusses a range of topics including his childhood dyslexia, his long-standing opposition to Donald Trump, and the evolving landscape of the film industry. When asked why it took so long to collaborate with Denzel Washington again after their last project, Inside Man, Lee reflects, “I was shocked. We had to have a reacquaintance, but we were still in step.” He notes that their friendship endures through shared experiences at Knicks games and various events.
Lee’s casting choices are also a topic of interest. When questioned about casting younger actors like A$AP Rocky, he explains, “Denzel is so powerful that you could get blown out.” He highlights the necessity of having competitive energy in performances, akin to a sports match, to maintain cinematic tension. Rocky, who Lee initially recognized as an actor before his music career, brings an authentic energy to the role, rooted in his Harlem upbringing.
The narrative of Highest 2 Lowest delves into questions of success and self-identity. Lee elaborates on this theme, stating, “How do you handle success without losing yourself?” He draws parallels to his own life, sharing that he has avoided drugs despite personal family struggles. The film reflects the father-son relationships portrayed through Washington’s character, who grapples with similar dilemmas.
Art plays a significant role in Lee’s cinematic vision. He shares that much of the art featured in the film comes from his personal collection, including pieces inspired by Basquiat. He emphasizes the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, stating, “There are consequences for your actions.” This theme resonates with Lee’s past work and his own artistic convictions.
Reflecting on the difficulties of producing Malcolm X, Lee expresses skepticism about whether such a film could be made today. He recalls the challenges he faced with studio executives and the financial backing he secured from notable figures to complete the project. “It’s not an exaggeration to say that Malcolm X cannot be made today,” he asserts, highlighting the current climate of censorship and opposition to critical voices.
As Lee prepares for the Cannes premiere, he remains focused on the future of his career. He discusses the challenges of the current film industry, where many talented professionals find themselves without work. Yet, his passion for storytelling and commitment to representing African American narratives remain unwavering.
In closing, Lee expresses gratitude for the opportunity to attend the AFI ceremony, reflecting on the supportive network of filmmakers he has cultivated over the years. His journey, marked by resilience and creativity, continues to inspire and challenge audiences worldwide.
