Spike Lee Talks Malcolm X at 100, Denzel Washington's Brilliance & Upcoming Joints

Summary

In this in-depth interview, filmmaker Spike Lee discusses the enduring legacy of Malcolm X, reflecting on his impact on American society and cinema. He recalls the making of the iconic 'Malcolm X' film and praises Denzel Washington's performance, calling him the greatest living actor. Lee emphasizes the relevance of Malcolm X’s message in today's world, stressing the importance of artists speaking truth to power. He also touches on his own evolution as a filmmaker and the influence of history on his work. Lee advocates for a deeper understanding of American history and encourages people to continue the fight for justice.

Takeaways

• 😀 Spike Lee reflects on the lasting impact of his film 'Malcolm X' as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Malcolm X's birthday.
• 😀 Ryan Coogler shared a personal story about how his father took him to see 'Malcolm X' at five years old, highlighting the film's lasting influence across generations.
• 😀 Spike Lee praises Denzel Washington's iconic portrayal of Malcolm X, calling him the greatest living actor today for truly embodying Malcolm's spirit.
• 😀 Lee emphasizes the importance of preparation in acting, particularly Denzel's year-long preparation for the role of Malcolm X.
• 😀 Spike Lee and Ryan Coogler both agree that the Academy's failure to award Denzel Washington an Oscar for his role in 'Malcolm X' was a significant oversight.
• 😀 As we approach Malcolm X's 100th birthday, Lee expresses that not much has changed, particularly regarding the struggle for civil rights and equality.
• 😀 Lee discusses the challenges of historical revisionism and the importance of remembering figures like Jackie Robinson and the contributions of African Americans.
• 😀 The importance of artists speaking truth to power is stressed, with Lee drawing from his own experiences during the Civil Rights Movement and the anti-Vietnam War protests.
• 😀 Lee reflects on the need for a comprehensive understanding of American history, suggesting that 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X' should be required reading for all Americans.
• 😀 In response to misconceptions about Malcolm X, Lee highlights that Malcolm was not an angry figure but a great American who paid with his life for telling the truth about this country.

Q & A

What was Spike Lee's reaction to the impact of his film 'Malcolm X'?

Spike Lee reflected on the impact of the film, sharing a story from Ryan Coogler's family, where Coogler's father took him to see the film when he was five, and it left a lasting impression. Lee emphasized the importance of Denzel Washington's performance as Malcolm X, noting that Denzel embodied the character so thoroughly that viewers no longer saw Denzel, but Malcolm X.

What role did Denzel Washington's portrayal of Malcolm X play in the success of the film?

Lee expressed that Denzel Washington's portrayal of Malcolm X was vital to the film's success. He noted that Denzel's preparation for the role included a year of study and understanding, emphasizing that Denzel did not 'fake the funk' but genuinely immersed himself in Malcolm X’s spirit, making the performance incredibly powerful and authentic.

How does Spike Lee view the relevance of Malcolm X’s message in today’s world?

Spike Lee believes that much of what Malcolm X stood for is still relevant today, especially regarding issues like DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and the systemic challenges faced by Black Americans. Lee pointed out that despite the progress that had been made, many of the issues Malcolm X fought against persist, and artists need to continue to speak out and use their platform.

What does Spike Lee think about the way history is being manipulated today?

Spike Lee expressed concern about the manipulation of history, especially in the context of the current political climate. He referenced the erasure of historical figures and events like Jackie Robinson’s military service and emphasized the need for people to understand and honor the struggles of the past, especially as it relates to Black history.

What does Spike Lee think the autobiography of Malcolm X represents for Americans?

Lee believes that the autobiography of Malcolm X should be required reading for all Americans because it provides a critical understanding of the country’s history, particularly its treatment of African Americans. He highlighted that Malcolm X represents a 'great American' who paid with his life for speaking the truth about the nation's flaws.

Why does Spike Lee consider Malcolm X’s image important in the context of his legacy?

Spike Lee pointed out that despite misconceptions about Malcolm X, such as claims of him being angry or hateful, Malcolm X was a key figure in the civil rights movement who believed in love and the fight for justice. The image of Malcolm X and Dr. Martin Luther King shaking hands before their deaths symbolizes the potential for reconciliation and unity, an important part of his legacy.

How does Spike Lee reflect on his evolution as a filmmaker?

Spike Lee humbly stated that he doesn’t consider himself a leader but rather a storyteller. He discussed his evolution as a filmmaker, noting how he chooses to tell the stories he feels should be told, including his upcoming project with Denzel Washington.

What is the significance of Spike Lee's new film with Denzel Washington?

Spike Lee’s upcoming film with Denzel Washington is described as a reinterpretation of a classic film by Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, focusing on a moral dilemma faced by Denzel’s character. This project represents another collaboration between Lee and Washington, continuing their long-standing partnership in filmmaking.

What does Spike Lee think about the ongoing debate over who the greatest athlete is, like LeBron vs. Michael Jordan?

Spike Lee expressed frustration with the ongoing comparisons between athletes like LeBron James and Michael Jordan, questioning why such debates are necessary. He suggested that both can be great in their own right, highlighting that people who only watch highlights on YouTube miss out on experiencing their greatness in person.

What message does Spike Lee want to convey with his work?

Spike Lee aims to educate and provoke thought through his films, using storytelling to address important societal issues. He emphasized that artists should not remain silent in the face of adversity but instead use their platforms to speak truth to power and contribute to meaningful change.