Spike Lee’s films have become some of the most sought-after cultural and black films of all time because they openly read about critical elements of society through film, shedding light on issues of race, identity, and social justice that are overlooked. Lee’s narrative is rarely very distinct; It’s raw and unwavering. For this reason, Forbes has compiled a ranking of all Spike Lee movies.
Many other Lee people have lived in New York City their entire lives, perhaps because of his brilliant portrayal of the city in the critically acclaimed Do the Right Thing, but the master of cinema was born in Atlanta, Georgia. His family later moved to Brooklyn, where he grew up. Lee enrolled at Morehouse College to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. During his school years, he honed his love of filmmaking by taking additional courses at Clark University in Atlanta and later earned a master’s degree in film and TV from New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. Most recently, he is also a professor of film at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. Lee made her film with her 1986 feature film, She’s Gotta Have It, a black romantic comedy that explored themes of black femininity, dating, relationships, and converting social norms.
Since then, Lee has directed 24 films, garnering rave reviews and accolades, in addition to two Academy Award nominations for Best Director. Beyond his credibility as a storyteller, Lee helped create poignant protagonists who continued to challenge the prestige quo and have become icons of social culture. , mainly through his memorable one-liners. With his ambitious visual style, social commentary, and fearless storytelling, Lee has proven to be a driving force in filmmaking.
Lee’s repertoire has made him one of the most provocative filmmakers of our time during his four-decade career. Here are all the films, in order of release, that have shown his evolution as a filmmaker and the impact of his varied work. Through the years.
While it’s tricky to rank Lee’s work, I looked at a variety of factors to determine a ranking, adding critical acclaim, cultural impact, publicity success, and audience reception. Although Lee has an uncanny ability to incorporate new and refreshing things. Themes in his work, some of his films have left an undeniable effect on the cultural landscape. Films such as Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X, and 25th Hour are considered his most productive works and are ranked accordingly. Well-known films such as Get on the Bus and Old Boy were also on the list.
Lee’s 2004 film, She Hate Me, follows the tumultuous life of Jack Armstrong, a cog in a biotech company who suddenly finds himself unemployed after allegations of fraud surface. Lesbian facilities for a whopping $10,000 per encounter. This leads him to become entangled in a web of fatherhood and fatherhood, and he eventually fathers 19 children with 18 other women. The film was shot in 28 days and stars Anthony Mackie, Kerry Washington, and Ellen Barkin. Despite its debatable plot, like many of Lee’s projects, the film offers a provocative exploration of identity, ethics, and the complexity of fashionable relationships. This movie is available on YouTube, Apple TV, and Fandango.
Da Sweet Blood of Jesus picks up Lee’s exclusive of telling complex stories, but this time it does so through the lens of horror. This film is an ambitious reimagining of the cult classic Ganja.
Set in Chicago, Lee’s crime drama Chiraq offers a modern musical version of Aristophanes’ ancient Greek play, Lysistrata, deftly brought to the streets of modern Chicago. The 2015 film features members of Hollywood’s black royalty such as Angela Bassett, Samuel L. Jackson, and Wesley. Snipers, among others. In this bold adaptation, Lee’s genius confronts the urgency of gun violence on Chicago’s South Side, providing a keen observation about systemic injustice and the strength of collective action. The film follows the brave Lysistrata, played by Teyonah Parris, as she leads a group of women. movement to deny sex to their partners until the cycle of violence ends. Like many of his other films, this one was also polarizing, not least because of the name “Chiraq,” which is slang used to equate gang violence in Chicago with the war in Iraq. Chiraq is available on Amazon Prime Video.
In the 2013 adaptation of Spike Lee’s Oldboy, Lee tells the story of an alcoholic marketing executive named Joe Doucett, whose life takes a mysterious turn when he is suddenly imprisoned in a hotel room for 20 years. While trying to figure out why he’s imprisoned, Joe is determined to exact revenge on the others guilty of his captivity. The film features performances by Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen, and Samuel L. Jackson. It’s available on the Roku channel, YouTube, and Apple. TV.
Also filmed in Chicago, Pass Over is a 2018 film that Lee adapted from Antoinette Nwandu’s original 2017 play, created in reaction to the Trayvon Martin shooting. The film poignantly tackles the complex nature of black masculinity, police brutality, and the harsh realities of urban life. , where violence, racism, and systemic oppression cast a shadow over life. All of this is represented through the lives of two homeless black men who hide on a Chicago street corner to protect themselves from nearby street violence. The film stars Jon Michael Hill, Julian Parker, Ryan Hallahan, and Blake DeLong and is available on Amazon Prime Video.
Da Five Bloods is a memorable war film in which Lee returned to themes of brotherhood, war, and the paralyzing effect of trauma. Released in 2020, the film follows an organization of Vietnam War veterans who return to Vietnam to retrieve the remains of their squad leader and search for the buried treasure they left behind during the war. The narrative intertwines their current adventure with flashbacks to the Vietnam War, highlighting the intense reports that shaped their lives and continue to haunt them. includes Delroy Lindo, Clarke Peters, Norm Lewis, Isiah Whitlock Jr. , and Chadwick Boseman, in one of his last roles before his passing. The character of Boseman, the charismatic leader of the team, is a hang-out presence and an inspirational figure around the world. movie. Moviegoers and critics alike can stream this war movie on Netflix.
Lee’s 2012 film, Red Hook Summer, is the sixth installment in his film series that pays homage to Brooklyn. This coming-of-age film follows Flik Royale (played by Jules Brown), a teenager on a life-changing adventure of self-discovery. and faith. During a memorable summer in the Red Hook housing estates with his grandfather, Da Good Bishop Enoch Rouse, Flik confronts his past, his identity, and his tense dates with his grandfather. The film also stars De’Adre Aziza as Flik’s mother. , Colleen Royale, and Toni Lysaith as Flik’s friend Chazz Morningstar. Lee financed the film himself and finished filming in 18 days. Red Hook Summer is available on select streaming platforms, adding Tubi, YouTube, and Apple TV.
Lee’s evocative war drama, Miracle at St. John’s. Anna, adapted from the novel of the same title through James McBride, takes the audience back to World War II, where they meet 4 brave black infantrymen from the 92nd Infantry Division, also known as Buffalo. Caught in the crossfire of war, they seek safe haven in a picturesque Tuscan village, where they befriend the locals. The story comes to life through flashbacks as Hector Negron, played by Laz Alonso, a survivor now living in the New 1980s. York City: Revisit his time as a young corporal and the demanding situations he and his comrades faced. Under Lee’s deft direction, the film features notable performances through Derek Luke, Michael Ealy, and Joseph Leonard Gordon-Levitt. Filming for the story lasted more than nine weeks and the film is available to stream on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.
In Girl 6, Lee’s directorial prowess centers on the compelling story of Judy, a mild-mannered young African-American actress from New York who struggles financially after going through awkward audition experiences. Confusing global phone sex: a global where reality and fiction can merge. The film features strong performances from Theresa Randle, who plays Judy, Isaiah Washington, and Lee himself. In particular, administrators Quentin Tarantino and Ron Silver make memorable appearances as administrators in haunting auditions. The film comprises elements of comedy, suspense, and romance and took over five years to film. While this is one of Lee’s lesser-known projects, it showcases his thought-provoking narrative style. Lately the movie won’t be released to have on any streaming platform.
In Get on the Bus, Lee offers a stark observation about race, identity, and the pursuit of justice. The 1996 American drama follows an organization of fifteen African-American men as they embark on an adventure of self-discovery and during their bus adventure from Los Angeles to Washington, D. C. The film is animated through the Million Man March on Washington, D. C. , and offers rich character progression and tough acting. Lee shows the complex nature of black male identity in America by addressing themes of fatherhood, brotherhood, and legacy of oppression. The cast also includes Ossie Davis, Hill Harper, Andre Braugher, and Isaiah Washington. By combining themes of drama, humor, and social observation, Lee gives the audience a glimpse into uncomfortable truths so they can interact in a meaningful discussion about the current struggle for civil rights and social justice. This movie can be streamed on Tubi and Amazon Prime Video.
In Crooklyn, Lee continues to show his love for Brooklyn by contrasting his plot with ’70s Brooklyn, which follows Carmichael’s circle of relatives as they navigate the joys and demanding situations of urban life. Through the eyes of 9-year-old Troy Carmichael, who performed Through Zelda Harris, audiences are transported into a world filled with love, laughter, and moments of deep sadness. The story centered on the circle of relatives is also a semi-autobiographical film, as Lee wrote it with his brothers Joie and Cinqué. Featuring richly drawn characters in its poignant exploration of family dynamics and network bonds, the film invites audiences to reflect on their own stories and appreciate the moments that shape their lives. With standout performances from Alfre Woodard and Delroy Lindo, Crooklyn is another Brooklyn cinematic gem. Rooklyn is available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Lee’s Bamboozled is a comedic exploration of the complex intersections of race, media, and cultural appropriation in America. Directed by a cast that includes Damon Wayans and Jada Pinkett Smith, Bamboozled offers a stark denunciation of the influence of racism in the mainstream media. With provocative imagery and brilliant cinematography, the film activates audiences to reevaluate their belief about race and identity in America, as well as the passive-aggressive undertones that can occasionally accompany issues of race and their beliefs. Lee uses his incisive social observation and ambitious visual taste. to create another thought-provoking masterpiece. The film is available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.
Some of the most impactful stories are memorable due to their ability to instill a certain point of concern in viewers, and Lee intrigues the human psyche with his portrayal of Summer of Sam, a film that offers a fictional attitude about the famous Son of Sam. Through a kaleidoscopic lens, the film follows a diverse set of characters as they struggle to come to terms with the concept of a notorious serial killer on the loose. Lee’s signature realism and atmospheric cinematic taste give Summer of Sam an immersive attitude to the New York City sights, sounds, and textures of 1970s New York City, capturing the tension, hustle and bustle of a city at the edge of its wits. The Mind Mystery stars Lee, Jennifer Esposito, Adrien Brody, and a host of other actors and was filmed in the summer of 1998. Summer of Sam is available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.
Lee’s Clockers (1995) is a film adaptation of the novel written by Richard Price that offers a captivating presentation of life in urban America. Strike, a small-time street drug dealer in Brooklyn, is caught in a web of violence and betrayal as he deals with the consequences of his moves and struggles to break free from the cycle of crime. As he does so, Lee’s depiction of life on the streets is told with authenticity, while offering a sobering insight into the harsh realities faced by those living on the margins of society. The narrative is taut and the characters are richly drawn to include complex and nuanced themes that make the film worth watching. Additionally, Lee’s ability to tell the stories of others who live harmful lives and face other drug dealers and the ever-watchful eye of the law is unparalleled. The film stars Mekhi Phifer, Lee, and Thomas Jefferson Byrd, among others, in what appears to be an incredibly well-acted ensemble. The film is available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Fandango at Home.
She’s Gotta Have It was Lee’s first feature film and the film that brought audiences closer to the ambitious, unabashed voice of a filmmaker destined to become a cultural icon. This story set in Brooklyn sheds light on the romantic misadventures of Nola Darling, a fiercely independent young woman. A woman experimenting with love, sex, and identity. Lee’s quick wit and willing sense gave She’s Gotta Have It an edge that challenged classical ideals around female sexuality and action in relationships, as well as the classical concepts that explained it. The film remains a timeless Ode to empowerment and self-actualization and features guest appearances by Tracy Camilla, Tommy Redmond Hicks, and John Canada Terrell. Lee shot the film in 12 days and it’s available on Apple TV and Netflix.
In He Got Game, Lee explores themes of sports, family, and the elusive American dream. The plot shows the connection between Jake Shuttleworth, played by Denzel Washington, and his basketball prodigy son, Jesus Shuttleworth, played by former NBA star Ray Allen. Lee’s remarkable ability to use visual finesse and harsh storytelling to weave a story that shows the struggles that young athletes will have to overcome. At the center of the film is Jake, who is haunted by memories of his wife’s accidental homicide and is serving. Time in Attica. La Correctional Facility sheds light on the dark underbelly of sporting ambition, laying bare the exploitation and ethical commitments that lie beneath the gleaming veneer of fame and fortune. The film, which was shot in 28 days, proves once again, Washington could be Lee’s most productive muse to date. This movie is available on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
Mo’ Better Blues is a poignant and colorful depiction of the New York jazz scene where Bleek Gilliam (Denzel Washington), a talented trumpeter whose poor life choices drag his life into a downward spiral. Lee explores timeless themes such as friendship, loyalty, honesty, cause-and-effect relationships, and the search for redemption. The soundtrack features performances by the Branford Marsalis Quartet and Terence Blanchard on trumpet. Released five months after Robin Harris’ death, the film is committed to him and marks his last performance. paper. With its lush cinematography and unforgettable soundtrack, Mo’ Better Blues immerses audiences in the attractions and sounds of a bygone era, capturing the rhythm and spirit of jazz in all its glory. This movie is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
School Daze is Lee’s way of bringing race, identity, and social politics to the forefront of viewers’ minds through a school campus as a backdrop. The film follows the lives of academics as they struggle with issues of elitism, colorism, classism, and cultural authenticity. The peculiarity of this situation is that Lee approaches it from the attitude of the black network itself and the larger problems that exist within it. Topics such as the prejudice about hair texture within the African-American network are also touched. , and the issues addressed in the film are still applicable today. The cast includes Laurence Fishburne, Tisha Campbell, Jasmine Guy, and Joe Seneca, among others. It is available to stream on YouTube, Philo, and Google Play.
Lee has proven time and time again that he is a master of storytelling, and his critically acclaimed film Jungle Fever reminds audiences of his fearless ability to delve into racial tensions with familiarity and ease in a way that helps keep them intrigued. Jungle Fever, arguably one of the most productive videos of the ’90s, is filmed in racially divided Harlem and follows the tumultuous love affair between an African-American architect, Flipper Purify, and his Italian-American secretary, Angie Tucci. Lee deftly uses the themes of social prejudice and cultural stereotypes to spread deep-seated prejudices and misconceptions that fuel mistrust and animosity among other ethnic communities. Thanks to the tough performances of Wesley Snipes, Annabella Sciorra and Samuel L. Jackson, the film demands situations that the audience must face. own preconceptions and prejudices, reminding us of the universal preference for love and acceptance in a divided world. The film was shot in a year and can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.
In Inside Man, Lee delves into the center of a high-risk bank robbery, creating a suspenseful mystery that helps keep audiences enthralled from start to finish. Set in post-9/11 New York City, the film captivates with its intense Cat-and-Mouse Game between a cunning bank robber and a ruthless detective. His race against time to uncover the fact of a mysterious series of crimes creates a gripping story. The film’s sharp argument and rapid movement generate suspense, mystery, and commentary, creating a harsh and engaging visual experience. The cast includes Lee’s longtime collaborator Denzel Washington, as well as Clive Owen and Jodie Foster. Inside Man is available to stream on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video and was finished in about two months.
BlacKkKlansman is a tough, yet comical and timely examination of race, identity, and justice in America. It is animated through the true story of an African-American detective who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s. Lee must incorporate elements with maestría. de humor, while also tackling the heavy themes of racism and its insidious nature and tackling the heaviness of America’s troubled past. Featuring standout performances by John David Washington and Adam Driver, the film delivers a stark message of unity and resilience in the face of systemic crisis. racism and injustice. BlacKkKlansman showcases Lee’s ability to blur the lines between film genres and bring a story to life by tapping into comedy, crime, and drama. The movie can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.
In 25th Hour, Spike Lee revisits post-9/11 America, tackling themes of guilt, redemption, and the search for meaning in a world altered by tragedy. Demonstrating his versatility as a filmmaker, Lee follows Monty Brogan, a convicted drug lord on the eve of his last day of freedom before beginning his criminal sentence. Adapted from David Benioff’s debut novel, The 25th Hour, the film invites audiences to face their own demons and reflect deeply on the possible choices that shape their destiny. On Monty’s tumultuous journey, they are confronted with uncomfortable truths about human nature and the consequences of bad choices, making 25th Hour a captivating and exhilarating cinematic experience. Lee created and released the film shortly after the September 11 attacks, which added a layer of intensity to the critically acclaimed film. The movie can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.
Malcolm X is arguably one of Lee’s most important films to date. Thanks to a remarkable performance by Denzel Washington, Lee is able to steer the film in the right direction and produce what for many others will be a defining moment for Washington’s career. Offering a general portrait of Malcolm X as a leader, Lee sheds light on his early years as a street hustler and the moments when he transformed into a charismatic leader and voice of the civil rights movement.
Lee’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in this film, but Washington’s brilliant embodiment of Malcolm X is what seals the deal for critics and enthusiasts alike. By capturing the essence of a complex and enigmatic figure in such a memorable way, Lee and Washington can simply show the evolution of Malcolm X as a thinker, activist, and martyr for the cause of freedom. The film is an artistic legacy that pays homage to the civil rights movement. It took producer Marvin Worth 25 years to make the film before Lee hit the market. scene and in combination made this masterpiece a reality. The movie can be streamed on Paramount, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
Do the Right Thing is widely regarded as Lee’s masterpiece, presenting a brilliant portrait of racial tensions and police brutality on a sweltering summer day in his usual film setting, Brooklyn. The classic film from the ’80s offers audiences a gripping glimpse into the tension and strain of racism, deftly reflecting the boiling point of societal shock and the uncomfortable truth of systemic racism and injustice, made more confusing by the nature of prejudice and racism in America.
The cast, consisting of Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Rosie Perez, John Turturro, Roger Guenveur Smith, John Savage, Danny Aiello, Giancarlo Esposito, Bill Nunn, Richard Edson and Spike and Joie Lee, delivers tough performances that underscore the character of the film. nuanced themes. Doing the right thing does more than just tell a story; It demands that its audience reflect on their own perspectives and biases, inspiring vital conversations about race and justice that are still applicable today. This is one of the reasons why many rappers and cultural critics still refer to the film. The movie can be streamed on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu.
As it turns out, Lee is still working, and that’s partly true. According to Variety, his upcoming film High and Low will star hip-hop rapper and fellow New Yorker Ice Spice. Variety also reports that longtime collaborator Denzel Washington will also be appearing in the film. As usual, enthusiasts eagerly await the film, in which Lee will bring the vintage of Akira Kurosawa to the trendy cinema.
Conclusion
Lee’s repertoire is unrivalled and this is one of the main reasons why he enjoys a great reputation in the entertainment world. The films in this classification show his ability to create stories that are not only deep but also persistent. Ultimately, Lee’s films go beyond mere entertainment. ; They galvanize reflection, motivate change, and challenge social norms, making him a true master of the medium. His unique taste as a director and his ability to use cinematography to tie in with his own is a difficult act for other administrators to follow.