Spike Lee, the legendary filmmaker behind classics likeMalcolm X, BlacKkKlansman,andDo the Right Thing,discusses whether he’ll eventually step away from the director’s chair. Known for his bold storytelling and fearless commentary on social issues, Lee has built a career that spans over four decades, earning multiple accolades and critical acclaim. The 67-year-old director has a new project in post-productionstarring Denzel Washington, making it his fifth collaboration with the Oscar winner. The new film,Highest 2 Lowest, is said to be a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’sHigh and Low.
During a candid“In Conversation With”session at the fourth Red Seas International Film Festival (viaThe Hollywood Reporter), Lee, who works as the president of the main competition jury, shared his thoughts on his artistic journey, being inspired by Kurosawa’s work, and the possibility of retiring in the near future. When asked if he considered retiring from filmmaking, the director drew comparisons to Kurosawa, asking the audience to confirm the legendary Japanese filmmaker’s age during his final film. Upon learning that Kurosawa was 81,Lee replied,“Yeah, I got some time left.“Read his full comment below:
Yeah. Here is the thing though. How old was Kurosawa when doing his last film? Can someone look that up. 81? Yeah, I got some time left.
Whether it’s God or Allah, I am blessed… If you are able to make a living doing what you love, that’s a blessing… And as I have gotten older,I have realized it was my destiny to become a filmmaker.
What This Means For Lee’s Future
A Career Defined By Artistic Vision And Social Commentary
Lee has spent decades crafting films that combine his artistic brilliance with sharp social commentary. His career began with the groundbreakingShe’s Gotta Have Itin 1986, which he revealed was heavily inspired by Kurosawa’s filmRashomon. From there,Lee went on to directplenty of culturally significant works, includingDo the Right Thing, which remains a poignant examination of race relations in America, andMalcom X.Lee’s ability to confront the issues of race, identity, and inequality hasmade him one of the most influential filmmakers of his time.
This determination is consistent with his work, which reflects a tireless commitment to shedding light on vital social concerns, with many flourishing in the past couple of years.
His comments about retirement are a statement of his lifelong dedication to filmmaking. By comparing his career timeline to that of Kurosawa, Lee has hinted at a desire to continue evolving as a filmmaker and storyteller for years to come. At just 67 years of age,his comments give hope of seeing more of the director for at least one more decade. This determination is consistent with his work, which reflects a tireless commitment to shedding light on vital social concerns, with many flourishing in the past couple of years.
Highest 2 Lowestis set to be theatrically released by A24 in the spring of 2025, withLee saying it’s a"reinterpretation, not a remake,“of Kurosawa’s 1963 filmHigh and Low. In the film, an executive of a Yokohama shoe company becomes a victim of extortion when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped by mistake and held for ransom. Although not much detail has been given about Lee’s reinterpretation of the plot, it is safe to say his trademark flair and keen social commentary will be infused into the story.
Our Take on Spike Lee’s Comments
The Director Has More To Say
Lee’s approach to retirement is both inspiring and reassuring for those following his career. His belief that he was destined to be a filmmaker shows the profound connection he feels with his art and his awareness of the impact he has on his audiences. His way of confronting social and political issues ensures that his legacy will endure, continuing to inspire future generations of filmmakers to use their voices in a meaningful way. By comparing his career trajectoryto Kurosawa’s,Lee reminds us that he still has a lot more to offer.
Highest 2 Lowesthas the potential to resonate deeply with modern audiences and provide a new lens through which the audiences can explore the complexities of justice and humanity. With A24 and Apple TV+ backing the project, anticipation will continue to grow as the release nears. For now, fans ofLee’s work can rest assured that the director has no plans to slow down anytime soon.
Source:THR
Spike Lee
Discover the latest news and filmography for Spike Lee, known for Do the Right Thing and Malcolm X.
