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Spizike

Happy Birthday to a true trendsetter - Spike Lee.

A trend refers to the direction in which something develops or changes.

Spike Lee has been a trailblazer in film, setting a new tone and precedent with the creation of unique and unrepeatable Black narratives through a timeless repertoire of provocative films that have sparked necessary dialogue around taboo and often neglected topics of race, politics and sex through popular culture in a fashion that’s been all his own. Using vivid color, stimulating imagery and powerful, eccentric characters, Spike Lee’s style is unmatched.

Let us reminisce over some of Spike’s classic work and characters.

She’s Gotta Have It (1986)

Nola Darling gave audiences a healthy, raw image of a dope young woman unafraid to express her sexuality and assert herself in her romantic encounters with the men in her life. One of Nola’s love interests, Mars Blackmon (played by Spike Lee), later became a style icon in the popular Nike Air Jordan ads.

School Daze (1988)

From the long standing beef of “light skin vs. dark skin” and hair texture to the divisions on campuses among Black students in fraternities and sororities, this film tackled many of the issues in the young Black community that hadn’t been analyzed in the fresh way that Spike did it. As always, he infused the political climate of the real world through the student demonstrations and activism around South Africa’s fight to end apartheid in the film.

Do The Right Thing (1989)

Radio Raheem danced to the beat of his own drum… or should we say he stormed down the blocks and avenues of “Do or Die Bed Stuy” to Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” anthem in Spike’s hit film Do The Right Thing. As you can see, his style matched his bold attitude, rockin his infamous golden plated “LOVE/HATE” knuckle rings. His story, a young and strong spirit being snuffed by crooked police, is an all too familiar reality that is still just as relevant today as it was when the movie was released.

And don’t forget Buggin Out who echoed the common teenage angst of keepin your fresh new kicks clean! The famous scene of him losing his cool when the aloof sucka down the street scuffs his new Air Jordans epitomizes his wild character.

Demanding that Sal of the popular neighborhood pizzeria hang pictures of Black stars on his restaurant wall along with the famed Italians, Buggin Out was also a reflection of the young students in the real world who were fighting to see themselves represented in their education through Ethnic Studies across the country at this time.

A Tribe Called Quest titled the second track off their classic album, The Low End Theory (1991) “Buggin Out” - a reference to the boisterously unique character.

Spike has always utilized his platform to make a bold statement. His message can be heard through the blaring voices of his characters but if you look closely, it’s all in his intricate detail.

Complex magazine covered rapper Nas in 2012, taking inspiration from the classic scene in Do The Right Thing of the three old men bustin each others chops in front of the fiery brick wall.

“Best on Mars” - Michael Jordan commercial series (1990’s)

Through the quirky character of Mars Blackmon (in collaboration with Michael Jordan of course), Spike Lee created a signature 80’s/90’s look with his thick-rimmed black specs, Brooklyn biker cap and Jordan apparel that continues to influence younger generations years later.

Check out Chris Brown in his “Look At Me Now” video in 2011.

Peep some of the original commercials.

Yes, Spike Lee got Little Richard to feature in an Air Jordan ad like a boss.

One more for your viewing pleasure…

Blake Griffin channeled his inner Spike as “Mars Blakemon” to pump NFL prospect Jordan Cameron with this promo video in 2011.

Malcolm X (1992)

Do we really need to explain this one? With the help of an amazing performance from a copper-haired, debonair Denzel Washington, Spike Lee captured the life one of America’s most poignant and controversial voices through his film, Malcolm X.

Making Fashion Statements Too!

Remember those fresh “X” caps he made so popular?

He Got Game (1998)

Spike shed light on the pipe dream sold to young Black men coming out of the inner city pursuing a career in hoop, their struggle through manhood, sexuality and staying true to oneself along the way.