Do the Right Thing (1989)

Directed by: Spike Lee

Starring: Spike Lee, Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ginacarlo Esposito, and John Turturro

Sal’s Famous Pizzeria is a distinctive restaurant in Brooklyn.  Run by Italian-American Sal Frangione (Danny Aiello), the restaurant is noted by many in the community for its “Wall of Fame” and its lack of prominent black folks.  The wall only features pictures of Italians.  When Buggin’ Out (Giancarlo Espositio) demands that Sal puts up pictures of black people and Sal refuses, the situation between the two men is escalated.  As that situation unfolds, racial tensions are exacerbated throughout the community as hatred and bigotry marinate in the hearts and minds of an array of distinctive characters.

Spike Lee’s Do The Right Thing is one of the most unique films to ever grace the big screen.  While Lee’s impressive flick is full of potent dialogue on race relations and issues affecting the black community, it’s also quite entertaining.  The film delivers quite a few laughs and some nail-biting intensity.  You won’t need a drink to enjoy this one.  Do the Right Thing gets a sober rating.