News Summary
In a recent interview, Spike Lee discussed the challenges faced during the production of his iconic film ‘Malcolm X’ and how it was influenced by the LA Riots of 1992. Coinciding with the premiere of his latest movie ‘Highest 2 Lowest’, the conversation highlighted Lee’s impactful storytelling and collaborations with Denzel Washington. Lee aims to shed light on themes of family and socioeconomic disparities in his new project, showcasing the lasting legacy of his previous works.
Los Angeles – Spike Lee recently reflected on the release of his acclaimed film “Malcolm X” during a new interview, recalling the film’s troubled production as well as its serendipitous timing with the LA Riots of 1992. The conversation coincided with the premiere of his latest movie, “Highest 2 Lowest,” which features Denzel Washington and was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025, marking what would have been Malcolm X’s 100th birthday.
“Malcolm X,” released in 1992, portrays the life of the Black Nationalist leader through the powerful performance of Denzel Washington. The film faced various production challenges, including significant budgetary issues that led to temporary shutdowns. Notable figures in entertainment, such as Oprah Winfrey, Prince, and Michael Jordan, contributed financial support that enabled the project to move forward.
A pivotal moment occurred on April 29, 1992—the same day the LA Riots erupted following the acquittal of four police officers involved in the brutal beating of Rodney King. Spike Lee recalled screening a rough cut of “Malcolm X” for Warner Bros. executives Terry Semel and Bob Daly amidst the turmoil in the streets. Despite the chaos outside, both executives remained committed to watching the entire four-hour cut.
As a response to the riots, Lee chose to modify the film’s opening credits, incorporating footage of Rodney King’s beating alongside a Denzel Washington-recorded speech of Malcolm X. “Malcolm X” was officially released seven months after the riots, achieving both commercial success and critical acclaim, garnering two Academy Award nominations for Best Actor (Washington) and Best Costume Design.
In terms of his partnership with Washington, Lee describes the performance in “Malcolm X” as the pinnacle of their collaborations. The actor’s portrayal resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, solidifying Washington’s status as a leading figure in cinema.
Lee’s newest project, “Highest 2 Lowest,” reunites the filmmaker with Washington for the first time in nearly two decades. The film, set in New York, depicts Washington as a music mogul embroiled in a kidnapping and ransom scenario. Describing the setting and plot as unique, Lee expressed excitement about the film’s exploration of themes related to socioeconomic disparities and family values, highlighting the emotional struggles faced by the main character in his quest to protect a loved one.
This collaboration demonstrates the enduring chemistry between Lee and Washington, which has thrived despite the extended hiatus since their last joint project, “Inside Man,” in 2006. Lee has characterized Washington as “America’s greatest living actor,” acknowledging their strong rapport on set.
Essential to “Highest 2 Lowest” is the film’s focus on familial connections amid adversity, showcasing love and support among characters despite their complicated circumstances. Lee’s intention is to create a strong representation of family within the narrative, adding depth to the emotional arcs of the characters involved.
As he continues to work on new and existing projects, Lee has expressed enthusiasm about future potential collaborations with Washington, given their successful history together. Additionally, he is dedicated to developing films such as “Save Us, Joe Louis,” a project that he co-wrote with the late screenwriter Budd Schulberg, indicating his commitment to engaging storytelling in diverse forms.
Spike Lee’s reflections on the legacy of “Malcolm X” intertwined with the premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest” showcase the cultural impact of his films and the meaningful conversations they spur, particularly concerning race, identity, and social justice in America.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Business Insider: Spike Lee Reflects on Malcolm X
- Los Angeles Times: Spike Lee’s Highest 2 Lowest
- The Root: Unknown Facts About Spike Lee
- Complex: Spike Lee and Influential Figures
- Hollywood Reporter: Spike Lee Interview
- Wikipedia: Spike Lee
- Google Search: Malcolm X
- Google Scholar: Spike Lee
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Malcolm X
- Google News: Spike Lee
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
