Spike Lee just broke the ceiling. Again.
With over 30 years in cinema, Spike Lee’s Hollywood street cred is solid. Recently, his status has reached new heights. Here’s how Spike Lee has achieved stratospheric success.
Spike Lee is brilliant, bold, and unapologetic. As one of the most distinctive directors in Hollywood, Lee’s films masterfully exhibit socioeconomic and racial themes in America. Spike Lee holds up a mirror to society, dares us to look away, and manages to keep us enthralled, engaged, and entertained by his work.
After decades in the business, Lee shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, within the last two years, he has added some hefty accolades to his already stellar career. Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman and his ties to the famous Cannes Film Festival have boosted his prominence in the sphere of entertainment. Keep reading for the details.
May 2018: Spike Lee’s BlacKkKlansman wins the Grand Prix
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Filmmakers and influencers have flocked to France to attend the Cannes Film Festival every year since 1946. The event showcases films from around the world and recognizes artistic achievements in cinema.
In May of 2018, Lee’s chef-d’oeuvre, BlacKkKlansman, won The Grand Prix award, one of the most prestigious awards presented at Cannes. Spike Lee co-wrote and directed the biographical drama about Colorado Springs’ first African American police detective, Ron Stallworth. Stallworth made waves when he infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan and took steps to thwart a violent attack.
As a pioneer who is tremendously skilled at navigating provocative material, Spike Lee was the ideal director to bring the BlacKkKlansman story to life. Eagle-eyed aficionados will easily spot some of Lee’s signature techniques, like the classic double dolly shot, in the film.
February 2019: Spike Lee wins his first Academy Award
After several nominations – and a few snubs – Spike Lee has finally snagged an Oscar. As a co-writer of BlacKkKlansman, Lee accepted the award for Best Adapted Screenplay at the 91st Academy Awards.
True to form, Lee wore his emotions proudly, and his energy was electric. He leaped into a celebratory embrace with presenter and friend Samuel L. Jackson before launching into a poignant acceptance speech, upon which every word the audience clung.
This award was a long time coming for Spike Lee, but instead of simply basking in the glory, he took an opportunity to use the platform to inspire positive change in our world.
Bravo, my brother.
January 2020: Spike Lee is named President of the Cannes Film Festival Jury
Spike Lee has been respected by his peers and adored by fans since his 1986 debut feature, She’s Gotta Have It. Now, he has been chosen to lead the 2020 Cannes Film Festival jury. This new role is a historic one.
Lee, a visionary with a knack for tackling racial matters in cinema, is the first African American to head up the Cannes Film Festival jury. This honor is particularly meaningful for Lee, who credits Cannes for changing his trajectory as a filmmaker.
Spike Lee’s 30-plus years in cinema, creative and professional accolades, and new leadership position have solidified the film giant’s place in history among the cinematic elite. With at least three projects in development, fans like me are eager to see what’s next for Spike Lee.
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