Do The Right Thing Flashcards
Who directed DTRT and when was it made
Spike Lee, 1989
What are the most significant scenes throughout the film
Hall of fame, Breaking the 4th wall, gentrification and the death of Radio Raheem
What was the social context of the film
Increased racial conflict, end of the cold war, police brutality, post Vietnam and mass unemployment
How does the editing in Do the Right Thing heighten the tension between characters?
The film uses rapid, jarring cuts, especially during heated exchanges, to create a sense of urgency and discomfort. The editing builds momentum toward the film’s explosive climax, emphasizing the rising racial and social tensions in the community.
How does Spike Lee use editing to emphasize the passage of time throughout the day?
Spike Lee uses the repetitive structure of the day (from morning to evening) and rhythmic editing — often paired with sound cues (like the radio announcements) — to establish the hot, oppressive atmosphere, which contributes to the escalating tension.
How is sound used to represent the oppressive heat and tension in Do the Right Thing?
The sound design emphasizes the intense heat with sounds like loud fans, sizzling street food, and the constant hum of traffic, all of which create a sensory overload that mirrors the mounting racial and social conflict.
What role does Public Enemy’s song “Fight the Power” play in the film’s soundscape?
“Fight the Power” serves as both a thematic anthem and a sonic representation of resistance and solidarity. It plays at key moments, underscoring the film’s critique of racial inequality and amplifying the film’s message of empowerment.
How does the cinematography in Do the Right Thing reflect the characters’ emotions and the film’s themes?
The film uses bold, saturated colors (especially red) to visually convey the heat and tension. Close-ups and low-angle shots intensify the emotional stakes, and the dynamic camera movements (such as panning and zooming) bring a sense of unease and instability to key scenes.
What are the central themes explored in Do the Right Thing?
The film explores themes of racial tension, identity, prejudice, and social injustice. It also tackles the complexity of moral choices, questioning what “doing the right thing” really means in a highly charged and polarized environment.
What is the significance of the film’s ending, and what message does it convey?
The ambiguous ending, with Mookie throwing the trash can through the window, signifies the eruption of frustration and anger against years of systemic injustice. It suggests that there are no easy answers to the question of how to “do the right thing,” and points to the consequences of unresolved racial tensions.
How does Mookie’s character evolve throughout Do the Right Thing?
Mookie starts off as somewhat detached and pragmatic, just trying to get by, but by the end of the film, his actions reflect a deeper understanding of the tensions around him. His decision to throw the trash can shows his realization that action is needed, even if it may not be the “right” action in a traditional sense.
What role does Sal play in Do the Right Thing, and how does his character contribute to the film’s exploration of race and power?
Sal represents the well-meaning but ultimately privileged white business owner who feels entitled to the community’s loyalty. His interactions with the Black characters reveal his blind spots regarding race and power, making him both a sympathetic and frustrating figure as the tension builds.
