Spike Lee Reflects on Denzel Washington’s Oscar Snub at Cannes Conference

At a recent press conference at the Cannes Film Festival for his new film, Highest 2 Lowest, acclaimed director Spike Lee reminisced about his longstanding collaboration with actor Denzel Washington. Among their five joint projects, Lee asserted that Washington deserved the Best Actor Oscar in 1993 for his role in Malcolm X, a sentiment he emphasized without disrespecting fellow nominee Al Pacino, who ultimately won that year for Scent of a Woman.

The Oscar that Got Away

Lee passionately defended Washington’s performance, saying, “Malcolm X, what he did with that film was amazing. And no disrespect to my brother Al Pacino, I love him. But Denzel, in my opinion, should have won.” Pacino’s acclaimed performance secured him the coveted award, while Washington’s turn as the iconic civil rights leader earned him accolades yet no Oscar until 2002 for Training Day.

While discussing awards, Lee offered an insightful perspective. “With these awards, it’s like basketball, where the ref blows a call and you have to make a call. So the make a call I think was ‘Training Day,’ which he won an Oscar for,” he said. “But we don’t do our work for awards, which are nice, but it’s the work that is going to stand above all awards.” This philosophy encapsulates Lee’s commitment to the artistry of filmmaking over the accolades that may sometimes come with it.

The Future of Their Collaboration

As for the future of his collaboration with Washington, Lee hinted that they might have reached a conclusion. “I think this is it,” he stated, reflecting the rumors surrounding Washington’s contemplation of retirement. Adding a touch of humor, he remarked, “He’s been talking about retirement, so… Even though he just did another deal. I thought you said you were retired Denzel, what’s up? But those five films together, those stand up.”

Highest 2 Lowest: A Modern Tale

Washington stars in Highest 2 Lowest, which premiered at Cannes to an impressive 5.5-minute standing ovation. This English-language remake of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 film High and Low is set in contemporary New York. Washington portrays a music mogul entangled in a life-or-death ransom plot, alongside A$AP Rocky, who plays Yung Felon, an ambitious rapper determined to succeed at all costs. Despite not attending the press conference, the film’s buzz suggests it is poised to make waves in the cinematic landscape.

As the festival continues, Lee’s reflections on his partnership with Washington remind us of the powerful narratives that emerge when talent meets dedication. While Highest 2 Lowest marks a new chapter, it also serves as a testament to the legacy built by Lee and Washington over the years. Their combined efforts have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on film, resonating with audiences far beyond awards seasons.