Spike Lee Takes Aim at Trump During Cannes Film Festival Press Conference

During the recent Cannes Film Festival, acclaimed director Spike Lee made headlines for his candid remarks about social media and its moral implications in America. Lee was present to promote his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, and didn’t hesitate to articulate his stance on the current political climate and the challenges facing the film industry.

Lee’s Perspective on Social Media and American Values

When asked whether social media has compromised American values, Lee’s response was pointed: “I don’t know how much we can talk about American values considering who is the president.” His comment subtly pointed to Donald Trump, highlighting the disconnect between leadership and societal ethics. Lee acknowledged his wife’s advice to tread carefully but emphasized that “we can’t condemn social media” in isolation. He compared the scrutiny of social media to criticisms levied against film and other art forms, stating, “I’m not going to demonize the form.”

Concerns About Film Tariffs

Lee was further pressed about Trump’s proposed tariffs on foreign-made films, to which he admitted, “I don’t have the answer for that.” However, he expressed concern for the industry, noting, “people are hurting. No one’s working.” Lee questioned the practicality of imposing tariffs on every film shot abroad, indicating that such policies could exacerbate the challenges faced by filmmakers and the broader creative community.

Reflecting on His Filmography

Keeping his promise to exercise caution in his comments, Lee redirected the conversation to his own filmmaking experiences. He shared an interesting anecdote about Do the Right Thing, originally slated to film in Baltimore instead of New York City. Lee candidly remarked, “Like get the fuck out of here, we’re not doing that,” showcasing his passion for capturing the authentic vibe of New York. He proudly noted that many people who worked on the new film also contributed to his earlier works, highlighting a continuity and dedication to storytelling in his career.

Celebrating Highest 2 Lowest

The press conference also celebrated Highest 2 Lowest, which premiered to a five-and-a-half-minute standing ovation. The film received a surprise honorary Palme d’Or for lead actor Denzel Washington, who was notably absent from the panel alongside A$AP Rocky, the other star of the film. The audience was graced by the presence of Rihanna, who supported her partner Rocky and took to the red carpet with him, even as rain fell during the event.

Highest 2 Lowest is an English-language remake of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low and is reimagined in contemporary New York City. The film’s narrative revolves around Washington’s character, a music mogul ensnared in a harrowing ransom situation, while Rocky plays Yung Felon, an ambitious rapper chasing his dreams despite the odds.

A Star-Studded Cast and Upcoming Release

In addition to Washington and Rocky, Highest 2 Lowest features a talented ensemble cast, including Ice Spice in her film debut, Dean Winters, John Douglas Thompson, LaChanze, Aubrey Joseph, Michael Potts, and Wendell Pierce. The screenplay, crafted by William Alan Fox, promises to deliver a gripping story that resonates within the current cultural and social landscape.

Following its premiere, Highest 2 Lowest is set for a theatrical release through A24 on August 22, followed by streaming availability on Apple TV+ starting September 5. The film not only represents Lee’s continued relevance in Hollywood but also sparks engagement on important conversations about societal issues, further amplifying his voice in the industry.

For more insights on Lee’s earlier works, check out our posts on Do the Right Thing, Cannes Film Festival, and the impact of social media on cinema in our piece on Social Media and the Arts.

As the cultural landscape continues to evolve, Spike Lee remains a vital figure challenging norms and igniting discussions pertinent to both the film industry and society at large.