Revisit Spike Lee’s brilliant take on American culture, with “Do the Right Thing” at the Cerrito on Sunday, June 30, at 1:00 and 7:00!

Unbelievably, it’s thirty years since Spike Lee’s groundbreaking film, “Do the Right Thing” came out. Now, there’s a special one-time showing by Cerrito Classics, with the director’s cut!

“Do the Right Thing” immerses us on the hottest day of the year in a vibrant neighborhood in Bedford Stuyvesant, in Brooklyn.

We see a neighborhood that runs the gamut of emotions from joy to rage. We meet unforgettable characters: one is Sal (Danny Aiello) who runs a successful pizza parlor, the only white-owned business in the neighborhood, which is decorated with pictures of Italian icons such as Frank Sinatra. Another is Mookie, played by the movie’s writer-director Spike Lee. Mookie works for Sal, who says “he’s like a son to me.” Yet, Mookie sets off the flashpoint that ignites the film as the day goes on. As has become all too familiar, there are white policemen, and there is a black victim.

Spike Lee was nominated for an Oscar for the movie’s screenplay, which tells the even-handed story with vibrant music, humor, and inventive cinematography.

Spike Lee was 32 when he made it, assured, confident, in the full joy of his power. He takes this story, which sounds like grim social realism, and tells it with music, humor, color and exuberant invention.

“Do the Right Thing” plays twice  on Sunday, June 30 at 1:00 and 7:00. As an added-on Classic, the Cerrito’s regular prices will be in effect: $12.95 for adults, $11.50 for seniors 62 and over, kids and students with I.D. It’s advisable to order your tickets in advance at the box office or online, as the show may sell out.

Scene

So many choices at Scene! There are flatbread pizzas, a charcuterie and cheese sampler, baked sandwiches, “bites,” salads, desserts, and much more. You can enjoy them there, or have them brought to your seat while you watch the movie. The atmospheric food/wine bar is a fun place to hang out, with special wines and beers available. Check it out!

Upcoming Classics

Cerrito Classics will return on Thursday, September 12. Watch for an exciting program! Cerrito Classics play monthly, almost always on the second Thursday of the month, at 7:00.