Do the Right Thing is a 1989 American comedy-drama film written, directed and produced by filmmaker Spike Lee It revolves around the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn on the hottest day of the year, which sees the neighborhood's tensions boil over. The ensemble cast features Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Richard Edson, Giancarlo Esposito, Bill Nunn, John Turturro, and Lee himself. The movie was critically acclaimed, and is considered one of Lee's greatest films. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Danny Aiello.
The movie is an intense exploration of racism, classism, and gentrification, but it offers a powerful and hopeful message: through understanding, dialogue, and standing up for what is right, individuals can bring about change and break down social barriers.
The following are five of the best essay topic ideas relating to Do the Right Thing:
1. Examine how Do the Right Thing portrays racism and its effects on the characters.
2. Analyze how the movie portrays the effects of gentrification on a community.
3. Discuss how Do the Right Thing portrays the power of dialogue and communication in resolving conflict.
4. Analyze how the movie portrays the role of art in social activism.
5. Evaluate the effectiveness of the movie’s message of the importance of standing up for what is right.