"It's the hottest day of the summer. You can do nothing, you can do something, or you can..."

Do the Right Thing (1989)
Directed by Spike Lee, rated R, 120 minutes

Do the Right Thing is a tense, funny and eclectic film set on one block in Brooklyn on the hottest day of summer, following a slew of characters getting through the day as racial tensions heat up. Spike Lee produces a number of memorable and eccentric characters and gives them dialogue that ranges from hilarious to poignant, and Danny Aiello stands out delivering a complex performance. The film has a brilliant pace, allowing you to get to know the characters and the neighborhood, as the story slowly builds underneath, and director Lee's visual style keeps things exciting. Do the Right Thing is a rare film that deals with race issues without being heavy-handed or annoying, and just allows the characters to speak for themselves and let's you come up with your own answers. You'll like it if: You like urban dramas, films about racial tension, ensemble films, La haine, Boogie Nights or 25th Hour.