Where can I watch Do the Right Thing?

Do the Right Thing, directed by Spike Lee and released in 1989, is a powerful blend of comedy and drama that captures the simmering tensions of a sweltering summer day in Brooklyn. At its center is Salvatore Sal Fragione, an Italian-American pizza shop owner whose establishment, Sal's Pizzeria, becomes a microcosm of the racial dynamics in the neighborhood. The story kicks off when Buggin' Out, a passionate local, confronts Sal about the glaring absence of black actors on the pizzeria's Wall of Fame, which he believes should reflect the community it serves. This seemingly simple disagreement spirals into a larger confrontation that unearths deep-seated racial issues, ultimately leading to a climax that challenges the very fabric of community and identity.

The film is a masterclass in character development, showcasing a vibrant cast that includes the fiery Mookie, played by Spike Lee himself, and the wise, yet frustrated, neighborhood elder Da Mayor. Each character brings their own perspective to the table, painting a complex picture of urban life and the struggles against systemic racism. Themes of pride, anger, and the quest for respect resonate throughout, making Do the Right Thing not just a film about a neighborhood conflict, but a poignant exploration of societal issues that remain relevant today. As the temperature rises, so do the stakes, reminding viewers that the choices we make can have far-reaching consequences, and that doing the right thing is often the hardest path to take.