The Best Of Spike Lee And Denzel Washington: Their Often-Overlooked First Movie Together

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on May 06, 2025

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She's Gotta Have It: A Groundbreaking Independent Film

She's Gotta Have It, released in 1986, wasn't just a film; it was a cultural phenomenon. This independent film, shot on a shoestring budget, revolutionized black cinema and independent filmmaking. Its impact stemmed from several key elements:

• Groundbreaking Portrayal of Black Female Sexuality: The film fearlessly depicted Nola Darling's complex relationships and her assertive approach to her sexuality – a stark contrast to the limited portrayals of Black women in mainstream cinema at the time. This unflinching honesty was revolutionary.
• Innovative Filmmaking Techniques: Lee's use of direct address to the camera, breaking the fourth wall, engaged the audience directly and intimately. The film's unconventional structure and style set it apart from typical Hollywood productions.
• A Window into 1980s Brooklyn: The film vividly captured the vibrant, gritty reality of Black life in 1980s Brooklyn, showcasing its unique cultural nuances and everyday struggles. This authentic portrayal resonated deeply with audiences.
• Female Empowerment: Nola Darling's refusal to conform to societal expectations and her pursuit of independence became a powerful symbol of female empowerment for a generation.

Denzel Washington's Breakout Role and Performance

While not the lead, Denzel Washington's performance in She's Gotta Have It as Greer, one of Nola's three romantic interests, is nothing short of captivating. This supporting role served as a crucial stepping stone in his illustrious career.

• A Complex Character: Greer, charming and alluring but ultimately flawed, showcases Washington's remarkable ability to portray nuanced characters with depth and complexity, even in a relatively small role.
• Career Impact: This early role, showcasing his charisma and acting prowess, helped launch him into the spotlight, paving the way for his future iconic performances. Critics often cite this film as a pivotal moment in his career trajectory. Many reviewers noted his ability to deliver both charm and vulnerability, hinting at the exceptional range he would exhibit in later years.
• Stepping Stone to Stardom: His performance in She's Gotta Have It certainly demonstrated his talent, attracting the attention of producers and directors, and helping him secure more significant roles moving forward.

Spike Lee's Directorial Vision and Style

She's Gotta Have It is unmistakably a Spike Lee joint. This film showcases the director's distinctive style and marks the emergence of his unique voice in cinema.

• Bold Visuals and Narrative Techniques: Lee’s innovative storytelling, experimental camerawork, and bold visual choices established his signature style from the very beginning.
• Social Commentary: The film doesn't shy away from social commentary, addressing issues of race, gender, and relationships with raw honesty. This social consciousness became a recurring theme throughout Lee's career.
• Auteur Theory in Action: The film firmly establishes Lee as an auteur, a director with a distinctive vision and style, evident in every shot and every scene. His clear artistic vision is unmistakable.

The Lasting Legacy of Their Collaboration

The collaboration between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington on She's Gotta Have It wasn't just a single film; it was the genesis of a fruitful partnership that continues to influence cinema.

• Impact on Individual Careers: This early collaboration laid the groundwork for both their future success; it catapulted Washington into the spotlight and solidified Lee's position as a groundbreaking filmmaker.
• Influence on Independent Cinema: The film's success helped legitimize independent filmmaking, demonstrating that low-budget films with unique visions could find widespread appeal and critical acclaim.
• A Precursor to Future Successes: Their partnership on She's Gotta Have It served as the foundation for numerous other successful collaborations, including Mo' Better Blues, Malcolm X, and Inside Man, solidifying their positions as cinematic icons.

Conclusion

She's Gotta Have It stands as a testament to the remarkable talents of Spike Lee and Denzel Washington. This often-overlooked masterpiece showcases Lee's innovative directorial style and Washington's early acting brilliance. It's a groundbreaking film that deserves recognition for its impact on independent cinema and its portrayal of Black life in the 1980s. The film's influence is still felt today, continuing to inspire filmmakers and resonate with audiences.

Rediscover the magic of Spike Lee and Denzel Washington's early collaboration – watch She's Gotta Have It today! Delve deeper into their individual careers and explore their other significant collaborative works to truly appreciate the enduring legacy of this powerful cinematic partnership.