Today (May 20th) on Boardroom, legendary director and writer Spike Lee sat for the latest Billboard Cover Story. n the exclusive interview, the proud New Yorker and cinephile discusses his relationship with Michael Jordan, his experience working with A24, his love for the New York Knicks, what makes going to the theaters so special, casting A$AP Rocky opposite Denzel Washington in his upcoming movie Highest 2 Lowest, and much more. Continue reading to check out the full conversation!
If there’s one thing we know, it’s that Spike Lee is always tapped in. Like everyone else in the world, the legendary filmmaker was a huge fan of the movie that has taken the world by storm this year, Sinners. Speaking on it, the 69 year-old said, “I haven’t seen a film like this in years. I was jumping up and down, like I’m courtside at the garden and we’re kicking the Celtic’s ass.”
Although show business is oftentimes competitive, Lee made it clear that 2025 is the year of Black cinema. “This is the year of black cinema! There is such love that Denzel and I have for Ryan Coogler and Michael B Jordan.” said Lee. “It’s love and affirmation where you want people to be the best they can be. There ain’t no competition. There’s room for everybody to thrive. For you to thrive doesn’t mean you’re hating on anyone else.”
Speaking of Denzel Washington, Spike had high praises for his dear friend and frequent collaborator. As he discussed working with one of the greatest of all-time, he explained, “There’s different levels of greatness. And anytime Denzel is in front of the camera, he is going to put the work in. It’s a blessing that Denzel and I got to work together – the dynamic duo! D n’ Lee!”
The dynamic duo’s upcoming film (their fifth together) Highest 2 Lowest is scheduled to be released on August 22nd. Starring opposite of Washington is rapper A$AP Rocky. Spike Lee gave some insight on why he chose the Harlem native for the role. “Denzel is a beast. When you see a championship fight, you want to see someone who is going to test him. In a movie, if you had two characters go head to head, you gotta cast someone who is gonna hold his ground with Denzel. And ASAP’s from Harlem. They go toe to toe.”
As one of the biggest New York Knick fans known to man, Spike knows a little about going to to toe. When Rich Kleiman asked him if the the late ‘60s/early ‘70s era of the Knicks was his favorite, he gave a heartwarming response. “Yes. And the late Dick Barnett just passed. I knew all these guys. The late great Willis Reed. I love these guys. Every time I see John Starks I hug him.”
The two-time Academy Award winner touched on these and so many other topics in the almost half hour interview. Check it out below, along with the official teaser for Highest 2 Lowest!
