How To Write More Like Spike Lee

Spike Lee is one of the most iconic and prolific black screenwriters and film directors of our time. He is known for his unique and distinctive style in filmmaking, which extends to his approach to writing screenplays. He has a very organic and intuitive approach to writing, often relying on his instincts and experiences to guide the development of his stories. Some elements that are common in his writing include:

• Improvisation: Spike Lee often employs improvisation in his screenplays, allowing actors and crew to contribute to the development of the story on set. This approach allows for a more organic and collaborative process, where creative decisions are made in real-time based on the needs of the story.

Example: In "Do the Right Thing," Lee allowed actor Danny Aiello to improvise a scene where he talks to his son about racism, which ended up being one of the most powerful and memorable moments in the film.

• Social and political themes: Spike Lee's films are known for addressing important social and political issues, and his screenplays are no exception. He often uses his writing to explore complex themes such as race, class, and gender, and to critique societal norms and power structures.

From Spike Lee’s 1992 Bio Pic ‘Malcolm X’

Example: In "Malcolm X," Lee's screenplay delves into the political ideologies and experiences of the civil rights activist, Malcolm X. The film explores themes of racism and black empowerment, and critiques systemic oppression.

• Authenticity: Spike Lee's commitment to authenticity in his writing is reflected in his use of real-life experiences and characters to create believable and nuanced stories. He draws from his own personal experiences and those of people he knows to create relatable and three-dimensional characters.

From Spike Lee’s 1994 Film, ‘Crooklyn’

Example: In "Crooklyn," Lee's screenplay is based on his own childhood experiences growing up in Brooklyn, and the film's characters are based on his own family members and neighbors. This creates a rich and authentic portrayal of life in a Brooklyn neighborhood during the 1970s.

• Visual storytelling: Spike Lee's unique visual style is also reflected in his screenplays. He often writes with a focus on the visual elements of the story, using vivid descriptions and imagery to bring his scenes to life.

Example: In "BlacKkKlansman," Lee's screenplay uses visual cues and symbolism to highlight the film's themes of racism and prejudice. For example, the film's opening scene shows a close-up of a Confederate flag being hung in a window, setting the tone for the story and the characters' struggles against systemic racism.

In summary, Spike Lee's writing style is characterized by a focus on authenticity, social and political themes, improvisation, and visual storytelling. His films often use real-life experiences and characters to create complex and thought-provoking stories, and he is known for his unique and innovative approach to filmmaking.

Be sure to include these key concepts when writing your next screenplay. Spike Lee has proven time and time again how it can provide a strong impact to your story.