Every Spike Lee Movie, Ranked And In Release Order

Spike Lee movies have become some of the most sought-after cultural and Black movies of all time because they brazenly examine critical pieces of society through film, shining a spotlight on issues of race, identity and social justice that are frequently overlooked. Lee’s storytelling is not just distinct; it is raw and unflinching. Because of this, Forbes has compiled a ranking list of all of Spike Lee’s movies.

Who Is Spike Lee?

Many people think that Lee has lived in New York all of his life, perhaps because of his vivid depiction of the city in his critically acclaimed Do the Right Thing, but the film maestro was born in Atlanta, Georgia. His family later moved to Brooklyn, where he was raised. Lee enrolled in Morehouse College to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree. During his time at the school, he honed his passion for filmmaking while taking extra courses at Clark Atlanta University, and later earned an MFA in film and television from New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. He is currently also a professor of Graduate film at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. Lee got his start in film with his 1986 debut feature, She's Gotta Have It, a Black romantic comedy that explored themes of Black womanhood, dating, relationships and shifting societal norms.

Since then, Lee has directed 24 films, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including two Academy Award nominations for Best Director. Beyond his credibility as a storyteller, Lee has contributed to creating poignant protagonists who have gone on to challenge the status quo and become social culture icons, primarily for their memorable one-liners. With his bold visual style, social commentary, and fearless storytelling, Lee has proven that he is a driving force in cinema.

Spike Lee’s Films In Release Order

Lee’s repertoire has made him one of the most provocative filmmakers of our time over the course of his four-decade career. Here are all the films, in order of release, that have showcased his evolution as a filmmaker and the impact of his diverse body of work over the years.

1. She’s Gotta Have It (1986)
2. School Daze (1988)
3. Do the Right Thing (1989)
4. Mo’ Better Blues (1990)
5. Jungle Fever (1991)
6. Malcolm X (1992)
7. Crooklyn (1994)
8. Clockers (1995)
9. Girl 6 (1996)
10. Get on the Bus (1996)
11. He Got Game (1998)
12. Summer of Sam (1999)
13. Bamboozled (2000)
14. 25th Hour (2002)
15. She Hate Me (2004)
16. Inside Man (2006)
17. Miracle at St. Anna (2008)
18. Red Hook Summer (2012)
19. Oldboy (2013)
20. Da Sweet Blood of Jesus (2014)
21. Chi-Raq (2015)
22. Pass Over (2018)
23. BlacKkKlansman (2018)
24. Da 5 Bloods (2020)

While it is challenging to rank Lee’s work, I looked at a variety of things to determine a ranking, including critical acclaim, cultural impact, commercial success and audience reception. Although Lee has an uncanny ability to pour new themes into his work that are both new and refreshing, some of his movies have left an undeniable impact on the cultural landscape. Movies like Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X and 25th Hour are considered his best work, and they are ranked accordingly. Lesser-known movies like Get on the Bus and Old Boy made the list, too.

24. She Hate Me (2004)

Lee’s 2004 film She Hate Me follows the tumultuous life of Jack Armstrong, a corporate cog in a biotech company who finds himself suddenly jobless after allegations of fraud surface. Jack soon finds himself following an unconventional career path that sees him offering his services as a sperm donor to lesbians for a hefty fee of $10,000 per encounter. This leads him to become entangled in a web of paternity and parenthood, ultimately fathering 19 children with 18 different women. The film was filmed in 28 days and features Anthony Mackie, Kerry Washington and Ellen Barkin. Despite its controversial storyline, like many Lee projects, the movie offered a provocative exploration of identity, ethics and the complexities of modern relationships. This film is available on YouTube, Apple TV, and Fandango.

23. Da Sweet Blood of Jesus (2014)

Da Sweet Blood of Jesus revisits Lee’s unique way of telling complex stories, but this time, he does so through the lens of horror. This film is a bold reimagining of the cult classic Ganja & Hess, and leans into intense themes of addiction, desire and immortality. The story centers around Dr. Hess Green, portrayed by Stephen Tyrone Williams, who becomes insatiably blood-thirsty after he is stabbed by an ancient Ashanti ceremonial dagger, which turns him into a vampire. This alters the wealthy anthropologist’s lifestyle, leading him down a dark, haunting path defined by murder and lust for more blood. Other features in the film are Zaraah Abrahams, who plays Ganja, Michael K. Williams, and Elvis Nolasco, who plays Lafayette Hightower. Da Sweet Blood of Jesus is available on Kanopy or Plex Player.

22. Chiraq (2015)

Set in Chicago, Lee’s crime drama Chiraq offers a modern musical retelling of the ancient Greek play Lysistrata by Aristophanes, cleverly transposed to the streets of present-day Chicago. The 2015 film features Black Hollywood royalty like Angela Bassett, Samuel L. Jackson and Wesley Snipes, among others. In this bold adaptation, Lee’s directorial genius confronts the pressing issue of gun violence in South Side Chicago, offering a searing commentary on systemic injustice and the power of collective action. The movie follows the courageous Lysistrata, portrayed by Teyonah Parris, as she leads a movement of women to withhold sex from their partners until the cycle of violence comes to an end. Like many of his other films, this film too, was polarizing, specifically because of the name “Chiraq,” which is a portmanteau slang that is used to equate gang violence in Chicago to the war in Iraq. Chiraq is available on Amazon Prime Video.

21. Oldboy (2013)

In Spike Lee’s 2013 adaptation of Oldboy, Lee re-tells a tale of an alcoholic marketing executive named Joe Doucett, whose life takes a mysterious turn when he is suddenly imprisoned in a hotel room for 20 years. As he tries to understand why he is imprisoned, Joe is determined to exact revenge against the people responsible for his captivity. The movie features performances by Josh Brolin, Elizabeth Olsen and Samuel L. Jackson. It is available on The Roku Channel, YouTube, and Apple TV.

20. Pass Over (2018)

Also shot in Chicago is Pass Over, a 2018 film that Lee adapted from Antoinette Nwandu’s 2017 original stage play, which was created as a response to the shooting of Trayvon Martin. The film poignantly tackles the complex nature of Black masculinity, police brutality, and the harsh realities of urban life, where violence, racism and systemic oppression overshadow everyday life. All of this is depicted through the lives of two homeless Black men who hide out on a Chicago street corner for safety against the looming violence of the streets. The film features Jon Michael Hill, Julian Parker, Ryan Hallahan and Blake DeLong and is available on Amazon Prime Video.

19. Da 5 Bloods (2020)

Da 5 Bloods is a memorable war film that saw Lee return to themes of brotherhood, war and the crippling impact of trauma. Released in 2020, the film follows a group of aging Vietnam War veterans who return to Vietnam to recover the remains of their squad leader and hunt for a buried treasure that they left behind during the war. The narrative intertwines their current journey with flashbacks to the Vietnam War, showcasing the intense experiences that shaped their lives and continue to haunt them. The cast features Delroy Lindo, Clarke Peters, Norm Lewis, Isiah Whitlock Jr. and Chadwick Boseman, in one of his final roles before he passed. Boseman’s character, the charismatic squad leader, serves as both a haunting presence and an inspirational figure throughout the film. Movie fans and critics can stream this war film on Netflix.

18. Red Hook Summer (2012)

Lee’s 2012 film, Red Hook Summer, is the sixth installment in his series of movies that pay homage to Brooklyn. This coming-of-age film follows Flik Royale (played by Jules Brown), a teen boy on a life-changing journey of self-discovery and faith. During a memorable summer in the Red Hook housing projects with his grandfather, Da Good Bishop Enoch Rouse, Flik confronts his past, his identity and his strained relationship with his grandfather. The film also stars De’Adre Aziza as Flik’s mother, Colleen Royale, and Toni Lysaith as Flik’s friend, Chazz Morningstar. Lee financed the movie himself and completed shooting in 18 days. Red Hook Summer is available on select streaming platforms, including Tubi, YouTube, and Apple TV.

17. Miracle at St. Anna (2008)

Lee’s evocative war drama, Miracle at St. Anna, adapted from James McBride’s novel of the same name, takes viewers back to World War II where they meet four valiant Black soldiers from the 92nd Infantry Division, also known as the Buffalo Soldiers. Caught in the crossfires of war, they look for refuge in a quaint Tuscan village, where they form friendships with the local residents. The story comes to life through flashbacks as Hector Negron, portrayed by Laz Alonso — a survivor now living in 1980s New York— revisits his time as a young corporal, and the challenges he and his comrades faced. Under Lee’s skillful direction, the film features stellar performances by Derek Luke, Michael Ealy and Joseph Leonard Gordon-Levitt. Filming the story took over nine weeks to shoot, and the movie is available for streaming on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.

16. Girl 6 (1996)

In Girl 6, Lee’s directorial prowess hones in on the compelling story of Judy, a young, mild-mannered African-American actress in New York City who struggles financially after experiencing uncomfortable experiences during auditions. This leads Judy to be drawn into the alluring yet complicated world of phone sex operation — a world where reality and fiction can blur. The film features strong performances by Theresa Randle, who plays Judy, Isaiah Washington and Lee himself. Notably, directors Quentin Tarantino and Ron Silver make memorable cameos as directors in the unsettling auditions. The film has elements of comedy, thriller and romance and took over five years to film. Although this is one of Lee’s lesser-known projects, it still highlights his thought-provoking storytelling style. The movie is currently not available on any streaming platforms.

15. Get on the Bus (1996)

In Get on the Bus, Lee offers powerful commentary on race, identity and the pursuit of justice. The 1996 American drama follows a group of fifteen African American men as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and over their course of their bus trip from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C. The movie is inspired by the Million Man March in Washington, D.C., and offers rich character development and powerful performances. Lee shows the complex nature of the Black male identity in America by touching on themes of fatherhood, brotherhood, and the legacy of oppression. The cast also includes Ossie Davis, Hill Harper, Andre Braugher and Isaiah Washington. By blending themes of drama, humor, and social commentary, Lee offers viewers insight into uncomfortable truths so that they can engage in meaningful dialogue about the ongoing fight for civil rights and social justice. This film can be streamed on Tubi and Amazon Prime Video.

14. Crooklyn (1994)

In Crooklyn, Lee continues to show his love for Brooklyn by setting its plot against 1970s Brooklyn which follows the Carmichael family as they navigate the joys and challenges of urban life. Through the eyes of 9-year-old Troy Carmichael, played by Zelda Harris, audiences are transported to a world filled with love, laughter and moments of profound sadness. The family-centered story is also somewhat of a semi-autobiographical film because Lee wrote it with his siblings Joie and Cinqué. From its richly drawn characters to its poignant exploration of family dynamics and community bonds, the film invites audiences to reflect on their own experiences and cherish the moments that shape their lives. With standout performances from Alfre Woodard and Delroy Lindo, Crooklyn is yet another Brooklyn cinematic gem. rooklyn is available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

13. Bamboozled (2000)

Lee’s Bamboozled is a comedic exploration of the intricate intersections of race, media and cultural appropriation in America. Led by a cast featuring Damon Wayans and Jada Pinkett Smith, Bamboozled delivers a powerful indictment of the influence of racism in mainstream media. Through its provocative imagery and brilliant cinematography, the film prompts audiences to reevaluate their perceptions of race and identity in America, as well as the passive-aggressive undertones that can often accompany issues of race and its perceptions. Lee uses his signature incisive social commentary and bold visual style to create another thought-engaging masterpiece. The film is available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.

12. Summer of Sam (1999)

Some of the most striking storylines are particularly memorable because of their ability to instill a certain level of fear in viewers, and Lee intrigues the human psyche with his rendition of Summer of Sam, a film that offers a fictional perspective into the notorious Son of Sam killings in New York City during the summer of 1977. Through a kaleidoscopic lens, the film follows a diverse ensemble cast of characters as they struggle to come to terms with the idea of a notorious serial killer on the loose. Lee’s signature realism and atmospheric cinematography shooting style give Summer of Sam an immersive perspective of the sights, sounds and textures of 1970s New York City, capturing the tension and turmoil of a city on edge. The psychological thriller features Lee, Jennifer Esposito, Adrien Brody and a host of other actors and was filmed in the summer of 1998. Summer of Sam is available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.

11. Clockers (1995)

Lee’s 1995 Clockers is a film adaptation of Richard Price’s novel that delivers a riveting presentation of life in urban America. Strike, a low-level street drug dealer in Brooklyn, is caught in a web of violence and betrayal as he grapples with the consequences of his actions and struggles to break free from the cycle of crime. As he always does, Lee’s portrayal of life in the streets is one that is told with authenticity, all while offering a sobering glimpse into the harsh realities faced by those living on the margins of society. The narrative is taut, and the characters are richly drawn out to embody the complex and nuanced themes that make the film worth watching. Also, Lee’s ability to tell the stories of people who live dangerous lives and have to navigate other drug lords and the ever-watchful eye of the law is unmatched. The film features Mekhi Phifer, Lee and Thomas Jefferson Byrd among others in what seems like an extremely well-cast ensemble. The film is available on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Fandango at Home.

10. She’s Gotta Have It (1986)

She’s Gotta Have It was Lee’s debut feature and the film that introduced audiences to the bold and unapologetic voice of a filmmaker destined to become a cultural icon. This Brooklyn-placed story highlighted the romantic misadventures of Nola Darling, a young and fiercely independent woman experimenting with love, sex and identity. Lee’s sharp wit and keen observational eye gave She’s Gotta Have It an edge that challenged conventional beliefs around female sexuality and agency in relationships and the traditional ideas that defined it. The film remains a timeless ode to empowerment and self-actualization ans featured appearances from Tracy Camilla, Tommy Redmond Hicks and John Canada Terrell. Lee filmed the movie in 12 days, and it is available on Apple TV and Netflix.

9. He Got Game (1998)

In He Got Game, Lee explores themes of sports, family and the elusive American Dream. The plot shows the bond between Jake Shuttleworth, played by Denzel Washington, and his basketball prodigy son, Jesus Shuttleworth, played by former NBA star Ray Allen. Lee’s remarkable ability to use visual finesse and powerful storytelling to weave a tale that shows the struggles that young athletes have to navigate. At the film’s core is Jake, who is haunted by the memory of accidentally killing his wife, and is serving time in Attica Correctional Facility. The film casts a glaring spotlight on the dark underbelly of athletic ambition, laying bare the exploitation and moral compromises lurking beneath the glittering veneer of fame and fortune. The film, which was filmed in 28 days, serves to further prove that Washington is perhaps Lee’s finest muse yet. This movie is available on Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.

8. Mo’ Better Blues (1990)

Mo’ Better Blues is a soulful and vibrant representation of the New York City jazz scene where Bleek Gilliam (Denzel Washington), a talented trumpeter whose poor life choices cause his life to go in a downward spiral. Lee explores timeless themes such as friendship, loyalty, honesty, cause-and-effect and the pursuit of redemption. The soundtrack includes performances by the Branford Marsalis quartet and Terence Blanchard on trumpet. Released five months after Robin Harris's death, the film is dedicated to him, marking his final acting role. With its lush cinematography and unforgettable soundtrack, Mo’ Better Blues immerses audiences in the sights and sounds of a bygone era, capturing the rhythm and spirit of jazz in all its glory. This movie is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

7. School Daze (1988)

School Daze is Lee’s way of bringing race, identity and social politics to the forefront of viewers' minds by using a college campus as its setting. The film follows the lives of students as they struggle with issues of elitism, colorism, classism and cultural authenticity. The unique thing about this storyline is that Lee approaches it from the perspective of the Black community itself and the greater issues that exist within it. Themes like hair texture bias within the African-American community are also raised, and the issues addressed within the film are still relevant today. The cast includes Laurence Fishburne, Tisha Campbell, Jasmine Guy and Joe Seneca among others. It is available for streaming on YouTube, Philo, and Google Play.

6. Jungle Fever (1991)

Lee has repeatedly proven that he is a master of storytelling, and his critically acclaimed movie Jungle Fever reminds viewers of his fearless ability to deep-dive into racial tensions with familiarity and ease in a way that keeps them intrigued. Jungle Fever, which is arguably one of the best movies of the 90s, is filmed in racially divided Harlem and follows the tumultuous love affair between an African American architect, Flipper Purify, and his Italian American secretary, Angie Tucci. Lee skillfully employs themes of societal prejudice and cultural stereotypes to expose the deep-rooted biases and misconceptions that fuel distrust and animosity between different ethnic communities. Through powerful performances from Wesley Snipes, Annabella Sciorra and Samuel L. Jackson, the film challenges audiences to confront their own preconceived notions and prejudices, offering a reminder of the universal desire for love and acceptance in a world that is often divided. The movie was shot in one year and can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

5. Inside Man (2006)

In Inside Man, Lee plunges into the heart of a high-stakes bank heist, crafting a suspenseful thriller that keeps audiences riveted from beginning to end. Set in post-9/11 New York City, the film captivates with its intense cat-and-mouse game between a cunning bank robber and a relentless detective. Their race against time to unravel the truth behind a mysterious series of crimes makes for a gripping narrative. The film's razor-sharp dialogue and brisk pacing enhance the suspense, mystery and social commentary, creating a powerful and engaging viewing experience. The cast features Lee’s long-time collaborator Denzel Washington, along with Clive Owen and Jodie Foster. Inside Man is available for streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video and was completed in about two months.

4. BlacKkKlansman (2018)

BlacKkKlansman is a powerful, albeit comedic and timely examination of race, identity and justice in America and is inspired by the true story of an African American detective who infiltrated the Ku Klux Klan in the 1970s. Lee is able to masterfully weave in elements of humor, even while engaging with heavy themes of racism and its insidious nature and tackling the heaviness of America's troubled past. With standout performances from John David Washington and Adam Driver, the film delivers a powerful message of unity and resistance in the face of systemic racism and injustice. BlacKkKlansman shows Lee’s ability to blur the lines of movie genres and bring a story to life by tapping into comedy, crime and drama. The movie can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV.

3. 25th Hour (2002)

In 25th Hour, Spike Lee revisits post-9/11 America, delving into themes of guilt, redemption and the quest for meaning in a world forever altered by tragedy. Demonstrating his versatility as a filmmaker, Lee follows Monty Brogan, a convicted drug dealer on the brink of his final day of freedom before starting his prison sentence. Adapted from David Benioff’s debut novel The 25th Hour, the film invites audiences to confront their own demons and reflect deeply on the choices that shape their destinies. As viewers are drawn into Monty’s tumultuous journey, they face uncomfortable truths about human nature and the consequences of wrong decisions, making 25th Hour a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Lee created and released the movie shortly after the 9/11 attacks, which added a layer of depth to the critically-acclaimed film. The movie can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV.

2. Malcolm X (1992)

Malcolm X is arguably one of Lee’s greatest films to date. Through a stellar performance by Denzel Washington, Lee is able to steer the film in the right direction and produce what many people believe is a career-defining moment for Washington. Beyond offering a sweeping portrait of Malcolm X as a leader, Lee highlights his early years as a street hustler and the moments in which he transformed into a charismatic leader and voice of the civil rights movement.

Lee’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in this film, but Washington’s vivid embodiment of Malcolm X is what seals the deal for critics and fans. By capturing the essence of a complex and enigmatic figure in such a memorable way, Lee and Washington could showcase Malcolm X’s evolution as a thinker, activist and martyr for the cause of freedom. The film is considered an artistic heirloom that pays homage to the civil rights movement. It took producer Marvin Worth a staggering 25 years to make the movie before Lee came into the picture and together, they made the masterpiece a reality. The movie can be streamed on Paramount+, Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.

1. Do the Right Thing (1989)

Do the Right Thing is widely regarded as Lee’s magnum opus, presenting a vivid portrait of racial tension and police brutality on a sweltering summer day in his frequent cinematic backdrop, Brooklyn. The classic ‘80s film gives viewers a vivid look into the heat and tension of racism, skillfully mirroring the boiling point of societal conflicts and the uncomfortable reality of systemic racism and injustice, which is further complicated by the nature of prejudice and racism in America.

The ensemble cast, featuring Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Rosie Perez, John Turturro, Roger Guenveur Smith, John Savage, Danny Aiello, Giancarlo Esposito, Bill Nunn, Richard Edson, and Spike and Joie Lee, delivers powerful performances that help to underscore the nuanced themes of the film. Do the Right Thing does more than just tell a story; it challenges its audience to reflect on their own perspectives and biases, inspiring important conversations about race and justice that are still relevant today. It is one of the reasons that a lot of rappers and cultural critics still reference the movie. The movie can be streamed on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu.

New Spike Lee Movies

It seems as though Lee is always working, and that is partly true. According to Variety, his upcoming film High and Low will feature hip-hop rapper and fellow New Yorker, Ice Spice. Variety also reports that long-time collaborator Denzel Washington will also be featured on the movie. As usual, fans are looking forward to the movie, which will see Lee bring the Akira Kurosawa classic to modern cinema.

Bottom Line

Lee’s repertoire is unmatched and that is a major reason why he is well-respected in entertainment. The films in this ranking show his ability to create stories that are not just profound, but are evergreen. In the end, Lee’s films go beyond mere entertainment; they provoke thought, inspire change and challenge societal norms, making him a true maestro of the medium. His unique directorial style and his ability to use cinematography to connect with his audience is a tough act to follow for other directors.