Special shout-out is in store for today. June 7th, 2011 marks the 20th Anniversary of the premiere of Spike Lee's drama film Jungle Fever. And to celebrate I just wanted to give my small little two cents in about this remarkable film. I can remember when this film came out I was an 8th grader at Jefferson Middle School and even then I was definitely impacted.
Jungle Fever is the quintessential film about interracial relationships. And right from the jump, Lee takes us there...Before the opening credits begin, a dedication to Yusuf Hawkins is shown, Hawkins was killed August 23, 1989 in Besonhurst, New York, by neighborhood folks who believed the youth was involved with a white girl in the neighborhood. When in fact, Hawkins was actually in the neighborhood to inquire about a used car for sale in the area.
I must admit Jungle Fever is definitely one of Spike Lee's better films (Along with Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X, Inside Man, etc.). It brings a lot of energy, happiness, some sadness, a touch of humor, all full-circle with a powerful message. There is a mixture and somewhat odd chemistry between the issues of race, parental & intimate relationships, and sexual myths. Jungle Fever, is a film that pretty much answers the critics question as well as introduce new ones to the forefront.
Jungle Fever would also a gateway for actresses Halle Berry and Queen Latifah as this is both of their's first big screen appearance. Also Samuel L. Jackson pretty much steals the show with his character "Gator".
Now some of the major highlights of this film include in 1991, Jungle Fever would be awarded the "Prize of the Ecumenical Jury" (Special Mention) at the Cannes Film Festival. It would also win the "Human Rights Award" by the Political Film Society, very well-deserved.
Check out the trailer below...
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