BlacKkKlansman is one of Spike Lee’s finest films ever. Here’s why it’s essential viewing.
In the late 1970s, black Colorado Springs cop Ron Stallworth really did infiltrate vicious white-supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan by impersonating a racist in a series of telephone conversations, then sending a white colleague in his place to attend meetings.
The story is unbelievable – and it’s true
In the late 1970s, black Colorado Springs cop Ron Stallworth really did infiltrate vicious white-supremacist group the Ku Klux Klan by impersonating a racist in a series of telephone conversations, then sending a white colleague in his place to attend meetings.
John David Washington and Laura Harrier in BlacKkKlansman It???s furious, but funny too
If that sounds like the premise for a retro comedy??? it is! BlacKkKlansman is darkly, violently funny. But with Lee directing, there???s bound to be a contemporary political twist: it ends up as a fierce middle finger pointed directly up at Donald Trump. The dazzling shifts of tone make it the sort of film few directors would even attempt.The cast are on point???
Alongside a breakout performance by former football pro John David Washington (yes, he???s the son of Denzel) as Stallworth, there???s the always-amazing Adam Driver, hot new star Laura Harrier and, in a quietly terrifying turn as KKK leader David Duke, Topher Grace.
Topher Grace in BlacKkKlansman … and there’s top talent behind the camera
Jordan Peele (Get Out) is on producing duty, and if BlacKkKlansman looks pristine (clue: it does), it’s probably because the cinematographer is Chayse Irvin, who worked on Beyoncé’s Lemonade. Oh, and a flawless 1970s soul/funk soundtrack? Of course.
Spike Lee, Topher Grace and Adam Driver The critics adore it
BlacKkKlansman has 96% approval on Rotten Tomatoes right now and it won the Grand Prix at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. It’s Spike Lee’s best since… Inside Man? Malcolm X? She’s Gotta Have It? Take your pick, but this one’s up there – and it’s a piece of work the famously provocative auteur is passionate about.
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