Director Spike Lee, one of contemporary cinema’s most celebrated figures, will speak at Pratt Institute on February 25th in honour of Black History Month. The filmmaker, producer, writer, and Brooklyn native will speak to Pratt community members and the general public at this free event, sharing thoughts on his road to success, the themes that resonate through his work, and the cultural impact of his career.

Raised in Brooklyn, Lee frequently incorporates the borough and relevant issues—such as gentrification, race relations, urban crime, and poverty—into his movies, including his seminal and Oscar-nominated 1989 film Do the Right Thing, as well as in hit films such as Clockers, He Got Game, and many others. Staying close to his roots, Lee located his production company 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, which supports independent and aspiring filmmakers, in the Fort Greene neighbourhood of Brooklyn.

Lee’s appearance is part of the new “Pratt Presents” program series, which features distinguished guests in a variety of formats.

Tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance by emailing events@pratt.edu with attendee name(s) and a contact phone number. Space is limited; there is a two-ticket limit per reservation.