Critic Reviews
| 100 |
Los Angeles Times
Stirred up impassioned debate everywhere; it would seem the greatest compliment that could be paid a stunning entertainment. [30 June 1989, Calendar, p.6-1]
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| 100 |
Chicago Tribune
This is a sumptuous work, from its unconventional title sequence of a woman dancing hard in the streets to its provocative ending with conflicting quotes from Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr .[30 June 1989, Friday, p.A]
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| 100 |
Chicago Sun-Times
It comes closer to reflecting the current state of race relations in America than any other movie of our time.
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| 100 |
San Francisco Chronicle
Judy Stone
Has more originality, nitty-gritty humor, spirit and spunk than all the summer blockbuster retreads combined. Underneath the jousting and jiving, there's a sharp, uncompromising look at the anatomy of a race riot in the movie. [30 June 1989, Daily Notebook, p.E3]
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| 100 |
The New York Times
A remarkable piece of work. [30 June 1989]
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| 100 |
Washington Post
There's no doubt about the film's sheer power and taut originality.
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| 100 |
Mr. Showbiz
Carmel Dagan
Witty portrait of a troubled community.
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| 100 |
USA Today
This is a fascinating movie experience. [30 June 1989, Life, p.1D]
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| 90 |
Washington Post
Hal Hinson
A movie made by filmmaker working in sync with his times -- an exciting, disturbing, provocative film.
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| 90 |
TV Guide
Staff (not credited)
It is a subtle and humane entertainment with a refreshingly serious view of the world.
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| 88 |
The Globe and Mail (Toronto)
Lee has forged a work of art in the classic sense -- art that delights and instructs.
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| 80 |
Chicago Reader
This is a powerful and persuasive look at an ethnic community and what makes it tick.
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| 80 |
Variety
Staff (Not credited)
Combines a forceful statement on race relations with solid entertainment values.
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| 70 |
The New Republic
There's a great deal in black America that has yet to reach the screen, and Lee is a prime candidate, in gift and gall, to help fill the gap. [July 3, 1989]
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| 60 |
Time
To accept the film, though, one must first understand its point of view, and that is maddeningly difficult. All we know for certain is that Do the Right Thing is not naturalistic. [July 3, 1989]
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