A Spontaneous Chat With Spike Lee at Cannes About the Knicks and Numerology

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Today, Spike Lee arrived at Cannes for a visit, showcasing his upcoming film “Highest 2 Lowest,” featuring Denzel Washington and A$AP Rocky, which will debut in competition tomorrow. At an exclusive gathering hosted by Hyde Beach Campari and The Hollywood Reporter, I had the chance to speak with him. Before long, we were chatting at a table overlooking the sea, with Spike sharing memories of Cannes in years past, expressing excitement about the Knicks‘ playoff victories, and showing me his Instagram posts, explaining the stories behind them. As our conversation drew to a close, I unexpectedly mentioned our previous encounter.

Just arrived this morning, so I’ve been feeling a bit groggy from the time change. But I’ll be here for a while.

For you, how many times has Cannes been a significant event? Back in 1986, it was my first visit with “She’s Gotta Have It.” I’ve lost count, but this is likely my fifth or sixth time there. In addition, I had the honor of serving as jury president in 2021.

What immediately catches your attention about serving as jury president was awarding the Palme d’Or to Julia Ducournau straightaway. [Laughs]

How does Cannes seem unique to you compared to all the previous times? Over the years, the festival has evolved along with the world, but it’s consistently offered a remarkable experience for me. Plus, it’s not only a platform for American filmmakers; it’s where films from around the globe debut.

How have you evolved over time? I must say, I feel quite different now – I’m 68 years old! Yet, I believe I’m improving with each passing day, continuing to create a substantial collection of work. However, what truly excites me is the opportunity to collaborate with Denzel Washington here at Cannes. As far as I know, this is his debut at Cannes. A fascinating coincidence, our first premieres are only six years apart – May 19, 1989 (for “Do the Right Thing”) and May 19, 2025 (for “Highest 2 Lowest”). But more significantly, tomorrow, May 19, marks Malcolm X’s birthday. It seems fate has arranged this beautifully, as Denzel is delivering a remarkable portrayal of Malcolm X in our film.

Are you interpreting this as some form of cosmic message? Absolutely! I’d call it synchronicity or numerology. Sometimes events seem too coincidental to be mere chance, and while we might label it as God, Universe, or Spirit, it’s an enigma when things align in such a way. In my opinion, it’s not a coincidence.

How are you feeling about the Knicks right now?
You know I’m missing games one and two!

As a die-hard film enthusiast, if given the choice, I’d be right there in the thick of it, living and breathing the action, drama, and suspense on the silver screen. If you mean physically, alas, I can’t do that, but my heart and mind are always in the movie theatre!

Are there any rituals or habits you follow when attending games? Do you wear specific items or repeat certain phrases? Or perhaps you have a preferred seating arrangement? Let me fill you in on something. I don’t sport Kelly green attire! [Chuckles maniacally] As for green, the only piece I own is likely a Jets jersey, signed. Other than that, I don’t own anything green. Absolutely not! Have you witnessed the footage from the game the other night?

Of course, I’ve already been here myself! New York City is absolutely chaotic right now – you should check it out on Instagram if you haven’t seen it. Just a moment, I have to fetch my phone. Let’s take a look at Instagram together, it’s quite a spectacle!

He stands up, departs for a few moments, and subsequently comes back. After that, he logs into his Instagram account and starts browsing his pictures, sharing them with me.

Do you do your own Instagram?
Official Spike Lee. Yeah!

Is that a private plane?
No! Delta.

It struck me that perhaps you were headed to Cannes in style, but let me assure you, I’m no Denzel Washington! [Laughs] Actually, I’m just showing off my best Steph Curry pose. And guess where we are? On Martha’s Vineyard! Check out these Timbs.

Do those belongings have a unique design?

Yes, I had them personalized at a store in Soho. They use lasers to do it. [He gestures towards the photo of himself and Timothée Chalamet at the Knicks game.]

What do you and Timmy talk about?
The Knicks!

Just the Knicks?The Knicks!

Is he more of a die-hard fan or not?

What’s the name of your all-time favorite Knick player? That would be Walt Frazier for me, he was my idol growing up. By the way, do you have access to the internet here? You should check out what’s going on in New York City right now. It’s a madhouse! Crazier than New Year’s Eve.

Are you planning to jump into the chaos upon your return? I’ve got a video of me cruising through the throng in my white Escalade. Guess what they were calling me? They dubbed me the ‘Knicks Pope’. Don’t forget to check it out on Instagram.

I promise to look it up.
I’m not Catholic, though. [Laughs] I’m the atheist pope.

Let me share a tale connected to the scenario where you’re amidst a crowd in a vehicle. A decade ago, I attended a Beyoncé concert.

In Brooklyn, I think. Or maybe Queens.
Barclays Center?

Oh dear! I’ve got to admit, it’s a bit hazy for me, but as I recall, the roads were jammed with cars heading into the city, taxis nowhere to be found, and the subways were overflowing too. I was in a bind trying to get back to Manhattan, and there you were stuck in traffic in this massive black vehicle with your windows down. Quite coincidentally, I happened to stand next to your car, so I blurted out, “Spike! Can I hop a ride back to the city with you?” You chuckled and said, “No chance!” I do feel rather remorseful about that impulsive request now.
[Laughs gently]

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2025-05-19 20:55