Alamo Drafthouse honors Spike Lee with dedicated cinema
A tribute to a New York icon
In a heartfelt tribute to one of New York’s most influential filmmakers, Alamo Drafthouse is dedicating its newly renovated downtown Brooklyn theater to Spike Lee. The ceremony, set for September 12, will feature a screening of Lee’s semi-autobiographical 1994 film, Crooklyn, followed by a live Q&A session with the director himself.
The unveiling of the Spike Lee Cinema
The private event will also mark the unveiling of the Spike Lee Cinema plaque. This plaque will read: “Like many of the greatest films over the past 40 years, this theater is a Spike Lee Joint. From his nuanced portrayals of Brooklyn life in Do the Right Thing and Crooklyn to his towering portrait of Malcolm X, his vision has shaped our culture and left an indelible mark on this city. For that reason, as of Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, this Alamo Drafthouse Cinema shall hereby and forevermore be known as the Spike Lee Cinema.”
A revamped cinematic experience
The dedication coincides with the theater’s recent upgrade and expansion. Originally opened in Brooklyn’s City Point complex in 2016 with seven screens, Alamo Drafthouse has now added five new auditoriums. These new spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art laser projectors, RealD 3D, 70mm, and 35mm capabilities on select screens. The auditoriums also feature premium leather recliners with personal swivel tables, enhancing the in-seat food and drink options that have made Alamo Drafthouse a favorite among cinephiles.
A legacy of Brooklyn through film
“After completing this massive upgrade to our Brooklyn location, we knew immediately that we wanted to dedicate it to Spike Lee,” said Michael Kustermann, Alamo Drafthouse CEO. “His films have defined Brooklyn for generations, and we’re immensely proud to do our part to honor that legacy.”
Retrospective programming series
In addition to Alamo Drafthouse’s diverse mix of first-run films, classics, and signature events, the newly dedicated Spike Lee Cinema will host a retrospective programming series of Lee’s films. The series will include:
- Crooklyn (Sept. 17)
- Mo’ Better Blues (Sept. 21)
- Jungle Fever (Sept. 22)
- Do the Right Thing (Sept. 28)
- Clockers (Sept. 29)
- Inside Man (Oct. 6)
A personal reflection
As a cinema enthusiast, the dedication of a theater to Spike Lee feels like a fitting homage to a director whose work has profoundly influenced the cultural landscape of Brooklyn and beyond. Lee’s films are not just stories; they are vivid tapestries of life, capturing the essence of the human experience in all its complexity. From the vibrant streets of Brooklyn in Do the Right Thing to the intricate dynamics of jazz in Mo’ Better Blues, his films offer a lens through which we can explore and understand the world around us.
The future of Spike Lee Cinema
The newly dedicated Spike Lee Cinema promises to be more than just a place to watch movies. It will be a cultural hub, a space where film lovers can come together to celebrate the art of cinema and the legacy of one of its most iconic figures. With its state-of-the-art facilities and carefully curated programming, the Spike Lee Cinema is set to become a landmark in Brooklyn’s vibrant cultural scene.
In a world where the cinematic experience is constantly evolving, the dedication of the Spike Lee Cinema serves as a reminder of the enduring power of film to inspire, challenge, and connect us. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Lee’s work or discovering it for the first time, the Spike Lee Cinema offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of his films in a setting that honors his remarkable contributions to the world of cinema.