On Wednesday, January 4, introduced by his daughter, Satchel Lee '13, filmmaker Spike Lee spoke frankly, with humor and blunt sincerity about his formative experiences in becoming a professor, screen writer and director.
Known for his many controversial films, documentaries and music videos, Mr. Lee remarked about growing up in Brooklyn, his first Super-8 camera, his friendship with Michael Jackson (and other celebrities) and the steps he took to evolve into a prolific and accomplished director. Mr. Lee repeatedly advised students, that ideally, when choosing a profession, they should follow their hearts and pursue what they love, rather than succumbing to advice and taking a more "practical" path. As he considered the students' many questions, he recommended that while there are many routes to becoming a professional filmmaker, students should study writing and directing, aside from simply learning the techniques of filmmaking.