Spike Lee recently reflected on his deep-rooted friendship with Denzel Washington, highlighting the bond they have nurtured over three decades since first collaborating on the film “Mo’ Better Blues” in 1990. This revelation comes on the heels of their fifth joint film, “Highest 2 Lowest,” which premiered in select theaters in August and subsequently became available on Apple TV+ in September.
At the Wall Street Journal Innovator Awards held on October 29, Lee spoke candidly about the essence of his relationship with Washington, emphasizing that it is firmly rooted in love and trust. He noted the closeness of their families, with Lee’s wife Tonya Lewis Lee and their two children, Satchel and Jackson, enjoying a strong camaraderie with Washington and his family.
Reflecting on their extensive collaboration, Lee pointed to their films, including “Malcolm X,” “He Got Game,” and “Inside Man,” expressing gratitude for the legacy they have created together. He praised Washington’s performance in “Malcolm X,” stating, “what he did with that film, it’s amazing,” and conveyed a sense of fulfillment in creating works that resonate with audiences.
Washington echoed Lee’s sentiments during a recent event, where he received the honorary Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. He referred to Lee as “my brother from another mother,” showcasing the mutual respect and admiration they share.
The duo, while enjoying their collaborative success, also engage in supportive dialogues regarding accolades. Lee expressed his belief that Washington was deserving of an Oscar for his role in “Malcolm X,” alluding to the competition from Al Pacino, who won the Best Actor award in 1993 for “Scent of a Woman.” Washington ultimately received his first Academy Award for “Training Day” in 2001, which Lee humorously referred to as a “make-up call” in the world of awards.
In their conversations, both Lee and Washington reaffirmed that their motivation is not driven by accolades, as they believe that the lasting impact of their work transcends the awards themselves. Their partnership remains a testament to friendship, creativity, and shared passion for storytelling in cinema.