Spike Lee Says He Hopes The New Wave Of Black Filmmakers ‘Is Not A Trend’

The recent influx of rising black filmmakers in the industry has introduced a spotlight on screenwriters like Ryan Coogler, (Black Panther) Barry Jenkins, (Moonlight) and Steve McQueen (Widows). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

In a recent interview with The Wrap, Spike Lee sat down to discuss the recent increase, saying he hopes that it continues. 

The iconic filmmaker and “BlackKklansman” director revealed why he hopes the surge of new talent doesn’t pass as just a moment. 

“It has nothing to do with me. I just hope that this is not a trend,” Lee said. “I hope this is steady, that it’s not just like a blip where everything came together, and then nothing happens after this. We have to keep up the momentum.”

Lee was accompanied by “BlackKlansman” star John David Washington, who added that he would like to see more talent throughout the arts as opposed to solely being on-screen.

“I would like to see more people of color doing their thing to contribute to the arts in other ways than just acting, directing or writing.”

Spike passionately agreed, “What my man says is very important, because everybody can’t be in front of the camera. And the truth is, the people with the most power are behind the camera. Everybody can’t be fabulous, you know? Can’t be getting their shine, you know?”

“BlacKkKlansman” won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival in 2018. The film also picked up a pile of nominations at both the Golden Globes and SAG Awards.