With unusual lighting and quintessential Spike motion, Summer of Sam takes you to places you have rarely been and explores the human condition with dignity and honesty. The story is complex, unwielding, and I wondered a few times where it was going...but I didn't really care, I was enjoying the ride!Perhaps the title of the film might misdirect some who go to see it, for it focuses less on the actual Son of Sam, and more on the people who were affected by his terrorist attack on New York City.
Spike Lee has given us an intelligent, sociological view of how devastating the effects of a serial killer have on society. It also provides an interesting, non-racist, cultural look at New York Italians. The direction of the movie is not entirely clear, it does not follow any set formulas for plot development, but the characters are believable and likeable and it kept my interest throughout.
Spike's way of dealing with certain women's issues is to be commended and applauded. He displays a unique sensitivity and firmness that is refreshing and shocking at the same time. There were alot of ideas and scenes in the film that are not explored often in this art form and I was duly impressed.I have read that some view this film as racist against Italians. Why? Because it has Italians in it? I guess if you don't show any ethnic group as the second coming of Jesus and the Prophets, all of a sudden now it's racist. Bullshit. Racist sentiment is in the eye and ears of the beholder and Spike Lee is not responsible for the intelligence of North America. The film was co-written with Spike by two people of Italian background. Grow up and give your weeny heads a shake.