RaiderJack
When reviewing all of Spike's work, this is hands down, probably my all-time favorite. This project introduced us to the incomparable Mars Blackman, Spike's oh so charming alter ego. "She's Gotta Have It" is a wonderful treatise on the art of love and war from interesting perspectives. On top of that, it is quite hilarious.It is a refreshing look at a black woman who insists on taking control of her sexuality rather than allowing it to be defined by men. There are general male observations, general female observations, and specific cultural outlooks on the art of love and war from an African-American perspective.Tracy Camilla Johns, beautifully portraying the wonderfully developed character, Nola Darling, is perfectly cast as the independent black woman who, in her quest to be sexually independent, realizes this is an uphill journey when dealing with men who still have traditional ideas about women and their roles. She was actively dating more than one man simply because she had adapted the attitude that no one man can provide everything she wanted/needed and furthermore, it was terribly unfair to label her promiscuous for doing so. Interestingly enough, Nola also found that her own reactions when coming up against the same attitude in men, were amazingly traditional.This was a very well-written statement on the ups and downs of love. It also introduces us to Law & Order's Divine Epatha Merkerson in a short but pivotal role as a sex therapist.Eeeeeeeeeeeeeexcellent movie!!!
brianortiz
A lot of people have probably not heard of this movie but since Spike went on to become world renowned, A few more might get to view this jewel in their lifetime.Spike is one of those iconic NYU students that created one of the funniest characters "Mars Blackman"."She's gotta have it"... Created on an NYU budget, Filmed in Manhattan & Brooklyn, a psychological comedy about a women named "Nola" that dates three men for different meanings.This film is really a Spike Lee jewel(if can track down the movie) IT'S A MUST SEE !!!Spike is one of the most prolific artist of our time, thus "Do the right thing"
usbobcat
Spike Lee's directoral debut is classic. How can he go wrong with a black and white film... BW is the best. This film is made up of great characters(Mars) and perfect, orginal direction. I think Spike did a great job with the editing too.. oh I almost forgot his screen debut as and actor too, which was perfect as well. A smile came to my face every time Mars came in the mix, especially the Thanksgiving scene. I love those glasses Spike. 9/10
fandangonoir
Spike Lee's first and still best film. It's filled with laughs, terrific characters and enough sex to fill ten movies! This film and others made Spike apart of what I call 'The Three Princes Of New York Filmmaking'. In other words, one of three premiere New York directors. The three princes in question are Woody Allen, Martin Scorsese and Spike Lee. High praise indeed!
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