Cast and Crew of Do the Right Thing

Do the Right Thing

Do the Right Thing is a provocative drama set on a sweltering summer day in a Brooklyn neighborhood, centered around Salvatore "Sal" Fragione, the Italian-American owner of a local pizzeria. As the heat intensifies, so do the tensions within the community, sparked by a dispute over Sal's Wall of Fame, which features exclusively Italian actors. Buggin' Out, a passionate local resident, challenges this choice, arguing that a pizzeria in a predominantly Black neighborhood should celebrate Black figures. This disagreement escalates into a powerful exploration of racial dynamics and community identity.

The film delves deeply into themes of racial tension, identity, and the complexities of coexistence within a diverse urban environment. The Wall of Fame serves as a poignant symbol of exclusion and cultural representation, highlighting how seemingly small acts can ignite deeper fractures within a community mistrustful of systemic inequalities. Do the Right Thing does not offer easy answers but instead forces viewers to confront uncomfortable realities about prejudice, anger, and the consequences of action or inaction in the face of injustice.

Upon its release, Do the Right Thing received widespread critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of social issues and compelling character studies. It has since become a seminal work in American cinema, influencing filmmakers and sparking conversations about race relations and urban life. The film's impact extends beyond the screen, resonating in popular culture as a touchstone for discussions about racial justice and the power of individual and collective responsibility.

Main Cast of Do the Right Thing

Efrem Zimbalist Jr. as Stuart Bailey

Efrem Zimbalist Jr.

Stuart Bailey
Edd Byrnes as Gerald Lloyd "Kookie" Kookson III

Edd Byrnes

Gerald Lloyd "Kookie" Kookson III
Roger Smith as Jeff Spencer

Roger Smith

Jeff Spencer

Crew of Do the Right Thing

Full backstage crew list →