Summer, 1977: A serial killer on the loose and scorching heat wave sends New York City into a frenzy.
Writer/director Spike Lee was one of the breakout independent filmmakers of the late-1980's, ushering in a wave of young African-American talent behind the camera. Lee stepped out of his comfort zone for this film (his thirteenth feature in the same number of years), working with an all-white cast for the first time in his career, and moving from his usual Brooklyn environs to The Bronx and primarily Italian neighborhoods.
Summer of Sam is based on real events that occurred during 1977 when murderer David Berkowitz (a.k.a. "The Son of Sam") terrorized the city, which was already on edge due to record-high temperatures (and an eventual power blackout), and the New York Yankees pursuing their first World Series title in 15 years. Culturally the opposing musical forces of disco and punk rock were also rising in popularity.
Film stars Adrien Brody, John Leguizamo, Mira Sorvino, Jennifer Esposito, Michael Badalucco, and Ben Gazzara. The narration is provided by real-life veteran journalist Jimmy Breslin, who actually received letters from Berkowitz during his killing spree. Michael Imperoli (of The Sopranos fame) co-wrote the screenplay with Lee and was set to star but only wound up playing a smaller role.
While the film received mixed reviews upon release, it was well-regarded as a authentic snapshot of its specific time and place, and works as a notable counterpoint to his earlier film about the psychology of neighborhood paranoia, prejudice, and mob violence, Do The Right Thing.
Running time is approx. 2 hrs, 15 min.
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