Civilian Renaissance: Spike Lee Lecture & The Making of "They Don't Really Care About Us"

Good evening. EMcGee and I just finished shooting none another than Spike Lee, while he enlightened Howard University students on the world of film. It was an honor to be in his presence and even more of an honor to have the opportunity to capture the moments on my camera. Thanks Spike for taking the time to tell your story and give us insight into becoming a success in all of our endeavors.

While presenting, Spike showed us various clips of his work. The story behind the video "They Don't Really care About Us," is particularly interesting. Basically, this video was shot in a favela (ghetto) in Brasil. The favela they chose happened to be the most dangerous favela in Brasil, and, come to find out, one of the most dangerous places in the world. In order to receive clearance to shoot the video, Spike and his team had to speak with a Drug Kingpin, who controlled the territory. Fortunately, the Drug Kingpin was a huge Michael Jackson fan, and explained to everybody that while Michael Jackson was shooting the video, this favela would be the safest place on the planet. In addition, this video sparked the movie "City of God." The lady who spoke directly to the Drug Lord was the Co-director of "City of God," made a movie based on his life story, and actually shot the film in the same favela as the "They Don't Care About Us" video.

Thus, take a look at the making of "They Don't Really Care About Us" video shoot.