10 Underrated Films From Great Directors

10. Spike Lee - 25th Hour

Spike Lee has made a career out of having his finger on the pulse of society with films that have a focus on his heritage and culture. Do the Right Thing and She's Gotta Have It are great examples and he's returned to the spotlight in recent years with his timely BlacKkKlansman and Da 5 Bloods. Lee's niche is this kind of social commentary that speaks to so many but that doesn't mean that he can't make a great film that doesn't fit this mould.

Enter 25th Hour, a sentimental drama about a drug dealer that is on the cusp of a seven year prison sentence. Edward Norton stars as the man in question who wishes to have one final night with his two best friends and girlfriend before he has to turn himself in.

Norton's character has become disillusioned by society and although the themes aren't linked to Lee's previous works, the film seems like it was a direct response to the feelings of many in the wake of 9/11. Lee is showing that he can make any character or story feel relevant to whoever is watching his movies.