Nov. 06--Spike Lee took to Twitter Friday morning to respond to criticism about the trailer released for his upcoming film, "Chi-Raq."
The first trailer for "Chi-Raq," a satire in which Chicago women withhold sex in an effort to curb violence, debuted Tuesday, and appears, to some, to make light of recent violence in Chicago.
In a video statement, Lee says, "Some people are getting it twisted and think that this is a comedy. 'Chi-Raq' is not a comedy. 'Chi-Raq' is a satire and there is a difference between humor and comedy. In no way, shape or form are we not respectful of the situation that is happening in 'Chi-Raq.' "
Chicago rapper Rhymefest was among those critical of the trailer. "I think it's irresponsible," Rhymefest told the Tribune by phone Thursday. "The overwhelming majority of people on the South and West Side believe this is foolishness."
The video posted by Lee on Friday also contains several new scenes from "Chi-Raq." The never-before-seen clips depict lead characters expressing concern about the safety of children in Chicago. John Cusack, who grew up outside of Chicago, plays a preacher in the film. His character is heard in the new clip saying, "We will not allow this self-inflicted genocide to continue."
