Spike Lee lauds academy changes

Spike Lee says changes promised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences show it's trying to do the right thing but he won't attend the Oscars.

Spike Lee says he applauds the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for making changes to increase diversity in its ranks.

However, he is still intends skipping the Academy Awards.

The filmmaker said on Saturday he thinks the changes could help and the Academy is trying to do the right thing.

While he commends the move, however, Lee said it won't change his mind about attending the February 28 ceremony.

The Malcolm X director is among the artists receiving the film academy's Governors Award this year.

He said instead of being at the Oscars, he and his wife will be at Madison Square Garden sitting courtside to cheer on the New York Knicks as they play the Miami Heat.

"We have principles," he said.