Denzel Washington and Spike Lee reunite for a bold reimagining of a cinematic classic in “Highest 2 Lowest”—and the trailer just dropped, offering a gripping glimpse into this high-stakes, style-heavy urban thriller. Backed by a strong ensemble and original music from A$AP Rocky, this marks Lee and Washington’s fifth collaboration, and their first in nearly two decades.
A Modern Take on Kurosawa’s “High and Low”
Inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 masterpiece High and Low, Lee’s version shifts the setting from Japan to New York City, injecting the narrative with modern cultural and musical flair.
Plot Overview:
Washington plays a powerful, image-obsessed music mogul with the “best ears in the business.” His empire and swagger are shaken when his son is kidnapped by Yung Felon, a hungry underground artist played by A$AP Rocky, who is looking for his break—and revenge. What follows is a morally complex battle of will, class, and conscience.
“Wake up, y’all. The king’s here.” – Denzel’s character enters with commanding presence.
Cast & Crew: Star-Studded and Genre-Blending
- Denzel Washington – Music mogul and father caught in a life-or-death dilemma
- A$AP Rocky – Kidnapper, aspiring musician, and chaotic anti-hero
- Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, Dean Winters, John Douglas Thompson – Supporting roles that add dramatic depth
- Ice Spice – Makes her film debut, continuing her rise beyond music
- Director: Spike Lee, who also produced alongside A24 and Apple TV+
- Writer: Alan Fox, a new name with a fresh voice
A$AP Rocky also serves as musical contributor, adding gritty, atmospheric tracks to amplify the film’s intensity.
Critics React: Mixed Praise, But Strong Performances
Premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, Highest 2 Lowest holds an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from early critics.
Highlights from Reviews:
- The Telegraph (UK): “Everything old is new again… Lee makes an irresistible case for its own existence.”
- Rolling Stone: “It may not hit Inside Man’s highs, but Washington reminds us why he remains untouchable.”
- The AV Club: “After a slow start, Spike Lee makes Highest 2 Lowest a thriller worthy of Denzel Washington.”
While some critics feel the film doesn’t quite top earlier Washington-Lee efforts like Malcolm X or Inside Man, most agree it’s a stylish, smart, and timely reinterpretation that still packs emotional and political punch.
Release Dates & Where to Watch
- In Theaters: August 15, 2025
- Streaming on Apple TV+: September 5, 2025
A Powerful New Chapter in a Legendary Duo’s Story
Highest 2 Lowest might not be Spike Lee’s most explosive film, but it confidently tells a story about power, class, art, and fatherhood in modern America. Denzel Washington delivers as always, while A$AP Rocky proves he’s more than a rapper with his intense screen presence.
With original music, sharp writing, and Lee’s unmistakable style, this film is one to watch—and listen—to closely.
