Highest 2 Lowest
Review: The newest Spike Lee Joint, this 2025 film sees Lee team up with his frequent collaborator, Denzel Washington, in a crime thriller. The film is set in the world of music, with Denzel’s character being a successful music mogul who is faced with a big challenge when his son is kidnapped and ransomed. The film had some really effective world building, which is something often over looked in films with a more realistic setting. A modern adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s ‘High and Low,’ the film features a large handful of well known names in Lee’s common NYC setting. The film received a very limited theatrical release and is know streamable on Apple TV+. The film was INCREDIBLY well shot & directed (duh) with some super cinematic shots that I regret not seeing on the big screen. I don’t predict it well, but I think this should definitely get a Best Cinematography nod at the Oscars. There was also a very creative use of vintage film style shots cut throughout the film that I really enjoyed. There was some good jabs included in the film that I personally enjoyed, both at AI art (boo) & the Boston sports teams (I’m mostly neutral, but do love a good sports rivalry included in a film). I really enjoyed the bag hand off scene at the Puerto Rican Day Parade and also enjoyed the chase scene towards the end of the film. At the end of the day I do think was a solid film worth watching, but I don’t think it’ll be one that’s reference years from now. The music was pretty strong throughout, which it important when it’s that ingrained in the story, and the sound was also very nice. Felt very crisp on the ears.
High(est): There were three stand out performances from me, and they are the three I’d call the lead performances for the film. Of course, Denzel, who acted in typical Denzel fashion. Jeffrey Wright played a really solid supporting role that worked well next to Denzel’s performance. Finally was the performance of ASAP Rocky, who stood toe to toe in all of his scenes with more veteran actors.
2 Low(est): On the flipside, pretty much all of the other performances were mediocre, with a couple subpar ones as well. Most everyone else felt either too much like a caricature or like an unnecessary inclusion.
Rating: 7.5/10
