“Highest 2 Lowest” With Denzel Washington And Spike Lee
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Reunites Denzel Washington and Spike Lee-Premiering on Apple TV+ September 5th

In their fifth cinematic collaboration, Denzel Washington and Spike Lee reunite. They bring a sense of creative urgency. Their mutual respect has been decades in the making. Speaking about Highest 2 Lowest, Lee describes the film as “a bold remix of Kurosawa’s High and Low.” It is told through the lens of modern-day America. Washington stars as a legendary music mogul. He is celebrated for having the “best ears in the business.” He is suddenly thrust into a life-or-death moral dilemma. A ruthless ransom plot targets his empire. The movie is loud, raw, and undeniably urgent.” Denzel adds, “This character is unlike anyone I’ve played—he’s powerful, but he’s trapped. Not physically, but morally.”
The two longtime collaborators shared their vision. They aim to bring a socially charged, emotionally layered story to life. This story not only honors Kurosawa’s legacy but also reframes it. It highlights contemporary power structures, privilege, and the unforgiving music industry. “New York is a character in this film,” says Spike. “The tempo, the soundscape, the tension—it’s all pulsing through the city. That’s what makes the stakes feel real.” With a dynamic cast, Highest 2 Lowest showcases the artists’ dedication to compelling narratives. Apple TV+ supports its release, emphasizing unforgettable storytelling.
The film explores themes of power, privilege, justice, and sacrifice. These themes unfold against the backdrop of an unforgiving industry and an unforgiving city. The stellar cast includes Jeffrey Wright, A$AP Rocky, Ilfenesh Hadera, Aubrey Joseph, Elijah Wright, Dean Winters, Wendell Pierce, and LaChanze. Alan Fox wrote the screenplay. Jason Michael Berman and Todd Black produced the film. Spike Lee, Ko Kurosawa, Kana Idetsu Broadhurst, Peter Guber, Matthew Lindner, Katia Washington, and Chris Brigham were the executive producers. Highest 2 Lowest delivers a gripping, emotional thriller. It challenges viewers to question how far someone will go when everything is on the line.