From the visionary mind of Spike Lee comes Highest 2 Lowest, a modern reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low. Set in New York City, the story follows David King, a powerful music mogul whose world unravels when a kidnapping drags him into a moral crisis that tests his values as a businessman, a father, and a friend. As police scramble to solve the case and media pressure mounts, questions of wealth, power, and community collide in a gripping drama that exposes the fault lines of American society.

The Good
Denzel Washington is magnetic on screen with another unforgettable performance. He embodies the role of a music mogul with conviction, showcasing different layers of the character from the sharp businessman to the loving husband and father. His ability to transition between vulnerability and authority makes his portrayal deeply compelling.
Jeffrey Wright delivers one of the most emotional performances in the film. He brings heartbreaking depth to a character haunted by his past yet anchored by his love for his son. Wright balances pain and hope in a way that resonates long after his scenes end.

The central moral dilemma is captivating. Once the twist arrives, the stakes are heightened, making it fascinating to watch the characters wrestle with impossible choices. Spike Lee cleverly ties this conflict into modern culture. Social media’s presence amplifies the pressure, while Black culture and community add authenticity and freshness to the story.
Lee’s love for New York is unmistakable. The city becomes a character itself, bursting with energy, pride, and even humor. At times, his affection for local sports teams plays out with comedic flair, reminding viewers of his signature style.

The cinematography is visually striking, with Lee’s signature camera work and, of course, the iconic dolly shot. The editing in the third act is sharp and builds to a thrilling climax. The musical selections elevate the film further, with standout performances from the cast and an A$AP Rocky feature track that feels like a hit in the making.
The Bad:
Not every performance lands. A$AP Rocky brings star power, but his acting chops are still developing. There are moments where his delivery feels self-aware, as though he is acting rather than embodying his character.
Dean Winters as Inspector Higgins also misses the mark. His portrayal of a frustrated detective feels exaggerated and underwritten. The character seems angry at everything without clear motivation, making him less believable.

While the twist adds intrigue, the moral dilemma drags on too long. It raises questions that start to weaken the narrative, making it harder to suspend disbelief. The police in the film are also portrayed as implausibly ineffective, which undercuts some of the tension.
One small misstep is the inclusion of a music video interlude in the final act. While stylish, it disrupts the pacing. It would have been more impactful as part of the end credits rather than interrupting the story’s momentum.
The Verdict:
Highest 2 Lowest is another strong collaboration between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington. Denzel Washington delivers one of his most layered roles in years. The film feels relevant, weaving modern technology, social media, and culture into a classic story. Though not without flaws, it still succeeds as a gripping drama that demands attention. It may not be Spike Lee’s best, but it proves his talent for marrying style with substance. This is a film best experienced in theaters with an audience, where its energy and themes will resonate most.

Director: Spike LeeWriter(s): Alan FoxStars: Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, Aubrey Joseph, Elijah Wright, A$AP Rocky, Dean Winters, LaChanze, John Douglas Thompson, Michael Potts, Ice Spice, Rosie Perez, Anthony Ramos, Don LemonHighest 2 Lowest is in theaters now and streams to Apple TV Sep 5th, 2025. Be sure to follow E-Man’s Movie Reviews on Facebook, Subscribe on YouTube, or follow me on Twitter/IG @EmansReviews for even more movie news and reviews!

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