Spike Lee's "Highest 2 Lowest" Divides Critics with Moments of Brilliance Amidst Narrative Disconnect

Spike Lee's latest film, "Highest 2 Lowest," starring Denzel Washington and Jeffrey Wright, has sparked debate among critics, with many praising its individual scenes and performances while lamenting its lack of overall cohesion. Released this weekend by A24 and Apple, the film loosely adapts Akira Kurosawa's "High and Low" (1963), transplanting the story from the world of shoe manufacturing to the high-stakes New York music industry.

A Modern Take on a Classic Premise

"Highest 2 Lowest" centers on David King (Denzel Washington), a powerful music mogul facing a moral dilemma when his son is targeted in a kidnapping plot. As King grapples with the decision of whether to prioritize money or the life of another human being, the film explores themes of wealth, morality, and the complexities of human relationships. Jeffrey Wright's portrayal of Paul Christopher, a key figure in the King family's world, has been singled out as a standout performance, injecting charisma and intrigue into the narrative.

Inconsistent Tone and Performances Hinder Cohesion

While the film boasts Lee's signature directorial style, including jump cuts and fourth-wall breaks, many critics have pointed to jarring tonal shifts and inconsistent performances as significant drawbacks. Ilfenesh Hadera's portrayal, in particular, has been described as "uncanny," with reactions that feel unnatural and pull the viewer out of the movie. The film's first act struggles to find its footing, and despite improvements in the second act, the scattered nature of the narrative prevents it from achieving a cohesive whole.

Music as a Driving Force, but Sometimes Jarring

Music plays a central role in "Highest 2 Lowest," both diegetically and as a thematic element. The film features original music, some of which has been praised, but critics also note moments where the soundtrack choices feel out of place, creating a sense of tonal dissonance. Howard Drossin's score, while potentially intentional, can feel jarring at times, disrupting the overall flow of the film.

Expert Perspective: Lee's Continued Exploration of Social Themes

Dr. Imani Williams, a film studies professor at New York University specializing in African American cinema, notes that "Highest 2 Lowest" continues Lee's tradition of exploring complex social themes within a genre framework. "Lee consistently uses his films to examine issues of race, class, and power in America," Dr. Williams explains. "While 'Highest 2 Lowest' may not be his most polished work, it still provides a valuable commentary on the moral compromises people make in pursuit of wealth and success."

Echoes of Kurosawa and McBain

The film's loose adaptation of Kurosawa's "High and Low," which itself was based on Ed McBain's novel "King's Ransom," adds another layer of complexity. By shifting the setting to the music industry, Lee updates the story for a contemporary audience while retaining the core themes of moral compromise and the value of human life. However, some critics argue that the change in setting diminishes the impact of the original story, making the characters seem less motivated by money alone.

Distribution Woes and Future Prospects

Despite the talent involved, "Highest 2 Lowest" is facing an uphill battle at the box office. Some observers attribute this to a lack of promotion from A24 and Apple, with the official trailer released only ten days before the film's premiere. It remains to be seen whether the film will find a wider audience on streaming platforms in the coming months. Industry analyst Mark Johnson suggests that "the film's long-term success may depend on word-of-mouth and its ability to resonate with viewers on streaming. Spike Lee's films often find a second life on demand."

Conclusion: A Flawed but Interesting Effort

While "Highest 2 Lowest" may not be a masterpiece, it is a testament to Spike Lee's unique vision and his willingness to take risks. Despite its flaws, the film offers moments of brilliance and thought-provoking commentary on contemporary society. Whether it will ultimately be remembered as a minor work in Lee's filmography or a hidden gem remains to be seen.