Spike Lee has officially dropped the first trailer for his upcoming crime drama Highest 2 Lowest, a gripping thriller backed by A24 and Apple, and starring acclaimed actor Denzel Washington alongside rapper A$AP Rocky. The trailer has already begun to stir excitement as the film prepares for its world premiere later this month at the Cannes Film Festival.
Highest 2 Lowest is set to hit cinemas across the UK and globally on August 22, 2025, before arriving on Apple TV+ for streaming from September 5, 2025. With its intense visuals and powerful performances, the trailer offers a glimpse into what promises to be one of the year’s most talked-about releases.
Inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s classic film High and Low, which itself was based on Ed McBain’s novel The King’s Ransom, Highest 2 Lowest explores themes of power, morality, and sacrifice. The story follows a businessman faced with a life-altering decision: should he use his wealth to advance his own interests, or save the life of a kidnapped child?
The film marks the fifth collaboration between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, a partnership that has consistently delivered cinematic excellence. Speaking about their latest work, Lee expressed his gratitude: “I’m just glad we got five in.” Washington, known for his commanding screen presence, leads a cast that also includes A$AP Rocky, Ilfenesh Hadera, Jeffrey Wright, Dean Winters, John Douglas Thompson, and breakout star Ice Spice.
Filming for Highest 2 Lowest took place in New York City and wrapped earlier in 2024 with renowned cinematographer Matthew Libatique behind the camera. Produced by A24, Escape Artists, Mandalay Pictures, and Lee’s own 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, the film blends gripping narrative with a distinctly modern edge.
With its striking trailer now out and a high-profile festival premiere on the horizon, Highest 2 Lowest is shaping up to be a standout in 2025’s film slate, bringing Denzel Washington’s talents once again to the forefront of cinema.
A$AP Rocky, who stars alongside Washington, shared his thoughts on working with the Hollywood icon, describing it as a "dream come true." In a recent interview with Variety, Rocky expressed his confidence in taking on the role, stating, "Nah, I was born for this. I’m not gonna waste nobody’s time. This is what I do, this is the same approach you would take to making an album or to directing or designing anything: You’ve got to give it your all.”
Despite his confidence, Rocky admitted it was hard not to geek out while working with Washington. "It was difficult to not fan the f— out every millisecond of the f—— duration. It was crazy — it’s f——- Denzel, man," he said, adding that he’s always going to be a student and a fan of certain people.
Rocky cited Washington’s film Malcolm X as a personal favorite, saying, "I’m always gonna give them their flowers.” He reminisced about how the first movies he loved included Juice, Malcolm X, and Michael Jackson: Moonwalker.
Spike Lee clarified to Deadline that Highest 2 Lowest is “not a remake, this is a reinterpretation.” This film continues the creative partnership between Lee and Washington that began with Mo’ Better Blues in 1990, and it’s clear that their collaboration has only grown stronger over the years.
As anticipation builds for the film's release, it is evident that Highest 2 Lowest will not only showcase powerful performances but also engage audiences with its thought-provoking themes. The film's exploration of wealth, morality, and the choices we make in dire circumstances resonates deeply in today's society.
In addition to his role in Highest 2 Lowest, A$AP Rocky has also starred in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You, a drama directed by Mary Bronstein, which features a strong ensemble cast including Rose Byrne, Conan O'Brien, and Danielle Macdonald. Reflecting on his experiences, Rocky noted the importance of spending time with his family, particularly his children, amidst his busy career.
As the film industry gears up for another exciting year, Highest 2 Lowest stands out not only for its star-studded cast but also for the creative vision of Spike Lee. With its world premiere at Cannes and a subsequent global release, audiences are eager to see how this modern reinterpretation of a classic story unfolds.
In summary, Highest 2 Lowest promises to be a compelling addition to the cinematic landscape of 2025, showcasing the talents of Denzel Washington and A$AP Rocky while exploring complex themes that are sure to resonate with viewers.
