Denzel Washington Shines in Spike Lee’s ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ – A New York City Thriller with Heart

In his latest collaboration with acclaimed director Spike Lee, Denzel Washington delivers a powerhouse performance in Highest 2 Lowest, a modern reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low. Set in the heart of New York City, the film blends a gripping moral dilemma with Lee’s signature cinematic style, marking the duo’s fifth project together. Released by A24, this urban thriller doubles as a love letter to the city that has inspired much of Lee’s work.

Washington stars as David King, a legendary music industry mogul with unmatched instincts for discovering talent. At a pivotal moment in his career—planning to reclaim full ownership of his record label—David’s world is upended when a kidnapping shakes his inner circle. The intended victim was his own teenage son Trey (Aubrey Joseph), but the abductors mistakenly take Kyle (Elijah Wright), the son of David’s loyal driver Paul Christopher (Jeffrey Wright). The ransom demand: $17.5 million.

What follows is a tense moral standoff as David weighs the ransom against his ambitions, forcing him to confront loyalty, family, and the price of legacy. Lee infuses the story with his deep-rooted knowledge of New York, capturing vibrant neighborhoods and authentic city life.

Why Highest 2 Lowest Is the Denzel Washington New Movie Everyone’s Talking About

As a Denzel Washington new movie, Highest 2 Lowest offers fans a rare blend of emotional depth and urban suspense. Washington brings layers to David King—powerful yet vulnerable, calculated yet impulsive—delivering one of his most nuanced roles in years.

Spike Lee’s direction, paired with Matthew Libatique’s dynamic cinematography, immerses viewers in the visual rhythm of New York. The film deviates from its source material in ways that allow Lee’s trademark style to shine, particularly in a daring third-act rap battle that only this director could pull off.

Supporting performances are equally noteworthy. Jeffrey Wright brings gravitas to Paul, while Ilfenesh Hadera and Aubrey Joseph hold their own against Washington. The ensemble is rounded out by appearances from Rick Fox, Wendell Pierce, Michael Potts, A$AP Rocky, Ice Spice, and Dean Winters.

The Story’s Roots and Its Moral Complexity

Adapting both Kurosawa’s High and Low and Ed McBain’s novel King’s Ransom, the screenplay by Alan Fox captures the tension of a kidnapping thriller while exploring modern themes of wealth, responsibility, and morality.

The core question—should David risk his business dreams to save someone else’s child?—drives the film’s emotional weight. While the mystery itself is not overly complex, the interpersonal drama keeps audiences invested. Lee’s pacing is deliberate, though the film does stretch a little too long in the final act. Still, the payoff comes in memorable set pieces and heartfelt exchanges that resonate long after the credits roll.

Expert Take on Washington & Lee’s Collaboration

Critics note that Highest 2 Lowest might not be the most awards-focused film in Lee’s career, but it’s a highly watchable, richly textured entry in his filmography. Washington’s commitment to the role, combined with Lee’s confidence as a storyteller, makes it an accessible yet artful experience.

For longtime fans of the duo, this project recalls the chemistry they displayed in classics like Malcolm X and Inside Man, while offering a fresh, contemporary energy.

This film cements Highest 2 Lowest as not just another Denzel Washington new movie, but as a bold, heartfelt piece of New York cinema from one of its most celebrated voices.

You Must Know

What is Highest 2 Lowest about?
It’s a modern-day New York adaptation of High and Low, following music mogul David King as he faces a moral choice after his driver’s son is kidnapped by mistake.

Who stars in the new Denzel Washington movie?
The cast includes Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, Aubrey Joseph, Elijah Wright, Rick Fox, Wendell Pierce, Michael Potts, A$AP Rocky, Ice Spice, and Dean Winters.

Is this Spike Lee and Denzel Washington’s first collaboration?
No, Highest 2 Lowest marks their fifth collaboration, following acclaimed works like Malcolm X and Inside Man.

Where is the movie set and filmed?
It’s set in New York City, with many scenes showcasing authentic neighborhoods and city landmarks.

Is Highest 2 Lowest based on a true story?
No, it’s adapted from the classic Kurosawa film High and Low and the novel King’s Ransom, updated for a modern audience.