Spike Lee’s Latest Film ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ Marks Triumphant Return with Star-Studded Cast

A Legendary Director’s New Vision

Spike Lee’s latest film ‘Highest 2 Lowest,’ featuring an electrifying lineup including Denzel Washington and A$AP Rocky, is set to make its mark at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

The project represents Lee’s contemporary interpretation of the Japanese cinema masterpiece ‘High and Low’ by Akira Kurosawa, reimagined for modern audiences. The film is scheduled for release on Apple TV+ in 2025.

Star-Studded Ensemble and Production Details

The film features an impressive cast including Denzel Washington, Jeffrey Wright, Ilfenesh Hadera, ASAP Rocky, and marks the film debut of Ice Spice. This project notably represents the fifth collaboration between Lee and Washington, and their first work together since ‘Inside Man’ in 2006.

Production took place in New York City, commencing in March 2024 and concluding in May. The film had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival on May 19, 2025, screening out of competition, followed by a theatrical release by A24 on August 15, before becoming available on Apple TV+ in September.

Critical Reception and Musical Elements

The film has received strong critical acclaim, with 88% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have noted that Lee isn’t simply recreating Kurosawa’s masterpiece, but rather using it as a foundation to launch into what may be the final phase of his career, drawing from various musical, cinematic, and historical inspirations to create what they describe as ‘a Spike Lee joint.’

The film’s soundtrack, released by A24 Music, features 19 tracks including original songs by ASAP Rocky, Aiyana-Lee, and Jensen McRae, complemented by a score from Howard Drossin and music by Scottish pianist Fergus McCreadie.

This latest project adds to Lee’s impressive legacy as a filmmaker who continues to push boundaries while addressing contemporary social issues through his unique artistic lens.