**Highest 2 Lowest: A Collaboration Between Spike Lee and Denzel Washington**
With merely two days remaining until its cinematic debut, the initial reviews for *Highest 2 Lowest* have surfaced. Critics have started to provide their insights on the fresh Spike Lee film showcasing Denzel Washington, creating buzz and anticipation among viewers.
When Apple, teaming up with A24, revealed this initiative, they characterized it as a reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s timeless crime thriller *High and Low*, situated in contemporary New York City. This fusion of iconic talents has resulted in elevated expectations, especially following the unveiling of the film’s teaser and official trailer.
As reviews continue to emerge, *Highest 2 Lowest* has achieved a 92% Certified Fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on more than 45 reviews. The general consensus indicates that while the film might not represent Lee’s pinnacle achievement, it nonetheless offers an engrossing 133 minutes packed with tension, humor, and ethical intricacies.
### Highlights of Critical Reception
1. **IGN Movies**: Commends the film’s transformation from a class-based melodrama to some of the most intense imagery in Lee’s oeuvre.
2. **Daily Telegraph (UK)**: Recognizes the film’s innovative interpretation of a classic, making a strong argument for its relevance.
3. **Film Daze**: Observes that although it may not be Lee’s greatest, it captures an exhilarating tone akin to *25th Hour*.
4. **Time Out**: Critiques Lee for having difficulty preserving his distinctive voice, despite a track record of crafting remarkable crime thrillers.
5. **Vulture**: Emphasizes the film’s exploration of the evolution of the entertainment industry while urging the pursuit of one’s dreams.
6. **Rolling Stone**: Characterizes the experience as a remarkable New York film with an exceptional performance from Washington, though it feels incomplete in some aspects.
For those keen on discovering more reviews, Rotten Tomatoes has curated an extensive list of critiques for *Highest 2 Lowest*.
The film debuts in theaters on August 15 and will be accessible on Apple TV+ starting September 5. Apple TV+ is priced at $9.99 per month and offers a variety of popular series and films, including *Ted Lasso*, *Severance*, and *The Morning Show*.
