The plot revolves around a ransom of $17.5 million, intertwining the life of David's son and the stakes of his established reputation, with cameo appearances from artists like A$AP Rocky and Ice Spice.

Early reviews indicate strong anticipation for the film, boasting an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting it could be a contender for awards despite not being typical Oscar bait.

Spike Lee and Denzel Washington have unveiled the official trailer for their upcoming film, 'Highest 2 Lowest', a modern adaptation of Akira Kurosawa's 1963 classic 'High and Low', set against the backdrop of New York's music industry.

The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, receiving positive reviews, and is set to hit theaters on August 15, 2025, before streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5, 2025.

The cast features notable talents including Jeffrey Wright, A$AP Rocky, Ilfenesh Hadera, Aubrey Joseph, and Ice Spice, marking the fifth collaboration between Lee and Washington.

The narrative follows a man grappling with a moral dilemma as he pursues personal ambition amidst the gritty realities of New York City.

As David navigates a kidnapping crisis, the film delves into themes of ethics and ambition, highlighting his internal struggle between desires and moral integrity.

Lee's direction is characterized by its kinetic energy and socio-political commentary, with the screenplay co-written by Alan Fox, inspired by Evan Hunter's book 'King's Ransom'.

The trailer showcases a shift from the original's post-war Japan to the vibrant music scene of New York City, generating excitement for the film's unique setting.

This project may represent a significant moment for Lee and Washington, as it could be their last collaboration, especially with Washington's plans for selective future projects.

'Highest 2 Lowest' debuted out of competition at the Cannes Film Festival, marking Lee's sixth appearance there, coinciding with the 36th anniversary of his first film featured in the festival.