Cannes, a city synonymous with cinematic prestige, welcomed Denzel Washington on May 19, 2025, for a fleeting yet monumental appearance at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. The actor, fresh off Broadway’s “Othello,” made a transatlantic dash to attend the world premiere of Spike Lee’s “Highest 2 Lowest,” a modern reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic “High and Low.” In a surprise that electrified the Croisette, festival chief Thierry Frémaux presented Washington with an honorary Palme d’Or, celebrating his towering contributions to cinema. The event, marked by a six-minute ovation, underscored the enduring partnership between Washington and Lee, whose collaboration has spanned decades.
The festival reshuffled its schedule to accommodate Washington’s tight timeline, a testament to his star power. Typically, photo calls follow premieres, but Cannes hosted one for “Highest 2 Lowest” earlier on Monday to ensure Washington’s presence. His arrival, alongside Lee and co-star A$AP Rocky, ignited a frenzy among photographers and fans. The film, an Apple Original in partnership with A24, promises a gripping crime thriller set in contemporary New York, with Washington as a music mogul navigating a moral dilemma.
Key moments from the premiere include:
- Washington’s emotional acceptance of the honorary Palme d’Or, a rare accolade.
- Spike Lee’s tribute to his longtime collaborator, calling him “my brother.”
- A vibrant red carpet featuring A$AP Rocky, Jeffrey Wright, and Ilfenesh Hadera.
- Rihanna’s appearance, supporting Rocky, adding glamour to the evening.
This premiere not only celebrated a cinematic milestone but also highlighted Cannes’ ability to adapt for its luminaries, ensuring Washington’s brief visit left an indelible mark.
Honorary Palme d’Or steals the spotlight
The presentation of the honorary Palme d’Or to Denzel Washington was a defining moment of the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Festival chief Thierry Frémaux, in a heartfelt address, described the award as a tribute to Washington’s transformative impact on cinema. The actor, visibly moved, expressed his surprise, noting he had no prior knowledge of the honor. Spike Lee, handing the award to Washington, emphasized their deep bond, forged through five collaborations, including “Malcolm X” and “Inside Man.”
This accolade places Washington among an elite group of honorees, recognizing his versatility across genres, from historical dramas to action-packed thrillers. His performance in “Highest 2 Lowest,” already generating buzz, was cited as a testament to his enduring prowess. Critics at the premiere praised his portrayal of a music mogul grappling with a ransom demand, blending intensity with vulnerability.
The ceremony, held just before the film’s screening, set a jubilant tone for the evening. Washington’s acceptance speech, brief yet poignant, acknowledged the festival’s role in championing bold storytelling. The moment resonated with attendees, who saw it as a fitting tribute to an actor whose career has shaped modern cinema.
Spike Lee’s return to Cannes
Spike Lee’s sixth appearance at Cannes marked a triumphant return, 36 years after his debut with “Do the Right Thing” in 1989. The director, known for his provocative and visually dynamic storytelling, brought his signature Brooklyn energy to “Highest 2 Lowest.” The film, running out of competition, captivated audiences with its contemporary spin on Kurosawa’s narrative, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City.
Lee’s decision to reimagine “High and Low” was driven by a desire to explore themes of class, morality, and ambition in a modern context. The original, centered on a shoe executive facing a kidnapping crisis, finds new life in Lee’s hands, with Washington’s character navigating a high-stakes ransom plot. The director’s collaboration with screenwriter Alan Fox ensured a script that retained Kurosawa’s tension while infusing it with Lee’s distinctive voice.
At a pre-premiere bash hosted by The Hollywood Reporter and Threads at Hyde Beach, Lee mingled with cast members like Ilfenesh Hadera and Wendell Pierce. He expressed excitement about the film’s alignment with significant dates, noting that May 19, 2025, coincided with Malcolm X’s 100th birthday. This serendipity, Lee suggested, added a layer of cosmic significance to the premiere.
Star-studded cast elevates the narrative
The ensemble of “Highest 2 Lowest” is a blend of seasoned actors and rising stars, each bringing depth to the film’s layered narrative. Denzel Washington leads as David King, a music mogul whose empire is tested by a kidnapping scheme. Jeffrey Wright, playing his chauffeur and friend Paul, delivers a grounded performance that anchors the emotional stakes. Ilfenesh Hadera, as David’s wife Pam, navigates the crisis with steely resolve, while A$AP Rocky’s portrayal of Yung Felon, an aspiring rapper turned antagonist, has drawn early praise for its intensity.
Additional cast members include:
- Ice Spice as Marisol, a pivotal figure in the kidnapper’s plans.
- Dean Winters, LaChanze, and John Douglas Thompson as NYPD detectives.
- Aubrey Joseph and Michael Potts in supporting roles, adding texture to the story.
Critics have lauded the chemistry between Washington and Rocky, whose confrontations drive the film’s tension. Rocky, in his most prominent film role to date, has been hailed as a revelation, with reviewers noting his natural screen presence. The cast’s diversity and talent reflect Lee’s knack for assembling ensembles that mirror New York’s cultural mosaic.
Denzel Washington receives a surprise honorary Palme d'Or at @Festival_Cannes 🏆 pic.twitter.com/0UGjrdIyKJ
— Letterboxd (@letterboxd) May 19, 2025
A modern reinterpretation of Kurosawa
“Highest 2 Lowest” transforms Akira Kurosawa’s “High and Low” into a distinctly American tale, trading 1960s Tokyo for present-day New York. The original, based on Ed McBain’s novel “King’s Ransom,” explored class divides through a kidnapping gone awry. Lee’s version retains the core premise—a wealthy man facing a moral quandary—but recontextualizes it within the music industry, where ambition and betrayal collide.
The film’s setting is a character in itself, with Matthew Libatique’s cinematography capturing New York’s frenetic energy. From the Brooklyn Bridge to pulsating nightlife, the visuals underscore the stakes of David King’s world. Howard Drossin’s score, described as “soaring” and “NYC to its core,” amplifies the film’s emotional beats, blending hip-hop and orchestral elements.
Early reviews highlight Lee’s ability to balance reverence for Kurosawa with bold innovation. Indiewire’s David Ehrlich called the film “deliriously entertaining,” noting its modern take on parasocial relationships and class dynamics. The adaptation’s relevance to today’s social media-driven world, where reputations can crumble instantly, adds a fresh layer to the narrative.
Cannes adjusts for Washington’s schedule
Organizing Denzel Washington’s Cannes appearance required logistical acrobatics from the festival. Performing “Othello” on Broadway, Washington had only one day off, prompting Cannes to shift its traditional schedule. The photo call, typically held post-premiere, was moved to Monday morning, allowing Washington to pose with Lee, Rocky, Wright, and Hadera before the evening screening.
This adjustment wasn’t without precedent but underscored Washington’s draw. When Cannes announced its lineup in April, “Highest 2 Lowest” was notably absent, pending confirmation of Washington’s attendance. Spike Lee’s Instagram post hours later forced the festival’s hand, affirming the film’s inclusion. Festival representatives cited Washington’s red-carpet presence as a key factor in finalizing the premiere.
Washington’s whirlwind trip—he arrived Monday morning and departed immediately after the screening—exemplified his commitment to the project. His playful demeanor during the photo call, alongside Lee and Rocky, belied the grueling travel, earning admiration from festivalgoers.
Critical reception and audience buzz
The world premiere of “Highest 2 Lowest” earned a six-minute standing ovation, signaling strong audience approval. Critics have been largely positive, with Deadline praising Washington’s “great role” and Rocky’s “sensational” performance. The film’s blend of suspense, social commentary, and Lee’s stylistic flourishes has positioned it as a crowd-pleaser, despite its out-of-competition status.
Reviewers have noted specific strengths:
- Washington’s commanding presence, anchoring the film’s moral core.
- Lee’s sharp direction, balancing tension with moments of levity.
- The film’s relevance, addressing wealth disparity and media influence.
- Rocky’s breakout role, signaling a new career trajectory.
- Libatique’s cinematography, showcasing New York’s diversity.
Some critiques, like Indiewire’s mention of the film’s “jarringly upbeat” tone, suggest it diverges from Kurosawa’s somberness. Yet, this vibrancy has been embraced by audiences, who appreciate Lee’s bold reinterpretation.
New York as the heartbeat of the story
Spike Lee’s return to filming in New York after over a decade infuses “Highest 2 Lowest” with authenticity. The city’s neighborhoods, from Brooklyn’s brownstones to Manhattan’s skyscrapers, serve as a vivid backdrop. Lee’s love for his hometown is evident in details like the Puerto Rico Day parade, featured in the trailer, which adds cultural richness to the narrative.
The film’s music, rooted in New York’s hip-hop and jazz traditions, enhances its urban pulse. Scenes of police pursuits and high-stakes negotiations unfold against iconic landmarks, grounding the story in a tangible reality. Lee’s use of local art, including replicas from his personal collection, further ties the film to the city’s creative spirit.
For New Yorkers attending Cannes, the film’s premiere was a point of pride. Wendell Pierce, a cast member, told The Hollywood Reporter that the film’s specificity made it “very special,” resonating with those familiar with the city’s rhythms.
A$AP Rocky’s cinematic breakthrough
A$AP Rocky’s role as Yung Felon has emerged as a highlight of “Highest 2 Lowest.” The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, brings a raw intensity to the character, an aspiring artist whose desperation fuels the kidnapping plot. His scenes with Washington, particularly tense phone exchanges, showcase a dynamic that critics have called electrifying.
Rocky’s transition to acting has been closely watched, given his music career and high-profile relationship with Rihanna, who attended the premiere. His performance, described as a “new career” by Deadline, suggests potential for future film roles. Rocky’s preparation included studying Kurosawa’s original, ensuring his portrayal honored the story’s roots while adding a modern edge.
At the photo call, Rocky’s charisma was evident as he posed alongside Lee and Washington. His presence, coupled with Rihanna’s support, amplified the film’s cultural cachet, drawing younger audiences to the premiere.
Festival’s star power amplifies premiere
The “Highest 2 Lowest” premiere attracted a constellation of celebrities, enhancing its visibility. Rihanna, radiant on the red carpet, was joined by A$AP Rocky, creating a media frenzy. Other attendees included Adria Arjona, Jason Momoa, and soccer star Paul Pogba with his wife, Zulay, adding glamour to the event.
Cannes’ ability to draw such names reflects its status as a cultural epicenter. The festival’s decision to honor Washington alongside Robert De Niro, who also received an honorary Palme d’Or, underscored its commitment to celebrating cinematic legends. The presence of boldfaced names like Guillaume Thevenin and Paola Locatelli at the pre-premiere bash further elevated the film’s profile.
These appearances, coupled with the film’s buzz, have fueled anticipation for its theatrical release on August 22, 2025, and streaming debut on Apple TV+ on September 5.
Lee’s history with Cannes
Spike Lee’s relationship with Cannes spans nearly four decades, beginning with “She’s Gotta Have It” in 1986. His subsequent entries, including “Jungle Fever” and “BlacKkKlansman,” have cemented his status as a festival favorite. In 2021, Lee served as jury president, a role that deepened his connection to the event.
The director’s reflections at a Hyde Beach party revealed his affection for Cannes’ energy, from the red carpet to the paparazzi’s fervor. He noted the premiere’s alignment with the 1989 debut of “Do the Right Thing,” calling it a “great insane” experience. Lee’s ability to blend personal milestones, like Malcolm X’s centennial, with his films’ launches adds a layer of meaning to his Cannes appearances.
“Highest 2 Lowest” continues this legacy, showcasing Lee’s evolution as a filmmaker. At 68, he expressed confidence in his growth, telling Vulture, “I’m getting better,” a sentiment echoed by the premiere’s warm reception.
Release plans and industry impact
The rollout for “Highest 2 Lowest” is strategically timed to maximize its reach. A24, known for backing bold projects, will distribute the film in theaters starting August 22, 2025, capitalizing on late-summer audiences. Apple TV+’s streaming release on September 5 will broaden its accessibility, appealing to viewers preferring home viewing.
The film’s production, involving 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks, Escape Artists, and Mandalay Pictures, reflects a collaborative effort to bring Lee’s vision to life. Its Cannes premiere has already sparked awards-season chatter, with Washington’s performance tipped as a potential contender. The film’s commercial prospects are bolstered by its star power and Lee’s track record of delivering culturally resonant stories.
Industry observers note that “Highest 2 Lowest” could redefine the crime thriller genre, blending classic storytelling with contemporary themes. Its success at Cannes, coupled with strong early reviews, positions it as a significant release in a crowded 2025 slate.
