Spike Lee reflected on the seamless reunion with Denzel Washington while filming their latest project, Highest 2 Lowest, nearly two decades after their last collaboration. Despite an 18-year gap since working together on Inside Man, Lee said the experience felt as natural as if no time had passed, noting that they “didn’t lose a step.” The film, which premiered out of competition at the Cannes Film Festival, is an adaptation of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low and marks the fifth collaboration between the acclaimed director and the Oscar-winning actor.
Washington, who received a surprise honorary Palme d’Or award just before the film’s premiere, was absent from the press conference as he returned to the United States for his role in the Broadway production of Othello. Alongside Washington, Highest 2 Lowest features performances by Ilfenesh Hadera and Jeffrey Wright, who also stars in another Cannes entry, The Phoenician Scheme. Rapper A$AP Rocky, who appears in the film as well, attended the premiere with his partner Rihanna but did not take part in the press event.
Reflecting on their professional partnership, Lee expressed gratitude for the body of work they have created together, noting how audiences have embraced their films over the years. However, he expressed doubt that this project would be their last, suggesting that this fifth collaboration might be their final one. Washington, now 70, has mentioned retirement even as he continues to pursue new roles.
Lee and Washington’s partnership began in 1990 with Mo’ Better Blues, after Lee approached Washington following the actor’s Oscar win for Glory. Their collaboration continued through powerful films such as Malcolm X, He Got Game, Inside Man, and now Highest 2 Lowest, showcasing a long-standing creative synergy.
Filming took place in New York City, where Lee acknowledged the strength of the local film community. Yet, he voiced uncertainty about the impact of proposed U.S. tariffs on foreign-made films, questioning whether such measures would encourage production to return stateside. He noted that while the community remains vibrant, many people involved in the industry are facing challenges.
Overall, Lee celebrated the enduring success of his work with Washington and the shared passion that has defined their collaborations over the years.
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