Review of High and Low (1963) by Stephen C — 26 Oct 2010
Based on a Novel By American crime writer Ed Mc Bain this film shows that Kurosawa was equally at home in contemporay settings as he was in historical ones.
The film really is a film of two halves ,with the first part focusing on Toshiro Mifunes tortured business man who when faced with the kidnapping of a child is forced to make some very difficult and life changing decisions.
This part of the film is mainly shot in one room and shows the directors skill with actors and it reminded me very much of Hitchcocks rope.
The second part of the fil concentrates on the police tracking down the kidnapper ,and here Kurosawa opens up the story after the gripping ransom drop on a high speed train.
The investigation part of the film really is a master class in tension and filmmaking with the police briefing and the visist to the drugs den being the most notable scenes in the film.
At 143 mins long most directors would have trouble keeping the interest value high ,but Kurosawa never lets the film falter for a moment and every detail grips like a vice.
If you are a touch unsure how to approach Japenese Cinema then this film by one of its all time masters is the perfect place to start .
A crime film Masterpiece.
This review of High and Low (1963) was written by Stephen C on 26 Oct 2010.
High and Low has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
