Review of High and Low (1963) by Lee B — 09 Jan 2010
"High and Low" is an example of the Kurosawa and Mifune work at its best and demonstrates their capable teamwork removing the shackles of chanbara/ jidaigeki (samurai sword films/ period epic films) approaching a ransom tension story (from then) a modern day 1960's Japan point of view.
(It is loosely based on a book called "King's Ransom," and "High and Low" later helped 'inspire' the Mel Gibson film "Ransom.") The basic premise is about Toshiro Mifune who plays an executive that has to choose between the ownership of his company or the life of his son.
In between Kurosawa emphasizes some of his common film issues such as the divide between rich and poor with the juxtaposition of beautiful houses overlooking the slums, and in this case it works into the plot.
With "High and Low" director Kurosawa puts together a well thought out production with the highlight being the direction in a smart and taught train ransom scene worth seeing. 4 stars.
This review of High and Low (1963) was written by Lee B on 09 Jan 2010.
High and Low has generally received very positive reviews.
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