Harlem Rapper Joins Spike Lee and Denzel Washington for Apple Original Film
A$AP Rocky is making a return to acting, landing a starring role in Spike Lee’s upcoming film, Highest 2 Lowest. According to IndieWire, the Harlem rapper will play a character named Yung Felon alongside Academy Award winner Denzel Washington. Rising star Ice Spice has also been cast in the highly anticipated Apple Original project.
A$AP Rocky’s Acting Resume Grows
No stranger to the screen, A$AP Rocky made his acting debut in 2015 with the coming-of-age film Dope. He also appeared in Zoolander 2 and starred in the short film Born to Steal: Yours, Mine, Ours directed by Rihanna. His role in Highest 2 Lowest adds another exciting chapter to his growing film career.
Spike Lee on Reuniting with Denzel Washington
Spike Lee expressed enthusiasm about reuniting with Washington, with whom he has collaborated on iconic films like Mo’ Better Blues, Malcolm X, He Got Game, and Inside Man. Speaking at the Red Sea Film Festival, Lee reflected on their long-standing creative partnership.
“Someone pointed out to me that the last time we worked together was 18 years ago, and I was surprised because it didn’t feel that way,” Lee said. “I’m very blessed to have done five films together. He is arguably the best actor on the planet.”
Lee emphasized the bond he shares with Washington, saying, “We’re brothers. We just do our thing. We’re familiar with one another… our families are very tight.”
A Modern Take on a Kurosawa Classic
Highest 2 Lowest is a reinterpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 crime thriller High and Low. Lee clarified that the film is not a remake but rather a modern retelling.
“In Kurosawa’s film, Toshiro Mifune is a shoemaker. In our film, Denzel Washington is a music mogul with his own label and his reputation as the best ears in the business,” Lee explained.
What’s Next?
Currently in post-production, Highest 2 Lowest has generated significant buzz as it brings together Spike Lee’s directorial expertise, Denzel Washington’s legendary talent, and A$AP Rocky’s dynamic on-screen presence. With its reinterpretation of a classic tale and a stellar cast, the film is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases in the coming year.
