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Summary in 1 sentence
High and Low is a crime thriller by Akira Kurosawa about a wealthy businessman who faces a moral dilemma when his chauffeur's son is kidnapped and held for ransom, believing it to be his own son.
Summary in a Twitter post
A gripping exploration of morality and class disparity, High and Low by Akira Kurosawa is a masterful blend of crime thriller and social commentary. #AkiraKurosawa #HighAndLow #ClassicCinema
Summary in an SMS/text message
Wealthy businessman Gondo's life turns upside down when his son's friend is kidnapped instead of his son. He faces moral dilemma: save the child or his finances. Intense police investigation and moral conflicts ensue. Classic Kurosawa!
Summary in a Facebook post
Just watched Akira Kurosawa's masterpiece "High and Low". A gripping tale of a wealthy businessman who risks everything to save a child's life, only to realize the child is not his own. A brilliant exploration of morality, class conflict, and the human condition. A must-watch for any film enthusiast! #Kurosawa #HighAndLow #ClassicCinema
Summary in a 1 minute read
High and Low is a 1963 Japanese crime drama directed by Akira Kurosawa. The film follows the story of Gondo, a wealthy businessman who is faced with a moral dilemma when he receives a ransom demand for his son who has been kidnapped. Gondo initially agrees to pay the ransom, but when he discovers that the kidnapper has mistakenly taken his chauffeur's son instead, he must decide whether to still pay the ransom or use the money to save the life of the innocent child. As the police investigate the case, they uncover a complex web of deceit and corruption in the city's underworld. Gondo's struggle with his conscience and the intense police investigation make for a gripping and thought-provoking film that explores themes of class, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. With masterful direction and powerful performances, High and Low is a must-see for fans of Kurosawa's work.
Summary in 1 page
- Kingo Gondo: A successful businessman who is faced with a difficult decision when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped.
- Shimura: Gondo’s loyal chauffeur who is devastated by his son’s kidnapping.
- Kawanishi: The kidnapper who demands a large ransom from Gondo.
- Chief Detective Tokura: The lead investigator on the kidnapping case.
- Reiko: Gondo’s wife who is initially against paying the ransom.
The film High and Low by Akira Kurosawa follows the story of Kingo Gondo, a wealthy businessman who is faced with a moral dilemma when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped. The film is a gripping crime drama that explores themes of class, morality, and the human condition.
The movie begins with Gondo, played by Toshiro Mifune, in a meeting with his colleagues discussing a potential merger that could make him even wealthier. However, his plans are interrupted when he receives a call from his chauffeur, Shimura, played by Takashi Shimura, informing him that his son has been kidnapped. The kidnapper, Kawanishi, played by Tsutomu Yamazaki, demands a ransom of 30 million yen (equivalent to around $300,000) for the safe return of the boy.
Gondo is faced with a difficult decision as paying the ransom would mean losing a significant amount of his fortune. He also fears that if he gives in to the kidnapper’s demands, it will set a dangerous precedent and make him a target for future kidnappings. However, Shimura is devastated by his son’s kidnapping and pleads with Gondo to pay the ransom.
As Gondo struggles with his decision, the police, led by Chief Detective Tokura, played by Tatsuya Nakadai, launch an investigation to track down the kidnapper. They discover that Kawanishi is a former employee of Gondo’s company who was fired due to embezzlement. This revelation adds another layer to the already complex situation.
Meanwhile, Gondo’s wife Reiko, played by Kyoko Kagawa, is initially against paying the ransom, believing that it will only encourage more kidnappings. However, as she sees the toll it takes on Shimura and Gondo, she begins to sympathize with their plight.
The film then takes a dramatic turn when it is revealed that the kidnapper has made a mistake and has actually kidnapped the chauffeur’s son instead of Gondo’s. This revelation leads to a tense and emotional confrontation between Gondo and Kawanishi, where Gondo must decide whether to pay the ransom or not.
The film’s title, High and Low, refers to the stark contrast between the wealthy and privileged world of Gondo and the poverty-stricken world of the kidnapper. Kurosawa masterfully portrays this contrast through the use of visual techniques, such as the use of high and low camera angles and the stark contrast between the luxurious Gondo residence and the slums where the kidnapper resides.
The film also delves into the themes of morality and the human condition. Gondo is faced with a difficult moral dilemma, and his decision ultimately reveals his true character. The film also explores the idea that anyone, regardless of their social status, is capable of committing heinous acts.
In conclusion, High and Low is a thought-provoking and gripping crime drama that showcases Kurosawa’s masterful storytelling and visual techniques. The film’s exploration of class, morality, and the human condition makes it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
FAQ
- What is the movie High and Low about?
The movie follows a wealthy executive who must make a difficult decision when his chauffeur’s son is kidnapped. - Who directed High and Low?
The movie was directed by Akira Kurosawa. - When was High and Low released?
The movie was released in 1963. - Is High and Low based on a true story?
No, the movie is based on the novel “King’s Ransom” by Ed McBain. - Who stars in High and Low?
The movie stars Toshiro Mifune, Tatsuya Nakadai, and Kyoko Kagawa. - What language is High and Low in?
The movie is in Japanese with English subtitles. - What genre is High and Low?
The movie is a crime drama. - Is High and Low in black and white or color?
The movie is in black and white. - What is the running time of High and Low?
The movie has a running time of 143 minutes. - What is the rating of High and Low?
The movie is rated PG-13 for some violence and brief nudity. - Where was High and Low filmed?
The movie was filmed in Japan. - Is High and Low available to stream?
Yes, the movie is available to stream on various platforms. - What awards did High and Low win?
The movie won the Mainichi Film Award for Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor. - Is High and Low considered a classic?
Yes, the movie is considered a classic in Japanese cinema. - What is the significance of the title High and Low?
The title refers to the stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor in society. - Does High and Low have any sequels?
No, there are no sequels to High and Low. - What is the main theme of High and Low?
The main theme is the moral dilemma of choosing between personal gain and the greater good. - Is High and Low a fast-paced movie?
No, the movie has a slow and deliberate pace. - What is the significance of the train in High and Low?
The train symbolizes the division between the wealthy and the poor. - Does High and Low have any cultural significance?
Yes, the movie is considered a commentary on the social and economic disparities in Japan. - What is the critical reception of High and Low?
The movie received widespread critical acclaim. - Is High and Low a suspenseful movie?
Yes, the movie is known for its intense and suspenseful plot. - What is the message of High and Low?
The movie conveys the message that one’s actions have consequences and can impact others. - Does High and Low have any memorable scenes?
Yes, the final confrontation between the kidnapper and the protagonist is a memorable scene. - What is the significance of the setting in High and Low?
The setting of the movie reflects the stark contrast between the wealthy and the poor in Japan. - Is High and Low a must-watch for fans of Akira Kurosawa?
Yes, the movie is considered one of Kurosawa’s best works.
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