Spike Lee, Denzel Washington Reunite for Final Cannes Film Ahead of Actor Retirement

Spike Lee and Denzel Washington reunited for their fifth collaboration in the film "Highest 2 Lowest," premiering at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, marking their first project together in 18 years since "Inside Man." Lee expressed surprise at the long gap but noted their seamless working relationship, though he indicated this might be their final film together due to Washington's talks of retirement despite continuing to sign new deals. "Highest 2 Lowest" is an English adaptation of Akira Kurosawa's "High and Low" and features Washington in the role of a music mogul caught in an extortion plot. The film will be released in U.S. cinemas in August 2025 and subsequently on Apple TV+ in September 2025. Lee also reflected on their past collaborations, emphasizing the lasting impact of their work beyond awards, including Washington's acclaimed performance in "Malcolm X." Washington was honored with an honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes but did not attend the press conference, instead returning to the U.S. for other commitments.