High and Low ¹⁹⁶³

High and Low revolves around the dramatic clash between two worlds: the upper class and the poor underclass. The story follows Kingo Gondo (Toshiro Mifune), a wealthy businessman whose young son is kidnapped. What initially seems like a simple kidnapping soon turns out to be much more complex when it is discovered that the kidnappers have accidentally taken the wrong child — not Gondo's son, but the driver's son. This sets in motion a terrifying chain of events that turns Gondo's life upside down.

Kurosawa uses this suspenseful kidnapping as a backdrop to explore social inequality and the moral dilemmas facing those involved. Gondo is forced to make choices that will determine not only his own future, but also that of the child he was never meant to help, and the world he is trying to protect. As Gondo races against time to save the child, the film becomes a study in human emotion, responsibility, and the line between good and evil.

High and Low is not only a suspenseful thriller, but also a powerful social commentary. The film masterfully depicts the divide between the rich and poor classes, and highlights the choices people make depending on their position in society. Kurosawa's character development, visual style, and use of space add to the film's intensity, while challenging the viewer to consider moral responsibility in an unequal world.

Together with the EYE Film Museum, we can now enjoy a beautifully restored version of this iconic work, which has enriched film history with its powerful themes and dramatic intensity. High and Low is considered one of the most important thrillers of all time, and Kurosawa's brilliant ability to combine suspense and social criticism has given the film a lasting influence on both Japanese and international cinema.