Denzel Washington and Spike Lee’s Cannes First: Why They’ve Never Attended Together Before
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Denzel Washington and Spike Lee, two giants of cinema with a long and fruitful collaboration, have surprisingly never appeared together at the Cannes Film Festival—until now. Their latest project, Highest 2 Lowest, marked the first time the duo walked the prestigious Cannes red carpet as a pair, with Washington receiving a surprise honorary Palme d’Or during the film’s premiere.
Highest 2 Lowest is a contemporary reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s classic High and Low (1963), set against the gritty backdrop of New York City. Washington stars as David King, a powerful music mogul caught in the midst of a kidnapping plot. The film also showcases rising stars A$AP Rocky and Ice Spice, adding a fresh dynamic to Lee’s visionary storytelling.
Despite their many collaborations over the years, this Cannes debut together was notable not only for its glamour but also for the palpable significance of their enduring partnership. Spike Lee has hinted that Highest 2 Lowest might be their final film together, citing Washington’s conversations about retirement.
Washington’s presence at Cannes, crowned by the honorary Palme d’Or, underscores the deep respect and artistic synergy between the two. Their journey—from powerful storytelling to shared cinematic milestones—continues to captivate audiences worldwide, making this first joint Cannes appearance a historic moment in film history.
