Denzel and Spike's Crime Thriller Faces Early Streaming Hurdle

The upcoming crime thriller "Highest 2 Lowest" is set to hit theaters in August 2025, but there's a twist that might affect its success. The film, directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington, is highly anticipated due to the duo's past collaboration in "Inside Man. " This reunion has sparked interest from major studios like A24 and Apple Studios, who are backing the project. The decision to release "Highest 2 Lowest" on Apple TV+ just two weeks after its theatrical debut is raising eyebrows. Typically, movies enjoy a longer exclusive run in theaters before hitting streaming platforms. This quick transition to streaming could impact the film's box office performance. Historically, Denzel Washington's crime movies have performed well, with many grossing over $100 million worldwide. His last 10 crime films show a strong track record, indicating that "Highest 2 Lowest" could have been a significant box office hit with a traditional release strategy. The early streaming release might discourage viewers from rushing to theaters, opting instead to wait for the convenience of home viewing. This strategy could backfire, especially considering the star power and genre appeal of the film. Apple's past theatrical releases have had mixed results, with some underperforming despite high budgets. This history might be influencing their decision to limit "Highest 2 Lowest's" theatrical run. However, given Denzel's proven track record, this move seems counterintuitive. The film's release plan is a gamble. While it aims to drive interest to Apple TV+, it risks undermining the theatrical experience that many moviegoers value. The decision to prioritize streaming so early could be a misstep, especially for a film with such high potential. It will be interesting to see how this strategy plays out and whether it affects the film's overall success.