Backdrop preview High & Low The Worst X backdrop
High & Low The Worst X
7.6

High & Low The Worst X (2022)

Sep 09, 2022 1h 59m Action

Fists fly when Oya High’s street fighters defend themselves from a three-school alliance of brawlers.

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Directed by Norihisa Hiranuma

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Norihisa Hiranuma
Producer
  • Hiroyuki Ueno
  • Eriko Ogawa

Reviews

jin7177
8/10

Where to start? The last H&L movie I saw was "DTC –Yukemuri Junjo Hen– from HiGH&LOW" which left such a sour taste in my mouth I gave it a 1/10 wishing I could have given it a 0. A "H&L" movie without any fights and without any of the kick-ass music we've come to expect. A truly awful experience. Unforgettably bad.

So, coming into this, I was worried to say the least (I had not realized H&L:The Worst actually came after that movie - But it still had its problems, namely the forced humor centered around a certain female character). I needn't have worried, though. This movie brings back the relentless fighting and music that, while it doesn't surpass the original tunes, is still pretty good (and for fans of the original films' music... there are a few treats). This one is all about the team-ups, though, and we get that killer crossover that was hinted at in the first :The Worst film. And it's pretty sweet!

The whole thing is truly ridiculous. The characters are caricatures, the fighting is completely over the top, it's probably a bit too long, and the story is... umm, is there a story? Well, stories are overrated. I had a blast watching this!

Mar 4, 2023

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Thematic Analysis

This high-octane Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, High & Low The Worst X distinguishes itself through its exceptional pacing and meaningful stakes for its protagonists.

Director Norihisa Hiranuma brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2022, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of High & Low The Worst X took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 119 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 153 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2022, when this film is released:
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While High & Low The Worst X shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Terminator 2: Judgment Day, which focuses more on action than character development, High & Low The Worst X offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Crows Explode and Bloody Chainsaw Girl Returns: Giko Awakens explore similar territory, High & Low The Worst X stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 9, 2022
  • Runtime: 1h 59m

Where to Watch

Netflix
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