From Class Struggles to Total Anarchy – Why ‘High-Rise’ Is a Must-Watch
Tom Hiddleston’s ‘High-Rise’: A Stylish Dystopian Thriller That Pushes Boundaries
Introduction: A Dystopian Nightmare Unfolds
Imagine moving into a luxury high-rise, only to witness its descent into total chaos. That’s exactly what happens in High-Rise, Ben Wheatley’s visually stunning but deeply unsettling adaptation of J.G. Ballard’s 1975 novel. With Tom Hiddleston leading the cast, this film is a cocktail of class warfare, violence, and surreal social collapse. But does it deliver a powerful message, or does it get lost in its own ambition? Let’s dive in.
A Futuristic Setting That Feels Like the Past
Hiddleston plays Dr. Robert Laing, a charming yet emotionally detached doctor who moves into a state-of-the-art skyscraper designed by an enigmatic architect, played by Jeremy Irons. The building is meant to be a self-sustaining utopia, complete with swimming pools, supermarkets, and extravagant parties. However, it quickly becomes clear that the tower reflects a rigid class system: the wealthy elite occupy the top floors, while the middle and lower-class residents struggle below.
The Story: A Descent into Madness
What starts as minor inconveniences—power outages and food shortages—soon spirals into full-blown anarchy. The upper-class indulges in excess, while the lower floors riot in frustration. Laing, initially an observer, gets sucked into the chaos, forming alliances and making enemies. His affair with a seductive neighbor (Sienna Miller) and interactions with a struggling mother (Elisabeth Moss) only add to the tension.
The film’s most shocking moment? Laing cooking and eating a dog—a scene that sets the tone for the brutality ahead.
A Social Satire Wrapped in Violence
Much like Ballard’s novel, High-Rise explores the dangers of unchecked privilege and societal decay. The film’s lavish, retro-futuristic aesthetics make it visually captivating, but its slow pace and surreal storytelling may not be for everyone. It’s less about a coherent plot and more about atmosphere and metaphor.
The performances shine, especially Hiddleston’s understated portrayal of Laing. Luke Evans also delivers a powerful performance as a rebellious documentarian, adding tension to the unfolding disaster.
Critical Reception: Love It or Hate It?
High-Rise** received mixed reviews. Some critics praised its bold, artistic direction, while others found it too abstract and slow-moving. It holds a respectable score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many calling it a daring adaptation that stays true to Ballard’s vision. However, some viewers felt the film’s message got lost in excessive style over substance.**
Final Verdict: Should You Watch High-Rise?
If you enjoy dystopian thrillers that challenge societal norms, High-Rise is worth watching. Its disturbing imagery, powerful performances, and unique setting make it a memorable experience. However, if you prefer straightforward storytelling, you might find it frustrating.
Pros:
- Stunning cinematography and production design
- Thought-provoking social commentary
- Strong performances, especially from Tom Hiddleston and Luke Evans
Cons:
- Pacing can feel slow and meandering
- Surreal, abstract storytelling may not appeal to all viewers
Where to Watch
High-Rise** is currently available for streaming on various platforms, including Netflix. If you’re in the mood for something dark, stylish, and deeply unsettling, this might be your next watch.**
