High-Rise (2015) – A Darkly Satirical Look at Class Struggle
Introduction
“High-Rise,” directed by Ben Wheatley and based on J.G. Ballard’s novel of the same name, is a 2015 dystopian drama that explores the effects of isolation and class division within a luxury apartment building. Starring Tom Hiddleston, Jeremy Irons, Sienna Miller, Luke Evans, and Elisabeth Moss, the film offers a visually striking and thematically rich portrayal of societal collapse.
Plot Summary
Set in the 1970s, the film follows Dr. Robert Laing (Tom Hiddleston), a young and detached physiologist who moves into a newly built high-rise tower on the outskirts of London. The building is designed as a self-contained community with luxurious amenities, but it also embodies a rigid class hierarchy. The wealthier residents occupy the upper floors, while the lower floors are inhabited by those less affluent.
Laing initially enjoys his new lifestyle and befriends his neighbors, including the charismatic documentarian Richard Wilder (Luke Evans) and the seductive Charlotte (Sienna Miller). However, as power outages and infrastructure failures become more frequent, tensions between the residents escalate. The building’s architect, Anthony Royal (Jeremy Irons), who lives in the penthouse, becomes a symbol of the inequities and excesses that fuel the growing unrest.
As the social order within the high-rise deteriorates, the residents descend into violent and hedonistic chaos, turning the building into a microcosm of societal breakdown. Laing finds himself caught in the middle of the escalating conflict, navigating the anarchy while trying to maintain his sanity.
Performance and Direction
Tom Hiddleston delivers a compelling performance as Dr. Laing, portraying the character’s initial detachment and gradual immersion into the high-rise’s chaos with subtlety and nuance. Jeremy Irons embodies the role of Anthony Royal with an air of aristocratic detachment and underlying menace, while Luke Evans brings raw intensity to his portrayal of the rebellious Richard Wilder. Sienna Miller and Elisabeth Moss provide strong supporting performances, adding depth to the film’s exploration of class and social dynamics.
Ben Wheatley’s direction is bold and visually inventive, capturing the oppressive and surreal atmosphere of the high-rise. Wheatley’s use of dark humor and satirical elements effectively highlights the absurdity and horror of the residents’ descent into anarchy. The film’s pacing, though deliberately slow at times, allows for a gradual build-up of tension and a deeper exploration of its themes.
Visual and Special Effects
The cinematography by Laurie Rose is visually stunning, using a muted color palette and striking compositions to evoke the 1970s setting and the high-rise’s oppressive environment. The production design is meticulously detailed, creating a stark contrast between the building’s initial allure and its eventual decay.
The film’s special effects are used sparingly but effectively, enhancing the sense of claustrophobia and chaos within the high-rise. The practical effects and set pieces contribute to the film’s visceral impact, immersing the audience in the building’s deteriorating world.
Themes and Analysis
“High-Rise” explores themes of class division, social isolation, and the fragility of civilization. The film serves as a critique of modern consumerism and the pursuit of luxury at the expense of social cohesion. The high-rise itself becomes a metaphor for societal inequality, with the upper floors representing the privileged elite and the lower floors symbolizing the oppressed masses.
The residents’ descent into barbarism reflects the thin veneer of civilization and the ease with which societal norms can collapse under pressure. The film also examines the human propensity for self-destruction and the role of power and privilege in perpetuating social divisions.
Streaming and Availability
“High-Rise,” the film is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch it on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu. Additionally, it is available for rent or purchase on Google Play, Vudu, and Apple TV.
Conclusion
“High-Rise” is a visually arresting and thematically rich film that offers a darkly satirical take on class struggle and societal collapse. With strong performances, particularly from Tom Hiddleston and Jeremy Irons, and bold direction by Ben Wheatley, the film provides a compelling and thought-provoking viewing experience. Whether you’re a fan of dystopian dramas or interested in films that explore social issues, “High-Rise” delivers a powerful and unsettling narrative.
