3502 - Deep Dive Discussion: High and Low (1963) August 1(Scott Phillips)
Course Description
Free to members
Deep Dive Discussion: High and Low (1963)
Directed by Akira Kurosawa
Discussion: 12:00–1:00 PM | OLLI Classroom & Online (No Screening – Watch on Your Own)
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion of High and Low, Akira Kurosawa’s masterful 1963 crime thriller that blends intense psychological drama with sharp social commentary.
Based on Ed McBain’s novel King’s Ransom, the film follows a wealthy executive faced with an agonizing moral dilemma after a child is kidnapped in a case of mistaken identity. Kurosawa’s use of striking visual composition, bold contrasts, and layered storytelling offers a compelling lens on issues of class, justice, and personal responsibility.
Due to the film’s length, we will not screen it during the session. Please watch it in advance — it’s available on several streaming platforms. You can check availability here: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/high-and-low
Whether you're a longtime Kurosawa admirer or new to his work, this deep dive offers a unique opportunity to explore one of cinema’s most gripping and socially conscious thrillers. Come ready to share your insights, questions, and interpretations in this engaging conversation.