There’s been a lot of interest in Ben Wheatley’s take on JG Ballard’s dystopian tale High Rise, to the point that for some film fans, it’s the most anticipated movie of 2016. Now we can get our first taste, and there’s no doubt that it’s looking absolutely gorgeous, with Wheatley creating a mix of the 60s/70s and the future.
Many have said over the year that Ballard’s book is unfilmable, but it looks like they’re given it a damn good go, even if the reviews from film festivals have been decidedly mixed.
Here’s the synopsis: ‘High-Rise centers on a new residential tower built on the eve of Thatcher’s England, at the site of what will soon become the world’s financial hub. Designed as a luxurious solution to the problems of the city, it is a world apart.
‘Enter Robert Laing (Hiddleston), a young doctor seduced by the high-rise and its creator, the visionary architect Anthony Royal (Irons). Laing discovers a world of complex loyalties, and also strikes up a relationship with Royal’s devoted aide Charlotte (Miller).
‘But rot has set in beneath the flawless surface. Sensing discord amongst the tenants, Laing meets Wilder, a charismatic provocateur bent on inciting the situation. Wilder initiates Laing into the hidden life of the high-rise and Laing is shocked at what he sees.
‘As the residents break into tribal factions, Laing finds himself in the middle of mounting violence. Violence that he also finds emerging in himself’.
The movie hits UK cinemas next March.
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