I had the pleasure of viewing High-Rise at a recent film festival. I went in with high expectations, which gave way to boredom and the anticipation of the end of the showing.
The actors absolutely fulfilled all expectations. The performances are all highly nuanced and look natural, rather than put on. Hiddleston goes above and beyond to give one of the arguably best performances of his career. The mise-en-scene of each scene is meticulously crafted and beautifully shot.
So what, exactly, tipped high expectations into boredom?
For one, the film never does come together, never gives off the feeling of a cohesive whole, but rather of a series of vignettes. Each vignette is, of course, beautifully shot, but the disconnect they cause makes it impossible to empathize with any of the characters.
Additionally, suspension of disbelief is near impossible. Why do the characters make the choices they do? What drives them to this madness?
Overall, I would recommend this piece to very loyal fans of any of the actors or to cinephiles with a high degree of patience.
6.5/10
