High and Low

High and Low

Year: 1963

Runtime: 143 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Akira Kurosawa

DramaMysteryThrillerCrime

A wealthy industrialist’s life is thrown into turmoil when his son is kidnapped and a ransom demanded. Faced with an impossible choice, he must decide whether to pay the exorbitant sum or sacrifice the boy to protect his company and his family's future. This gripping thriller, directed by Akira Kurosawa and starring Toshiro Mifune, explores themes of class, morality, and the devastating consequences of desperate choices in post-war Japan.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – High and Low (1963)

Explore the full timeline and setting of High and Low (1963). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in a contemporary period reflecting post-war Japan, a time when the country was grappling with modernization and the impacts of consumerism. This backdrop influences the corporate decisions and moral dilemmas faced by Gondo, showcasing the societal pressures of the era.

Location

National Shoes Company, Gondo's House

The movie primarily takes place in the corporate environment of the National Shoes Company, known for producing high-quality footwear. Gondo's upscale home is also a focal point, symbolizing his wealth and the struggles he faces as he tries to protect his family's future.

🏢 Company 🏠 Residence

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

Main Characters – High and Low (1963)

Meet the key characters of High and Low (1963), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Kingo Gondo (Toshiro Mifune)

Gondo is a wealthy executive deeply invested in the future of his company, National Shoes. He is characterized by his integrity and moral fortitude as he navigates the crisis of his kidnapped son versus corporate ambition, ultimately revealing his humanity despite the pressures of the corporate world.

👔 Executive 💼 Businessman 👨‍👦 Father

Shinichi

Shinichi is the young son of Gondo's chauffeur who becomes the victim of the kidnapping. His abduction serves as the catalyst for Gondo's moral dilemma and highlights the innocent victims caught in the crossfire of adult decisions.

👶 Innocent 🎒 Child

The Kidnapper

The kidnapper is a troubled medical intern whose envy for Gondo's wealth drives him to commit the crime. His character arc reveals the psychological struggles behind his motives, ultimately leading to a moment of vulnerability as he confronts the ramifications of his actions.

👤 Criminal 😔 Troubled

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

Major Themes – High and Low (1963)

Explore the central themes of High and Low (1963), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Morality

The film explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by Gondo as he balances his wealth and responsibilities. His decisions regarding the ransom reveal deeper questions about ethics in business and personal sacrifice, highlighting the consequences of prioritizing profit over humanity.

💔 Sacrifice

Gondo's choice to pay the ransom for Shinichi represents a significant emotional sacrifice. The theme of sacrifice is further emphasized as he risks his financial stability and position within the company, showcasing the lengths one would go for the sake of another's life.

🏦 Capitalism

The tension between high-quality production and profit-driven motives illustrates the challenges within capitalism. Gondo's battle against the 'cheap shoes' faction exemplifies the struggle for integrity in a market that often values profit over quality.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:33

Unlock the Full Story of High and Low

Don't stop at just watching — explore High and Low in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what High and Low is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

High and Low Summary

Read a complete plot summary of High and Low, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

High and Low Summary

High and Low Timeline

Track the full timeline of High and Low with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

High and Low Timeline

More About High and Low

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about High and Low: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About High and Low

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