I’d almost forgotten about High Rise, but to remind me the first picture from the movie has arrives, via Empire, showing Tom Hiddleston looking rather moody in an elevator.
The film comes from A Field In England and Sightseers director Ben Wheatley, based on J.G. Ballards dystopian novel.
One of the more interesting things is that while there’s been a lot of interest by movie types in the novel over the years, many considered it unfilmable. However now it’s in the can, with Hiddleston starring alongside starring alongside the likes of Jeremy Irons, Sienna Miller, James Purefoy, Luke Evans and Elisabeth Moss.
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’
It should be in cinemas later this year.