Good evening, a week ago I got a chance to see the film adaptation of the J.G. Ballard’s 1975 novel ‘High-Rise’, directed by Ben Wheatley and starring Tom Hiddleston; an advance preview showing in Sheffield, followed by a Q&A with the director. The screen play was written by Amy Jump.

If you’ve read the book, you’ll know the plot. Dr Robert Laing moves in to a brand new flat in a forty story tower block. Eventually tensions between lower floor residents and the residents of the upper floors turns the block in to a war zone as everyone goes slowly mad.

I loved the book.

I love the film too. There were changes but they didn’t take away from the overall plot. The score, and use of specific songs in different arrangements all the way through the film to suggest continuity from party to party as the residents go quickly mad. The frenetic pace and amazing sets really add to the story. The acting was excellent and actors perfect in their roles.

I was especially pleased that they included the barbecued Alsation scene.