Tom Hiddleston cast as lead in Ben Wheatley’s High Rise

Last Updated on August 5, 2021

We've been keeping close tabs on Ben Wheatley's upcoming adaptation of J.G. Ballard's HIGH-RISE with our latest report on it coming just yesterday when we shared Wheatley's plans to keep the darker tone of the novel in his film version. Today we've learned that the KILL LIST and SIGHTSEERS director has found his lead for HIGH-RISE as Screen Daily is reporting that THOR star Tom Hiddleston has joined the cast in the lead role of Robert Laing.

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.

Hiddleston will play Robert Laing, a young doctor seduced by the high-rise and its creator, the visionary architect Anthony Royal. Laing discovers a world of complex loyalties, and also strikes up a relationship with Royal’s devoted aide Charlotte.

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.

I don't know about you, but I'm pretty stoked about this casting news! Hiddleston is a rather charismatic actor who should be able to deliver an incredible performance under Wheatley's direction.

Wheatley himself says of Hiddleston's involvement:

“I am very excited to be working with Tom Hiddleston on this project. He is the perfect Laing to me. He brings an intelligence, vulnerability and humour to his roles, be they art-house or blockbuster that will make Laing come alive. It’s also a great privilege to be working with Ballard’s seminal book.”

Below you will find some early artwork for HIGH-RISE. Keep checking in with AITH for more on HIGH-RISE as we hear it.