The
long gestating film adaption of the Tony Award winning musical, In the Heights, finally arrives as
composer Lin-Manuel Miranda’s precursor to his Hamilton makes a colorful splash with its music and visuals resulting
in a dazzling experience.
Washington
Heights, a largely Hispanic neighborhood in New York undergoes big changes as
businesses and residents depart. Usnavi (Anthony Ramos), a shopkeeper with
dreams of building a successful business abroad, has a crush on beautiful
Vanessa (Melissa Barrera), who yearns for a career in fashion design.
Meanwhile, Usnavi’s buddy, Benny (Corey Hawkins), loves Nina (Leslie Grace), whose
desire to attend college is jeopardized despite the sacrifices of her loving father
(Jimmy Smits). These relationships get tested as the city experiences a lengthy
power blackout, and interconnected lives come to a crossroads with an uncertain
yet hopeful future for their beloved community.
A
talented cast of newcomers adds to the authenticity of the film which unfolds like
a fable, introducing main characters through song and the rhythm of an
infectious soundtrack (embracing a variety of styles including rap); the songs are
as essential to the storyline as dialogue (and occasional subtitles).
The
film is at its best when it conveys a sense of belonging and the importance of family.
Full of good natured exuberance and spirit with its messages of daring to dream
and aspiring for a better future, there is a reverence for tradition and memories
of the past while facing the realities of life.
The
energetic pacing and rapid editing work in tandem with imaginative choreography
and dazzling camerawork. Freed from its
stage origins and directed as a gorgeous cinematic experience by Jon M. Chu,
this is a must for fans of musicals, one of the best in recent years.
**** of
**** stars
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