In The Heights
Starring: Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins, Melissa Barrera, Leslie Grace
Directed By: John M. Chu
Rated: PG-13
If you’ve read my reviews for a while, you know that musicals are a major obsession. Just let me watch people confront their feelings through song and dance, and I’m happy. In The Heights is based on a famous stage musical following the intertwining lives of the people living in Washington Heights, New York. At the center of it all is Usnavi, a bodega owner who dreams of moving to where he was born in the Dominican Republic to re-open his father’s bar.
The musical was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda (based on a book by Quiara Alegria Hudes). This was pre-Hamilton and it had an impressive Broadway run. Admittedly I wasn’t too familiar with the stage show. Still, after I became obsessed with Hamilton last year, I was very excited to see another one of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s shows.
If you like musicals, you’re going to have a blast with this movie. It’s a vibrant spectacle that’s perfect for the summer. John M. Chu, who previously directed Crazy Rich Asians, brings an infectious energy to every scene. His direction is wonderfully imaginative. You can’t help but smile while watching this film, thanks to Chu’s many stylistic choices. Washington Heights becomes a stage for the characters to tell their stories. Whether it’s Usnavi’s bodega, the neighborhood salon, or an apartment balcony, every set is utilized wonderfully. The dazzling sights paired with stunning musical numbers make In The Heights a feast for the eyes and ears.
The film contains a wonderful ensemble of characters focusing on the Latino community in Washington Heights. It’s a beautiful story that celebrates the importance of coming together to support each other. Anthony Ramos leads the cast as the charming Usnavi, the bodega owner, set on returning to the Dominican Republic. If there’s one thing I’ve seen from A Star is Born, Hamilton, and In The Heights, it’s that Anthony Ramos is a star. He can sing, dance, and act. Not to mention he has plenty of charisma. Usnavi is a wonderful leading character who you can’t help but love.
The supporting cast is exceptionally talented, with Corey Hawkins, Melissa Barrera, and Leslie Grace turning in show-stopping performances. Hawkins shines as Benny, the dispatch worker. Leslie Grace is Nina, the diligent college student who got out of Washington Heights for Stanford. Melissa Barrera is excellent as Vanessa, the neighborhood salon worker who dreams of being a fashion designer.
Olga Merediz is fantastic as Abuela Claudia. She ties the community together with kindness and strength. Merediz’s on-screen presence is deeply affecting, particularly her solo number “Paciencia Y Fe,” a standout in the film.
Well, we have to talk about the songs considering this is a musical. This is a production. The musical numbers are show-stopping with incredible choreography. My personal favorites are “In The Heights” (an exciting opening number that immediately sets the tone for the movie) “96,000,” (an incredible ensemble pool sequence that makes you want to dance) “The Club,” and “Blackout,” but there’s something for everyone here. Each musical number is a visual spectacle full of energy.
In The Heights is a vibrant and beautiful musical that celebrates the importance of community. This is the perfect summer musical. You don’t want to miss it!
My Rating: 9/10