Movie Review: In the Heights (2021) on HBO Max
In the Heights is out of this world entertaining, a musical that will have you tapping your feet all the way through the film.
Usnavi runs a small convenience store in Washington Heights, NYC. He doesn't make much, but he saves every penny can in the hope he can resurrect his father's old hurricane-ravaged home in the Dominican Republic. Surrounding his shoppe is the vibrant Latino community, full of hopes and fears for their own futures, and this modern-day story is set to the music of Lin-Manuel Miranda scores and lyrics in a celebration of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in Twentieth Century America.
This film carries an amazing beat. Think Hamilton with a Latin buzz. And there is a ton of amazing dancing. All in tune with luscious storytelling. You can't help but smile through most of In the Heights, although there are delicious romance scenes, electric drama scenes, and at least one seriously emotional scene. You will make your way through all the feelings in this film, and be glad you did.
There's something for every age, the actors ranging from muchachas (children) to abuelas (grandmothers) and everyone in between. Leading the cast are Anthony Ramos as Usnavi (named for the first ship his father saw entering New York Harbor arriving in American, a ship sporting a sign saying U.S. Navy), Melissa Barrera as Vanessa, Gregory Diaz IV as Sonny, Olga Merediz as Abuela, Leslie Grace as Nina Rosario, and Jimmy Smits as Kevin Rosario. There is a "cast of thousands" in extras and dancers filling the streets, the trains, the clubs, and all the urban environments that is The Heights.
This film is 2 hours and 23 minutes, so it is long. But I don't think you'll have trouble being entertained or from being bored. It's non-stop action and singing and dancing. I'd rate In the Heights A^ for Awesome!
No comments:
Post a Comment