Luke McWilliams gives his review of the 2021 musical drama, In the Heights, starring Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins and Leslie Grace.
Outside a small beachside store, Usnavi de la Vega (Anthony Ramos) tells a small group of children the story of Washington Heights. Flashing back, and we watch Usnavi as he opens a small corner shop in the Heights and goes about his day, meeting his friends and family on the block who all have their own sueñito (little dream).
Based on the stage musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda, best known for global phenomenon Hamilton, this movie is a celebration of colour, community and hope for a better life. The cast and characters all harbour dreams of a better future for themselves and their loved ones, while acknowledging the legacy of hard work and sacrifice that brought them to New York. Each character struggles with the want for moving on with their lives against the want of staying with their family and home in the Heights.
The movie is at its strongest during the Latino dance sequences, showing off the fantastic talents of our leads of relative unknowns. Like Hamilton however, the singing is wispy with simple lyrics, worlds away from gutsy, stand-out musicals like Jesus Christ Superstar, Little Shop of Horrors and contemporary classic, The Greatest Showman. The story also lacks a strong core obstacle and high stakes, instead being more of an exploration of the characters.
Verdict: Fans of Miranda’s work may get more out of this outing. 3 stars.
In the Heights is showing at Dendy and Palace cinemas.
Luke McWilliams | themovieclub.net
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