2021 Summer Movie Season - In The Heights: Review & Analysis

 

Patience & Faith!!!!! Cinematic Adaptation of Lin Manuel-Miranda's Acclaimed Play Is A Summer Crowd Pleaser!!!!!

Review By: Brandon Porter

Viewing Method: In Theaters

Once Upon A Time In Washinton Heights

Story Description

Deep in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, Unsavi de La Vega (Anthony Ramos), runs a convenience store in the Latino-heavy neighborhood of Washington Heights. He is a pretty vivid dreamer and longs for a life that is richer and more fulfilling than his own. He is kept sane by the connections he has made with the various residents of the neighborhood from his friends Benny (Corey Hawkins) and Sonny (Gregory Diaz IV) while also catching eyes for local neighborhood girl Venessa (Melissa Barrena). When the soul of the town is threatened to be wiped away, Unsavi must be forced to choose between manifesting the dream he's always worked towards or preserving the dreams of the hood he calls home.

Unsavi chatting it up with Benny and his cousin Sonny

Film Review

Lin Manuel-Miranda is making quite the splash in Hollywood these days. From his various songwriting credits on big-time cinematic projects to on-screen appearances and voice roles, Miranda's resume is becoming quite extensive as his talent for lyrical storytelling starts to become more pronounced. His latest gift to the world is in the form of one of his most acclaimed Broadway works becoming a big-screen event. Helmed by Crazy Rich Asians director John M Chu, In The Heights brings the streets of Washington Heights to life in a vibrant and uplifting outing that aims to be the ultimate crowd-pleaser of the still young SMS. After seeing the movie for myself, In The Heights is just what the doctor ordered for anyone looking for a feel-good movie to get lost in. Given director John M Chu's background with music and dance-centric films, he feels right at home in a film that respects the Broadway source material while also making it accessible to people jumping into this story for the first time.

Your city, your hood, your pride.

From a performance perspective, it's very difficult to give the MVP to just one member of this ultra-talented cast that has been assembled. But if we're going to start, let's give the first rose to our leading man Anthony Ramos. An up-and-coming star in his own right, Ramos has solidified himself as a capable leading man with a breakout performance that is only going to propel him to new heights in his career. His swagger, musical prowess, vulnerability, and a strong sense of Latino pride make him an ideal protagonist to follow through the story. Ramos isn't alone either. It's rare that a movie has a supporting element so strong that it enhances the immersion of the story. Every supporting character is lovable and has motivations that make them more than just cardboard cutouts or stereotypes. Corey Hawkins, Leslie Grace, Melissa Barrera, Gregory Diaz IV, Jimmy Smits, Olga Merediz, and others all brought such heart and soul to these characters that it is hard to single out one standout performance to compliment the leading man. Refreshing to see a film where almost everyone is in their element and working efficiently. Does wonders for a film's entertainment value.  

Abuela Claudia surrounded by her entire chosen family.

What I really appreciated about this film is its cultural and emotional fiber made it both uplifting and poignant at times. Latino culture is unapologetically showcased throughout the film and it was a joy to watch. With discussions about representation still prevalent in the industry, In The Heights didn't think twice in reminding the audience of the importance of positively depicting the Hispanic heritage that encompasses the heart of Washington Heights. That in itself made the story more personal and authentic without it feeling like it was throwing pridefulness in your face. The musical numbers were obviously a highlight with so many standouts that were emotional, funny, uplifting, and straight-up gorgeous visually. What the film was able to do visually speaks to the advantages of adapting a broadway property into a film and using these techniques to enhance the story and world. Overall, In The Heights is a feel-good film that celebrates the culture of its characters and respects them in a way that makes them authentically human. Chu and Miranda crafted an adaptation that is a colorful and faithful adaptation of the broadway play and a love letter to the spirit, strength, and all-around heart and soul of El Barrio. 

Rating and Final Thoughts

A show-stopping musical that is brimming with soulful vibrancy, cultural fiber, and entertainment value 
that is destined to make the heart sing and dance with glee. 

Keep it cool like Piraqua!!!