It finally became time to view Manuel's first production to turn into a feature length film. After In the Heights was delayed an entire calendar year, it was finally released dually in theaters and HBO Max this past weekend. Recognizing that I am a huge musical nut and the need to support my local theater justified why I wanted to see this on the largest screen possible, despite the 14.99 HBO Max draws from my checking account each month. I will add I was wary to see how this was adapted on the screen. After all, the last musical I paid to see in theaters was Cats for God's sake!
I was hard-pressed for answers. Does Jon M. Chu have what it takes to transition a beloved musical into a dazzling feature? Will this musical stand out in a year of four other major ones debuting? My answer is, absolutely yes to every question.
I can't remember the last time I had so much fun at the movies than seeing In the Heights. Sure there was a whole pandemic in between many of my last enjoyable theater visits, but it still made me want to get up out of my seat and be a part of the everlasting block party portrayed in the movie. I found the surreal aspects to the musical made it a fascinating choice. For a film so grounded in realistic problems facing Latin communities, a little fantasy goes a long way. I found the casting choices to be enjoyable and fun, especially with throwing the original Broadway cast in small roles, like Lin-Manuel himself as the Piragua Man and Christopher Jackson, the original Benny, as Mr. Softee. I understand fans of the original musical have found some changes in stories and song harmful to the transition from stage to film. However, being as I never saw the stage show, have nothing to compare to and cannot assess this critically.
In the Heights takes a note from the classic, 1930s era musicals of Busby Berkley with its large scale choreography. I found myself highly impressed with the endless amount of extras moving in synchronicity. Yet it's modern, rap and Latin based score make it unique. Director Jon M. Chu will be following this project with another musical that has been long stuck in development hell: the feature film adaptation of Wicked. I can now say I entirely trust him with the reins of such a prestigious opportunity.
I have found my current favorite film of the year about halfway through. Despite its critical acclaim, In the Heights only grossed about $11 million in it's opening weekend. Thought it is available on HBO Max, it demands to be seen on the big screen with its vibrant colors and wonderful audience reactions throughout. This film inspired me to go to the gym, because like the main character Usnavi, I recognized that I too deserve a beautiful Latina woman. Though a lengthy film, clocking in at around 143 minutes, it is worth every minute and every penny. Controversially, I find that the film may outshine West Side Story in 2021, especially that it is far more socially relevant than the occasionally tone-deaf yet seminal musical. There hasn't been a musical this vibrant, this alive, and this enjoyable since La La Land. Ladies and gentlemen, we have our first great awards contender of the year.
Grade: (9/10)
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