‘In the Heights’ might be the next ‘Hamilton’
It’s no secret that 2020 has not been kind to the film industry. Feature film production has halted, social distancing measures have been implemented, and movie theaters have closed down — virtually recorded content and at-home streaming has become the new norm.
In response to these changes, release of the major motion picture In the Heights, directed by Crazy Rich Asians mastermind Jon M. Chu, has been pushed back an entire year, from June 2020 to June 2021. With a production budget of $15 million USD, the financial hit of an at home release would be disastrous. The musical, based on the book by Quiara Alegría Hudes with music by Hamilton’s own Lin-Manuel Miranda, was first performed live in 2005. Set in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City, this musical new rendition is sure to be worth the wait.
Get ready to see familiar faces.
In the lead role of Usnavi, you’ll recognize actor Anthony Ramos from his parts as John Laurens and Philip Hamilton in Hamilton. In addition to his role as producer, you’ll also recognize Lin-Manuel Miranda, Hamilton himself, as Mr. Piragüero. The star-studded cast also includes Stephanie Beatriz from Brooklyn Nine-Nine and Dasha Polancho from Orange is the New Black. If their past work is any indication of their upcoming release, then In the Heights is sure to impress.
Get ready to face social justice issues.
In the Heights explores challenges specific to residents of the predominantly Hispanic neighborhood, Washington Heights, on the most Northern end of Manhattan. According to Data USA, 64.4% of residents are native Spanish speakers, and 47.4% of residents were born outside of the United States.
Issues such as gentrification and systemic poverty are main plot points, and the movie will surely bring awareness to plights that are specific to marginalized minority communities. Audiences will hopefully walk away from the film with a better understanding of how privilege works in the United States.
Get ready to experience a musical like no other.
The success of Hamilton creates high hopes for In the Heights. While this might add to the pressures the production team is under, Lin-Manuel Miranda has proved his professionalism and talent, and his new passion project is sure to impress. In charge of the music and lyrics, he is likely to provide another fantastic experience that pulls viewers away from their reality and into his world for a 2 full hours.
One thing is for sure, In the Heights will provide a warm welcome back into theaters next summer, and certainly has the potential to pass Hamilton up.
