In the Heights

When I saw the play about five or six years ago, I had never heard of Lin-Manuel Miranda. It didn’t matter because my husband and I loved “In the Heights.” Then Miranda exploded on the scene with “Hamilton,” and “In the Heights” was kind of forgotten. They’ve made up for that oversight with the release of this enthusiastic and exciting movie. Even though it sometimes strays from the play, all in all this was a very enjoyable movie. The music and lyrics are top-notch and the cinematography and choreography are eye-popping and vibrant. Anthony Ramos plays Usnavi (great story about the origin of his name), who dreams of returning to his native Dominican Republic to reopen his late father’s bar. The entire story takes place in the Latino neighborhood of Washington Heights in Upper Manhatten. The movie is full of the flavors and sounds of various cultures coming together during a three day blackout as the temperatures soar to over 100 degrees and everything and everyone seems to be coming apart. Like Usnavi, everyone has high hopes and there are many stories and dreams to explore. They are dreaming of winning the big lottery jackpot and getting out of the Heights for good. Who will win it, who will end up with who, and who will fullfill their dreams and most importantly, what will happen to the Heights, makes for an interesting plot. I enjoyed all the performances, big and small. Some notable standouts were Jimmy Smits as the sacrificing father and Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn 99) one of the beauticians in the neighborhood salon. Miranda also has a role as a street vendor who sells shaved ice from his cart. I am sorry that this movie was released on HBO Max at the same time it came out in theatres, because it is the kind of movie that is meant to be seen on the big screen, in a theatre! If you’re thinking of watching it at home, I suggest you venture outside and go to your local movie theatre…and don’t forget the popcorn!!