The Mosley Review: In The Heights
The stage is where art originated. Whether its a high school stage, black box theatre or even the grandest stage on Broadway, the art of live performance and music has endured for countless generations. Evolution stepped in and the same art of performance and music translated to film, but not every stage production worked on screen. Some stage to film adaptations have struggled to capture that same magic and focused on the visuals instead of the story. Its a delicate blend of music and storytelling that few have mastered in a film adaptation. Like Rent, Les Miserables and Sweeney Todd before it, this Tony Award winning musical got the film treatment and I can honestly say that this film belongs on that same list of great stage to film adaptations. From the opening number, to the gorgeous visuals and to the stunning choreography, this film was a love letter to the Latin culture and it celebrates the hearts of so many dreamers. There is not a moment where I wasn't fully engaged and captivated by the story and touched by all the heartwarming performances.
Anthony Ramos was outstanding as Usnavi. His natural charm and swagger oozes all over every frame. I was glued to his journey as he strives to make his dream of seeing Puerto Rico come true. A leading role something so massive could be daunting, but Anthony glides through every scene with ease and carries the story with such warmth in his voice. Corey Hawkins nearly steals the film as Benny. His energetic performance exudes confidence, fun and I just couldn't get enough of his smiling face. He surprised me with his strong and soulful vocals. Leslie Grace was fantastic as Nina Rosario. I loved seeing her inner turmoil from feeling the pressures of returning home unaccomplished. The chemistry between her and Corey was fun, but at times a little one sided. Jimmy Smits plays her father Kevin and he is as powerful and engaging as you'd expect from the legendary actor. Melissa Barrera delivered a stellar performance as Vanessa and I loved her ever present designer vision. Her vocals were on point and I could see the love she had for Usnavi bloom naturally as the story progressed. Together they were electric. Olga Merediz takes hold of your heart as "Abuela" Claudia and doesn’t let go. She has so much gravitas and has the most powerful and beautiful number in the film that will have you in tears. Olga originated the role from stage to now and I can't imagine anyone else stepping in those well worn shoes. Lin-Manuel Miranda returns to the musical he created as a smaller character Piraguero, the Piragua Guy. It may be a smaller role, but he gets his moment to shine and reminds you why you love him.
The music is amazing and is the strong pulsating heart of the film. There are so many songs that will be stuck in yours and my head for years. The cinematography was just a chef's kiss and I loved all the musical sequences. The most elaborate sequences were most definitely "96,000" and "When the Sun Goes Down", but the best sequence was "Paciencia Y Fay". That entire sequence encapsulates the Latin experience of older times and even now. This film and the music was a love letter to all the joy, fun and love that is in every grain of a vibrant culture. This was the most fun I've had watching a musical in a long time and it is a must see on the big screen! Its currently in theaters and streaming on HBO Max if you can't make it out to theater. Let me know what you thought of the film or my review in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
