Here’s what I can say with absolute certainty – In The Heights is a perfect entertainer this summer, especially if you’re planning to watch a film at the theatre after the lockdown.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, it is an energetic, vibrant and fun film that promises to beat the summer heat.
In The Heights is a musical drama centred around the lives of immigrants in search for a better life.
In a tight-knit community that functions like a family, each member works hard to create opportunities and push the boundaries that have controlled their circumstances for too long.
Each day they strive to get out of the rut, in hopes of living the American dream, a sueñito for a better life!
Image from In The HeightsThe dance sequences as well as the choreography by Christopher Scott are dazzling and a joy to watch. The songs by Lin Manuel Miranda are catchy, but not really as memorable as Hamilton.
Production designer, Nelson Coates has done a brilliant job of bringing an entire New York neighborhood to life on camera with colors, set design, dreamy/summery locations while retaining the authenticity of the story. Keep an eye out for the movement of not only the dancers, but props too!
What works very well for In The Heights is an authentic Latino voice – from the story taking place in a Dominican neighborhood in Washington Heights, to the dialogues as well as the lyrics mixed with English and Spanish.
In the Heights is successful in establishing a strong distinct voice.
Image from In The HeightsThe film is a visual treat for cinema lovers with smooth screenplay, likeable characters that are carefully developed and etched out with backstories to keep you engaged.
It keeps it real with conversations about societal pressures, stereotypes, constraints and desires to break away from the barriers that limit our growth.
The flaws lies mainly with the story which is very predictable, and the movie feels way too bloated. At 142 minutes, In the Heights is too long and sometimes unnecessarily so, with song sequences feeling redundant or unnecessary.
And while musicals by structure are a long project, the original musical play and the movie has significant changes, reduction or complete excision of scenes because of adaptation purposes.
Image from In The HeightsFinal Verdict
After the disturbing year we have all had, In The Heights serves as a mood changer. I only wish the songs were memorable enough for me to search and play on repeat, which a musical should do.
A production of this scale deserves a theatrical experience only. Unfortunately, anything less than a 34-foot-wide screen doesn’t do it justice.
Pops: 
[4/5]
In The Heights releases in cinemas on 18 June 2021.
NOTE: THE VIEWS AND OPINION EXPRESSED IN THIS ARTICLE ARE THOSE OF THE AUTHOR.
Edited by Nidhi Sahani
