In the Heights Now in Theaters and on HBO Max

In the Heights is a new musical based in Washington Heights in New York City. The music is written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, known for Broadway smash-hit Hamilton, and directed by Jon M. Chu, best known as the director of hit film Crazy Rich Asians. The film is now showing in theaters all across the country, as well as streaming on HBO Max until July 11.

The first eight minutes of In the Heights is available on YouTube. The film is an on-screen adaptation of the musical of the same name. The story follows Usnavi de la Vega, a first-generation Dominican-American and the owner of a small bodega, living in Washington Heights. From the very beginning of the film, the streets are filled with music, as a wide array of distinct characters is introduced.

The film takes place in a small-knit community that is on the brink of change, whether the characters realize it or not. The community is emphasized throughout the film, as the audience watches the characters struggle and overcome the challenges of being a minority while living in New York City. The prospect of a winning lottery ticket provides many of the characters with the dream of changing their lives forever.

Combining Latin rhythms and dance with hip-hop-style lyrics, the film is a visual and auditory spectacle. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s musical prowess combined with the direction of acclaimed director Jon M. Chu has created a movie musical sensation that has set a high standard for all other musicals that will come after. Despite being announced for release for June 2020, and trailers for the film dating as far back as December of 2019, production was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, after nearly a year long wait, the film has been released in theaters as well as streaming on HBO Max.