In the Heights

By: Ashlee Dell’Arciprete

The film of the summer is finally here and it’s all about the top of Manhattan, New York City in a lovely neighborhood known as Washington Heights or simply, “The Heights.” In The Heights is a movie where everyone can belong. It’s where Hamilton meets…Well, In The Heights.” And you’ll be saying over and over again, “I’m making moves, I’m making deals.” Right off the bat, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway show turned film is insane with its dance numbers, epic dialogue and overall pure talent and it shows through the entirety of the film, making it a true powerhouse of a diverse fantastical film.

The film centers on Usnavi de la Vega (Anthony Ramos) as he’s figuring out his life like anyone in their late twenties. His family helps from Puerto Rico and the narrative is told as him retelling the story of the blackout to his four children. Anthony Ramos soars as Usnavi de la Vega. Usnavi is a nearly 30-year-old Washington Heights bodega employee with a giant love for his community and a passion for pursuing Vanessa.

Whether supporting or main, each character has their unique likeness such as Usnavi’s cousin and Kevin Rosario (Jimmy Smits). Some of the other cast includes Stephanie Beatriz as Carla, Ariana Greenblatt as Nina Rosario, Leslie Grace as grown-up Nina Rosario, Hamilton legend Chris Jackson as Mr. Softee, and Daphne Rubin-Vega as Daniela. The supporting cast helps to uplift the screens and prove that those from Washington Heights are there to stay.

The direction of Jon M. Chu is unstoppable. He directed the film extremely well and very much gave Step Up energy. From the dance numbers, small to large, Chu knows how to play the game. He and Lin-Manuel Miranda are pure powerhouses in their respective crafts and it’s pure joy to watch the magic happen on-screen. For all of the Hamilton fans, there’s even a few special Easter eggs during In the Heights, with one being during a voicemail. So, make sure to watch out for it or you may miss it. (Tip: It has a little something to do with King George.)

While it did receive criticism after its’ initial release, In the Heights proved to be the biggest crowd-pleaser of the pandemic. However, overall, it’s a must-watch for any family, single lady, single anybody who loves music, film, and more. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re not about to regret paying for yet another streaming service.