Anyone who follows musical theater (and many people who don’t) are very familiar with “Hamilton”, the current broadway hit written, composed, and starring Lin-Manuel Miranda. “Hamilton” however, isn’t Miranda’s first musical, or even his first acclaimed show. That distinction goes to “In The Heights”, the 2008 Tony Award winner for best musical. According to an article in the Hollywood Reporter, “In The Heights” may finally be making the jump to the big screen. Previously in development at Universal Studios, the film was canceled in 2011 due to a $37 million budget. The Weinstein Co. has signed on to produce “In The Heights” with a proposed $15 million budget. Miranda will still be heavily involved in the production, but it is unclear if he will still star in the film.
“In The Heights” takes place in the Washington Heights neighbourhood of New York. The show centers around Usnavi, a local shop owner who dreams of moving to the Dominican Republic where his parents immigrated from. It explores themes of poverty, family, and loyalty, all accompanied by fantastic hip-hop songs.
For a taste of what we might see in the movie, check out this performance from the 2008 Tony Awards.
