‘In the Heights’ review: a love letter to Latin America
“In the Heights” is one of the best movies to come out in 2021, and that’s not up for discussion. Before watching it, I already knew it would be a masterpiece, like every other project led by the genius Lin-Manuel Miranda. The original Broadway show came out in 2008, and many of its stars appeared in the movie either as backup dancers or secondary characters, preserving the authenticity of the songs and making for an incredible adaptation. But the new cast elevated the experience with their talents as well. Anthony Ramos was the perfect choice to play Usnavi, and Sabrina Barreras, Leslie Grace and Corey Walker breathed new life into their respective characters. I have a serious crush on all of them.
A love letter to Latin-American culture, “In the Heights” details the struggles of a block in Washington Heights where everyone is chasing a dream relentlessly, getting by through a sense of community that transforms neighbors into families. The musical captures how essential music and dancing are to Latin Americans, who always preserve the ability to celebrate and love each other despite the difficulties of everyday life.
The flawless storytelling of each song is characteristic of Miranda, who is also able to reveal and develop a full cast of characters in synch with genre-bending music. “In the Heights” features elements of Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, Bolero, Reggaetón, Hip-hop and even Tango. The musical numbers are blessed by one-of-a-kind compositions by Alex Lacamoire, who also worked with Miranda on “Hamilton,” and choreography by Christopher Scott. The most remarkable choreography is featured in songs like “96,000,” “Carnaval del Barrio,” “In the Heights” and “The Club.” It is a truly special feeling to watch all those familiar and hot dances on a big screen with the knowledge that they’ll be seen all over the world. This musical is telling the world that we are not invisible. It’s impossible not to feel proud of Latinx culture and heritage when watching the movie and realizing how far we’ve come, how much we’ve influenced and how much potential we still have.
Another unique aspect of Miranda’s work is that he ensures everyone in the cast gets a moment to shine, both the protagonists and supporting roles alike. Such moments include Abuela’s heart-wrenching performance of “Paciencia y Fe” which details the immigration struggles of the first generations of Latinos coming to America. The movie succeeds at showing the different generational struggles of immigration, giving a complete portrait of an issue that is still relevant today because countless undocumented children are constantly attacked by an American system that tells them they’re undeserving of dignity and equal treatment. “In the Heights” shows the fighter spirit of immigrants and inspires sympathy for a group of marginalized people.
From a personal standpoint, I found Nina’s character to be the most relatable. She is a hard-working Puerto Rican who got accepted to Stanford and became the first of her family to pursue a degree abroad, perceived as the pride of her block, but Nina details a story of alienation once she arrived at that alleged place of big dreams and possibility. The loneliness of international students arriving in a place that only speaks in stereotypes is often overlooked by mainstream media. But Nina represented those of us who’ve been there before and have considered walking away from that emotionally draining environment. Hers is a story of resilience and hope, much needed in times like these. Besides, Leslie Grace’s portrayal of the character was magnificent.
“In the Heights” is an emotional rollercoaster capable of taking you from the ecstasy of Latin dancers to genuine tears, all in the span of a few songs. For those questioning their dreams and their futures, or missing the warmth of home and family, this is the movie you must see this summer.
