Written by Lin Manuel Miranda, Hamilton: An American Musical was sent to Broadway in 2015. Since then this musical has taken the world by storm, hitting every corner of the globe and making fans everywhere. So when it was revealed that they had an original cast recording coming to Disney+, well the world went insane again.
As a fan I was over the moon at this announcement, it’s a Sung-through musical (a musical with no spoken words) so most already knew the plot and was expecting a heartbreaking show. But I don’t think anyone expected to be as emotionally exhausted as they were once the credits rolled.
It’s worth mentioning that it wasn’t necessarily the acting that made this film for me. Although it was beyond fantastic.
Filmed over 3 different shows, with closeups and such being filmed desperately, the director of this production (RadicalMedia) was insane. Using dolly-shots, cranes and Steadicams, you felt like you had the best seat in the house, capturing every drip of sweat (and spit…Groff). The attention to detail was beyond words and something that will inspire me forever.
Trying to capture a show as busy as this is no easy feat. There are dancers, main actors, turntables and props that are vital to the plot, as well as the factual and entertaining music to accompany it. This was all done flawlessly.
As for the acting and starting off with Lin Manuel Miranda, the writer and obviously the lead Alexander Hamilton. Subtle acting and flawless facial expressions that draw you in and keep you learning and feeling every emotion he wants you to feel.
Interestingly, it wasn’t Hamilton that carried this production, more Leslie Odom Jr, especially during Room Where It Happens. He was incredible whenever he graced the screen and it certainly felt like he belonged on the stage.
It really feels like this is a new beginning and partnership for musical theatre and streaming services, one I think deserves to prosper.
10/10 Stars
The Film Nerdette