Before Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda brought In the Heights to Broadway. Now, the hit musical has been turned into a film that will be released this year. The movie musical was originally supposed to make its theatrical debut last summer, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed its release by a whole year. It will now land in theaters and on streaming simultaneously. With such a talented cast, an amazing soundtrack, and story, In the Heights will no doubt be one of 2021’s most exciting films.
In the Heights first debuted on Broadway in 2008, with a playbook by Quiara Alegría Hudes (who also wrote the film’s screenplay) and music and lyrics by Miranda. The film will follow a bodega owner, Usnavi de la Vega, a role Miranda originated on stage, among a handful of other principal characters. Directed by Crazy Rich Asians’ Jon M. Chu, the film will follow the same central story from the musical play. Set in New York City’s Washington Heights, the film is chock-full of dance numbers, a star-studded cast that includes Hamilton’s Anthony Ramos, and a story that explores the immigration experience.
The musical film was set for release on June 26, 2020, but was delayed by Warner Bros. With a new release date on the horizon, here’s everything to know about In the Heights, including who’s in the cast, story details, and more.
In The Heights Release Date
Mark a spot on the calendar because In the Heights will be released theatrically and to HBO Max June 18, 2021 — nearly a full year to the day of its originally scheduled debut. The film is one of many on the Warner Bros. slate, including Dune, that will be available for streaming on HBO Max, with the studio anticipating theaters will not be fully open yet and offering a way for audiences to continue watching big movies from the comfort of their homes. In the Heights will be available on the streaming service for 31 days after its initial release.
In The Heights Cast
Ramos will play the main role of Usnavi, a character he also played during In the Heights’ run at the Kennedy Center in 2018. Joining him will be Leslie Grace as Nina Rosario, Corey Hawkins as Benny, Melissa Barrera as Vanessa, Olga Merediz as Usnavi’s grandmother Claudia (a role she originated in the Broadway musical), Daphne Rubin-Vega as Daniela, Gregory Diaz IV as Sonny de la Vega, Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s Stephanie Beatriz as Carla, Russian Doll’s Dascha Polanco as Cuca, Jimmy Smits as Kevin Rosario, and Marc Anthony as Mr. de la Vega. Miranda will also appear in a small role as Mr. Piraguero.
In The Heights Songs & Story Details
Set in Washington Heights, In the Heights follows the story of a block that is disappearing, according to Usnavi. The bodega owner grapples with closing down and leaving his neighborhood behind. The musical, which is set over the course of three days, features three other lead characters — Benny, Vanessa, and Nina — chasing their dreams, fighting for a neighborhood that is facing gentrification, with the film’s themes also touching upon subjects like immigration in the Latinx community in New York. Fans can also expect to hear the songs from the Broadway musical, including a new original song Miranda wrote for the credits sequence.
Some of the most crucial numbers from the play will likely make their way into the film, including the aptly titled “In the Heights.” It’s the opening song and explains the characters and storyline that will play out over the course of the film; “Paciencia Y Fe,” which tells the story of Abuela Claudia’s family and their immigration to the U.S.; “When the Sun Goes Down,” which is sung by Benny and Nina as they work out a long-distance relationship; and “Breathe,” Nina’s big number about a decision that affects her life moving forward.
In The Heights Trailer
The latest trailer for In the Heights is stunning and uplifting. An official trailer was put out by WB in December 2019, months ahead of the film’s original theatrical release, and viewers got a taste of what to expect from the film adaptation of In the Heights. There was a vibrant use of color, singing and dancing, comedic beats, and more. The more recent trailer revealed a bit more about the story and character motivations. Watch it above!
