Hamilton

I’m incredibly fond of the founding of this country, and Hamilton seeks to understand not only the origins of this nation but the imperfect people attempting to create a perfect nation imperfectly. How at times, one’s intention to create something great is overshadowed by his/her flawed character and sense of morality. Miranda’s story falls short of deifying America’s founders and portrays them as people just like us.

Thomas Kail’s direction does what an adaptation is supposed to do, capture what audiences love about the original play. If you’re a fan of Broadway’s Hamilton, you’re going to love this film. I could drone on and on about the musical itself. I’d say nothing different than what has already been said. The only change in the play was the removal of two of the three F-bombs. My guess is they were removed to avoid an R-rating for language if it ever makes it to theaters. This was the first time I’ve seen Hamilton in its entirety in any form. Man, this is good…as good as the hype.

“…what an adaptation is supposed to do, capture what audiences love about the original play.”

As good as Hamilton is, if you’re not a fan of musicals in general, it’s not going to change your mind—considering “it’s a what about who?!?” Also, as good as the movie is and how brilliantly it captures the spirit of the play, It’s still a film of a stage performance. It’s not like being in a real theater. Even in 4K, it’s not the same, but it’s sure damn close.

Minor faults aside, the right choice was made keeping Hamilton on the stage, in its original 2 hour and 40-minute runtime, and not shot on location or a sound stage. Honestly, musicals were meant to be seen on the stage. There’s a magic that comes from the intimacy of a small theater in front of an audience. I hope Disney learned its lesson from when they ruined Into the Woods or Fox…now Disney…ruined Sweeney Todd.

Disney’s Hamilton will stand as the quintessential archival performance of one of Broadway’s contemporary musicals, and it will not disappoint. Can’t wait for the Hamilton parade at Disneyland that ends with a duel between Mickey and Donald.