Tick Tick Boom (Movie Review, Non Spoiler)

Many of us know of the show RENT and the impact it had on Broadway musicals, Jonathan Larson who brought this show to use, was taken far too soon has a story that needs to be told. This film which is Lin Manuel Miranda's directorial debut tells that story. With Andrew Garfield stepping into the role, this is his story about his art, his life, and the people he loved. In some cinemas but available on Netflix, Tick Tick Boom follows Jonathan Larson as he tries to make his art, and navigate in a world where he is running out of time. With Broadway stars and legends both represented and making cameos throughout the film, this is my favorite movie musical this year, and for many years to come.

The performances, songs, and everything about this film is near perfect. I smiled, I sang along, I cried, this film was art. This film portrays art in such a realistic way that I have not felt this way about a musical since Sunday In The Park With George. It captures every emotion it portrays, while portraying real dilemmas and even more so, real people. I felt for moments that I could see the world through Jonathan Larson's eyes, and when a musical guides you through it's narrative that close to the character that it feels as if you are going on their journey, it succeeds. This movie succeeds in spades. 

It never shies away from real issues, or to show someone making mistakes, this movie shows real people. It captures the life of an artist who's work changed the game in ways he never got to see. The performances are all amazing, from scene to scene and song to song. Each song fits, nothing is out of place, this is a near perfect film. Every song lands what it seeks to make the viewer feel, everyone memorable and masterfully performed, making this an adaptation worth celebrating for decades to come. The editing masterfully one, blurring the lines between adaptation and documentary, as well as capturing the feel of the time period. Instead of being a dated piece of media, it feels like you are stepping back to a time where a timeless narrative plays out. 

This is a must watch for theater fans, every reference and cameo was a delight to find and only added to the enjoyment of the film without being a distraction. Even without knowing this movie is a must watch about art, life, friendship and love. Every beautiful song and excellent performance is a must watch, not only making this one of the best films I have seen this year but in my entire life. Where so many adaptations make their own way, do an okay job, or miss the mark, this one hits bullseye. I can find no flaws with this film, the cast relatable, the story real, the music fantastic, this is an artist's story. And more then just a two hour story, this is the picture into someone's life. All I can say is watch this on Netflix, you will not be disappointed.