In the Heights: cast, plot, songs, and trailers

In the Heights, a new film, based on Lin Manuel Miranda's musical with the same name premiered at the  Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival on 4 June after a year long delay.  The movie, which was supposed to be released in June 2020, chose to postpone release until the pandemic situation had improved. The film, will hit theaters around the country on 11 June. The film follows the story of a young bodega owner, Usnavi de la Vega, in Washington Heights as he makes decisions on his future after choosing to close up shop.

The movie was directed by Jon M. Chu, who is also known for his work in films such as Crazy Rich Asians. Lin Manuel Miranda helped shape the film as a producer and will appear in a small role.

The musical from which the film is inspired first appeared off-Broadway in 2007, making it to the big stage in 2008 -- winning four Tony Awards including “Best Musical.” The musical would stay on Broadway through 2011, totaling over 100 live performances.

Cast

Fans of Hamilton will be happy to know that the two works share a few cast members including Anthony Ramos who played Philip Hamilton, and star as Usnavi de la Vega, the protagonist of In the Heights. Christopher Jackson, who played George Washington will also make an appearance.

The star-studded cast also includes Latin Singer Marc Anthony and Emmy Award Winner Actor Jimmy Smits. Moviegoers may also recognize Orange Is the New Black star, Dascha Polanco and Daphne Rubin-Vega who formed part of the original cast of Rent on Broadway.

Songs

The soundtrack won Lin Manuel Miranda his first Tony Award for "Best Original Score." Since then Miranda has added two more Tonys to his belt, in addition to a Pulitzer Prize and Primetime Emmy Award. All songs were written by Miranda and the film shares the same soundtrack as the Broadway musical, including

The full soundtrack can be streamed on all popular platforms including Spotify and Apple Music.