I watched tick, tick… BOOM! and I really liked it! 4/5
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Lin-Manuel Miranda’s directorial debut, “tick, tick… BOOM!”, is a symphony of raw creativity and the relentless pursuit of one’s artistic dreams. Set against the backdrop of New York City in the 1990s, the film unfurls with a vibrant energy that mirrors the heartbeat of its protagonist.
At the heart of this musical odyssey is Jonathon Larson, portrayed with magnetic fervor by Andrew Garfield. Larson’s journey is a rollercoaster of hope, despair, and unyielding determination, a testament to Garfield’s transformative performance. He effortlessly embodies Larson’s wide-eyed idealism and his unrelenting drive to create something meaningful.
The film’s narrative thrust is driven by the ticking clock of mortality, a reminder of life’s impermanence. As Larson grapples with the impending milestone of his 30th birthday, the urgency to make his mark on the world fuels a creative explosion. Miranda deftly navigates this emotional terrain, infusing each frame with a sense of temporal immediacy.
The music is the film’s beating heart, and it pulsates with a vitality that is impossible to resist. Miranda’s lyrics are a masterclass in storytelling through song, seamlessly blending introspective introspections with moments of exuberant catharsis. The numbers are performed with an electrifying dynamism, each note a testament to the power of musical expression.
Garfield’s rendition of Larson is nothing short of revelatory. His vocals soar with a raw, unvarnished beauty, carrying the weight of Larson’s aspirations and fears. Whether in the soul-stirring “Why” or the exuberant “Louder Than Words”, Garfield lays bare the soul of a man on the precipice of artistic revelation.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Alexandra Shipp and Robin de Jesus delivering standout performances. Shipp’s Susan is a pillar of emotional support, a character whose strength lies in her unwavering belief in Larson’s talent. De Jesus injects a poignant vulnerability into his portrayal of Michael, a friend navigating his own dreams and disappointments.
Miranda’s direction is marked by a palpable affection for Larson’s legacy. He navigates the film’s tonal shifts with precision, seamlessly transitioning from moments of uproarious humor to introspective intimacy. Miranda’s deep understanding of musical storytelling shines through, ensuring that each song is a narrative beat in Larson’s larger-than-life story.
The film’s visual language is a love letter to the vibrant chaos of 1990s New York City. The cinematography captures the city’s frenetic energy, juxtaposing it with moments of quiet introspection. The use of color and light is both evocative and purposeful, reflecting the emotional arcs of the characters.
While “tick, tick… BOOM!” is a celebration of artistic ambition, it also unflinchingly examines the toll it can take on personal relationships. Larson’s single-minded devotion to his craft often blinds him to the needs of those who care for him. The film poignantly explores the sacrifices one makes in the pursuit of creative fulfillment.
If there’s a minor quibble, it lies in the film’s occasionally uneven pacing. Some scenes breeze by, while others linger, creating a sense of narrative ebb and flow. However, this is a minor hiccup in an otherwise exhilarating cinematic experience.
In conclusion, “tick, tick… BOOM!” is a resonant paean to the power of artistic expression. With a tour-de-force performance by Andrew Garfield, transcendent music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Miranda’s astute direction, the film is a testament to the enduring legacy of Jonathon Larson. It’s a cinematic triumph that pulses with the heartbeat of creative passion, inviting audiences to join in its rhapsodic celebration of life, love, and the pursuit of one’s artistic voice.