Tonight, Disney+ delivers one of its most anticipated releases with Hamilton.
For those who’ve somehow been living under a rock these past five years, Hamilton, inspired by Ron Chernow’s 2004 biography Alexander Hamilton, tells the story of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton (Lin-Manuel Miranda), whose ambitions for America’s future see him joining the revolution in the American War of Independence, under the leadership of George Washington (Christopher Jackson). From fighting it the war alongside Marquis de Lafayette (Daveed Diggs), Hercules Mulligan (Okieriete Onaodowan), and biggest rival Aaron Burr (Leslie Odom Jr.), to his personal life with wife Eliza Schuyler (Phillipa Soo), and her sister Angelica (Renee Elise Goldsberry), we follow Hamilton’s life from his arrival in America in 1776 to his untimely death in 1804.
The 2 hour and 50 minute extravaganza includes 46 songs which flow seamlessly, from the cast opening number ‘Alexander Hamilton’ to the show-stopping finale ‘Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story’. Lin-Manuel’s masterpiece comprises of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, as well as musical theatre, and it’s hard not to get the lyrics stuck in your head or from singing along.
The cast is sublime, with Lin-Manuel reigning supreme in the title role, although the rest of the main roles also shine brightly. Jonathan Groff also almost steals the show as King George III, and it’s actually hard to find any fault with anyone’s performance.
Musically, everyone is given numbers that give them a chance to shine and pack emotional punches throughout the show. Director Thomas Kail, who oversees the film as well as the broadway show, does a superb job at putting you in the audience and ensuring you don’t miss a single second.
This filmed version of the hit Broadway musical wasn’t due to be released until October 2021, but with the current state of the world, Disney decided to deliver some happiness to those eager to experience or re-experience this stunning production. I’m not saying they it’s saved 2020, but Hamilton has certainly brightened things up.
Getting as close as you can get to a piece of theatre, this is an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to listen to the album on repeat. Not to mention, you’ll be watching this more than once, and singling along to every single word.
Don’t throw away your shot – spend your Friday night with the ten dollar Founding Father! You’re sure to be left satisfied.
5 Stars.
Hamilton drops on Disney+ at 5pm AEST today.
