Written by Luke Barnes
Summary
The film tells the somewhat real life story of Johnathan Larson, recounting the making of his first musical Superbia.
I have been decidedly negative on the work of Lin Manuel Miranda for the most part, I didn’t like In The Heights, Vivo or his role in the Mary Poppins revival; the only thing I have liked from him has been his role in His Dark Materials. However, this blew me away and really resonated with me.
I thought this film was strong across the board, Andrew Garfield was splendid in the lead role, but when is he not? The songs were top tier and the emotion always rang true. I think the latter of those points is the feather in the film’s cap as the writing here has an uncanny ability to reach through the screen and tug at your heartstrings. There were multiple moments in this film were I was on the verge of tears; the writing is incredibly poignant and meaningful and Garfield sells this to the letter, in what may be one of his best performances to date.
Honestly Netflix needs to make more films like this as it might shake up their stale blockbuster wannbe slate and actually help to elevate them as a studio.
Overall, a magnificent film in many ways with only a few slight pacing issues holding it back.
Pros.
Garfield
The songs
The emotion and the impactful ending
It is inspiring
Cons.
Pacing issue
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Another Millennial Reviewer 