In the Heights (film)

In the Heights (film) is a 2021 American musical drama film directed by Jon M. Chu from a screenplay by Quiara Alegría Hudes, based on the 2005 stage musical of the same name by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Hudes. The film tells the story of Usnavi de la Vega, a bodega owner in the largely Dominican-American neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City, who has dreams of returning to his native Dominican Republic.

The film features a large ensemble cast, including Anthony Ramos as Usnavi, Melissa Barrera as Vanessa, Leslie Grace as Nina Rosario, Corey Hawkins as Benny, Olga Merediz as Abuela Claudia, Daphne Rubin-Vega as Daniela, Stephanie Beatriz as Carla, Gregory Diaz IV as Sonny, and Jimmy Smits as Kevin Rosario. Lin-Manuel Miranda, the creator of the stage musical, appears in a cameo role as Piragüero.

In the Heights explores themes of community, identity, gentrification, immigration, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The film showcases the vibrant culture and music of the Washington Heights neighborhood through elaborate musical numbers and a blend of Latin rhythms, hip-hop, and salsa.

The film's development began in 2008, but faced various delays before being acquired by Warner Bros. Pictures. In the Heights premiered at the opening night of the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival on June 4, 2021, and was released in theaters and streamed on HBO Max on June 10, 2021.

The film received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its musical numbers, performances, cinematography, and direction. However, it also faced criticism for its lack of Afro-Latino representation in leading roles, sparking a debate about colorism in the Latinx community. Despite the controversy, In the Heights was recognized with several awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.