I have been a fan of Rent ever since I first heard the music probably more than ten years ago. I first saw the West Coast premier at the La Jolla Playhouse when I was in college at Point Loma Nazarene College (now University). I loved it then and I've seen it three or four times since then (at least once in Pittsburgh and at least twice in State College). I love the show and have been eagerly awaiting the movie ever since I heard Martin Scorcese was looking to direct.

At long last, the movie is out--directed by Chris Columbus--and it's fantastic. It hasn't gotten the greatest of reviews, but I accredit that to movie critics being movie critics and not theater people. I suspect anyone who's seen and loved the show will love the movie--even the Rentheads. In fact, I suspect anyone who's a fan of musical theater in general will love the movie.

Sure, as a pure movie, there are some pitfalls as is always the case in going from the stage to the screen (especially with musicals), but it's an awesome musical and a great movie musical. In fact, as many times as I have loved seeing it on stage, I found myself even more emotionally affected watching it on screen. I'll probably see it several more times in the theater and will definitely buy it on DVD.

Posted by Hey Paul   |   Monday, November 28, 2005