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What: In the Heights

Where to watch: On HBO Max and in theaters

Premiere date: June 11, 2021

After inheriting his grandmother’s fortune, bodega owner Usnavi de la Vega (Anthony Ramos) has mixed feelings about closing his store and retiring to the Dominican Republic. 

Billed as the “event of the summer,” In the Heights is based on the musical of the same name from Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda. It is directed by John M. Chu of Crazy Rich Asians fame, and stars Ramos, Corey Hawkins, and more as neighbors in a vibrant New York City community. 

SEE ALSO: Review: ‘In the Heights’ raises the bar for movie musicals

Looking to stream one of the most talked about movies of the summer? Here’s what you need to know.

How can I watch In the Heights?

In the Heights premiered simultaneously in theaters and on HBO Max on Friday June 11, 2021. It is just one of many films to get a simultaneous streaming and theatrical release due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Don’t forget your mask if you venture out to see it on the big screen.

Wait — In the Heights is a musical?

Yes, In the Heights is a musical by actor and director Lin-Manuel Miranda that premiered on Broadway on March 9, 2008, at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. Miranda based the lyrics for the musical off the book of the same title written by Quiara Alegría Hudes. It was nominated for thirteen Tony Awards — winning four, including Best Musical. The film adaptation was originally set for release on June 26, 2020 but was delayed due to the pandemic.

What are people saying about In the Heights so far?

Mashable deputy entertainment editor Angie Han listed In the Heights as one of the must-see films of summer 2021, saying “we suspect it’ll be just the celebration we need after a long and difficult year.” 

Entertainment editor Erin Strecker took things one step further in her review, saying that In the Heights raises the bar for movie musicals. Here’s more from her review:

From the moment Usnavi (Hamilton‘s Anthony Ramos) emerges onto his block in the opening moment of Jon M. Chu’s excellent movie adaptation of the musical In The Heights, it’s clear to audiences that they are in for something very special. Usnavi walks over the hot cement sidewalk on a steaming summer day when his foot stops over a drain cover. His leg doubles back and suddenly, the drain cover is a turntable, and our musical introduction to the city has begun. 

And here is some more buzz from across the internet:

  • “The urge to go out and party can be strong after a year of social distancing. But if you’re not quite ready to take to the streets singing and dancing, you can watch other people do it instead.” — Angie Han, deputy entertainment editor at Mashable

  • “Not only is In the Heights a glorious love letter to New York City, it’s also a love letter to the Pan-Latino community, which Latinx critics gushed over in their early reactions to the movie. Critics praised the film as a crowdpleaser and hopefully a game-changer for Latino representation in Hollywood — which would not be the first time that Chu has helmed a watershed movie for a minority group.” — Hoai-Tran Bui, writer and critic at Slash Film

  • #InTheHeights is THE crowdpleasing event of the season! John M. Chu’s direction shines through vibrantly staged musical sequences & intimate moments, while Anthony Ramos delivers a charismatic breakout performance in a sensational cultural celebration that will bring joy to all!” — Diego Andaluz, awards editor at Discussing Film

If you’re not yet signed up for HBO Max, hit the blue button below to snag a subscription and catch In the Heights from the comfort of your couch.

How to watch 'In the Heights,' one of the must-see movies for this summer