“Cinematic masterpiece” can rarely be used to describe films, but, Tick, Tick… BOOM! is worthy of the title. From start to finish, the audience is in awe of both the story and the creativity of the cinematography. Movie musicals have become more popular over the past few years with Hamilton and The Greatest Showman reaching the mainstream, but Tick, Tick… BOOM! may eclipse them all.
The film is based on the life and struggles of Jonathan Larson (Andrew Garfield) before he “made it”, as composer and writer of the musical Rent. What makes this film fascinating is the fact that it is semi-autobiographical. This makes the story really hit as you are oscillated between Jonathan speaking on stage, to an audience, to help progress the story. For me, this unique styling is what makes this film stand out. The changing perspectives are not jarring, but instead incredibly clever as you get to see his reaction during and after an event has taken place. This beautifully marries the two stories together and shows us exactly how directors want Jonathan Larson’s story told.
Andrew Garfield’s portrayal of Larson is amazing and emotionally charged, really resonating with the audience and taking us on Jonathan’s journey. From the highs of feeling untouchable to the lows of loss, Andrew Garfield plays his role to perfection. When he performs the song ‘Why’ on the piano later on in the film, this all comes to fruition, in a scene that will undoubtedly earn him awards.
The soundtrack is imperative to people’s enjoyment of the film and with Larson’s compositions, Tick, Tick…BOOM! doesn’t disappoint. There are multiple catchy songs as well as the more emotional and heart-wrenching ones that musical fans would die for.
Today is the day I will throw the phrase “cinematic masterpiece” into the mix, even as someone who is usually quick to criticise musicals. But Tick, Tick…BOOM! truly blew me away.
5 stars
Credit: TheMovieDB
