I was born to love "Rent." Having grown up listening to my mother's record of "La Boheme" playing as she did her housework, I anxiously anticipated seeing the Broadway production when I was in New York in 1999. Although, it was superb, the movie version was so much more enjoyable to me, mainly because the words to the beautiful songs were clear and much more understandable. I realize Broadway is a one-shot deal and a movie can have countless takes on a scene, so I'm not putting down the play I loved in any way, just saying the movie was an easier and more enjoyable viewing experience. From the spectacular opening scene where the full cast sings the beautiful "Seasons of Love," the stage is set for a glorious celebration of life, living it to the fullest, and enjoying every moment. Yes, there is heartbreak on the screen and many moist eyes in the theater, but this is mainly a joyful story of friendship, love, and reaching out to your fellow man. The acting is superb, lovingly done by actors who obviously relate to their roles in a profound way. Wilson Jermaine excels as Angel, especially in the show-stopping "Today 4 U." Adam Pascal and Rosario Dawson are believable as the romantic leads and Jesse L. Martin will astound his "Law and Order" fans with his rich singing voice and dancing ability. All the cast is marvelous, the show is electric with its high-energy singing and dancing, and overall, the best movie I have seen in a long, long time. I will definitely get the DVD the day it is available.Read full review
After seeing the Broadway show 3 time - I was sooooo disappointed with this movie. Most of the performances were excellent - Jesse, Anthony, Jesse, Trey and Wilson reprised there rolls from the play very well - I was surprised and though they are 11 years older they certainly did not look it. 10 stars has to go to Tracie Thoms the who played JoAnn was ABSOLUTELY incredible - she played the part as good as you can, it's funny as she auditioned for the part in the play over 8 times and never got it - her voice is beyond belief strong and clear. GRIPES: Gripe # 1 Casting of Rosario Dawson as Mimi - SHE STUNK !! - her acting was awful and her inability to sing songs which were clearly not in her range bothered me to no end, this is probably the most important female part in the movie as well - YUK. 2nd gripe - Idina Medzel looked like she was 35 years old when the character is supposed to be her early 20's my my, Freddie Walker refused to do her role as JoAnn due to her age/appearence - Idina should have followed suit - what a fopa !! 3rd gripe - the Music was WAY overproduced - the producer was the producer of green days "American Idiot" - it was overdone - it did not retain the punch and pop that I think it should have. 4th gripe - screen play was terribly written the songs did not fit the story line properly as they kinda rewrote the actual play which I understand it necessary but I don't think it was done well. This is probably the greatest musical play of our generation - it's a shame Chris Columbus ( who I think is great )and all involved couldn't make Larsens story come across more accurately. Clearly by ticket sales of the movie were poor. Think about it the play has toured the world dozens of times, been on smash hit on Broadway for 11 years and has been performed in over 20 countries in over a dozen languages. Obviously the movie does not come close to capturing the essence of the play. I wish it was done well so it would have been a blockbuster like the adaptation of Chicago and Dream Girls was, but alas for the most part stunk !!! - Go to Broadway or see the tour when it comes to your state - don't waste your time with the movie. 5 out of 10 stars.Read full review
I have to say...I was a little weary when i decided to see this movie...alot of my friends raved about it, but im so picky, i didnt think id like it. so i watched it and i was blown away. i cried the first few times i saw it. I must've watched it about 10-20 times and i can never get enough. it is beautifully done. the music is excellent. the casting was clear perfection. i give props to the writer of the original play...what a masterpiece i could rave forever and ever about it. the storyline is such like todays life...paying rent sucks, and its nearly impossible to get good money around here. i could rant and rave for hours. all i have to say is, if you havnt seen it, it is a must for anyone over the age of around 15...the topics can get a little mature. but it really is worth it.Read full review
The movie plays great I've already watched it twice. However, I missed the part where it was being sold without any cover art. Had I known that I would not have bought it (I collect movies so it's important that I have them in the case with the original art). But great value being around $2 for this beautiful classic, I LOVE this movie!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Growing up in a musical world created by Rodgers and Hammerstein I really wasn't prepared for Rent. The musical has a plot that is unique even in this day and age. La Boheme with aids makes an intriguing and emotional backdrop. I have watched the musical numerous times and it never fails to bring me to tears. The characters are very strong musically and the songs are enjoyable but not memorable to my sixty year old ears. The restaurant scene is top notch. The choreography is superb. You really need to purchase this DVD. It is emotional and shouldn't be missed especially if you need a good cry.
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