"Hamilton" [2025]

(a special one-week movie screening)

Stage

Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., Phillipa Soo, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Christopher Jackson, Daveed Diggs, Okieriete Onaodowan, Anthony Ramos,

Music, Lyrics & Book by:

Lin-Manuel Miranda

Directed by: Thomas Kail

Produced by: Jeffrey Seller, Sander Jacobs, Jill Furman & The Public Theater

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RATING: ⭐⭐⭐ / 5

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SYNOPSIS:

Hamilton: An American Musical is a sung-and-rapped-through biographical musical with music, lyrics, and a book by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Based on the 2004 biography Alexander Hamilton by Ron Chernow, the musical covers the life of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and his involvement in the American Revolution and the political history of the early United States. Composed from 2008 to 2015, the music draws heavily from hip hop, as well as R&B, pop, soul, and traditional-style show tunes. It casts non-white actors as the Founding Fathers of the United States and other historical figures. Miranda described Hamilton as about "America then, as told by America now."

[Source: Wikipedia]

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STORY:

I’ve been hearing about Hamilton for years, but I never paid much attention to it because of its historical theme. However, after seeing countless rave reviews, my curiosity was piqued and it convinces me to watch it and understand what made this play so special.

When I found out on social media that Hamilton would have a one-week special screening in cinemas, I immediately marked my calendar.

Going inside the theater, my knowledge of Hamilton was as basic as it gets: it’s written and led by Lin-Manuel Miranda, a well-renowned actor, and it features hip-hop music. That alone already intrigued me as history has always seemed like a dull subject, but mixing it with such an energetic musical style sounded like a brilliant twist.

From the very first act, I was hooked. The music, the choreography, and the storytelling were all incredible. I loved how seamlessly everything flowed, each character had their moment to shine, and even the ensemble in the background played an essential role. Everyone moved and acted with purpose, creating a sense of unity that brought the story to life.

CHARACTERS:

I have to applaud the entire cast. I still can’t wrap my head around how they managed to memorize such an enormous amount of lyrics, many of which are rapid-fire raps, and perform them with such clarity and emotion. Just wow!

If I had to pick a standout, it would be Lin-Manuel Miranda himself. I’m amazed at how he could act, dance, and rap — all while keeping every word with such clarity. Playing the titular role is a huge challenge, yet he made it look effortless.

Other noteworthy characters besides him would be the three actors who played Alexander Hamilton's friends namely: Marquis de Lafayette (Daveed Diggs) John Laurens (Anthony Ramos) and Hercules Mulligan, (Okieriete Onaodowan) their connection and teamwork were so great and in sync that it feels like they can finish each other sentences!

The three Schuyler sisters on the other hand - Angelica Schuyler, (Renée Elise Goldsberry); Eliza (Elizabeth) Schuyler (Phillipa Soo) and Peggy Schuyler (Jasmine Cephas Jones) provided the emotion and light to the story. Their voices and transitions were impeccable.

But Of course, I can’t forget the scene-stealer of the show: King George III played by Jonathan Groff. His expressions, gestures, and overall comedic timing reminded me of how eccentric European monarchs were often portrayed in history books — unpredictable, commanding, and hilariously over-the-top. He was so funny that I actually found myself wishing I could play his part!

PRODUCTION:

The props and costumes were fantastic, staying true to the fashion of the era. I was also amazed how the production made use of the circular stage wherein it added such a dynamic visual element to each scene and made transitions feel fluid and purposeful.

Honestly, there wasn’t a single song I disliked. Every track stood out in its own way. I found myself grooving to the upbeat ones, getting emotional during the slower numbers, and almost dancing along during the choreography-heavy moments.

One detail that truly impressed me was how the show handled moments with multiple perspectives or “what-if” scenarios. Each time the story reset to show a different outcome, the cast and props seamlessly rewind to the beginning of the scene. It was such a clever and mesmerizing technique, something I’d never seen before.

CONCLUSION:

Now I understand why Hamilton has received so much love. Beyond its talented cast, catchy songs, and sharp choreography, the play offers a fresh and engaging way to experience American history. It turns a subject that many find boring into something vibrant and unforgettable.

If you’re like me, hesitant about whether to give it a try, don’t be. Watch it. You’ll appreciate it more than you expect.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fgy-9usPm5M