How else could a picture so endear you to what is otherwise a cup of bodega coffee?

And if you go into it with an open mind, youll fall, too.

It makes telling them all she dropped out that much harder, including Benny.

Anthony Ramos in In the Heights

Because, like Usnavi and Vanessa, theirs is an entire history of everything being left unsaid.

As with many stage-to-screen transfers, Chus adaptation ofIn the Heightsstruggles at times with its new format.

And theyve made a series of smart, savvy concessions to their new medium.

His Usnavi is charmingly big-hearted yet hints at deep waters beneath his calm surface.

In the Heightsopens in theaters and on HBO Max on Friday, June 11.

Rating:

4 out of 5