Hamilton (2020)

DVD CASE/SIDE

Length of film:  160 Minutes

Rated:  12

Genre: Biography, History, Drama

Director:  Thomas Kail

Starring: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Phillipa Soo, Leslie Odom Jr., Renée Elise Goldsberry, Daveed Diggs, Jonathan Groff, Chris Jackson

IMDB Rank: 8.3/10

Part 1 Time:  76 Minutes

Part 2 Time:  84 Minutes

Where does the first part end? The British colonies have gained independence from Great Britain, with George Washington (Chris Jackson) as the new head of state. Alexander Hamilton (Lin-Manuel Miranda) has accepted a senior role within the government as the Untied States Secretary of Treasury.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: “I am not throwing away my shot!” Alexander Hamilton states while he stands with George Washington.

First line of dialogue on the second part: “Seventeen, se-se-seventen, se-se-seventen, 1789,” the cast sings in unison.

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Somewhat, the United States has officially gained independence from Great Britain. George Washington asks Alexander Hamilton to become America’s first Secretary of Treasury. During these volatile early years will Alexander Hamilton be able to grow a strong American economy and maintain Independence?

Which part is better? Part one explores the rise of Alexander Hamilton (one of America’s founding fathers) whose contributions during the American Revolution helped America succeed in fight for its independence from Great Britain. Part two highlights Alexander Hamilton’s role in the American government and his eventual fallout. Both parts have redeeming qualities and provide numerous points of humour as well as top notch musical performances from the cast. Part one is given an advantage as it brings forth a more lighthearted mood with not only better musical compositions but also stronger choreography.

Academy Awards: None