The Pulitzer Prize-winning musical, “Rent,” by Jonathan Larson has taken over movie theaters since its Nov. 23 release. The controversial musical is one of the longest-running shows on Broadway before coming to the big screen and fans love the motion picture just as much as the stage play.
The cast is composed of the original performers that were assembled in 1996. Taye Diggs (Benny), Jesse L. Martin (Tom Collins), Idina Menzel (Maureen), Adam Pascal (Roger), Anthony Rap (Mark) and Wilson Heredia were all members of the original “Rent” cast that ruled Broadway for so long.
Two newcomers to the show were Rosario Dawson (Mimi) and Tracie Thoms (Joanne) who joined the rest of the stars for the motion picture.
The story centers around a group of friends who live and love in the poorest part of New York’s East Village. The musical is based on Puccini’s opera, “La Boheme,” which is about starving artists. The characters struggle to pay their rent and deal with many controversial issues. AIDS, homosexuality, drug addiction and poverty are everyday occurrences for these young people who measure life in love instead of material objects.
The music of this story captures the audience by using rock and modern music used for the storyline making it enjoyable for all ages. While in the theater, many sing to their favorite songs and even are moved to tears during emotional scenes.
The controversial issues surrounding “Rent” have opened many eyes to the real circumstances of AIDS, homosexuality and drug addiction. Some of the images are very realistic and can be disturbing for one to watch but they are necessary for the message of the show. Thanks to “Rent” these issues can be known to the world and it has made a huge impact on the world today.
