Review: Tick, Tick… BOOM!

It’s always a shock to hear the tragic story of Jonathan Larson. Larson is widely known for creating the rock opera Rent. A tale of Bohemia told through struggling artists in the 90s. Theater fans will always say how brilliant the show is and how awful it was that the creator never to got the chance to witness the opening night of his vision. When non-theater fans hear his story, they’re often floored and saddened that his brilliance was lost too soon. 

Theater nerds know of Tick, Tick… BOOM!, Larson’s performance piece before his broadway hit. A show that had gone on to become famous after his death. But for those just discovering his genius, this adaptation is genuinely eye-opening. 

Tick, Tick… BOOM! was originally an autobiographical monolog. After his death, The show was adapted and made into a three-actor musical. The film adaptation takes Larson’s story to new heights. It’s able to give you an in-depth look inside the writer’s life. The story takes place days before a possible life-changing moment for Larson. He’s preparing to showcase the musical he’s spent years creating while feeling pressure from his girlfriend to leave the artistic life behind, seeing friends battling the AIDS epidemic, and finding the cash to pay rent.

Much like Larson, Lin-Manuel Miranda has made waves across Broadway creating shows that don’t fit the show tune narrative. In his directorial debut, he pays homage to the man that inspired him. And he does it well. 

This film felt like a theater lover was behind the lens. There are subtle details only someone who knows Broadway will catch.  He captured the love an artist feels for their work along with the joy music and shows bring to theatergoers. 

Andrew Garfield was perfectly cast as Larson. He transformed into the writer, taking on an entirely different persona than you’re used to seeing. Also, he can sing! And he can sing well! 

Garfield had a lot riding on his shoulders. He had to carry this film. He had to make you believe he was Jonathan Larson. And he succeeded. This was not an imitation; this was a transformative performance. Garfield deserves every ounce of praise and award for his work. 

What was beautiful about the adaptation was how his story was told through a lens instead of a stage. Every character introduced was utilized. Even the cameos from Broadway stars didn’t go untouched. They did more than just a wink and a nod; they served a purpose. 

Whether you know Jonathan Larson’s work or you’re just now discovering him, this film will leave you breathless. It’s unique, entertaining, sad, and funny.  Tick, Tick… BOOM! is A love letter to artists, a gift to theater fans, and an honor to Jonathan Larson.