IN THE HEIGHTS

Anthony Ramos, Corey Hawkins, Jimmy Smits

Speaking of films delayed by the pandemic, this iridescent film version of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway sensation was supposed to be the big joy-giving blockbuster of last summer before it got booted by a whole year. The studio was right to be so patient: director Jon M. Chu’s old-school but youthful musical positively pops with restless summer energy, its whirling choreography is best seen filling a big screen, and its ebullient mood is just what the doctor ordered after a year of social isolation. With all that going for it, it hardly matters that the musical itself isn’t quite a classic, with songs that, while fun in the moment, don’t really stick, and a narrative that breezes airily but superficially through the lives, loves and aspirations of a Manhattan Latino community. Just go with it: it’s bright, open-hearted and eager to entertain. 18 June