Directed by Jon M Chu (Crazy Rich Asians), this hit musical exuberantly tells the story of hardworking Usnavi (Anthony Ramos), who runs a bodega in Washington Heights, but dreams of moving to the Dominican Republic to open a beach-front bar. Usnavi is in love with Vanessa (Melissa Barerra) who works in a nail salon but one day hopes to be a fashion designer.
As the summer heat rises so do emotions and excitement as a rumour goes round that someone won the lottery from a ticket bought in Usnavi's store and a climactic power cut wipes the electricity across the neighbourhood.
Bursting with songs, impressive dance numbers and set pieces in a public swimming pool and throughout the streets of Washing Heights, this vibrant musical is full of colour and charm and the perfect film for the summer.
Barbican Cinema has been supported by the Culture Recovery Fund for Independent Cinemas in England which is administered by the BFI, as part of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s £1.57bn Culture Recovery Fund supporting arts and cultural organisations in England affected by the impact of Covid-19. #HereForCulture.