There’s no denying that streaming platforms have made musical theatre infinitely more accessible to a global audience. With professionally filmed stage productions (pro-shots) gaining more and more traction, viewers can now experience the magic of Broadway from the comfort of their own home. It could be argued that the release of the multi-Tony Award-winning musical Hamilton on Disney Plus set this particular trend in motion.
The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown mandated the closure of theatres worldwide, plunging the performing arts industry into crisis. In light of this, Lin-Manuel Miranda announced the filmed version of his hip-hop hit Hamilton, originally scheduled for a theatrical release in 2021, would instead be released on Disney Plus in 2020.
This production proved a huge success for the platform, becoming one of the most watched films across all streaming services that year. Now devoted fans and newcomers alike get to experience it in a new format.
The Hamilton Collector’s Edition features the filmed version of the original Broadway show in 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. Miranda plays Alexander Hamilton as part of the original cast alongside Leslie Odom Jr. (Aaron Burr), Renee Elise Goldsberry (Angelica Schuyler), Daveed Diggs (Marquis de Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson), Phillipa Soo (Eliza Hamilton), Christopher Jackson (George Washington) and Jonathan Groff (King George).
While capturing the magic of live theatre on film is a difficult undertaking, Hamilton pulls it off with ease. The rather complicated story of one of America’s Founding Fathers is brought to life through rapid-fire rap. This fast-paced style of singing means that key historical elements can be condensed into energetic, catchy numbers. Not only is this easier to digest as opposed to a mouthful of political jargon, but viewers become more invested in the drama and heart of the story. One such example is Act 2’s rap battles, where Hamilton and Jefferson go head to head in the president’s cabinet, which turns a convoluted and dreary financial debate into a fierce rivalry brewing with explosive tension. Another is the song ‘The Room Where It Happens’ which recounts the compromise of 1790. This resulted in Washington D.C becoming the nation’s capital and the assumption of state debts by the federal government. The latter is not your typical backdrop for a jazzy showstopper. However, it is a riveting toe-tapping thrill, with this private meeting acting as a compelling synecdoche for Burr’s lack of political agency and burgeoning desire for power.
Director Thomas Kail’s intimate camera work also helps accentuate the stellar performances from the cast. Close-up shots allow viewers to appreciate the raw displays of emotion in a more profound manner, from heartbreak and grief to jealousy and passion. In Eliza’s emotional ballad ‘Burn’, Phillipa Soo takes us on a deep and poignant exploration of her shock, embarrassment and pain after she discovers her husband’s infidelity. Through her nuanced facial expressions, the intensity of her suffering becomes more authentic, adding to her tragedy. Paired with her soft and vulnerable voice gradually assuming a more charged and defiant tone, she transforms from a heartbroken wife to a headstrong and resilient woman. By focusing solely on the singer, it helped to paint a compelling, intense depiction of betrayal which really tears at the heartstrings.
The use of wide shots is just as effective, allowing us to see the dancing in all its kinetic glory. The choreography is perfectly synchronised and the ideal tonic to such a lively score. The story’s mounting tension is mirrored in the dancers’ boundless energy, which is offset by the more controlled, balletic quality of their hip-hop during the show’s slower moments.
Hamilton is a mesmerising and innovative showcase of theatrical storytelling. From its impeccable musical composition and powerful performances to its rich choreography, this musical is a gift that keeps on giving. If one thing’s for sure, you’ll be back time and time again.
4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Collector’s Edition Special Features
- Sing-along version
- Reuniting the Revolution featurette
- Spark into a Flame: Hamilton & Hip-Hop documentary.
- A poster on fine linen paper
- A set of collectable art cards
- A booklet of Alexander Hamilton lyrics
- Sheet music for piano
Hamilton Collector’s Edition is out now on Blu-ray and 4K.
