Act Three: RENT
I’m a big fan of written word, and performance art (within reason). I like movies with a good plot, not giant explosions and sex scenes. I like plays with some semblance of decent writing. I greatly disliked Tennessee William’s “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof”. Now, the problem might have simply been Cynthia Dale in the lead role, or perhaps the entire cast was to blame.
No, who am I kidding. That play sucked.
However, more than any movie, play, book, or article, those who know me in person will tell you that Jordan Grant loves a good musical. Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - friggin’ awesome. Jesus Christ Superstar - absolutely bitchin’. Guys and Dolls - can’t get enough of it.
And now, here comes another musical. One that I hadn’t even heard of except whispered rumours and occasional related jokes on The Simpsons.
RENT is a story about eight friends living the Bohemian life in New York City. The cast is comprised of people I’ve never seen before, with the main exception being Rosario Dawson who is - comparable to her role in Sin City - still dressed up in S&M; clothing. Dawson plays Mimi, an HIV+ drug addicted S&M; dancer. Other characters include, Roger, Mimi’s HIV+ drug addicted boyfriend; Mark, the nerdy filmaker who narrates the story; Maureen, Mark’s former lover; Joanne, lesbian lawyer currently dating Maureen; Tom Collins, an HIV+ computer genius; Angel, Collins’ HIV+ drag queen street musician, and Benjamin Coffin III, their landlord.
The story sounds very positive (oh God, I’m going to hell for that pun).
Maureen, Mark, and Joanne walking along a New York City Street.
In the past, I’ve heard nothing about this musical nor the creation of this movie. It is directed by Chris Columbus, a name people might recognize from the first two Harry Potter movies, as well as the first two Home Alone movies. Judging from his past stuff, I would have been hesitant to even glance at this movie.
Tom Collins is embraced by Angel, the drag queen.
But it looks pretty damn good. And, it’s a musical so unless my love of musicals can be tamed, I’m going to be parking my butt in a seat for this flick. Hopefully you will too. Don’t let the Bohemian lifestyle scare you away.