RENT Review

ok, so i just saw RENT, and i thought it was amazing. i got to see it a day early because shane got special viewing tickets from a neighbor. i don't know how or why, but when good things happen, i usually don't ask such questions. it was directed by Chris Columbus (the director of the first two harry potter movies) so i had my doubts, but i thought it was really well done. some songs were cut (sadly, it had to be done, people, because the attention of American movie goers is only so long...and it is a movie and we all know how movies tend to distort the originals) but there are some things that can only really be explored in a real life setting which this movie gave to the musical. ie-mark riding around on his bike in NY. you just can't get that on stage. seeing the musical in person is definitely better, no arguments here. but for the thousands of people who want a taste of RENT's spirit, it's perfect. the cast did a good job of keeping Jonathan Larson's message in tact. it was really beautiful very, very well done. i can't wait to own it and watch it a million times since (unfortunately for me, RENT can't be in town forever). Joann's voice was gorgeous...well, so was everyone's but hers especially. The last image of the movie (which i shan't give away) was especially touching I thought. all together, given the facts, i give it a solid A. it was moving and funny. it didn't shy away from any issues of the musical, and kept the spirit living on. but you don't have to take my word for it...duh-duh-duh....(Reading Rainbow anyone??)