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Originally Posted by flippyshark
I just got through watching the newly released RENT, as filmed on Broadway during its closing performance (or rather, last few performances, really.) If you are a fan of the show and thought the Chris Columbus movie was a soggy and leaden lump, you're likely to appreciate this chance to see the show on its original stage, with its original staging, and an energetic and attractive young cast.
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I watched it Thursday night and enjoyed it a great deal. Did I like watching 'Rent'? Uh, does a Christian dig Jesus?
I loved that the musical was shot in full. Nothing was cut from it. The deletion of "Christmas Bells" from the movie version was a travesty. I still have a special place in my heart for the film because of the number of original cast members in it. Adam Pascal will always always be Roger. Always.
With that being said, the Broadway cast featured on the DVD was great. Here are their grades:
Mark: A-
Roger: A
Mimi: B
Collins: B
Angel: B+
Joanne: A
Maureen: B
Benny: B+
The supporting players: A
My biggest gripe with the cast was that Mimi was lacking. The character of Mimi is an out of control, attention grabbing fireball. The Mimi that on the DVD was subdued in her song "Out Tonight". This song is a show stopper and a chance for an actress to go all out. This actress seemed worried that her outrageousness wouldn't transfer well to film. She should have gave it her all.
The Roger was a yum yum factory. Gorgeous. Yeah, he has no lips but hey he's hot. He nailed his songs and was right on the money.
The Mark was decent. But he's no Anthony Rapp. But this actor did just fine.
The Collins was lacking to me, too. He wasn't as strong as I'd like.
I thought the play's translation to film was amazing. I thought I'd get bored with the camera, but I was pleasantly surprised.
Another small gripe I had with this version was with "La Vie Boheme". It seemed to be on Valium. The song's tempo is a bit faster than what was shown. I don't know, it could be me, I guess.
Watching the original cast sing with the last Broadway cast was touching. The original cast absentees included: Idina Menzel, Taye Diggs and Adam Pascal. Would have liked to see them there, but their absence was understandable.
I'll be watching this one over and over again. No matter what, this musical will always be special to me.
No day but today, b!tches! 'Rent' rules!
