We already knew that Disney had shelled out a king’s ransom to get the rights to Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway bonanza that won something like 1,776 Tony Awards. The plan was for a live taping of the show to be released to theaters late in 2021, but that was then. This is now. Hamilton is headed to Disney+ on July 3. July 3! You’ll be able to enjoy Miranda’s spin on perhaps America’s most fascinating founder from the comfort of your own home. Look around, look around, at how lucky we are to be alive right now!
The movie will apparently be much more than just a filmed version of the live show, as Disney promises that Hamilton will represent a “leap forward in the art of ‘live capture’ which transports its audience into the world of the Broadway show in a uniquely intimate way.”
“Combining the best elements of live theater, film, and streaming, the result is a cinematic stage performance that is a wholly new way to experience Hamilton,” promises the press release.
Disney shelled out a whopping $75 million for the rights, winning a tough bidding war that probably seemed like a smart investment at the time. But with no theatrical release, the price tag looks a lot less justifiable although if any studio can afford to throw away that kind of money, it’s this one.
Miranda seemed overjoyed, as is his general nature.
“I’m so proud of how beautifully Tommy Kail has brought Hamilton to the screen. He’s given everyone who watches this film the best seat in the house,” he wrote. “I’m so grateful to Disney and Disney+ for reimagining and moving up our release to July 4th weekend of this year, in light of the world turning upside down. I’m so grateful to all the fans who asked for this, and I’m so glad that we’re able to make it happen. I’m so proud of this show. I can’t wait for you to see it.”
