“Tick, Tick… BOOM!”, the musical drama about a starving artist in New York City, directed by Lin-Manuel Miranda, debuted on November 12, 2021. Written by Jonathan Larson in 1990, the autobiographical work reflects the hardships of Larson’s life as an upcoming composer in West Soho.

After watching the off-broadway show in 2001, Miranda said it changed his life. Needless to say, he didn’t hesitate to adapt the originally one-man show into a Netflix film.

The film follows main character, Jonathan Larson, played by Andrew Garfield, as he struggles to finish writing the musical he has dedicated his life to leading him to question his career choice amidst trying to keep his relationships afloat.

Set in the big apple in 1990, the musical accurately depicts real-world issues, such as the LGBTQ+ community and the AIDS epidemic, specifically the impact it had on gay men.

Andrew Garfield does an exceptional job in his portrayal of the late Jonathan Larson. Formerly known as Spiderman, Garfield embraces the role with great enthusiasm, even learning to sing and play the piano to perfect his character. His acting was on point, taking the audience on a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the film.

Although musicals aren’t for everyone, Larson included a wide variety of song genres and musical elements as he wrote his rock monologue. The film is sure to keep the audience at the edge of their seats with rock songs like “30/90” and soft ballads such as “Come to Your Senses”. The diversity of the soundtrack stands out from other musicals presenting something that has never been done before.

This film is perfect for anyone pursuing inspiration to make something of their life. It’s a wake-up call to follow your dreams because life is short. It’s a reminder that from hardwork and perseverance beautiful things can come.