Film Review: "Rent" (2005)

The film adaptation of the musical "Rent" is apparently a faithful representation of the Broadway production (I wouldn't know, but my fiancée says so). It chronicles the lives of a bunch of anti-establishment hippie hedonists in post-Reagan, pre-Giuliani New York City through the backdrop of disease, addictions, relationship breakdowns, and poverty, all while trying to stick it to the Man and remain faithful to their Michael Stipe-ish, warmed-over New Left principles.

I have to admit that I really, really liked this film. Good songs, excellent production, and an interesting glimpse into the lives of those who would sooner gouge their own eyes out than succumb to a middle-class existence via a regular paycheque and a roof over their head. (Isn't it ironic how this countercultural commentary became a multi-million dollar touring production the world over?)

Setting aside the Marxist political overtones, at the end of the day, "Rent" demonstrates that although human beings may come from different backgrounds, the one common bond we all have is the need to love and be loved.

Not for everyone, but for me, a good time, both entertaining and intellectually stimulating and a hell of a lot better than I thought it would be. Thanks, babe.

Overall rating: A solid 7.5/10