Seasons Of Love

RENT the movie opened in theaters this week just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. After running out to see it, would I recommend it? Well, not necessarily. It would depend on who you are. If you are a fan of the Broadway production and weren't lucky enough to see the original cast (well most of the original cast anyway), then I would say yes. Just don't take it seriously and enjoy it for what it is (some of the parts that they now "speak" instead of singing are quite jarring – almost comical the first time they break out into song). There were a few good scenes, but overall, it wasn't able to make the transition from stage to film. These actors are just way too old to be playing characters in their early 20's now. The top performance for me was by Idina Menzel (who plays Maureen). Her big number – “Over the Moon” stole the show for me (and it was one I didn’t really even like in the Broadway production!). Simply sexy! Idina is definitely one to keep an eye on. Surprisingly, Rosario Dawson fell into the role of Mimi better than some of the returning stars did in the roles they made famous. So hit it in the theater if you’re a “big screen” person or are feeling nostalgic, otherwise you may want to wait until opening-HBO.