From stage to screen, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ will be making the transition from stage play to movie
Many of us seek to be a part of something. Whether it be a friend group, or a common interest, we just wish we belonged. Sometimes we even yearn to go beyond that, to find a connection.
Dear Evan Hansen explores the titular character’s attempt to navigate his way through life. Struggling with social anxiety, he holds the hope that one day he’ll be noticed; to feel as though he matters. On his plight, he crosses paths with fellow outcast Connor Murphy. A series of misunderstandings, tragic circumstances and miscommunication follow, but Evan finds himself with a semblance of what he’s always hoped for. But can aspirations earned through wrong means really attain someone true happiness?
Dear Evan Hansen and its cast and crew were nominated for nine Tony Awards, with six wins, back in 2017. The production earned Best Musical, while Ben Platt was awarded Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical. In addition Benj Pasek and Justin Paul achieved the accolade for Best Original Score.
On the 19th of May 2021 a trailer was released for the film adaptation. The trailer was uploaded to YouTube by Universal Pictures.
Cast
The film will feature a star-studded cast. Ben Platt who played the titular Evan Hansen on stage will reprise his role in the film. Ben Platt is also known for playing illusionist and Treblemaker Benji Applebaum in Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect 2. Stephen Chbosky, director of the film, commented on the casting:
“His understanding of the character is so complete and so profound. I couldn’t imagine anybody else playing it. It’s his part. I felt very strongly about it. And to me it was never even a consideration.”
Source: Yahoo News
Discussing the film with Drew Barrymore, lead actor Ben Platt stated:
“I think it’s going to be a really moving experience for a lot of different ages of people, it’s a lot about miscommunication and misconnection, I think particularly after this year…it’s going to be particularly poignant in terms of everybody’s inability and ability to reach out, and the ways in which we struggle to do that, and the magic that can happen when you do connect with someone and finally feel seen, and can overcome whatever obstacles you’re up against.”
Additionally, Colton Ryan, who was the understudy for Connor Murphy on Broadway from 2016 to 2017 will return to the role for the film. Taking on the part of Evan’s mother Heidi Hansen will be Emmy Award winner Julianne Moore. Meanwhile two-time Golden Globe recipient Amy Adams, and Danny Pino, of Law and Order fame, will play Connor’s parents.
Dear Evan Hansen will make its cinematic debut on the 24th of September 2021.
Have you ever seen the musical? Are you excited for the film? Let us know In the comments below
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