Lin-Manuel Miranda's Warriors Musical Pulls Too Many Punches
Briefly

Walter Hill's The Warriors emerged against the backdrop of 1970s New York City: a place of chaos and vibrancy, which shaped this inventive escapist fantasy about street gangs. The film's unique style captured the era's blend of violence, creativity, and cultural shifts, creating a lasting cultural impact and a considerable cult following. Hill’s unfamiliarity with New York didn't hinder the film's development, as exaggerated tales of gang violence at screenings helped cement its legacy.
In the late 2000s, Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton intertwined with America’s shifting cultural narrative, emerging during the financial crisis and amid the election of the first Black president. The musical's portrayal of Alexander Hamilton as a relatable, ambitious figure resonated with the zeitgeist of post-racial optimism, reflecting both hope and the complexities of race in America. Miranda’s performance at the Obama White House exemplified the blending of history with contemporary culture and entertainment.
Read at Slate Magazine
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