Warner Bros. In The Heights showcases some of the great things about Latin culture. Especially in a predominantly Latin neighborhood. For example, just the simple feel of community where regardless of the activity, everyone is coming together. It could be for food, swimming, or even stopping by the neighborhood salon to get your hair done. Speaking of salons and barbershops, in communities, this is where you can come in and find out all the gossip of the town. With so many people coming in and out, everyone spills the tea. You never know what you’re going to find out!

In The Heights also showcases another theme that is showcased are immigrant kids that were not born in the United States but grew up here. Despite the fact that they can attend grade school, it becomes an issue when they want to go to college and beyond. Since they are not technically legal here, they cannot go to college. These young people can have their future stonewalled because they aren’t allowed to continue to go to school despite this country being the only country they know.

In The Heights features a variety of themes that are no stranger to a Latin community. What is beautiful about this film is the way they are presented. Despite some of these roadblocks, the characters are all resolved to keep moving forward. The display of comradery with each other is something that allows them all to keep chugging along.

Here is the synopsis for In The Heights:

Lights up on Washington Heights, a world very much of its place, but universal in its experience. Where the streets are made of music and little dreams become big… The scent of a cafecito caliente hangs in the air just outside of the the181st Street subway stop, where a kaleidoscope of dreams rallies this vibrant and tight-knit community.  At the intersection of it all is the likeable, magnetic bodega owner Usnavi, who saves every penny from his daily grind as he hopes, imagines and sings about a better life.

With the release of the film this week, LRM Online’s Emmanuel Gomez spoke with three of the stars of the film. Daphne Rubin Vega, Dascha Polonca, and Gregory Diaz. Vega plays a character named Daniela, who is on the verge of leaving the neighborhood as she is selling her Salon and moving. Polonca plays Cuca, who is part of the workforce at the Salon and a close friend to Daniela. Diaz plays Sonny who is struggling with the idea that he cannot attend college because of his immigration status.

ALSO SEE: IN THE HEIGHTS’ OLGA MEREDIZ AND JIMMY SMITS ON THE IMPACT OF OUR PARENTS AND ELDERS [EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW]

During the conversation, we talk about the importance of community. Which included how important a place like a salon is to the neighborhood. Gregory tells us about his experience in playing a character that is going through his situation. It’s a great conversation that you can check out down below! 

Warner Bros.’ In The Heights hits theaters this Friday, June 11th, 2021. As well as HBO Max for 31 days.