Pop Quiz, hotshot. How many millions is Disney willing to pay for the worldwide film rights to Lin-Manuel Miranda's Broadway show Hamilton? If your answer is $75 million, that means you were paying attention to the headline for this article. Of course, that amount also indicates just how far the House of Mouse is willing to go when securing what is sure to be one of the most-anticipated stage adaptations of all time.
Lin-Manuel Miranda tweeted the news earlier today that the film adaptation of his culture-crossing Broadway smash would be released by Disney in fall of 2021:
According to sources, Disney beat other studios to the punch by digging deep into their pockets for the astronomical sum. As per the deal, Disney will commit to releasing the two hour and forty minute movie across the globe, which stars the original cast of the multi-award winning Broadway musical. In looking at the $75 million price tag, analysts have HAMILTON standing at one of the most costly acquisitions on record for a finished film.
While talking about bringing Hamilton to the silver screen, Miranda has said that a film version will provide fans with a great opportunity to see the show before he and the original cast move on. Moreover, tickets to see Hamilton live could run you upward of $500 a seat! In other words, rather then spend half a month's rent on one night at the theater, Disney's HAMILTON will be a cheaper, more accessible way for fans to experience the magic of Miranda's groundbreaking show.
If it's authenticity you're worried about, know that Tommy Kail, who directed the stage version, is also helming the upcoming film. To make the film, the Hamilton team set up cameras across three live performances, while also setting up some shots without an audience. All the footage will be used to establish multiple angles, leaving theatergoers without a bad seat in the house.