There’s a scene in “Tick, Tick… Boom!” where playwright Jonathon Larson, played by Andrew Garfield, panics when his landlord cuts the power in his apartment as he crams to complete an essential song for his musical. Mr. Garfield’s voice cracks and his chest heaves when he’s on the phone trying to restore his electricity so he can write, perfectly capturing the anxiety and tension Mr. Larson undoubtedly was feeling. 

Netflix’s “Tick, Tick… Boom!” — an adaptation of composer and playwright Jonathon Larson’s autobiographical musical that follows the story of Mr. Larson’s journey to produce a musical — combines an engaging soundtrack and brilliant cinematography to provide an emotional and ultimately inspiring story even for those who aren’t familiar with Broadway. 

Mr. Larson’s performance of his musical “Tick, Tick… Boom!” in front of a live audience plays alongside the main story that follows Larson scrambling to present his musical “Superbia” to producers. The musical’s soundtrack is energetic and diverse, from the upbeat and sarcastic “Therapy” to the more dramatic “Come to Your Senses.” Though the interruption of the main plot created some confusion in the beginning, this stylistic choice ultimately succeeds in keeping the audience engaged and invested. 

Additionally, Mr. Garfield gives a dynamic and emotional portrayal of Larson as he navigates the production of his musical. In the scene after Mr. Larson’s electricity is cut, he goes swimming to clear his head. The simultaneous performance of the song, “Swimming,” Mr. Garfield’s depiction of a panicked and desperate Mr. Larson, and the creative cinematography used to show Larson’s musical epiphany is just one example of the film’s brilliance. 

Through Mr. Larson’s endeavor to produce his musical, “Tick, Tick… Boom!” exposes the audience to the important themes of class, friendship, love and dreams while providing an entertaining, heartwarming and bittersweet viewing experience.