Dear Evan Hansen - Editor's Review

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​So I wanted to wait a few days after the opening of 'Dear Evan Hansen' to write a review. When the first trailer dropped in May, the only thing written was comments about makeup and Ben Platt's ability to be perceived as his teenage character on screen. I was hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst. I think my satisfaction with the film lies somewhere in the middle. 


I did see the musical in New York with Ben Platt in the starring role, as well as the production when it toured through Chicago. What I loved about the story was the impact of one small mistake or decision and how that can spiral out of control, because of the lies that we choose to believe. I also saw how this story resonated with teens and young adults on how the topic of unexpected death, talking about therapy, and wanting to belong all played key elements in their love for the show. 

Recently, I had a chance to chat with Noah Galvin, who took over the role of Evan Hansen on Broadway, and is currently dating Ben Platt, star of the movie. I asked Noah about the anticipation of the film, and his answer left me with a new perspective. He said this was for the fans, who loved the show, but couldn't see the production in New York, and for families who couldn't afford a trip to see the show, and now they can watch this much-talked about musical at their local theater. 

When looking at it from that perspective, the movie may not be perfect or 100% what everyone hoped it would be, but for fans who hoped of reliving Ben Platt in his Tony-award winning role and to be able to experience is something that fans will treasure and be able to re-watch over the years.

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